Take CR 40 aka Follow That Dream Parkway all the way to the end. Thanks to Florida's hundreds of miles of coastline, beaches with soft sand and crystal clear water are just a short flight (or even drive) away. All regular facilities are current at this coast: parking, showers, etc. Blind Pass Beach is the perfect piece of form for a seaside: there are showers, facilities to rent instruments, and a tremendous large parking lot nevertheless, thats where it finishes! But in reality its due to the fact that thesands arealmost entirely composed of silicathat has been finely crushed. Map Fiddler crabs live along the sides of the beach in the grassy areas. Clearwater Beach is another well-known White Sand Beaches in Florida, puffing some heavy bombast rights. Offers may be subject to change without notice. If you can't sit still, you'll find nature trails and snorkel rentals on site. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. Boating is a favored recreation here, and seafood fans will find delicious feasts available at numerous regional eateries. Just a few miles from Seaside, this 30A locale features four snorkeling reefs and wide beaches for relaxing. This part of Florida's Gulf Coast is fringed by bays and inlets, low-energy expansive shallow salt marshes, creeks, mangrove swamps and barrier islands with miles of the whitest sand beaches found anywhere. If you love tracking for seashells, this is an ideal beach for you! 1. 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. C/O Koreshan State Park However, these beaches would not even exist at least not in their current state if not for the beach dunes that are found on the west side of the island. To explore these beachfront areas, bring your boat or kayak. Siesta Beach is the ideal illustration of a white-sand Florida seaside. It is a wonderful beach in all-around and one of the most lovely beaches in Florida! Clearwater Beachis renowned for its immaculate white sands and beautifully turquoise waters, and is one of the biggest attractions on the Gulf Coast of Florida. On Siesta Key a short drive from downtown Sarasota you'll find yourself looking out over the glittering Gulf of Mexico with a cocktail in hand. It would be an hour or so from the airpot.. Cape San Blas State Park is abour 45 minutes from Mexico Beach which may have your snorkeling. Evie Carrick is a writer and editor whos lived in five countries and visited well over 50. Skin yourself from the sands to witness aquatic life at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or analyze hands-on exhibits at Emerald Coast Science Center. You can focus your attention on nature particularly, the beach's rolling waves and sandy shores or walk along Millionaires' Row in the Old Naples area and pick out your dream house. 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 The beachs topography of virgin sugary white sand and turquoise sea is a wonderful oasis for personality lovers looking to unwind. We took the challenge to locate the beachfront areas in this region and our quest led us to some surprising beachfronts. We are bordered by North Redington Beach to the north, Madeira Beach to the south, the Intracoastal Waterway on the east, and the Gulf of Mexico on the west. The sands of this beach glitter like gold when the sun shines upon them,because of thehigh levels ofsilver andminerals. It is possible to access Caladesi Island by taking a ferry from Honeymoon Island in Clearwater. Here are the best experiences in the Sunshine State. Be included in our Business Directory. 1. Perhaps the best beachin Puerto Rico, hassoft white sands thatextend across thebay, which features deep turquoise waters, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Best beach for a totally isolated retreat. Be surprised by the diversity of Florida, which is so much more than beaches and theme parks. In fact, these states are home to the best white sand beaches in the world, not just America. So these are the best white sand beaches in the US. The beachfront offers a natural beach area with a man-made white sandy beach area for enjoying the soft sand. Honeymoon Island State Park attracts visitors from all over with its world-class beaches. The center is open to the public for tours six days a week (except Wednesdays). Certain appeals may be temporarily closed or need reservations. Visitors can explore the maritime hammocks, ancient sand dunes and historic coquina quarry before taking a dip in the Atlantic along pristine, white-sand beaches. Relax on the white sandy beach areafeaturing a playground and amenities. Smathers Beach. On Siesta Key, the dunes are so delicate that you might mistakenly believe thatyou are putting your feet in icing. When you need a break from the sun, browse the shops on Atlantic Avenue or take in the murals and public art in the Pineapple Grove Arts District. 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Pass-A-Grille brings out the adventurer in you. 12 Best White Sand Beaches in Florida You Should Visit Clearwater Beach . Draw up a bistro chair and drape your hand into the fine, white sand or join a game of beach volleyball. Enjoy the vibrant environment to the fullest, while relaxing in the warm sunshine, looking for lovely shells or engaging in other outdoor activities like paragliding, surfing or river cruises, while also looking out for dolphins. White sand beaches are magnificent beaches that are usually comprised of quartz and minerals and usually form in special locations. Find out how Honeymoon Island received its name! Most beachfront in key west are constructed of coral or small stones and gravel, which separates Smathers Beach! Some content on this site is saved in an alternative format. Then, snag a shady picnic table and dive in. WebLocated on Floridas Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach is an idyllic Gulf Coast destination with 24 miles of picturesque shoreline. If you want to learn more, swing by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center at the northern end of the park. When looking skyward, eagles, osprey and great horned owls can be seen, while ground animals include gopher tortoises, raccoons and armadillos. 