The Best Beaches on the East Coast of Florida

The Best Beaches on the East Coast of Florida

Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach / Flickr / Jasperdo

Are you looking for a beautiful beach stretch to enjoy a perfect vacation? Look no further than Hollywood, Florida, between Miami and Ft Lauderdale. This popular beach destination offers a wide range of oceanfront hotels and resorts. They provide the perfect accommodations for your weekend getaway or staycation.

The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is the main beach in the area. It stretches over 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. It became one of the Best Beach Boardwalks in America by Travel + Leisure magazine. The Broadwalk is a promenade for pedestrians.

Visitors can enjoy various activities such as jogging, bicycling, rollerblading, and walking. The promenade also hosts the Hollywood Beach Theatre. There’s the children’s water playground at Charnow Park. Also, there are public art displays and other attractions for everyone’s enjoyment.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale / Flickr / Chris Hawes

Looking for a sunny and warm beach getaway? Fort Lauderdale Beach, located in one of the most popular beach cities in the U.S., is a must-see gem. With its central location, visitors have access to separate beaches. These are Deerfield Beach, Hillsboro Beach, and Pompano Beach.

But that’s not all Fort Lauderdale Beach has to offer. Try the city if you’re looking for action after a day at the shore. Enjoy karaoke bars, dancing clubs, and rooftop restaurants with incredible sunset views.

Delray Beach

Delray Beach / Flickr/ Dawn Pennington

Delray Beach is a lively and fun-loving seaside village once named the “Most Fun Small Town in the USA.” This hidden gem has won many awards. These include Coastal Living Top 10 Happiest Seaside Towns and All-America City award. It beat the latter three times. It has a vibrant main street and a unique blend of South Beach Park and Key West vibes. Delray Beach is a must-visit destination nestled between Boynton Beach and Boca Raton.

The stunning beach in Delray is worth a visit. The area’s energetic and cultural vibe also makes it unique. With a thriving art scene, exciting history, and a wide variety of nearby shops, there’s something for everyone in Delray Beach.

Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County / Flickr / Wally Gobetz

It’s important to note that West Palm Beach and Palm Beach are distinct destinations. West Palm Beach is on the Intracoastal Waterway without a beach. The latter is on the ocean and separated from the West by three bridges.

This sandy beach is a true gem. It offers pristine, groomed beaches, stunning homes, upscale clubs, and shopping areas.

Some say it’s the safest location on Earth to live or visit. It is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and peaceful vacation.

Vero Beach

Vero Beach, Florida, is home to some of the most stunning shores on the entire East Coast. It’s a must-visit destination for watersports and fishing enthusiasts. Vero Beach offers a relaxing and tranquil beach experience like no other. The beaches are peaceful and natural.

South Beach is the best beach in the area. It is a short 10-minute drive from the shopping district. Meanwhile, Sexton Plaza Beach is the closest to downtown. Jaycee Park Beach features a more laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can also take an evening stroll along the boardwalk for the perfect end to a relaxing day at the beach.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Pier / Flickr / Matthew Paulson

Cocoa Beach is among the greatest Florida East Coast beaches. It’s a legendary destination in Florida. It’s a must-visit for surfers and non-surfers alike. It is the home of Kelly Slater, the 11-time World Surf League #1 surfer, and the renowned Ron Jon Surf Shop. Cocoa Beach is close to Orlando.

It may be an ideal spot for beginner surfers and longboarders. But Cocoa Beach has plenty to offer for other visitors. It’s an excellent escape from the bustling theme parks of Orlando.

Cocoa Beach is a clean and expansive beach with a fishing pier. Other water activities include beach volleyball, windsurfing, water sports, surf rentals, and paddleboarding. There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach / Flickr / Jinjian Liang

Experience some of the best waves on East Coast Beaches at New Smyrna Beach Park. It’s also known as “the wave magnet”. With 13 miles of pristine coastline, this beach offers prime surfing opportunities.

Apart from that, it also boasts over 400 species of wildlife. These include dolphins, manatees, alligators, and sea turtles. It is the most diverse estuary in North America. Think of it as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World” as you visit. Take caution while enjoying the water along one of the best East Coast beaches. Also, remember to visit Smyrna Dunes Par to immerse yourself in pristine sandy shores, diverse ecosystems, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Ponce de Leon Inlet.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach / Flickr / Jennifer Lynn

Discover the world-renowned Daytona Beach. It’s known as “The World’s Most Famous Beach,” located on Florida’s east coast. Its expansive sugar-white sand and refreshing ocean breeze make it an ideal destination.

Daytona is also unique, as visitors can drive on the beach. During Spring Break, the beach transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. Impressive cars are on display on one of the best East Coast beaches in Florida.

Despite being popular, the beach’s size always ensures ample space. Plus, quieter areas can are available for those seeking tranquility. With consistent waves and a white sand beach, it’s a perfect location to learn how to surf. The waves never exceed 5 feet.

