With Spring Break underway for many parts of Central Florida, it’s natural for people to hit up the state’s many beaches.
But with the break only spanning a week, it’s important to make the most of that limited time.
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As such, U.S. News and World Report has a list of the top 17 Gulf Coast beaches that tourists should visit.
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful seaside escape or a beach with amenities like shops and water sports equipment rentals, the Gulf Coast – which spans Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida – offers it all,” the ranking reads.
The vast majority of those beaches on the list — 14 to be precise — can all be found right here in the Sunshine State.
Below are the Florida beaches that managed to find their way onto the list.
1. Naples
“The Florida Gulf Coast city of Naples draws visitors with its picture-perfect turquoise waters, paired with a thriving art scene and an array of shopping and dining venues. It offers many beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach (a public stretch of sand with on-site amenities like restrooms and parking, as well as proximity to multiple resorts and restaurants) and Naples Municipal Beach (a family-friendly option with a concession stand and a historic pier that’s great for fishing).
But considering Naples is known as a home to millionaires and has the sixth-highest per capita income out of any city in the country, prices can be steep.
Properties like LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, where beach butlers, a golf club, a spa and private cabanas are available, offer a high-end stay. However, you can find deals if you visit outside of the peak travel season – which runs from January through April – and bed down at more wallet-friendly hotels, such as the Bayfront Inn 5th Ave.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
2. Marco Island
“South of Naples and northwest of Everglades National Park sits Marco Island, a small haven popular among retirees, but also quite family-friendly. Tigertail Beach Park is a top choice for families thanks to its playground, boardwalks, concessions and restrooms, while South Marco Beach is a convenient option for those staying at Marco Island’s top hotels.
Vacationers can ride the waves on Jet Skis, search for manatees swimming past mangroves or take a boat tour with the survey crew of the Dolphin Explorer to identify and catalogue area dolphins. Reserve a room at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, a large property with eateries, pools, a spa and even an adults-only area called Paradise by Sirene.
The resort’s 10K Alley gaming center and restaurant offers bourbon, craft beer, bowling and virtual reality games. Vacation rentals at a range of prices are also available.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
3. St. Pete Beach
“Situated roughly 30 miles southwest of Tampa, St. Petersburg and its surrounding beaches – which are some of America’s best stretches of sand – see an average of 361 days of sunshine per year, making the region an excellent place to soak up some rays.
Plus, the area offers unique attractions and activities, such as see-through kayaking with dolphins and manatees, the Dalí Museum and the Imagine Museum, dedicated to contemporary artworks made from glass.
Book a stay at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club to be within walking distance of downtown and the St. Pete Pier, a sleek new destination on the water, only open since 2020. There are also plenty of Old Florida-style inns and motels at more affordable price points should you want to enjoy proximity to St. Pete Beach without breaking the bank.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
4. Destin
“Make your way to Destin on the Florida Panhandle to take advantage of top-notch fishing opportunities, peruse charming shops and enjoy loads of family-friendly activities.
The town features many public beaches, including Henderson Beach State Park (where you’ll find ample parking and restrooms) and James Lee Park, which offers picnic tables, pavilions and a playground, among other amenities. Cool off on a hot day at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park (open seasonally), watch sharks and rays at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, or embark on a dolphin cruise from HarborWalk Village – an entertainment district with a variety of boutiques, eateries and art galleries.
Destin offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from recreational vehicle campgrounds to vacation rentals to resorts and hotels, such as the U.S. News’ top-rated Henderson Beach Resort and the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
5. Navarre
“Largely free of tourists, laid-back Navarre is situated in the Florida Panhandle and along 12 miles of beach, set between Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach Marine Park. Head to Navarre Beach to take a walk on the Navarre Beach Pier – the longest pier in Florida – or visit the Florida side of Gulf Islands National Seashore to swim or lounge on white sand at Opal Beach.
Other can’t-miss attractions located within 30 miles of Navarre include the Gulf Breeze Zoo, with over 1,000 animals from around the world, and the 101-year-old Imogene Theater. The SpringHill Suites Navarre Beach offers many rooms with balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or Santa Rosa Sound, as well as free breakfast, a pool, a lazy river and a waterfront restaurant.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
6. Siesta Key
“Located just off the coast of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach was voted by travelers on TripAdvisor as one of the top beaches in the U.S. in 2023, thanks to its snow-white sand and azure waters. With a playground, picnic area, concession stands and lifeguards on duty all year round, it’s certainly a family-friendly spot.
It can get lively, too: stop by later on a Sunday afternoon to catch impromptu drum circles that pop up around the sunset hours. Off the beach, take to the waters of Sarasota Bay or the Myakka River in a kayak, boat or paddleboard to see if you can catch a glimpse of manatees and dolphins. When hunger strikes, Siesta Key Village (a short walk north of the beach) is home to a variety of restaurants, including plenty of seafood options.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
7. Madeira Beach
“Head 28 miles west from Tampa and you’ll land in the barrier island community of Madeira Beach, with 2.5 miles of beaches facing out to the Gulf of Mexico. There’s a variety of amenities including parking, restrooms and beach chair rentals. The southern tip of the beach is a hot spot for fishing, but there are also dozens of charter companies that can take you offshore for deep sea fishing to catch grouper, snapper and more.
