With over 1,350 miles of shoreline, Florida boasts some of the best beaches in the country. The sunny east coast dazzles with picturesque barrier islands, family-friendly shores, and surfing hot spots stretching from Amelia Island down to the Keys.
Whether you want to relax on soft sand, ride barreling waves, or splash in warm waters, Florida’s east coast beaches have something for every beachgoer. Read on to discover the top beaches for your next sunny Florida vacation.
Daytona Beach – Drive Right onto the Sand
At Daytona Beach, cars share the sand with sunbathers thanks to its unique beachside drives. Cruise along miles of the packed, hard-packed sand that allows vehicles to joyride along the shoreline. Park and set up your beach chair right by the ocean. Walk over to visit Daytona’s Beachside shops, restaurants and amusements. At low tide, expansive sand flats offer prime seashell hunting grounds.
Cocoa Beach – Surf and Beach Lovers Paradise
An hour outside Orlando, Cocoa Beach boasts some of the best surfing waves in Florida. Shops along its main drag cater to surf culture with plenty of board and gear rentals. Catch major air off the pier’s impressive swell or take lessons from a local pro. Non-surfers can bodyboard smaller swells or simply sunbathe on the wide sands. Stay until dark for live music and nightlife under the pier.
New Smyrna Beach – Surfing and Shark Bites
Nicknamed the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach south of Daytona sees frequent shark sightings that thrill brave surfers. Ride the swells created by offshore sandbars and reef breaks, keeping your eyes peeled for blacktip reef sharks. For non-surfers, swimming areas feature lifeguard protection. Or try a shark sightseeing boat tour for safe viewing.
Sebastian Inlet State Park – Outdoor Recreation Hub
At Sebastian Inlet connecting the Indian River Lagoon to the Atlantic, outdoor lovers converge to surf, fish, paddleboard, and swim in a picturesque natural setting. Waves breaking over an offshore reef create ideal longboarding and shortboarding conditions. Charter a fishing boat for abundant catches of snook, redfish, and tarpon. The inlet’s calm waters offer a perfect paddling launch point.
Vero Beach – Upscale and Relaxed Seaside Charm
With its slow pace and exclusive estates, Vero Beach exudes upscale seaside charm. Unwind at oceanfront resorts like Disney’s Vero Beach Resort or the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa. Comb rugged county beaches where sea turtles nest or spread out on the unspoiled sands of South Beach Park. For shopping and dining, wander quaint downtown Vero before returning for sunset strolls on the shore.
Fort Lauderdale Beach – Beachfront Hotels and Bars
Fort Lauderdale Beach stretches for over 6 miles lined with hotels, shops, bars, and cafes right on the sands. Tan and people watch from the beach chairs and umbrellas fronting resorts like the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale. Refuel at open-air joints like Casablanca Cafe before heading out on a snorkeling cruise departing from the area. At night, kick back with a tropical cocktail at beach bars like Dos Caminos.
South Beach Miami – Glitz and Glamour
Famed for its glitzy nightlife, models, and art deco backdrop, South Beach delivers glamour by the ocean in Miami. Strut down Ocean Drive past swaying palms, posh hotels, and preened patrons settled in at sidewalk cafes. Dance the night away at iconic clubs like Mango’s Tropical Cafe. Find your perfect tanning spot on the bustling white sands by day. Then dress to impress for an evening out on the town.
Bahia Honda State Park – Idyllic Nature Preserve
Traveling the Florida Keys, make sure to stop at Bahia Honda State Park showcasing idyllic beaches backed by nature trails and wetlands. Wade in the crystalline waters, snorkel offshore reefs, or kayak through lush mangroves. Follow a scenic walking trail over to Loggerhead beach with perfect picnic views. Camp right on the water or stay in one of six coveted waterfront cabins in this island gem.
Sombrero Beach – Family-Friendly Marathon Escape
On Marathon Key, Sombrero Beach offers a perfect laidback waterfront escape. Its calm, shallow waters create a protected kid-friendly swimming area. Rent beach toys, kayaks, and umbrellas from the watersports center. Have a picnic under the pavilion or palm trees. Then wander over to check out the nearby turtle hospital, galleries, and eateries in the village area just beyond.
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, Florida promises endless options for sensational beach days. Take your pick from lively crowds, seclusion, surfing waves, or family-friendly comforts at Florida’s beautiful beaches showcasing the best of the Sunshine State.
