13 Beautiful Coastal Towns in Florida You Must Visit
Florida is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, boasting over 1,300 miles of pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s no surprise that the Sunshine State attracts millions of visitors each year, making it a sought-after vacation destination.
From the vibrant nightlife of Key West to the laid-back charm of Seaside, Florida offers an array of coastal towns waiting to be explored. With so many incredible options, deciding where to go can be quite the challenge.
Let’s highlight some of the best coastal towns in Florida, each with its own unique charm!
Best Florida Beach Towns
Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I feel lucky to have personally witnessed the incredible beauty and diversity of the coastal towns in this state. My job lets me explore these amazing places and introduce my clients to the distinct charm of each town.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fun family getaway, a romantic escape, or a thrilling solo adventure, Florida’s coast has got you covered. So pack your bags, grab your
Are you in the mood to explore Florida? Check out these posts!
Coastal Towns on the Florida Panhandle
1. Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is awesome if you’re into beaches and nature! The sand is super soft and white, like powdered sugar. And the water? It’s so beautiful and green! Plus, there are tons of fish and other animals to check out.
This beach is awesome because it has these super rare coastal dune lakes. Like, seriously, they’re only found in a few spots around the world. These lakes happen when saltwater and freshwater mix together.
And let me tell you, the coastal dune lakes are like a total chill spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, or even fishing. You can soak up all the breathtaking nature views while you’re hanging out there.
One can’t mention Santa Rosa Beach without raving about its impressive culinary scene. I highly recommend you try Vue on 30a. Nestled directly along the Gulf of Mexico, Vue on 30a showcases high-quality seafood and locally sourced ingredients in classic and inspiring dishes.
2. Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach is this charming and laid-back coastal town on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s famous for its stunning beaches, unique charm, and natural beauty. You’ll find it along Scenic Highway 30A, which offers picturesque coastal views and adorable beach communities.
Grayton Beach is all about its amazing shoreline, consistently ranked among the best in the US. Picture soft, ivory sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and trying out cool water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
This cute little town is home to lots of art galleries that proudly showcase the work of local artists and artisans. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of shops and restaurants that whip up delicious dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
3. Seaside
Seaside is like the ultimate small-town charm! You’ve got these adorable pastel-colored cottages, white picket fences, and a super cute downtown area.
And let’s not forget about the stunning beaches! They’ve got a whole mile of pristine shoreline, soft white sand, and turquoise waters that are just perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and catching some waves.
The downtown area is buzzing with all sorts of cool stuff too – there are shops, restaurants, and galleries to check out.
Oh, and did I mention the food? They’ve got an awesome food scene with fresh seafood, farm-to-table goodness, and flavors from all over the world. Seaside is the place to be!
Coastal Towns in North Florida
4. Cedar Key
Cedar Key is a quaint, picturesque island town on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Stepping into Cedar Key is like journeying back in time. The town’s historical charm is apparent with victorian-era architecture, charming streets lined with mom-and-pop shops, and a waterfront filled with classic fishing boats.
This is not your typical tourist spot; there are no high-rise condos or crowded beaches. Instead, you’ll find serene, natural beaches, perfect for a quiet, relaxing getaway.
A haven for nature lovers, Cedar Key is surrounded by a stunning array of wildlife. It’s nestled within the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, offering fantastic bird-watching opportunities. Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels offers magical encounters with local marine wildlife, including playful dolphins and manatees.
One of the most unique aspects of Cedar Key is its thriving arts community. The town is home to numerous galleries and studios where you can admire the work of local artists, often inspired by the area’s natural beauty.
As for food, Cedar Key boasts an impressive seafood scene. The local clam industry thrives here, making the town a top provider of farm-raised clams in the country. When you visit, don’t miss out on trying a bowl of steamed Cedar Key clams or the renowned clam chowder!
5. Fernandina Beach
Fernandina Beach is located on Amelia Island, just off the coast of Northeast Florida. This charming town is steeped in history and boasts an incredible array of beautiful beaches, perfectly blending old-world charm and coastal beauty.
One highlight of Fernandina Beach is Fort Clinch State Park, situated on over 1,400 acres with miles of hiking and biking trails. The park has a rich history, offering guided tours of the historic Fort Clinch, which dates back to the Civil War era.
Fernandina Beach is also a hub for water sports activities such as kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Its beautiful beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing too.
The downtown area is simply delightful, with its tree-lined streets, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants serving up mouth-watering seafood dishes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one of the horse-drawn carriage rides for a unique way to explore the town.