When it’s time to eat, consider heading to John’s Pass Village, a former fishing settlement that’s now home to an array of shops and restaurants, covering plenty of ground from pizza to seafood. It’s also possible to find relatively affordable accommodations right by the sea: casual options include the Cambria Madeira Beach Hotel and the Courtyard St. Petersburg Clearwater/Madeira Beach.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
8. Anna Maria Island
“At the north end of a string of barrier islands and a 20-mile drive from Sarasota lies Anna Maria Island and its collection of beautiful beaches. Expect a particularly relaxed vibe: it’s billed as having old-fashioned Florida charm, not the kind of beach town with high-rise condos and fast food chains aplenty.
There’s multiple beaches to choose from – for a tranquil setting, try Bean Point Beach at the island’s northern tip, or for a more lively and family-friendly vibe, there’s Manatee Beach, which also has amenities like concessions, lifeguards, playgrounds and restrooms.
If you’re in town between November and March, consider heading to the Market at Coquina Beach, where local artisans and creators sell food, clothing, and much more every Sunday. To rest your head, you can stay in a renovated 1930s-style bungalow at the family-run Bungalow Beach Resort, located right alongside the sugar-white sands of Bradenton Beach.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
9. Clearwater Beach
“Located a short drive west of Tampa, the city of Clearwater Beach is home to palm-lined white sand beaches with warm, turquoise waters. The main strip of sand, also called Clearwater Beach, is centrally located with lifeguards on duty all year and a wide selection of hotels and restaurants within walking distance.
Be sure to drop by Pier 60, where you can go fishing, watch pelicans or catch street performers in the evenings. And if you’re looking to get away from it all, consider venturing into Caladesi Island State Park. Located just a few miles north of Clearwater Beach, this park is accessible only by boat or public ferry.
You can paddle through the park’s mangroves and explore wild beaches, or rent your own boat to spend the night at the marina. Beach wheelchairs are available for free at the ranger station.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
10. Panama City Beach
“Up in the Florida panhandle, Panama City Beach is home to a whopping 27 miles of beaches sprawled along the coastline. Some of the best places to hit the sea are in the local state parks: St. Andrews and Camp Helen. The former is considered great for kids thanks to its generally calm waters.
If you’re looking for an aquatic adventure, snorkeling equipment and kayaks can be rented from March to Labor Day. If you’ve had your fill of beach time, Panama City Beach is well-stocked with other attractions such as the Shipwreck Island Waterpark, with waterslides aplenty. By night, Pier Park, an open-air mall, is an entertainment hub with an IMAX cinema, restaurants and more; for adults, Panama City Beach is also home to a host of lively beach bars.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
11. Sanibel Island
“For a nature-filled getaway, look no further than Sanibel Island. Considered one of Florida’s best beach destinations, this island off of the coast of Fort Myers provides countless opportunities to go shelling at Bowman’s Beach and fishing at Lighthouse Beach Park, which features a 138-year-old lighthouse.
Plus, Sanibel boasts 25 miles of bike trails and paths alongside buildings that aren’t allowed to stand any taller than the surrounding palm trees, in order to protect the natural environment. At J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, look for wildlife like manatees, sea turtles and alligators during a 90-minute educational tram tour. When hunger strikes, sit down for fresh seafood and craft cocktails at Cielo Restaurant, a local fine dining spot.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
12. Fort Myers Beach
“Vacationers who are looking for some extra nightlife and activities should visit Fort Myers Beach. In this small town on Estero Island, travelers will find plenty of beach spaces. Head inland to check out interesting attractions like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, the former seasonal homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The adjacent properties feature the Edison laboratory and 20 acres of gardens, among other amenities.
Additional can’t-miss sights include the IMAG History & Science Center and Manatee Park, where you can learn about these endangered gentle giants.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
13. Captiva Island
“Continue driving northwest from Sanibel Island and you’ll reach Captiva Island. Measuring nearly 4.5 miles long, Captiva is home to three public beaches and a number of private beaches operated by resorts. Captiva Beach is famous for its sunsets and romantic ambiance, but on-site parking is limited, so plan on arriving early. Meanwhile, Turner Beach at Blind Pass is ideal for fishing and shelling, though its currents make it unsafe for swimming.
Be sure to eat at Captiva Island’s famed English pub-inspired restaurant, The Mucky Duck, which sits right on Captiva Beach. If you’re looking to enjoy some retail therapy, head to the quaint boutiques lining Andy Rosse Lane and in Chadwick’s Square.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
14. Pensacola Beach
“With 18 miles of beaches, an average water temperature of 72 degrees and some 343 sunny days per year, this destination at the western end of the Florida Panhandle has a lot going for it. With so much beach, consider hiring a bicycle and going exploring for the perfect spot: it’s a fairly easy way to get around the island. A number of beaches have lifeguard services, and the Park West beach also has grills, a portion dedicated to dogs and showers on site.
If you’re looking for a little excitement while also getting in touch with nature, you can head out to spot dolphins on a Jet Ski tour. It’s also easy to hop over to the bigger city of Pensacola, with its downtown full of museums, restaurants, bars and more. Accommodation options range from major chains like the Hilton to private vacation rentals and RV camping sites. And since the island is only a few hundred feet wide in parts, you’ll always be close to the water.”
U.S. News and World Report, "17 Top Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit"
