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This Florida beach was just named best in US

People from Sarasota, Fla., visit a familiar beach on Siesta Key, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell) (Rebecca Blackwell, Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

With over 800 miles of sandy coastline, there are a lot of places to have a relaxing beach day in Florida, and it appears there’s one beach in the Sunshine State that’s the best in the United States.

According to a new list from Tripadvisor, the top-ranked beach is Siesta Key in Sarasota County.

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Many other beaches made the top 25 in Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards “Best of the Beaches.”

Read below to see where each of Florida’s beaches landed — and why.

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1. Siesta Key — Sarasota County
Siesta Key (Copyright 2024 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.)

"Whether you want to relax or fill your day with activities, Siesta Beach delivers. Kick back on the white sand, go swimming in the clear water, or simply admire the sunset—it’s up to you. It’s easy to get to via public transportation, offers wheelchair access, and has plenty of shops and restaurants nearby."

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
6. Clearwater Beach — Pinellas County
Clearwater Beach

“Clearwater Beach is a family-friendly beach with powdery, white sand, blue waters, and spectacular sunsets. Hop on a boat and cruise across the sea, soak up the sun on the soft shore, or stroll along the spacious walkway. There are showers and restrooms, and parking’s a breeze.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
9. Bahia Honda State Park — Monroe County
Bahia Honda State Park (Bahia Honda State Park/ Google Maps)

“With its soft sand and sparkling blue waters, Bahia Honda State Park is the perfect spot for a laid-back beach day. Go snorkeling or have a picnic, and be sure to bring your camera: It’s a great place for photos and you’ll definitely want to snap pics of the fantastic sunset.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
11. Sombrero Beach — Monroe County
Sombrero Beach (City of Marathon)

“Gorgeous views, powder-soft sand, palm trees swaying in the breeze—Sombrero Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing beach day. Go swimming or snorkeling in the turquoise waters, play some volleyball, or stroll the shoreline. There are picnic tables plus easy parking, and you can even bring your dog.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
14. St. Andrews State Park — Bay County
St. Andrews State Park (St. Andrews State Park)

“St. Andrews State Park is where to go if you’re looking for soft, white sand and clear waters. It rarely gets too crowded, so there’s plenty of room to have a picnic or search for seashells. If you’re into kayaking or hiking, you can do that too (you might even spot some wildlife on your adventure).”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
15. Fort Lauderdale Beach — Broward County
A beachgoer enjoys the warm weather Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier) (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

“Fort Lauderdale Beach is a lively spot with tons to do. Walk along the soft sand, go on a bike ride, or check out the promenade. Hungry? Take your pick from one of the many bars, restaurants, and coffee shops nearby.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
19. Panama City Beach — Bay County
Panama City Beach in Florida, as seen in 2023. (Copyright 2023 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

“Panama City Beach is a family-friendly spot with soft white sand and clear waters. The beach is clean, easy to get to, and there are lots of activities you can do throughout the day (make sure to stay to catch the next-level sunset). Hungry? Grab some seafood at a restaurant nearby.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
20. Henderson Beach State Park — Okaloosa County
Henderson Beach State Park (Florida State Parks)

“Henderson Beach State Park stands out with its white sand dunes and crystal-clear waters. Cruise along the boardwalk then rent a chair and umbrella on the shore and soak up the sun. Want to explore beyond the beach? Take a walk on a trail or go birdwatching.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"
22. St. Augustine Beach — St. Johns County
"See Shining Sea!" says SnapJAX user erikabeaches in St. Augustine Beach.

“St. Augustine Beach is a huge, scenic beach with hard-packed sand perfect for leisurely walks. It’s family-friendly (and pet-friendly, too!) with easy parking and a quiet atmosphere. Relax on the shore or go surfing, boogie boarding, or fishing, then catch the sunset. Pro tip: Get there early to check out the incredible sunrise.”

Tripadvisor, "Best of the Best Beaches"

In July, U.S. News named Siesta Key as its top-ranked beach of 2024.


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