Your Guide to Florida’s Best Beaches

Florida is renowned for its sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and endless sunshine. (It’s the Sunshine State for a reason!) But with thousands of miles of coastline, choosing the best beaches can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re drowning in a sea of online reviews.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Think of this as your pocket guide to Florida’s best beaches. From the luxe resorts of Naples to Islamorada, the “Fishing Capital of the World,” there’s a beach for every type of traveler in Florida.

Best Beach in Florida for Couples: Bean Point Beach

Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and a secluded atmosphere, Bean Point Beach on Anna Maria Island is the perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. With its pristine shoreline, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, Bean Point Beach is ideal for couples who want to get away from it all and spend quality time together in a picturesque setting.

This beach is located on the northern end of Anna Maria Island, so parking is limited — but free — and the parking laws are strict. The best way to get there is by bike or on foot, but it’s not impossible to find parking if you arrive early in the morning or go on a weekday.

Best Beach in Florida for Families: St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach, located just four miles south of historic St. Augustine, offers a family-friendly, fun-filled beach experience. It is your best bet for a family vacation in Florida with its wide sandy shores, calm surf, and proximity to various attractions like the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and the Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure Tour.

There’s ample parking and plenty of places to eat and shop, making it convenient for families to enjoy a full day at the beach without traveling far for amenities or activities. Plus, the Old Town Trolley offers quick and easy transportation around the area, so you can explore the historic city of St. Augustine before or after your beach day.

Best Beach in Florida for Young Adults: Siesta Beach

Miami isn’t the only place to have a good time in Florida. (Not to mention, the beaches in Miami can get quite crowded.) Siesta Beach is a great option if you want a girls’ getaway or a beach party with friends. It’s just minutes from the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, so you can easily fly in and start your beach vacation immediately.

With its powdery white sand, free trolley service, and closeness to the lively Siesta Key Village — where you can enjoy karaoke at Captain Curt’s or dancing at the Beach Club — Siesta Beach is a solid choice for anyone in their 20s or 30s looking for a gorgeous beach and vibrant social scene.

Best Beach in Florida for Shelling: Tigertail Beach

There are hundreds of beautiful beaches in Florida, but Tigertail Beach stands out when it comes to the best beaches for shelling. Tigertail, located on Marco Island, is known for its conch shells, sand dollars, and occasional shark teeth. Peek at a map of the Florida Gulf Coast and look for a long, narrow barrier island running roughly north-south off the mainland. That’s Marco Island!

It’s a bit of a walk from the parking lot, but true shellers will find it worth the effort. If you’re up for an adventure, you can wade across the lagoon to the best shelling areas, where you’ll find unique and beautiful shells you won’t find elsewhere in Florida.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, you’ll never run out of options for the best beaches in Florida with this list. So, toss your phone aside, forget Googling “public beaches near me,” skip the pricey tourist trap areas — like Cocoa Beach — and start planning your next beach getaway to one of these incredible Sunshine State destinations.