The Beaches

Enjoy sugar-white sands and glittering waters on Florida’s most famous beaches

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​​​​There is a reason why Florida beaches are so special. The weathering of land formed the sand that makes up much of the state’s coastal areas. The quartz was then washed into the rivers, which led them to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. From there, it was carried along Florida’s gorgeous coastline and made up the unforgettable beaches that lay there today.

The sight of Florida’s beaches is one that people flock to every year. Synonymous with decadence, the beaches in Florida offer a sense of escape for travelers. With a Florida sun overhead, sugar sand below, and a stunning water view straight ahead, few visitors have anything to complain about on a Florida beach.
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What to Love 

• ​​​​​​​White quartz beaches
• Stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico
• A beach day with all the amenities of a night out
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Local Lifestyle 

Florida residents are proud of their beaches. For centuries, the state has offered its coastal treasures to the world and, in doing so, has maintained them. The results are some of the most stunning beaches on the planet. 

Seeing this devotion to quality and care for what makes them so alluring, Florida’s beaches have been treated like gold by the people tasked with caring for them. That’s why beachside stops along the southern tip of the U.S. remain some of the most coveted vacations on any traveler’s list.

Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping

One of the most upscale dining experiences in Florida can be found at Caretta on the Gulf. This beachside resort offers exceptional New American choices in a stunning atmosphere. It is one of the most popular establishments in the entire state. Ocean Prime is a sophisticated seafood restaurant famous for its steaks, fish, and fine wines. 

Kres Chophouse is a highly recommended restaurant and for good reason. Fine dining and elegance are on the menu, alongside some of the most amazing steaks in Florida.

Inside the Four Seasons sits one of Florida’s star-rated restaurants, The Surf Club Restaurant. Featuring a robust menu across all courses, this establishment has truly earned its place among foodies.

Over in Lake Buena Vista, Capa gives diners a chance to enjoy everything from tapas to steak in an elegant lounge setting. It is one of the most upscale options for a memorable night out.

Things to Do

Siesta Beach is a stunning white quartz beach pulled straight from a postcard with tennis courts, lifeguards year-round, and a playground. 

In Sarasota, Lido Key Beach is a beloved piece of the community. With soft sand along the glistening shoreline, Lido Key offers a full beach day experience. With souvenirs, picnic tables, and a swimming pool, there’s a lot to do under the Florida sun.

Turtle Beach is one of the hidden gems of Florida. With clear, crisp water and several beaches, including black sand, Turtle Beach is the perfect spot for finding shells or escaping from the everyday. 

For those traveling north of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key is a spot that can’t be missed. Considered the “quiet neighbor” to Lido Key, this strip of land along the Gulf features prime dining, elegant accommodations, and plenty of entertainment. 

One of Bradenton’s favorite public beaches, Coquina Beach is known for its length and welcoming attitude. Cabanas offer privacy, while playgrounds offer fun on this swimming beach. With great food, live entertainment, and even a free library, Coquina Beach truly knows how to accentuate the best parts of a day at the beach.

For locals, Bradenton Beach is an entire community centered around beach life. A part of Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach is one of the island’s three municipalities. The area’s history is astounding, and, to this day, it features a public library maintained without public funds.