With a wide, sandy sprawl that's lined with grass and palm trees, you'll have plenty of space to relax. So these are the best white sand beaches in the US. Plus, it boasts spectacular sunsets over the Gulf. Available through two bridges from Naples, Florida, Marco Island presents guests with a special mix of high-end resorts and unspoiled habitats. White Sand Beaches in Florida Several keys off shore have beachfronts as well. You don't have to fly to the Caribbean to experience white-sand beaches. Relax on the white sandy beach areafeaturing a playground and amenities. Appreciate the overload of water activities, lounge beneath an umbrella, and drink up the warm Florida sunlight. Walk the nature path, kayak in Western Lake, or cycle past lovely pine Flatwoods. This unique find is the beautiful beachfront and clear waters of this lake that was developed around a former limestone mine with a 70 acre spring-fed lake. It is comprised of seven islands and is perhaps the most isolated destination within the entire US National Park System. It is one of the multiple appropriate white sand beaches in Key West. A trip to the Rotary Centennial Nature Center helps visitors learn about the parks history and natural resources. Required fields are marked *. The quartz that produces Siesta Key Beach can be outlined back to the Appalachian Mountains, suggesting it deteriorated over the years and soaked down into the Gulf of Mexico and onto the key. You can pass your time here at Smathers or Higgs Beach, but for calm waters and wide stretches of sand, it's hard to beat Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. In the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach, you'll find trendy beachgoers, rollerbladers, and a smattering of young, beautiful (and perfectly tanned) locals. Ten counties range from largely undeveloped Hernando through the urban areas of Pasco, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee to the vast conservation areas of the Big Cypress Swamp and Everglades in Collier and Monroe. Top 13 White Sand Beaches in Florida - Trips To Discover This beach is a very secluded spot so be sure to get gas and food prior to going. However, with stunning coastal states like Florida, Hawaii and California, there really isnt a shortage of white sand beaches in the US. A prized stop on the Florida Birding Trail, Bahia Honda State Park is loaded with wildlife and vantage points for taking it all in. It boasts thepicturesqueGulf of Mexicoand profound fishing expeditions. Tucked in the northwest corner of Florida, this sliver of paradise is so narrow you can often see the Gulf of Mexico and the bay at the same time. Beachcombing, boating, visiting quaint shops and then later, relax in one of our unique Inns. #1 Causeway Blvd. Find out how Honeymoon Island received its name! The Town of Redington Beach, Florida, is located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. Beaches on Floridas Gulf Coast The sand is a natural tan color and the waters are the warm calm waters of the Gulf. The vibe is laid back, and flip-flops are the only footwear youll need. You can absorb the sunlight as you explore your toes in the sand, help the children make a sandcastle, and relish a day of water activities. Swim, snorkel or kayakin the fresh cool spring waters and spot a manatee or two. The beach also serves as the perfect spot Hole up at one of the beach's chill waterfront bars or watch surfers from the fishing pier. 10. The South Beach Pavilion provides bicycles to rent by the hour or day and kayaks are available at Caf Honeymoon. Though the Florida Gulf Coast epicenter, Pensacola Beach is renowned for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sands. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West, Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images, 28 Best Beaches on the East Coast From Maine to Florida, The Best Texas Beaches for Every Kind of Traveler, 29 Best Tropical Vacations Around the World, The 15 Best Beaches in Africa for Snorkeling, Surfing, and Remote Relaxation, The 15 Best Beach Destinations to Visit in January, 7 Gorgeous Gulf Coast Beaches From Texas to Florida, 25 Best Things to Do in Miami, From Art Museums to Food Halls, Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. ALSO READ Best Natural Springs Near Tampa You Must Visit. If you can't sit still, you'll find nature trails and snorkel rentals on site. While the towns along this region are fishing and boating communities, some bring in soft white sand to create more beautiful shorelines in public parks. If Fido has tagged along for your Key West adventure (or if you want to watch puppies play on the beach), Higgs Beach has one of the best dog parks around. Copyright 2023 USA by Numbers | All Rights Reserved, 13 Best White Sand Beaches in the US [List of 2023], 12 Best Beaches in Alabama You Must Visit [Update 2023], Top 16 Famous Landmarks in Hawaii [Update 2023], 17 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii [Update 2023]. PDF: | Talk about relaxation. Florida Beach Services offers casual beach fare, has a small gift shop and is located steps away from the ferry dock. To explore these beachfront areas, bring your boat or kayak. 