St. Augustine Beach

St Augustine Beach / Flickr / Thomas Cizauskas

Explore the oldest city in the U.S. with a distinct Spanish atmosphere. Saint Augustine is one of the best East Coast beaches in the Sunshine State. Enjoy 42 miles of breathtaking beaches. St. Augustine Beach is the standout attraction.

St. Augustine Beach on Anastasia Island offers plenty of entertainment options. Choose from a pier, playground, deep sea fishing, volleyball courts, restaurants, and shopping. You also have the opportunity to drive to the beach. Natural beauty surrounds this lively and charming destination. It’s also steeped in history, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate both.

Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Fernandina Beach Lighthouse / Flickr / Anita & Greg

Discover one of the top-rated U.S. islands according to the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards. The Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of pristine waters.

Amelia Island is a must-visit destination among all the Florida east coast beaches. This area has the sandy Fernandina Beach, a rich history, and luxurious hotels and resorts. Main Beach and Fernandina Beach are the two primary beaches on the island. Fernandina Beach is a personal favorite. It’s perfect for families and great for collecting shells.

Neptune Beach

Neptune Beach / Flickr / Davide Santoriello

Escape to Neptune Beach. It’s a tranquil destination located to the east of Jacksonville. This beach is perfect for solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat. Its proximity to Jax allows easy access to various dining and entertainment options.

It may be small, but Neptune Beach has everything you need for a relaxing vacation by the water. Enjoy soaking up the sun. Take a dip in the gentle waters and savor a cold, locally brewed beer at one of the many breweries.

Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach / Flickr / J Van Cise Photos

Discover one of the top beaches on the east by taking a short drive to Atlantic Beach. This beach offers a peaceful atmosphere. It’s still close enough to the coastal town to keep you entertained.

Atlantic Beach provides the perfect balance of sun, sand, and a small beach house for rent. This makes it an ideal destination for beachgoers. The park’s waves are also perfect for surfing. It caters to both beginners and advanced surfers. You can also visit the park’s nature center to learn about the local wildlife.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach / Flickr / Allen Forrest

Looking for the must-visit Florida East Coast beaches? Look no further than Jacksonville Beach, located in Northeast Florida’s “First Coast.” With a redesigned golf course and a famous fishing pier, this beach has it all.

Jacksonville Beach boasts 22 miles of stunning white sand. This makes it perfect for families. It offers endless entertainment options. From history to leisure and recreation, there’s something for everyone here.

Surfers will be glad to know that Jacksonville Beach is also a popular surfing spot. It has some of the best waves in the area. Keep an eye out for frequent dolphin sightings as well.

Don’t miss out on the other attractions in the area. The incredible beach at Little Talbot Island State Park is a case in point.

Melbourne Beach

Melbourne Beach / Flickr / Jennifer

Florida’s Space Coast in Melbourne features miles and miles of unspoiled beaches. It’s a short drive to Kennedy Space Center. It is on a barrier island across the Indian River from Palm Bay. You’ll discover undeveloped stretches of beach with good surfing waves. Plus, all the usual beach amenities.

But the real reason to visit Melbourne’s beaches is the sea turtles. They’re a crucial part of the local ecosystem. The barrier island serves as the nesting ground for these magnificent creatures. The summer months are the nesting season. Take a night tour to witness them in their natural habitat; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Melbourne is among the best Florida East Coast beaches that remain unspoiled. This makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil beach experience.

Ponte Vedra Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach / Flickr / Allen Forrest

Ponte Vedra Beach is a short drive from Jacksonville. It’s well-known for its golf courses but has much more to offer.   It is home to the famous 17th-hole island green at TPC Sawgrass. The beachside destination also boasts Mickler’s Landing Beach. It’s a county park that permits dogs. It features 40-foot dunes, among the highest in Florida. The dunes lead to white sand beaches made of Appalachian quartz and ancient coquina.

There are seaside resorts and private escapes. They’re spread among the twisted oaks and hammocks of the wild palmettos. Miles of freshwater streams, creeks, and lagoons flow through the natural area.

Visitors can also enjoy elegant shopping and fine dining at Ponte Vedra Beach. This area offers something for everyone.

Juno Beach

Juno Beach / Flickr / Corn Farmer

Juno Beach is a beach town situated beside Jupiter. It’s famous for its unspoiled coastline, relaxed atmosphere, and abundant nesting sea turtles.

It’s on a barrier island between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic coastline. Juno Beach’s daily life revolves around these two bodies of water. It offers activities ranging from fishing and recreation to conservation.

The Juno Beach Pier is the town’s main attraction, attracting visitors from all over. You’ll see fishermen, sightseers, and sunrise enthusiasts on any day. They’re all trying to find the perfect viewing spot in front of the calm waters. The Pier House, which includes a bait shop, snack bar, and pole rentals, is worth checking out. Many people visit Juno Beach Park to surf, kiteboard, and sunbathe. This is due to its excellent waves.