Coastal Towns in Central Florida
6. Longboat Key
Longboat Key is a hidden gem tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This serene coastal town offers the best of both worlds – tranquil beaches and exciting outdoor activities.
The 12-mile-long island boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views. Its location also makes it an ideal spot for fishing and boating.
Nature lovers will be in paradise on Longboat Key, with plenty of opportunities for bird-watching, kayaking through mangrove tunnels, and exploring the nearby nature preserves. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife such as sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins.
After a day spent outdoors, head over to St. Armands Circle, a popular shopping and dining destination on the island. With over 130 stores and restaurants to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
7. Siesta Key
Siesta Key is a barrier island located off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The island has consistently been ranked as one of the best beaches in the US, and it’s easy to see why!
What makes Siesta Key stand out is its world-renowned beach, consistently ranked as one of the best in the country. Its powdery soft sand made up of 99% pure quartz gives the water a beautiful turquoise hue, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
The island also offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. And when the sun sets, head over to Siesta Key Village for some live music, delicious food, and fun bars.
8. Cocoa Beach
Known as the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast,” Cocoa Beach is a must-visit for any beach and water sports enthusiast. Located just an hour away from Orlando, this coastal town offers miles of pristine beaches, perfect for surfing, boating, and fishing.
But it’s not all about outdoor activities in Cocoa Beach. The town also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with art galleries, museums, and live theater performances to explore.
Don’t miss out on visiting the Kennedy Space Center while you’re in Cocoa Beach. The center offers a fascinating look into NASA’s space program and features interactive exhibits, simulators, and even opportunities to meet astronauts. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a rocket launch!
9. Tarpon Springs
Located on the Gulf Coast, Tarpon Springs is a charming coastal town with a unique Greek influence. The town is known for its sponge diving industry, and you can even go on a boat tour to watch divers in action.
The downtown area is filled with quaint shops selling handmade sponges, along with delicious Greek restaurants serving up traditional dishes like gyros and baklava. Be sure to visit the Sponge Docks, where you can take a stroll along the waterfront and watch boats come in with their catch of the day.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Tarpon Springs is also home to numerous parks and nature preserves, offering opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding at the nearby beaches.
Coastal Towns in South Florida
10. Captiva Island
Captiva Island is a tropical paradise located just off the coast of Fort Myers in South Florida. This small, charming island is popular among beach-goers and nature lovers alike.
The highlight of Captiva Island is its beautiful beaches, boasting white sand and crystal-clear waters. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins playing near the shore.
The island also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and shelling. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and spot some manatees.
Aside from its natural beauty, Captiva Island also boasts a charming village with unique shops and delicious restaurants serving up fresh seafood dishes.
11. Key Biscayne
Located just south of Miami, Key Biscayne is a tranquil island paradise with stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
The island boasts two beautiful state parks, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Crandon Park, perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking. You can also visit the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse at Bill Baggs State Park for some panoramic views of the island.
Key Biscayne is also home to some of the best beaches in South Florida, including Crandon Park Beach and Virginia Key Beach Park. These pristine beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
For those interested in marine life, head over to the Miami Seaquarium on Virginia Key for a chance to see dolphins, sea lions, and other sea creatures up close.
12. Naples
Naples is a luxurious coastal town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. With its white sand beaches, upscale shopping and dining, and world-class golf courses, it’s no wonder Naples is known as the “Crown Jewel” of Southwest Florida.
Naples is all about its stunning beaches, boasting crystal-clear waters and soft, powdery sand. Don’t miss out on the chance to check out the nearby nature reserves and parks like Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park and Clam Pass County Park.
The town also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with art galleries, theaters, and live music events. And for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, take a stroll down Fifth Avenue South or Third Street South for upscale shopping and dining options.
13. Key West
Last but certainly not least, we have Key West – the southernmost point in the continental United States. This vibrant island town is known for its laid-back atmosphere, colorful architecture, and rich history.
Key West offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including water sports like snorkeling and diving in the clear blue waters or taking a sunset cruise. You can also explore the town’s historic sites and museums, such as Ernest Hemingway’s former home or the Key West Lighthouse.
But perhaps one of the biggest draws to Key West is its lively nightlife. From street performers on Mallory Square to lively bars on Duval Street, there’s always something happening in this quirky island town.
Plan Your Next Coastal Getaway
With so many beautiful coastal towns to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one to visit. Each town offers its unique charm and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. So why not plan your next getaway and explore the stunning beaches and charming communities of Florida’s coastal towns? Happy travels!
