Beaches for Swimming in Florida in 2023

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Contents

Table of Contents

BEST BEACHES FOR SWIMMING IN FLORIDA

Many find several favorites from among the best beaches for swimming in Florida. After all, the state is a year-round tourist target for visitors from East Coast and other places. It has almost 1,200 miles of coastline and a variety of beaches. Family-friendly resorts to party hotspots attract a wide range of visitors. You might discover a treasured spot and return to your special place often.

You have many options in Florida. Even if you’re in the middle of the state, there are beaches near Sebring Florida, particularly City Pier Beach in Lake Jackson. But how do you choose between so many beautiful beaches? With a snapshot of some of the beautiful beaches in the Sunshine State, we’re here to help you narrow it down.

Children enjoying the coastal waters.

Top 10 Best Beaches for Swimming in Florida

Please choose from our best beaches for swimming in Florida. Go there with your kids and family and enjoy a beach vacation.

1. Sanibel Beach

Sanibel is a one-of-a-kind barrier island. It has an East-West orientation rather than the more common north-south configuration. Sanibel’s East-West location has contributed to its popularity. As one of the Shell Islands. It’s an ideal location for collecting completely preserved shells. Along Florida’s coast, it has pods of all shapes and sizes. Because of these features, some discover it when searching for “best beach in Florida 2021”. Still, it’s one of the safest beaches in Florida. After all, the place has a low crime rate, fewer incidences of natural calamities, and serene coasts.

At low tide, walk the beach with a bucket, shovel, and small net. It’s to peruse the ocean’s wealth of conch, cockles, and scallop shells. Bowman’s Beach is Sanibel’s quietest and most isolated patch of sand. Lighthouse Beach’s rustic boardwalk invites tourists to stroll too. Also, it may be as private as the Dry Tortugas National Park. Hence, it can be the calmest beach in Florida. Yet, when driving, you must search for beach parking first. People charge parking fees there, but at least you can bring your vehicle along.

People closed the beach due to Hurricane Ian. After the calamity hit, folks worked on rebuilding the site. They opened it on January 2, 2023, to residents and travelers alike. So folks can have fun here once more.

2. Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach resort boasts some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches. It’s famous for being accessible on the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. It also showcases emerald-green waters and sugar-white sands. Moreover, the place has on-the-water sports such as jet skiing and windsurfing. After looking for “beaches open for swimming near me” online, some folks discover this. Still, folks visit it for the nearby gulf coast hotel and casino establishments. It’s open 8 AM to sundown and caters to guests who wish to get wet during those hours. So it’s clear why many prefer to visit and frequent it. It’s where folks can have almost the same fun in hotels on Orange beach. Likewise, it’s a family-oriented location. Because of that, it has similarities with Daytona beach.

Spend the day at St. Andrews State Park to touch a beautiful white-sand beach on the mainland. It’s a pristine, bridgeless barrier island accessible by water taxi. Some guests there try boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Scuba diving and other family-friendly events are also available at the facility. The Coconut Creek Family Fun Center is another local draw. These details make it easy to see why folks consider it one of the best Florida beaches 2021 offers.

Swimming on Panama City Beach

Government officials have plans for this beach this 2023. Folks are ready to place new facilities for safety and convenience. With success, it would be an excellent destination for swimming and other activities.

3. Naples’ Pearly White Sands

The most difficult decision to make when relaxing on Naples’ pearly white sands is how to look. The crashing waves on one foot and the gleaming mansions make up Millionaires’ Row on the other. On 12th Avenue South, one of Naples Pier’s most famous beaches locates in the neighborhood. There are bathhouses and food stalls on-site. Likewise, rentals for anything from umbrellas to kayaks are available. After all, guests go there to enjoy kayaking and canoeing. Thus, this is a perfect spot to lay out the family’s beach picnic and hang out for the day. It’s also where folks can go on an adventure.

Are Naples beaches safe? Yes, they are. They are in a city with lower criminal offenses than the national average. The coasts also have many visitors. They get guests even though a few sometimes have dangerous wildlife and tropical storms. Still, the place has a public aquarium nearby, which tourists can enjoy visiting.

4. Siesta Key Beach

It’s almost tricky to bore on Siesta Key, with too much to see and do. It’s far from Key West and Fort Myers beach destinations but has quality features. The allure of the island sands is infectious. That is, whether you curl your toes, brush your fingertips, or bask in them. Beachgoers flock to these silky beaches. They enjoy the enormous stretches of sand and the calm Gulf waters. Some who visit this coast ask, “Is Bonita springs beach open?” This beach is also near one of the welcoming communities in Southwest Florida. So, with it, you have a place for a good time and to transfer for more adventures.

