With over 1,000 miles of beaches lining the Florida coastline, it’s no mystery why Florida has become one of the top destinations for sunbathers. From the Northern region to the Southern region of the state, there is no other destination that offers so much diversity.
Amelia Island, situated on the Northeastern corner of Florida abounds with Southern charm. First time visitors to the region will discover 13 miles of rolling dunes, white sandy beaches with a gentle breeze flowing from the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is relatively untouched, making it a mecca for sun worshipers. The island is home to some of the South’s top resorts including world-class spas. www.ameliaisland.com/
Visitors to Daytona Beach can walk the 23 mile stretch and choose from a variety of vendors and live music, to basking in the calm serenity of a more secluded setting. Daytona Beach offers breathtaking beauty and a glimpse of its vastness when at low tide; the beach can be up to 500 feet wide. What makes this beach so unique is that cars are allowed on the beach from sunrise to sunset in designated areas. When the day winds down at the beach, you can find an abundance of shopping, nightlife, and great dining. www.visitdaytona.com/
Further South is Cocoa Beach, a pristine stretch of beach along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Just six miles long, and less than a mile wide, it’s the perfect place for relaxation and for those looking for a laid-back environment. One of the main attractions to Cocoa Beach is its climate. The area situated along the coast is met by two climatic zones (sub tropical and temperate), keeping the weather from extreme heat. www.cocoabeach.com/index1.shtml
For a perfect postcard-like setting, sunbathers will fall in love with Vero Beach. It is Located on the central coast of Florida and part of the Treasure Coast, known as the “Gateway to the Tropics,” because of its location in a climatic transition zone. The area offers beautiful beach-like settings with a tranquil atmosphere were visitors can enjoy horse back riding on the beach. Before you leave Vero Beach, be sure to pick up some Indian River citrus fruit. The area is known as the Citrus Capital of the World. www.verobeach.com/
If you like fast paced action, a great beach and nightlife, then Miami Beach is the place to be. With its miles of golden sand and turquoise waters, it is often referred to as the Gold Coast. Whether you are a sun worshipper, an art enthusiast, or simply enjoy sampling the variety of food, and shops found on the beach, there is something for everyone. For the extreme sun worshipper, there is a part of the beach designated for topless sunbathers. What makes this city so unique is the melting pot of foreigners and celebrities spotted on any given moment of the day. Visitors will leave with a satisfied feeling. www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g34439-Miami_Beach_Florida-Vacations.html
On the west side of Florida is the Gulf of Mexico and an area called the Gulf Coast also referred to as the Emerald Coast for it’s emerald waters, where you can step back to a more relaxed atmosphere. Pensacola Beach and Santa Rosa Island account for more than 40 miles of sugar-white beaches stretched along the coast. Over half of the beaches are protected and preserved by federal and state parks, giving visitors the perfect scenic view of rolling dunes and spectacular sunsets. www.visitpensacolabeach.com/
Anna Maria Island’s quaint charm can be seen throughout its sugar-white coastline. There is no better place to see a sunset or wake up to a glorious sunrise. With miles of pristine beaches, you’ll discover a piece of paradise that only the locals know about. You can bask in the sun as the sound and ripple from the gulf waters gently lull you to sleep. Whether you’re looking for a place on the beach to stretch out or simply enjoy the many fine restaurants and specialty shops the area has to offer, there is something for everyone. www.annamariaislandchamber.org/
Key West, situated off the southernmost tip of Florida makes up a strip of islands called the Florida Keys. With so many beaches lining the island, there is one in Key West that stands out from the rest. That beach is Fort Jefferson – Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles from the city. For the sunbather, this is a tropical paradise. With its crystal blue waters, powder-like sand, and miles of pristine beaches, this is the place for pure relaxation. After a long day in the sun, it’s time to taste some of the best seafood the area has to offer. Indulge in steaming Florida lobster or cracked conch at one of the numerous outdoor restaurants. fla-keys.com/keywest/
Siesta Key beaches rank as some of the best in Florida. The beaches crystal white sand is 99% pure quartz which stays cool even in the extreme heat of summer. The area offers an abundance of arts and culture. You can choose from a variety of activities ranging from beach volleyball to wine tasting. One of the most popular events in the area is the Siesta Key Sunday drum circle, made up of a group of people who enjoy playing drums and other percussion instruments. From dancers, jugglers, to street performers, everyone joins in the fun. It even includes a ceremonial fire lit during the event. www.simplysiestakey.com/
Perdido Key situated along the Gulf Coast and bordering Alabama is ranked as one of the top 20 beaches in the nation. If you want to get away to a more peaceful climate and relaxation, then Perdido Key is the place to be. You will find miles of white glistening sand and turquoise clear water splashing up to the shore with a warm blowing wind. The area is home to the legendary Flora-Bama bar, which straddles the state line with Alabama. Perdido Key’s celebrations include the popular New Year’s Polar Bear Dip, Interstate Mullet Toss and the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival. www.floridastateparks.org/perdidokey/