Boynton Beach

Experience the charm of Old Florida at Boynton Beach. Ocean Avenue is great for walking. It’s lined with a snack bar and boutiques. Canopy-covered walkways lead to the warm sea breezes at Oceanfront Park.

A vast stretch of sand surrounds you. Here, you can find a giant blue sea turtle sculpture. And there’s a life-size chessboard near the concession stand. Don’t miss the Haunted Pirate Fest and Mermaid Splash in October. Explore the Harbor Marina with its dockside restaurants serving up frosty tropical libations.

Boynton Beach has plenty to offer when it comes to the best beaches. These include Oceanfront Park, which has access to marine life, and Jaycee Park. It lies along the Intracoastal Waterway. You can spot manatees in the mangrove areas.

Gulfstream Park extends from the ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers a shaded picnic area, playground, and tranquil spots to read or nap.

Deerfield Beach

Deerfield / Flickr / Steven Martin

Deerfield Beach is among the best Florida East Coast beaches for those seeking locations away from the crowds. The city’s beach attained Blue Wave certification from the Clean Beach Council. This means visitors get to enjoy excellent water quality and great beach conditions.

Expect the same quality of safety services, public information, and habitat conservation policies. Besides the beach, Deerfield Beach provides attractive shopping and dining opportunities.

Quiet Waters Park is also located in Deerfield Beach. It features campgrounds, fishing, a skate park, and the longest cable ski courses in the nation.

Cable skiing is a combination of surfing, skiing, and wakeboarding. It is growing in popularity and it’s available at the park’s 2,700-foot oval course.

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key / Flickr / Don Johnson 395

Siesta Key beaches are a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s a stunning shoreline, definitely in the top tier. This is according to TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™. Siesta Beach boasts powdery quartz-crystal sand, gentle waves, and ample sunshine.

Visitors enjoy the benefits of a large parking area and concession stands. And there’s a free trolley to get around the island. Siesta Key Village is close by for entertainment. You can plan your entire trip around this stunning destination and never run out of things to do.

Popular tourist destinations on the East Coast aren’t limited to seaside destinations. The fact is that there are also tons of places you can visit if Florida beaches on the east coast aren’t for you. Here are some of the white sandy beaches and spots you can visit:

Henderson Beach

Henderson Beach is the place to be if you’re looking for crystal-clear water and fine sand. You can even catch blue crabs along the shore. The dunes are fantastic and can grow high. Walking on the dunes is not allowed. It is in the middle of the panhandle of Destin. This public beach has restrooms, showers, and two wide parking lots.

Blue Mountain Beach

This beach got its name from the blue lupine flowers everywhere back in the day. It has the usual white sand and clear water. What makes this beach different is the waves that make surfing possible. With an elevation of 64 feet, the area may not seem so mountainous. But the backdrop is a beautiful forest reserve. It is part of South Walton County.

Honeymoon Island

The beach at Honeymoon Island is clean, pristine, and far from crowded areas. It’s not overdeveloped like the other beach spots in Florida. So you see a beautiful place that looks the way it did long before. It was part of Hog Island more than a century ago. The 1921 Hurricane split the original island into two. We love this beach so much that we included it in an article.

Indian Rocks Beach

Lovely, expansive, and accessible beaches. Wondrous sunsets. All these make Indian Rocks Beach a favorite tourist destination. It is part of the Tampa Bay area. There are lots of amenities for visitors and residents alike. These include restaurants, parks, and parking areas. Indian Rocks Beach is a quiet beach, ideal for families.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Sunshine State. Nothing less than beautiful. Simply put, that’s the best way to phrase it. The photos you take on this beach will surely get noticed on social media. The sand is soft and lovely. No doubt, it’s a favorite among tourists as well as residents. Venice Beach received Blue Wave Certification.

Boca Grande

The beaches of Boca Grande offer plenty of variety. You can choose from less crowded shorelines. The public variety has all the amenities you look for. Every beach is as marvelous as the next. You have white sand and clear water. Boca Grande is one of the beaches on Gasparilla Island.

Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach lies on Estero Island. The white-sand beach rarely gets big waves, and there are no deep ridges. These make it ideal for relaxing walks and enjoyable dips. And the sunsets are gorgeous. It spans seven miles along the Gulf.

Florida’s East Coast is a dream destination for beach lovers. It offers some of the most stunning and diverse beaches in the world. Beaches on the east meet the calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. They provide an experience you’ll never forget.   We have highlighted the best beaches on the Atlantic Coast.

We hope you liked reading about our favorite beaches on Florida’s east coast. Please tell us about the time you spent in either location if you’ve been there. In addition, our site features several articles about the Sunshine State that you may find helpful. We appreciate your time and look forward to your return in our next article.