The beach on Siesta Key is ideal for strolling and shell picking. For this reason, of the different Florida keys, people recommend it. It’s also fabulous for more adventurous pursuits like renting a catamaran. This perfect family vacation spot features beachside picnic areas, playgrounds, and candlelit restaurants. Thus, many consider it part of the best swimming beaches in Florida keys. Even if

5. Seaside, Florida

The Seaside is fifth on our list and has so many great things about it. It’s why so many tourists visit this part of Northwest Florida. But just because it came in fifth place doesn’t mean it’s not a must-see. It is true! The beach sands are pristine, smooth, and acceptable. Like in Lake Michigan, the sands are soft and whitish. Mountain quartz brought by the river to the Gulf created it. You may also hear squeaking noises or whistling sounds during strolls. Calm and inviting, the coast is also ideal for a relaxing dip or a plunge into its clear waters. Guests can be sure of the area’s cleanliness too. The environmental protection agency of the site keeps the place idyllic. Hence, you can expect to experience the vivid water beaches Florida offers here.

6. Destin Beach

April and May are ideal for Destin. The water is warm, the sun is shining, and the temperatures are pleasant. If you go much sooner, the weather will usually feel cool, and the water will be colder. Some folks also consider this shoreline one of the cool beaches in Florida. Summer vacation will place you amid the queues and the highest costs. While late summer and early fall are popular times to visit, the weather can be hot and humid, with rain. Any visitors come during the winter offseason when prices are lower. But they must catch up on some of the area’s most popular events.

Guests enjoy this beach due to the spontaneity of people visiting too. For instance, on New Year’s Day, people started showing up for the “Destin Dunk.” Hence, many also see this site as an exciting spot for fun.

Although it’s rare to find them, nurse sharks are also in Destin. Yet, these creatures are often harmless to humans. The last shark attack in Destin, Florida, was in 1882. Hence, it explains why people see it as one of the nice Florida beaches for swimming.

7. Clearwater Beach

The soft water and white sand of Clearwater Beach attract comfort seekers in droves. Beachgoers can play tennis or bike on the nearby Beach Walk promenade. That is after a few hours of swimming or lounging. After that, tourists can go to Pier 60 to see a spectacular sunset. Moreover, there are evening crafts and entertainment. Anglers and snorkelers sometimes come here to fish at night. After all, the 1,080-foot pier decorates with assorted lights.

When people look for “Florida beaches without seaweed “, they find this coast. The place is sandy without seagrass and rocky pebbles. Hence, folks can enjoy doing all kinds of activities here.

Clearwater Beach View

It’s also near Pinellas County. Because of this, it’s an excellent spot to witness the majestic manatees. Guests of Clearwater beach can see them passing by or notice them while kayaking. Hence, it’s a fascinating place to observe rare wildlife too.

8. Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach stretches 26 miles down Florida’s northwest coast. Folks know it for its brilliant white beaches, emerald sea, and top-notch dining. Many also identify it for its nearby art galleries and boutiques. This beach town received high recommendations from its visitors. Choose this for a prime beachfront without Panama City Beach or Destin crowds. Santa Rosa Beach is a popular vacation spot for many relaxing and fun opportunities. It’s where visitors can swim, sunbathe, explore dunes, bodysurf, and more. The US environmental protection agency also covers this site. So guests get clean and clear water during their trip. It’s where Florida beaches clearest water flows.

9. Amelia Island

Think of going on vacation on Amelia Island if you’re looking for a luxurious beach resort. It’s a place that comes with an old-world charm. Amelia Island has 13 miles of beaches, approximately 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville. It also includes Amelia Island State Park and Main Beach Park. Play a game of golf on one of the island’s championship courses or go diving with your family. Still, it’s only a 30-minute drive from St. Augustine beach, where you can try RV camping.

Pristine Amelia Beach

There’s an inlet beach Florida map for fishing spots too. Anglers visit the island to reach St. Mary’s river and catch whitefish, salmon, and more. Still, this place is worth visiting for its events. For instance, there’s Amelia Island Restaurant Week and other events to look forward to this 2023.

Amelia Island has had tiger sharks swimming on its shores. Also, other shark species, like the hammerhead shark, surfaced. Yet people continue to appreciate the uncrowded coasts and carefully dip the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Thus, many tourists still recommend it.

10. Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach situates on Florida’s Atlantic coast. It’s just south of Cape Canaveral, known as the “space coast.” Cocoa Beach is a typical day trip for families staying in Orlando. Moreover, it is just an hour away from the state’s theme park capital and the nearest beach. Folks also appreciate it for being one of the beaches near Lakeland FL. The best beaches in Vero Beach meanwhile are an hour’s drive further south.

It’s also known for its waves. The waters draw visitors looking for excellent surfing, kiteboarding, and parasailing conditions. Moreover, the Kennedy Space Center and many museums also exist. They include those with air and space themes. Thus, it has more than public swimming beaches. This coast offers plenty for tourists.

Near the coast is the Walter L Hudson, Junior Artificial Reef. Hence, the area has reef sharks. Also, folks saw lemon sharks there. For years, incidences of shark bites surfaced. But experts provide precautions to avoid them. Thus, being cautious makes Cocoa Beach enjoyable to get a tan and swim. After all, visiting this beach also means seeing the best Florida ocean.

11. Sunset Beach

As its name implies, it’s a great spot to watch the sun go down. People visit it when they travel south of Treasure Island. Like St. Pete beach, it dazzles guests with its sunset views. Hence, the shore provides emotional sightseeing experiences to visitors. Retirees, couples, and other travelers may love this seaside spot for this feature. Many see it as the best beach destination in Florida for this reason. More than that, it also has shell-filled sands. Beachgoers there appreciate its azure skies and boat launch ramps. So people come here for many things other than swimming.

When it comes to aquatic activities, this coast also has some things to love. Travelers going here can try surfing and snorkeling. It’s where the water conditions may be ideal for watersports. Still, it’s home to underwater creatures like sea turtles. Thus, it comes as no surprise why folks visit this tourist hotspot.

12. Coquina Beach

It takes about ten minutes to drive here from Anna Maria Island, which is 4.5 miles away. Like the said coast, it’s also an excellent spot to view the sunset. Tourists going here can enjoy this vast area since it also has amenities to use. It has a spacious parking space and also some picnic tables to use. Still, the place has many surrounding lush trees, sea oats, and grass to see. Those features and its white sands make it a relaxing place for holiday vacations.

The beach has a cafe and local food for nourishment. It also comes with restrooms for guests. Moreover, it has a quiet atmosphere since it is less crowded than other coasts. Even when there are many people, it’s still possible to see birds and other sea creatures. So folks go on vacation here to rest, experience convenience, and appreciate nature.

13. Indian Rocks Beach

It’s a vast, uncrowded, clean seaside town with lovely scenery. The site draws boaters, anglers, and beachgoers due to its natural features. After all, it has accessible beaches with dunes and warm, vivid, and shallow waters. Still, it also has friendly and accommodating neighborhoods. Many homeowners welcome tourists and convert their homes to vacation rentals. So travelers enjoy going here and recommend the place.

No sharks attacked locals and visitors, but people saw them swimming in the waters. Plus, it’s where people may encounter constant waves. Yet it’s a safe place to enjoy surfing and paddling. Rental shops offer surfboards, kayaks, and more for residents and travelers to enjoy. Plus, folks can also rent motor boats there. Despite these offers, the beach is quiet. Hence, it’s ideal for friends, families, and lone travelers to relax and have fun.

FAQ’s

Do I need to worry about Red Tide in Florida?

You can find current information and a red tide map by checking out the FWC site for Red Tide Current Status.
Other sources for updated information include visitbeaches.org red tide and red tide, Florida Today
Both offer updated information on the current red tide maps and beach status conditions.

Where is the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park?

Named the best beach in America in 2002, Cape San Blas hosts the St. Joseph Penisula State Park.
This small sliver of land offers pristine white-sand beaches and a quiet destination for those wanting a less touristy type getaway.
Located in the Panhandle of Florida, in Gulf County.

Why is Alligator Point Florida not on the list?

Alligator Point is also a beautiful area in Florida but the beach is more suited for fishing rather than swimming. And name itself is a giveaway – there are a few alligators reported in the area, with emphasis on few. Don’t let that discourage you though, Alligator Point has some of the most pristine coasts in North Florida. Compared to pretty but touristy beaches in Venice FL, Alligator Point provides a quiet and untouched haven for those who want the beach to themselves. Check out the Alligator Point Florida map and you will find Bald Point State Park, another amazing attraction offering lots of land and water activities.

