From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida offers 825 miles of beaches, many ranked among the world's best. With an average of 230 days of sunshine annually, the Sunshine State's coastline is a magnet for vacationers seeking sun, sand, and sea.
An expert panel nominated top beaches, and readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best beaches in Florida:
No. 10: Anastasia State Park - St. Augustine, Florida Anastasia State Park is known for its pristine white quartz sands and over 1,600 acres of unspoiled shores. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking, surfing, shelling, swimming, and hiking, and spot wildlife such as roseate spoonbills, ospreys, and the endangered Anastasia Island Beach Mouse.
No. 9: Jupiter Beach Park - Jupiter, Florida Jupiter Beach Park boasts over 3 miles of soft white sand and clear aqua-blue water. The park offers lifeguards, picnic areas, a jetty, and opportunities for stellar fishing and snorkeling.
No. 8: Destin - Destin, Florida Destin features soft sugary sand and emerald-hued waters. Visitors can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or watch boats at the east jetty. Its beauty makes it a favorite on the Florida Panhandle.
No. 7: Cape San Blas - Cape San Blas, Florida Cape San Blas, near Port St. Joe, is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. The Loggerhead Trail offers a leisurely hike for those preferring to stay on land.
No. 6: Stuart Beach - Stuart, Florida Stuart Beach offers tranquil sandy shores and clear blue waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Amenities include picnic areas, volleyball courts, and restrooms, ideal for family outings.
No. 5: Treasure Island Beach - Treasure Island, Florida Treasure Island Beach is divided into three neighborhoods, offering beachfront hotels and restaurants. In summer, visitors can spot sea turtles nesting along the sand.
No. 4: Clearwater Beach - Clearwater, Florida Clearwater Beach features a wide, talc-white sandy strand. Activities include paddleboarding, parasailing, and dolphin spotting. The beach is renowned for its warm blue-green waters and epic sunsets.
No. 3: Lauderdale-By-The-Sea - Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Florida This charming small town is known for clear waters, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving, especially near the Shipwreck Snorkel Trail. It's a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape.
No. 2: Panama City Beach - Panama City Beach, Florida Once a spring break hotspot, Panama City Beach is now a relaxed coastal getaway with 27 miles of shoreline. It offers surf, sand, and a variety of activities for all ages.
No. 1: Delray Beach - Delray Beach, Florida Delray Beach, part of the Miami metropolitan area, spans roughly 2 miles. Atlantic Dunes Park adds natural beauty with its sloping sand hills, making it a top spot for sunbathing and relaxation.
Article by USA Today
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