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. 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. 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. The entire island is now Fort De Soto Park, a Pinellas county park which offers fine beaches, fishing, nature trails, camping, boating, and much more. Fifteen public, sugar-white sand beaches beaches spanning 18 miles in the Pensacola area are all yours to stroll, swim, sun, and savor. I would suggest Mexico Beach as more of a getaway place. Swim, snorkel or kayakin the fresh cool spring waters and spot a manatee or two. 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. Fort De Soto is located in the southwest corner of Mullet Key, at the entrance to Tampa Bay. 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 Beachfront Stay: Search along scenic South Beach Park before joining a game of pickup volleyball. One of the primary reasons behindCannon Beachs placement among the most beautiful beaches in the worldby National Geographic Magazinewas its kilometers of fine-sand beachand spectacular coastline, which featured tides breaking against towering boulders. Hunter Springs Park sits on Hunter Spring Run with one of the 70 natural springs that feed the Crystal River and Kings Bay. Walk the nature path, kayak in Western Lake, or cycle past lovely pine Flatwoods. Whether you're here for a peaceful stroll, fishing or some recreational time with your four-legged friend, there is something to do for everyone on the beach at Honeymoon Island. If you packed your snorkel gear, you won't want to miss a day at Crandon Park Beach. Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. With a wide, sandy sprawl that's lined with grass and palm trees, you'll have plenty of space to relax. A trip to the Rotary Centennial Nature Center helps visitors learn about the parks history and natural resources. This beach is a very secluded spot so be sure to get gas and food prior to going. 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]. For a day of gathering seashells, lead to Coquina Beach at the islands southern border. 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 The vibe is laid back, and flip-flops are the only footwear youll need. Talk about relaxation. South Walton, Florida. Rent a bike and authority to Bean Point, where the Gulf of Mexico meets Tampa Bay, to find a perfect spot to watch dolphins sloshing back in the moisture and manatees grazing by. The following are the most spectacular white sand beaches every beachgoer will fall in love with in Florida. Copyright 2023 Copyright 2018 Florida Department of Environmental Protection. It attracts travelers with its dazzling white sand and clear, shallow waters. The park is also the ferry terminal for access to another unspoiled state park, Caladesi Island. 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. There is a pier to view the beautiful waters and sunsets, or cast a line and do some fishing. Ultimate Beach Guide to Florida's Nature Coast - Florida Horseshoe Point is the spot at the end of County Road 351, aka Main Street, where you can find the only natural beachfront in the area. So finding one isnt particularly easy. We are locals and writers who love to research, explore and share information about Florida. When you start feeling antsy, walk along the promenade that separates the grass from the beach and keep an eye out for movie stars or film crews. And thanks to an '80s redesign, you can choose between sitting in the sand or posting up in the park's shaded grassy area. If you are looking for the gorgeous white sand beaches, this is not the area for you. While some And if you enjoy boating or fishing, this beach has a boat ramp and a pier. The city of Vero Beach has a little something for everyone hidden on its pristine shores literally. Also see ourUltimateFlorida Beaches Guidefor more beaches in Florida. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Map: Collier's miles of sparkling white sand beaches stretch from undeveloped Barefoot Beach Preserve barrier island to busy Marco Island near Big Cypress National Preserve. Weeki Wachee is famous for their Springs and mermaids, but if you head directly west, you will find a nice family beach that has something for everyone. WebThe white sand beaches and diverse nature trails of Honeymoon Island State Park make this barrier island an ideal place to get away from it all. 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. Siesta Key Beach has succeeded in awards for its sand, which has been ranked among the whitest anywhere globally. 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. To experience such a subtropical climate and year-round warmth, one may not think it is accessible in the contiguous United States. Framed in forests of mangrove trees, the shell mounds and ridges of Mound Key rise more than 30 feet above the waters of Estero Bay. The island encompasses Perdido Key State Park, Big Lagoon State Park and Johnson Beach at Gulf Islands National Seashore, all heaped with gloriously soft sand. Pull up a lounge chair and drape your hand into the fine, white sand or join a game of beach volleyball. And to support a strong local community. Go for the glass-bottom boat which departs three times daily, every single day of the year. Adjacent to the park is the Key West Wildlife Center, where local birds, sea turtles and other creatures are rehabilitated. Everglades National Park is a wonderland of marshland, sawgrass and mangroves. Available through two bridges from Naples, Florida, Marco Island presents guests with a special mix of high-end resorts and unspoiled habitats. Best Beaches in Florida on East & West Coast. 