The Best Beach Towns in Florida For Your Summer Vacation

With a nickname like The Sunshine State, it’s not surprising that Florida has some of the best and sunniest beaches in the world. With some towns touching the Gulf of Mexico and others touching the Atlantic Ocean, these small beach towns have an abundance of natural beauty to offer vacationers. From North America’s largest gathering of manatees in Crystal River to Tarpon Springs–the Sea Sponge Capital of the World, there are some truly special sights to take in here. So what are you waiting for? The beach is calling.

Anna Maria Island

If dolphin watching and beach hopping are what you’re after, then Florida’s Anna Maria Island is the ideal summer vacation destination. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, the small barrier island is home to six pristine white sand beaches and offers visitors plenty of things to see and do. Those hoping to catch a glimpse of a bottlenose dolphin can do so with a local tour company such as Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours. Alternatively, you can sometimes spot dolphins not too far from the shoreline while enjoying a beach day. Dolphins are a huge tourist draw here, but the island is home to a range of beautiful wildlife. On any given day, visitors may see a manatee, an American White Pelican, or a Roseate Spoonbill, among others. Some of the best wildlife viewing comes from the nearby Leffis Key Preserve where visitors can enjoy hiking, boardwalks, and dedicated wildlife viewing areas. When the evening rolls around, theater lovers can head to The Island Players to take in a show.

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida is home to three state parks and some truly beautiful beaches, making it feel like paradise for outdoor lovers. During a visit here, take your outdoor enthusiasm to the next level with a camping trip. Each of the three state parks– Grayton Beach, Eden Gardens, and Deer Lake–all offer campsites and cozy cabins for overnight stays. The parks are also ideal locations for activities such as hiking, swimming, paddling, and wildlife viewing. Of course, a trip to Santa Rosa isn’t complete without spending a few hours on The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Here, travelers can stock up on tasty treats and local trinkets. During select summer nights, you can also take in a movie or admire a fireworks display from the wharf. 

Crystal River

Roughly 300 miles from Santa Rosa Beach, still on the Gulf of Mexico, travelers will find the absolutely stunning town of Crystal River, Florida. The town is known as the largest gathering spot for manatees in North America and visitors can easily spot the marine mammals at the ​​Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. At the refuge, visitors will find the beautiful Three Sisters Springs, hiking trails, and opportunities for scuba diving. There is also an abundance of local companies offering manatee tours and chances to swim with manatees if that is more your speed. Outside of the adorable marine life, visitors can also explore Crystal River Archaeological State Park. 

Captiva Island

With stark white sand beaches and nearly turquoise waters, there is no denying the beauty of Captiva Island, Florida.  But what makes this island truly special is its east-west orientation. This orientation causes the Gulf tides to wash an abnormally large amount of seashells onto the shoreline. Those interested in the shells can find them along the shores of local beaches such as Turner Beach or Bowman's Beach Park. For a more formal viewing of seashells, head to the nearby Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium. Then, those who don’t mind a short drive can embark on a roughly 15-mile journey to the southern end of the island. Here travelers will find Lighthouse Beach Park. While in the park, visitors can admire the beautiful 1884-era lighthouse and surrounding wildlife habitats. 

Palm Beach

If you’re looking to spend your summer vacation in a breathtaking resort, then Palm Beach, Florida is the place to go. Palm Beach accommodations range from brand-name resorts like Hilton West Palm Beach to historic and regal alternatives like The Breakers. Another amazing resort option is The Colony–a 1940s-era hotel that looks like it was plucked straight out of a Wes Anderson film. Once a home base is established, travelers can start exploring all of the fun that Palm Beach has to offer. Start with a visit to the Palm Beach Zoo. Here, visitors can admire a wide variety of animals including jaguars, koalas, otters, and tigers among others. Next head to Phipps Ocean Park for an afternoon filled with barbequing, swimming, and lounging in the sand. Those looking to stock up on tasty local treats and fresh produce during their trip will also want to stop by the West Palm Beach GreenMarket.

Key West

When you think about Florida beach vacations, it is impossible not to think about the keys. Key West, Florida is a fun little town known for its pastel-painted houses and picturesque beach views. While in town, travelers can see iconic sites like the buoy that marks the southernmost point of the continental US. Lovers of literature will want to check out The Hemingway Home & Museum. Here, visitors can learn more about Ernest Hemingway's life and visit the 60 polydactyl cats that call the museum home. Each cat is thought to be related to the late author's original cat, Snow White who also had six toes.

Next, it’s time to hit one of the town’s beaches. Smathers Beach is a popular choice with volleyball nets and a scenic shoreline that stretches nearly half a mile long. Other local sites worth visiting include Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Key West Aquarium.

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs, Florida is a beautiful area known mainly for its history of harvesting natural sea sponges. Since Tarpon Springs is known as “The Sponge Capital of the World,” visiting the Sponge Docks is a must while on vacation here. At the docks, visitors can shop for sponges at Spongeorama’s Sponge Factory, admire the Sponge Diver Memorial Statue, take a ride on Spongeorama Cruise Lines, and get your fill of delicious Greek food. Next, take a short 3-mile drive to Fred Howard Park for an afternoon of swimming and sun tanning on the beach. Then pay a visit to the Tarpon Springs Aquarium & Animal Sanctuary to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals and marine life.

In Conclusion

Florida and beach vacations go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re headed to the Sunshine State for big attractions like Disney World and LEGOLAND or for smaller gems like the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs, Florida offers endless possibilities. So get those beach bags packed, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable Florida beach town vacation!