What is St Joseph Bay known for?

St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve
17-mile-long barrier peninsula with white sand, beautiful blue water, and much more! See what the Gulf County Tourist Council says about this gorgeous Florida getaway.

Can you swim at Dekle Beach?

Certainly. In addition to swimming, this quaint little fishing village is known for fishing, kayaking and appreciating nature.

Conclusion

There you have it: some of the best beaches in Florida for swimming. They are ideal spots to take your kids or enjoy dipping by yourself. Crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities cater to guests. These beaches will make a splash with everyone. So pack your swimwear and suntan lotion. Head down to one of these top spots for fun in the sun.

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10 Nature Trails in Central Florida

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Kayak Trails in South Florida

Kayak Trails in North Florida

VisitFlorida.org

FAQ

Is there a beach for swimming near me? Where is the closest swimming beach to me?

Florida hosts many beaches! When looking for “beaches near me,” check out any one of the 189 official beaches along the 360 miles of coastline. When you ask a local, you’re likely to hear, “Many Florida beaches right now are open!” After knowing the destinations, you only need to look for beach access points.

Still, it’s also worth noting that places like Fort Lauderdale have plenty of beaches to choose from. After all, it has access to the Gulf Intercoastal Waterway Florida offers. South Beach is something you can experience there.

Yet, if you only wish to swim, you could try dipping in freshwater. Locations like the Blue Springs State Park provide excellent spots for water recreation. They offer swimming and the chance to see manatees. It’s the same when going to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Hence, the Sunshine State allows aquatic leisure and exploration almost everywhere. But take note that some waters are also inaccessible for swimming. For instance, Apollo beach became a nature reserve. So research open seaside locations first before traveling.

I’m looking for the cleanest beach in Florida. Which are the best beaches in Florida?

You will be pleasantly surprised! Florida prizes pristine beaches. Also, nearly any sandy shore will be among the best FL beaches. For instance, visiting Sombrero beach in Marathon allows one to experience soft and clean sands. Some of the sites in West Palm Beach are also attractive and clean. Still, the Port Saint Lucie weather and cleanliness provide a cozy spot for Atlantic coast beachgoers.

Crescent Beach is less crowded than other beaches, is broad, and offers easy parking. It has the charm of historic Florida and the clear waters you expect from the Sunshine State. And yet, many insist that Panama City Beach is the cleanest of them all.

Are any of the hiking trails near a swimming beach?

Florida parks often combine lovely swimming beaches with nearby hikes. Check the floridahikes.com site for ideas, and look at Florida State Parks. Bahia Honda State Park is a good spot for this. It has a bridge near the coast. Harvey Rest Beach Park is another example. It’s suitable for walking, has chickens to see, and has excellent swimming conditions. Most of the time, there are also white sand beaches to welcome guests.

Are beaches open in Florida today?

Many coasts in the Sunshine State are open right now. Yet some are not accessible due to some reasons. For instance, Sanibel Island is inaccessible this January 2023. It’s because of the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian. But the Florida Department of Environmental Protection assures the safety of some shores. They said 90% of the best beaches in Florida for adults are available.

Are there saltwater crocodiles in Florida waters?

Although reclusive creatures, crocodiles swim in brackish waters and saltwater areas. Creeks and mangrove forests may have these large and predatory creatures. Yet many sites are also safe from them and ideal for watersports. Hence, visitors should research the beaches around Florida before visiting them.

These days, it pays to be careful. People need to keep an eye out for more than just crocodiles. This is why it makes sense to search for things like “Shark attack Miramar Beach 2022.” After all, sharks did attack people in the Sunshine State last 2022.

What are the best Florida beaches?

Everyone has their own unique set of beliefs and perspectives. Some have preferences and give favorable opinions of the regions they’ve explored. Usually, folks consider the pretty beaches in Florida best when the water and sands are great. Also, they appreciate them when it has other things to offer. For instance, some sites allow people to swim with dolphins Florida has.

When is the coast of Florida unswimmable?

Algal blooms can make the Florida coast unswimmable. Also known as blue green algae, harmful algal blooms can be poisonous for both animals and humans. Algae bloom Florida often occurs during the warm months. Blooms are caused by heat, slow-moving water, rainstorms, and water pollution. The algae then produce toxins or release harmful gases that can cause sickness in humans and animals that are exposed to them. The bloom can also deplete the water of oxygen leading to dead fish. Check the local news for any algal bloom before you Google best walking beach near me.