A quick travel guide to a few of the major beaches all around the state of Florida.
As Florida is surrounded by water on three sides, there are numerous beaches there. Each beach has its own personality and its own characteristics. This quick guide covers the most popular beaches, and should serve as a way to pick the perfect beach for you!
Panama City Beach is located in the Florida panhandle. Over 20 miles of sugar-white sand make it one of the longest beaches in the state. The waters tend to be very calm, and while there are still some great spots for surfing, there are also plenty of other aquatic activities. This beach is a great place for scuba diving, with an artificial reef, and plenty of shipwrecks. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and windsurfing!
Cocoa Beach is on the east coast, part of what is known as the "˜Space Coast'. With the Kennedy Space Center close by, there are many opportunities to see a launch, which is a spectacular sight-even during daylight hours! Cocoa Beach is also home to one of the famous Ron Jon Surf Shops, one of the best stores around for all your beach and ocean needs-including bathing suits, surfboards, sandals, and sunscreen! This beach is also one of the few in the state that allows alcohol on the sands; just remember that no glass is allowed.
Daytona Beach, also on the east coast, is one of the most popular beaches, especially around Spring Break! 23 miles long and 500 feet wide at low tide make it one of the biggest. Something unique about this beach is the fact that you can drive on it! Once used to set land records, the fastest you can go now is 10 mph. But that doesn't make it any less exciting! As well as being able to drive your car down the sands, you can also rent bikes and four wheelers. During the summer if you are on the beach in the early morning or late evenings, you may be able to see a sea turtle-they even limit the driving during this time to keep the turtles safe during this nesting season.
Clearwater Beach, located on the Gulf Coast, has many beaches, including Sand Key Park, which tends to be less crowded than the rest if you're looking for some peace and quiet. There are many day and half day cruises available here, including fishing boats, dolphin watching cruises, and pirate adventures. A highlight here at this beach is Pier 60. In the evenings the pier comes alive with artisans and crafters, street performers and musicians. And it offers one of the most spectacular views of the sunset you'll find.
If you're looking for something a little quieter, there are always the beaches in Central Florida. Many of the theme parks have lakes at their resorts, with their own quiet beaches. The sand is always incredibly fine, and a perfect white color. And of course there are plenty of activities at these beaches as well, including Jet Ski rentals, and paddleboats.
No matter what sort of beach you're looking for, Florida has it!
