Famed for its sunshine holidays, the state of Florida is known for its 825 miles of beautiful beaches. Miami Beach and Daytona are amongst some of the most well known in the world, and are regularly packed with tourists. However, secluded spots can be found, and some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches are just a little off the beaten track.
Keewaydin Island is one of the state’s most picturesque spots, and is excellent for shelling. Just a few miles from Naples, it boasts seven miles of clean beach, peppered with starfish and mollusks rather than kids and families.
For a more cultured day out, the Guardian recommends Anna Maria Island, a town with a community theatre, a concert chorus and an orchestra. The town also boasts six art galleries, as well as golfing facilities.
Despite being accessible only by ferry, Caladesi Island is often named one of America’s best beaches. Although it is located a mere 5 miles away from Clearwater, the pristine beach remains unspoiled and is frequently described as one of Florida’s most relaxing day trip destinations.
If the idea of a boat trip screams of travel sickness, crying children and stress, Pass-A-Grille Beach is within walking distance of the busy St. Pete Beach. The tiny town is home to America’s smallest main street, and its secluded beach feels like a private retreat.
If you travel up to North West Florida, St George Island is a prime location, a 28 mile long barrier island which is only two miles wide at its widest point, meaning that you have a water view wherever you go. Protected by strict building codes, the clear Gulf waters of the island remain unspoiled. Also, feel free to bring a dog along, the state park is pet friendly!
Recently named best island in America by TripAdvisor, and fourth best in the world, Marco Island boasts several beautiful beaches. Most popular is the 79 acre Tigertail beach, with Sand Dollar Island more private and remote.
Playalinda beach holds the state’s largest stretch of undeveloped beachfront, which reaches a massive 24 miles in length. Found by the Canaveral National Seashore, it is one of Florida’s main surfing hotspots. However, despite the distance the beach covers, any tourist is likely to encounter a few less than savory sights, since Playadina is one of the area’s best known unofficial nudist beaches.
If nature, rather than naturism is your thing, then Jacksonville’s Little Talbot Island State Park is worth a visit. With five miles of scarcely touched beach, it is one of the areas few undeveloped barrier islands, and a prime location for hiking and wildlife watching. There are also excellent tidal streams for fishing.
More ‘wild’ than ‘wildlife’ is Jupiter Island’s Blowing Rock’s Preserve. It boasts the east-coast’s largest stretch of exposed Anastasia limestone, and sprays of salt water can reach a staggering 50 feet high when a wave crashes into the sea wall.
Finally, the beautiful Siesta Key can be found just off the coast of Sarasota on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s town motto is ‘World’s Finest, Whitest Sand,’ and they are certainly not lying.
When it comes to Florida, it seems life really is a beach!
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