Florida is called the sunshine state for a reason, there truly is so much light in this beautiful state. From quaint towns set on white sandy beaches to incredible islands that will make you feel like you've traveled abroad. If you're looking to plan your next beach trip, there's a Florida beach town that's just right for you!

Updated March 2022


 

SEASIDE

 

SEASIDE

You'll know you've made it to Seaside when you see the iconic white structure and white picket fences. Ride your bike through the quaint streets to see the shops and gorgeous facades before heading down 3OA to Watercolor for the day. Grab a sweet treat at Frost Bites for the best shaved ice in town or Bud & Alley's for dinner with ocean views.  Be sure to buy one of their popular Seaside shirts to remember your favorite spot by the sea! 

Photo courtesy of seasidefl.com


 

SIESTA KEY

 

SIESTA KEY

Once you step foot in Siesta Key, you'll know why there is a reality TV show filmed here, it is utterly fabulous! Siesta Key Village is THE hot spot for the best shops and restaurants in town, and the nightlife is unbelievable! Make a stop at the Daiquiri Deck for the ultimate refreshing frozen fruity drink or dance the night away at The Beach Club, there is truly no limit to the amount of fun on island time! 

​Photo courtesy of siestakeyassociation.com 


 

ROSEMARY BEACH

 

ROSEMARY BEACH

Right off the gulf coast, Rosemary Beach is a charming town with a light and airy aesthetic. Known for its unique architecture, the gorgeous Dutch style buildings make you feel as though you're vacationing in a small European beach town. For seafood and rooftop ocean views, dine at the beautiful Pescado, or grab a quick snack at La Crema before starting your beach day. This walkable family friendly community has a variety of fun beachy activities from fishing, gold, beach bonfires, outdoor concerts, and it even has a few state parks nearby. 

​Photo courtesy of rosemarybeach.com


 

KEY WEST

 

KEY WEST

As the Southernmost island in all of Florida, Key West is the ultimate tropical oasis. Experience the Caribbean culture of this incredible island with its pastel colored conch style houses. Encounter some dolphins or go scuba diving and snorkeling to see what life is like under the sea. Grab a fresh lobster roll at The Lobster Shack or the Little Pearl for an upscale seafood moment. Catch the most captivating sunset of your life at the famous Mallory Square after checking out the local shops and finding a trinket or two to take home with you! 

​Photo courtesy of keywest.com


 

DESTIN

destin

 

DESTIN

This beach town is truly a DESTINation! With its white sandy beaches and emerald water, Destin is a beachy dream. Try some delicious seafood at Camille's or the Beach Walk Cafe for a romantic night right on the beach. Hop on over to Miramar Beach for a fun day in the sun or to the iconic Crab Island sandbar. While walking around the Destin Harbor Board Walk you must stop at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville where it's always 5 o'clock, also known as frozen drink o'clock! 


 

ALYS BEACH

 

ALYS BEACH

As one of the most upscale beach towns in Florida, Alys Beach truly is posh paradise. The all white Mediterranean style buildings give it an elegant simplicity where you can't help but relax. Walk over to Raw & Juicy for your morning açaí bowl or The Citizen for some fresh coastal cuisine. After your relaxing day on the beach, head up to the Caliza Pool or the ZUMA wellness center for a spa day at this calming oasis.

Photo courtesy of alysbeach.com


 

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

 

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

An hour outside of Tampa, Anna Maria Island is heaven on Earth, set on seven miles of stunning sandy beaches. Rent a golf cart to explore the island or charter a boat for the day for some offshore deep fishing to catch anything from a barracuda to a king mackerel! For some of the best sunset views on the island, check out Bean Point or the historic Bridge Street Pier on Bradenton Beach. Before your beach day begins, grab lunch at Poppo's for their iconic street tacos or venture out to the famous Rod & Reel Pier for some stellar seafood where you can even fish right off the dock! 

Photo courtesy of AnnaMaria.com


 

CAPTIVA ISLAND

 

CAPTIVA ISLAND

Right off the coast near Fort Myers, Captiva Island is a small slice of paradise. Spend a day on the sunny golf course, rent a boat, hunt for pastel seashells, or go fishing at Turner Beach. Take the bridge over to Sanibel Island for its stunning shell beaches or stroll along Blind Beach, a peaceful beach nook. All of the locals love the Mucky Duck for a delicious burger and a stunning sunset, before indulging in a slice of key lime pie at the colorful Key Lime Bistro.

Photo courtesy of visitflorida.com


 

PANAMA CITY BEACH

 

PANAMA CITY BEACH

As one of the larger beach towns in Florida, Panama City is known for its white sand beaches and lively atmosphere. Head over to Pier Park Mall, that doubles as an amusements park, for some thrilling rides, fun shops and attractions. Take a trip to St. Andrews State Park or Camp Helen State Park for some of the best views in town. Plan for an upscale dinner at Firefly or comedy nights at Harpoon Harry's for some beachside entertainment. 

Photo courtesy of pcbeach.org


 

MARCO ISLAND

 

MARCO ISLAND

In Southwest Florida between Naples and the Everglades, Marco Island is the largest of the Ten Thousand islands. Visit Tigertail Beach Park where you can swim, kayak or paddle boarding in the lagoon. If you're an animal lover, spend some time in Sand Dollar Spit or Briggs Nature Center for birdwatching and experience the seven habitats of the natural ecosystem. Embrace your inner adventurer and rent a boat for the day to explore the beautiful sites around the island, but be sure to visit the unique sinking dome houses at Cape Romano. 


 

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