1. Panama City Beach. The Panama City Beach features 27 miles of white sand beaches and is also home to St Andrews state park and Camp Helen state park. The beach has many public beach access points and legendary attractions. Interested in subscribing to DEP newsletters or receiving DEP updates through email? First-time Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas HighwayOn Election Day, Key West voted to ban large cruise shipsHooking a good meal in the Florida Keys. Scientists have investigated the sand and discovered that it is produced up of 99% quartz, indicating its extraordinarily refined and handles delicate and silky as you stroll along. FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, White sand beaches, stunning sunsets and a bird-watcher's paradise. Situated in the heart of the Gulf of Mexico, that honor goes to Dry Tortugas National Park. Inside the park, you'll find cable skiing, mountain bike trails, and a huge water park. Map: Monroe is a mixture of two extremes from the virtually uninhabited mainland Everglades, to the bustling Florida Keys with popular Key West. Smathers Beach is just that. To be real without an agenda. Situated on the lovely island of Kauai,Tunnels Beach was used for scenes in the movieSouth Pacific, a 1950s classic. One of Floridas best-loved state Indian Rocks Beach is located on a barrier island on the West Coast of Florida, only a 30 minute drive from Tampa International Airport. If you're searching for next-level people-watching, look no further. Listen to the waves lapping and birds chirping as you break a healthy sweat. The sand on the West Coast of Florida is mainly made of 99% crystal quartz Swimming, fishing, shelling, hiking and bicycling are all popular activities that make Honeymoon Island State Park an ideal getaway. Beach areas are hard to come by without a boat to go out to one of the surrounding keys. All businesses must be located in Florida to be included. Best beach for a family-friendly adventure. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link to create a new password via email. Here are some of the best things to do. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At the same time, deep-sea fishing, boating, jet-skiing, and discovering dolphins are also live favorite sports. Located on the Gulf in New Port Richey, Robert K Rees Memorial Park features beach frontage and a swimming area. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Relax. Nestled on the southwest tip of Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor Park hosts a monthly Civil War reenactment (the fort remained in Union hands throughout the conflict). Courtesy of Visit Pensacola. You don't have to fly to the Caribbean to experience white-sand beaches. Perdido Key means lost island in Spanish, and theres no better place to go astray. Horseshoe Beachis a very remote town in Florida that is located at the tip of a peninsula juttingout into the Gulf 20 miles from the nearest main roadway. If that's the case, head to Deerfield Beach, a notoriously clean, family-friendly beach that used to beckon herds of local deer to its shores. Sand Key Beach, Clearwater, Florida. 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. Home of pristine white sand beaches, clear gulf waters, warm sunshine, and plenty of hospitality. Cedar Key is a small city in Levy County that includes a cluster of islands. 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! The trail goes out-and-back, so its a total of four miles, but at the end, youll be rewarded with a serene oasis with stunning vistas. No longer in commission with part of it still accessible to the public, the bridge eerily juts into the water from the parks most southwestern shore and provides panoramic views of the winged critters within the parks confines. It is comprised of seven islands and is perhaps the most isolated destination within the entire US National Park System. Bring the whole family to Fort Walton Beach, as its an energetic beach townlet that is a maximum of appeals, gardens, galleries, and aquariums. Among its attractions are volleyball courts, food trucks and watersport companies offering parasailing, jet ski rentals, kayak excursions and more. Bearing in mind a wet season, possible hurricanes and a stretch of super-humid weather, here's when to visit Everglades National Park. 2. 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. Howard Park's location provides access to the Gulf of Mexico by a 1-mile long causeway. 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. Note that the road ends with a round-about where you can park on the side, get out and walk across the jetty to the preserved land marsh, and walk across the beachfront area. It boasts thepicturesqueGulf of Mexicoand profound fishing expeditions. Sand Key beach located on the barrier island is known as a secret beach! Occupying more than 70,000 acres of land formerly known as the Cross Florida Barge Canal, the Greenway is a 110-mile linear park that is more than a mile wide in places. Poipu Beach, Kauai, HawaiiOcean City, MarylandCoronado Beach, San Diego, CaliforniaPope Beach, Lake Tahoe, NevadaClearwater Beach, Clearwater, FloridaHarris Beach, OregonGlass Beach, Port Townsend, WashingtonOak Street Beach, Chicago, IllinoisCarlsmith Beach, Hilo, HawaiiWrightsville Beach, North CarolinaMore items The water off the beach is usually very clear --especially before the Every beach is distinct, with its levels and segments, but some of the gorgeous beaches are the ones with paradisiacal white sands and crystal transparent waters. If you have little ones, they may not share your vision for a day spent sitting and doing nothing. There are two beloved kayak paths here, with the most popular being a 1.5-mile loop around Little Crawl Key that takes you through a mangrove tunnel, deep water lagoon and sandbars. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Sunbathers appreciate the calm old-Florida vibeand mild waves that are ideal for swimming. Just like the start of this list, its only fitting that it ends with a white sand beach from Florida as well. But if you are looking for an afternoon visiting a small town with fishing, boating and beach options, head up the Nature Coast and discover Old Florida at its best. Clearwater Beach. Spanning 125 miles of dynamic island bliss, there is no shortage of turquoise waters, white sands and outdoor delights in the Florida Keys. And its no wonder. It has always been given awards for the grade of the beach, the lovely town location with family-friendly interests, and its spectacular sunset viewpoints. The region of Maui is home toone of themost beautiful white sand beaches in America. 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. All in all, it is truly the best white sand beach in the US. Tigertail Beach Park entices vacationers to take long hikes, search for seashells, or rent kayaks. Spend the cool mornings curating your perfect stash of shells on Bowman's Beach before laying down a towel under the warm sun. 10. The natural sand along the water line has a gentle slope into the warm waters making it a nice swim area. If you hold a fisher in your family or enjoy appreciating some fishing while also enjoying one of the most appealing white-sand seasides in the Sunshine State, Destin is the location to be. The following are the most spectacular white sand beaches every beachgoer will fall in love with in Florida. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: 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. 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. Gulf Coast beaches have sand that's made of pure, white quartz. Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Your JavaScript is turned off limiting this websites functionality. This area is known by local residents as a weekend spot for boating and partying. The sands at Perdido Key are fluffy and welcoming, and there are different dunes to investigate too. The beachfront is a beautiful white sand natural beach. WebMap: Click Here: Madeira Beach: Madeira Beach is located on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast and is blessed with miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that boast that "Old Florida" feel yet Madeira Beach is part of the Tampa Bay region, one of the nations fastest growing metro areas. 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. This area is known for being a fishing village and home to somegreat seafood. Being one of the best white sand beaches in the US, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oregon. Your email address will not be published. This beach is popular among locals for launching kayaks and fishing from the shore. 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. There are facilities, however, cell service might be limited. Enjoy the pleasure, comfortable environment that Key West is known for a time, not including guiding the small stones that bring in every niche and crevice of your shoes and occur in your car magically behind you get around from the seaside! On the Olympic Coast of Washington, youll find the wild and remote Shi Shi Beach, which is consistently voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Web72 Best White Sand Beaches of in Florida | BeachCatcher White Sand Beaches in Florida White sand Sebastian Inlet State Park Beach Vero Beach, Florida 16 mi from The vision of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is to create strong community partnerships, safeguard Floridas natural resources and enhance its ecosystems. One of the most northwesterly beaches finishes in all of Florida, Perdido Key is a top white sand seaside on the Florida Panhandle. But, once youre there, vivid coral reefs, a massive Civil War-era fortress (Fort Jefferson) and secluded beaches like no other await. One of Floridas best-loved state parks, Honeymoon Islandhas more than four miles of beach to explore along with a three-mile trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests. You want Tampa. Daytona beach has a wide sugary white sand beach that you can drive onto. The warm Gulf Stream, one of the strongest ocean currents in the world, originates in the Florida Straits (where many centuries-old ships are sunk) and flows to the Atlantic separating the Everglades, the Keys and Cuba. The South Beach Pavilion provides bicycles to rent by the hour or day and kayaks are available at Caf Honeymoon. Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes. Honeymoon Island is the perfect place to go when looking for outdoor recreational entertainment! A short drive from Tampa, beautiful Honeymoon Island offers visitors an escape from the bustle of city life. George has received the 2020 Irene DeLaby Award for contributing 10,000 hours of volunteer service at Honeymoon Island State Park. Lodging options run the gamut from hotels, condos, rental houses, and bed and breakfasts to camping. The sandy beach is man-made directly along the spring making it a beautiful way to spend the day. If youre a history lover that happens to be in Key West on the third weekend of the month, youre in luck. The Pensacola Beach pier extends out into the water, delivering a wonderful place to sit, calm, and observe the waves or sunset in the evenings. PDF: | Our goal is simple. Click here to view our Google Map with pinpoints of each of these Nature Coast Beaches. Located in Sarasota, Siesta Key's public beach is among the most acclaimed in the world. 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. Plus, it boasts spectacular sunsets over the Gulf. Your email address will not be published. Heres a rundown of this trio of treasures. From quick boardwalk strolls over gator-clad waters to lengthy shoreline treks, these are the best hikes in Everglades National Park. Its accolades include being named as Americas Best Beach in 2011 by Dr. Beach and again in 2017 when the criteria was changed.