2 Florida Beaches with Incredibly White Sand It is possible to access Caladesi Island by taking a ferry from Honeymoon Island in Clearwater. And to support a strong local community. Just south of Horseshoe Beach is another small beachfront area, Shired Island Beach. Soak up the sun and dip into a little local history at the Beaches Museum, where exhibits include historic photography, artwork, and exhibits preserving the areas unique culture.Visitors may also enjoy a walk on the Jacksonville Beach Pier for unparalleled views of the Atlantic and to watch anglers fish Offers may be subject to change without notice. But as any Florida beach fanatic knows, this stretch of sand doesn't disappoint. Ultimate Beach Guide to Florida's Nature Coast - Florida Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Your JavaScript is turned off limiting this websites functionality. Crystal River is well-known for its springs so its not surprising that one of the best beaches in the area is on a spring. Your email address will not be published. Boating is a favored recreation here, and seafood fans will find delicious feasts available at numerous regional eateries. Additionally, Coronado Beach doesntonly provide breathtaking natural beauty, but also a variety of amenities, making it one of the best white sand beaches in the US. Ocala FL 34470, Contact the Statewide Information Line: Smathers Beach is just that. If you need to get out of the sun, hop in the car and drive north to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. While the area is secluded from the rest of Floridaand the population is small, the town has grown to add a restaurant, a full-service marina, an athletic area, and a park. 1. WebAs one of the worlds top 10 nations when it comes to total coastline area, there are beaches to be found along the Pacific, Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and even in the There are over 20 miles of beaches to enjoy with activities from volleyball, jet skiing, surfing , parasailing, and bicycles you can enjoy while spending the day at the This beach is popular among locals for launching kayaks and fishing from the shore. The center is open to the public for tours six days a week (except Wednesdays). Clearwater Beach is another well-known White Sand Beaches in Florida, puffing some heavy bombast rights. Our goal is simple. Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. If youre peeking for an excellent spot to go swimming in the Sarasota area, check out Siesta Key! The stretch of sandy beach is strewn with twisted logs that, over the course of time, have been worn down by the sun and the waves. Fortunately, the key never actually fetches too active anyway, even in the center of summer, with numerous tourists choosing to find themselves other east along the coast or down on the cape. The 13 Top Florida Keys Beaches | Travel | U.S. News Marco Island. Clearwater Beach gathers near Pier 60, a lovely play space, a fishing pier, and live amusement. The sands of this beach glitter like gold when the sun shines upon them,because of thehigh levels ofsilver andminerals. Heading further south in Levy County is another local and secluded beach, Bird Creek Beach, which offers a small natural white sandy beachfront and a boat ramp. This area is known for being a fishing village and home to somegreat seafood. There is something for everyone in the family including volleyball courts, an aqua park, paddlesport rentals, a wakeboard cable and concessions. 14 Prettiest Beaches in Tampa Florida - Florida Trippers But in reality its due to the fact that thesands arealmost entirely composed of silicathat has been finely crushed. Swimming and snorkeling are extremely famous here too. It boasts an average All rights reserved. Get barefoot! Among its attractions are volleyball courts, food trucks and watersport companies offering parasailing, jet ski rentals, kayak excursions and more. Though its not a Gulf front beach, this man-made lakefront beach features a beachfront with calm swimming and cool fresh spring water with white sand shorelines and is a pleasant surprise along the Nature Coast. Everglades National Park is a wonderland of marshland, sawgrass and mangroves. Moreover, it providesbreathtakingly magnificent golf courses, ideal places for accommodation, along with other amenities. And its no wonder. Florida and Hawaii are definitely the standout states for enjoying beautiful white sand beaches, featuring the most well-known ones. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. If you're looking for a slow oceanside afternoon, this is the place to go. Honeymoon Island is the perfect place to go when looking for outdoor recreational entertainment! Swimming, fishing, shelling, hiking and bicycling are all popular activities that make Honeymoon Island State Park an ideal getaway. Situated on the lovely island of Kauai,Tunnels Beach was used for scenes in the movieSouth Pacific, a 1950s classic. Sandy Neck Beach, which is located in the town of Sandwich on Cape Cod, is only a little over an hours drive away from the city of Boston, making it a convenient day trip destination. Honeymoon Island State Park attracts visitors from all over with its world-class beaches. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. At the westernmost edge of Florida is Pensacola and its spectacular beaches, including Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key (Spanish for We are locals and writers who love to research, explore and share information about Florida. The barrier island across from Miami has a fossilized mangrove reef, which is home to colorful sea life that has long attracted divers and snorkelers. Excel: Contact Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Get Information About the Volkswagen Settlement, Florida Mitigation Fund, Protect the Environment from Solid and Hazardous Wastes, Environmental Accountability and Transparency, Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, All Florida Coastal Access Guide Content, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. When looking skyward, eagles, osprey and great horned owls can be seen, while ground animals include gopher tortoises, raccoons and armadillos. The following icons link to free Reader/Viewer software: Take a day trip to nearby Topsail Hill Preserve Best beach for a family-friendly adventure. Home of pristine white sand beaches, clear gulf waters, warm sunshine, and plenty of hospitality. At the same time, deep-sea fishing, boating, jet-skiing, and discovering dolphins are also live favorite sports. With a local, laid-back feel and plenty of surf schools, you'll be up on your board in no time. Bearing in mind a wet season, possible hurricanes and a stretch of super-humid weather, here's when to visit Everglades National Park. Grayton Beach is a location with Hemingway-style wooden places, known for its brightly stained art showrooms and retro homes situated on side lanes paved with crushed oyster shells. All rights reserved. A family-friendly area with white sand beaches and emerald green waters, this fuss-free beach is a great place to soak up the sunshine. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Nature Coast does not have the same beachfronts that you can find in the panhandle or the Clearwater and St. Pete beaches to the south. Floridas cuisine is a blend of Southern recipes, Latin American influences and old-school Floridian techniques here's your guide to the best of it. Even though the sand is not inherently occurring and is imported, that wont prevent you from enjoying the gorgeous surroundings and iconic white Florida sand! Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Fort De Soto is located in the southwest corner of Mullet Key, at the entrance to Tampa Bay. South Marco Beach situated alongside lodges and condos delivers an abundance of room for sunbathing and floating. It is one of the Best White Sand Beaches in Florida You Should Visit! No problem! You want Tampa. Hours/availability may have altered. To be real without an agenda. One of the most suitable beaches in Floridas Panhandle, this packed neighborhood boasts 12 miles of fresh shoreline that is ideal for beachgoers scrutinizing for total isolation. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Take a daytime journey to nearby Topsail Hill Preserve State Park for sunbathing, biking, bird watching, and hiking, and appreciate its 3.2 miles of personal white sandy seasides. Best beach for a totally isolated retreat. South Walton, Florida. Whether its protecting sea turtle nestsor teaching kids about environmental protection, he knows he is helping preserve this park for future generations. Smathers Beach. Powered by Mai Theme, 18 Best Day Trips From Orlando Worth The Effort. Ultimate Beach Guide to St Pete Florida Area Beaches, Florida Smart Guide to Disney World Resorts, The Best Places to Learn about Floridas African American History, Ultimate Beach Guide to Pensacola Florida Beaches, 11 Festive Florida Towns to get you in the Holiday Spirit. Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance, Beautiful Places to Visit in California On 2023, Amazing Things To Do In Corpus Christi USA, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Best Natural Springs Near Tampa You Must Visit, 10 Best Natural Springs Near Tampa You Must Visit, 20 Best Breakfast in Orlando, Florida | Breakfast Spots Near Orlando, 12+ Best Crab Legs in Orlando You Must Try, 20+ Best Lake Nona Restaurants Orlando You Must Visit In 2023, 11+ BEST Wings In Orlando, Florida You Must Try. This area is known by local residents as a weekend spot for boating and partying. In addition to the iconic bridge, the park offers a snorkeling tour, camping and kayak rentals for different vantage points, too. Cedar Key is a small city in Levy County that includes a cluster of islands. Jacksonville One of the most useful things about the Blind Pass Beach is the nearshore shelf of Floridas white sand stretches relatively far out, so you can sense that youre distant away from the beach while still being secure and not proceeding into waters that are too serious! Beaches are quite common in the United States, but white sand beaches? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Here are 14 of the best beaches in Florida. Visitors to this coast will also have a great opportunity to staining some nature, with dolphins often living sprinkled release in the water. Especially if you can find a stretch of silky sand that youll have to yourself. Nearby Siesta Key Village is brimming with one-of-a-kind restaurants, tropical-feeling bars and mom-and-pop stores, all easily accessible via the trolley. If you're searching for sunny days and temperate waters, it doesn't get much warmer than the beaches of Key West, the state's southernmost point. 9 White Sand Beaches That Florida Is Well Known For - TheTravel The following are the most spectacular white sand beaches every beachgoer will fall in love with in Florida. As part of Florida's Treasure Coast, the area draws treasure hunters who come and try their luck at finding the riches lost when early 18th-century Spanish ships sunk in a hurricane. Sand Key Beach, Clearwater, Florida. 12 Best White Sand Beaches in Florida You Should Visit Clearwater Beach . Navarre Beach is nicknamed Floridas Playground, where you can absorb the untouched attractiveness of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Your email address will not be published. The beachfront features a natural shoreline by the water and a white sandybeachfront area for sunbathing and enjoying the Florida sunshine. Caladesi has been ranked highly as one of the top beaches in the United States by both Dr. Beach and a number of other reputable publications. On Siesta Key, the dunes are so delicate that you might mistakenly believe thatyou are putting your feet in icing. Siesta Key Beach has succeeded in awards for its sand, which has been ranked among the whitest anywhere globally. Pensacola . We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 23 Unbelievable Beaches You Must Visit In The USA 9. So finding one isnt particularly easy. One of the most stunning seasides in the United States, you cant conquer its white sand shoreline and transparent emerald green sea. At Floridas southernmost tip, the Florida Keys are surrounded by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and part of North Americas only living coral barrier reef. However, the communities in this region have some beaches to explore and offer a weekend getaway for locals. Caladesi Island boasts exquisite swirls of soft white sands and excellent beachcombing opportunities along the stretch that juts out toward the Gulf of Mexico. You can splurge on plane tickets to Bermuda or Cancn, but the reality is that you can find some of the world's most beautiful beaches right here in the U.S. If you're searching for next-level people-watching, look no further. Sitemap, 13 of the Best Florida Keys Resorts for Families, 13 of the Best Family Campgrounds in Florida, Where To See Alligators in Florida: 13 Gator Watching Spots, Palm Springs Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting With Kids, Seattle Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids, Las Vegas Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids, Florida Keys Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids, Myrtle Beach Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids, The Bahamas Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids. Lovely pearlescent shells are ample throughout the gorgeous white sand, and there are no laws that restrict taking a souvenir.If youre not the swimming kind, then not to fear! Courtesy of Visit Pensacola. Check out thesehighest ziplines in the US. One of Floridas most stunning Gulf Coast gems, St. Pete Beach is house to a gorgeous spread of undeveloped beaches with a gorgeous landscape of pure sugar sand and shimmering blue sea. Long called the surf capital of the East Coast, Cocoa Beach has produced several big-name surfers, including Kelly Slater, an 11-time world surf champion. The Florida Keys stretching from Key Largo south to Key West (and well beyond) is loaded with beach options for everyone, whether you're into eco-adventures or delicious tropical cuisine. The water off the beach is usually very clear --especially before the Evie Carrick is a writer and editor whos lived in five countries and visited well over 50. If you want to learn more, swing by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center at the northern end of the park. The coast itself is an extensive spectrum of smooth white sand and ocean remains! Estero FL 33928, 300 Anastasia Park Road Also see ourUltimateFlorida Beaches Guidefor more beaches in Florida. Smathers Beach is the greatest white sand seaside in Floridas Key West. Its accolades include being named as Americas Best Beach in 2011 by Dr. Beach and again in 2017 when the criteria was changed.