The Best Beaches In South Florida

Max Tylim

South Florida is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in North America. These beaches have some of the warmest waters and most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Long Key State Park, FL

Captiva Island

This small island off Florida’s southwestern coast has one of the most remote beaches in the country. Accessible only via a causeway that stretches three miles into the Gulf of Mexico, it provides its visitors with a true sense of escape and relaxation. The shell beaches that surround the island are some of the most beautiful in the world, with shells of all different colors, shapes and sizes strewn across the powder white sand, making it a shell collector’s dream. Take a long walk through Captiva’s two nature preserves home to many of Florida’s indigenous species.
Captiva Island, FL, USA

Sanibel Shells, Sanibel Island, Florida

1. South Beach

South Beach

Located in the south of Miami, South Beach is one of the most frequently visited beaches on the east coast. Spend the day laying out on the beach enjoying an ice cold daiquiri from the world famous Wet Willy’s or grab a paddle board and experience South Florida’s favorite hobby. For a break from the beach, visit the art district, home to some of the most famous contemporary art in the region. At night, take a stroll along Lincoln Ave and party it up at one of the various nightclubs who frequently host some of the biggest music acts in the world.
South Beach, FL, USA

South Beach © Phillip Pessar/FlickrSouth Beach © Phillip Pessar/Flickr

Key West

Sitting at the southernmost point of Florida (only 90 miles off the shores of Cuba) the beaches of Key West are home to the warmest waters in North America, with temperatures dropping no lower than 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter. From swimming in the clear waters to touring the island’s various historical sites and nature preserves, there is no shortage of things to do here. Enjoy an endless amount of water sports, including some of the best fishing in the world and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the dolphins that inhabit the waters surrounding the island. For a drink, make sure to visit Sloppy Joe’s known for being Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar when he lived on the island. When the sun goes down take a stroll down Duval St. to get a feel for the Island’s famed nightlife.
Key West, FL, USA

2. Fort Lauderdale

Restaurant

Fort Lauderdale

Often overshadowed by the more popular beaches of Miami, the beaches of Fort Lauderdale are just as beautiful while providing a more relaxed, family oriented atmosphere. Spend the day walking along the shores and relaxing in the sand while the children play and build sandcastles. For a more active option, rent a catamaran and hone your sailing skills. For lunch, grab a sandwich from the world famous Primanti Brothers Restaurant or try any of the beachside restaurants for some fresh seafood. When the sun goes down, head downtown to Las Olas Boulevard to experience some of the most vibrant nightlife on the east coast.
Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

Fort Lauderdale Beach © msmariamad/FlickrFort Lauderdale Beach © msmariamad/Flickr

3. Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach

Crystal clear blue waters and powder white sands that consist of 99% quartz, this beach is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone travelling the west coast of Florida. Every year, visitors flock to this tiny island to witness some of the best sand sculpting art in the world, as it is home to the Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpting Competition. With extremely shallow waters and lifeguards keeping a close watch around the clock this beach has become known as one of the safest beaches in the world making it ideal for young children to play freely in its waters.
Siesta Beach, FL, USA

2012-06-18 © Matt Elsberry/Flickr2012-06-18 © Matt Elsberry/Flickr

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