This might sound a little bias, especially since I live in the sunny state – but Florida is arguably the best beach state. It’s always sunny here and I can recall going to the beach many times during Christmas break to catch a perfect tan! Besides the beaches, Florida also has some islands that you can enjoy.
Jupiter Island, Jupiter, FL
Discover the palm beaches on Jupiter Island. Jupiter Island is a barrier island on the coast of Martin and Palm Beach counties. You can find clear blue water on all sides with the Atlantic on the East side of the island, the St. Lucie inlet on the North, the Indian River on the West and the Jupiter inlet on the South! Hop in a canoe and navigate the cypress and mangrove swamps of the Loxahatchee River, one of only two rivers in Florida with a “Wild and Scenic” designation. Right in town, the turquoise lagoons of Dubois Park and Jupiter Beach Park are ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling. There’s plenty to do on dry land in Jupiter, too. Towering above the coast, the brick-red Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is one of the oldest and most iconic structures in The Palm Beaches. Climb the 105 steps to the top for an amazing view of the beaches. For some real adventure, get up close to gators on a Florida Everglades or come face to face with moray eels while diving at Blue Heron Bridge one of Florida’s best SCUBA diving sites.
Little Palm Island, Torch Key, FL
A private and luxurious gorgeous island on the outskirts of Key West. You will need a boat to get to this tropical oasis and that’s alright with me! The beachfront bungalows combine old world tradition with modern touches. Enjoy luxurious amenities, including an indoor/outdoor spa that feels very much like a Balinese hideaway. If you are looking for a luxurious getaway in Florida that feels more like an exotic getaway – this is the place.
Amelia Island, Nassau County, FL
Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is easy to reach and hard to forget. With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife and pristine waters, this barrier island has long been a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike. The Island is also a “under the radar” destination so it’s perfect for the type of couples that want some privacy to enjoy a romantic walk the beach. Amelia is also a great place to find shark teeth that have come up ashore! Fun Fact: this enchanting Victorian seaport village was once a stomping ground for pirates! A really nice place to stay is at the ,,Amelia Island Williams House Inn – an award-winning bed and breakfast! The inn is located in the historic seaport village of Fernandina Beach and located within walking distance to all this seaside town has to offer.
Caladesi Island State Park
The only way to get to this tropical oasis is by ferry service provided by the Caladesi Island Ferry! First, you’ll have to visit Honeymoon Island and that’s where you can find the ferry. On the ride over to the island you’ll even get a chance to see some dolphins! Once you get to Caladesi you will be greeted with a white sand beach and blue-green waters. This is also a great place for fishing and snorkeling. You can even rent kayaks and explore the mangroves. Caladesi is truly a Florida gem and one of my favorite places.
Bathtub Beach, Stuart, FL
An amazing beach great for privacy and shallow water. If you want a slice of beach all to yourself this is the place to get it. At low tide, the brain coral is exposed and great for collecting if you find a particularly nice piece! Bathtub Reef Beach has a reef about 50 feet off shore that protects the beach from waves and tidal action.
Okaloosa Island, Okaloosa County, FL
Say hello to the Okaloosa Island waters that is made up by the Santa Rosa Sound, Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. This barrier island between Ft. Walton Beach and Destin is famous for pristine beaches, water sports and amazing sunsets and sunrises. Whether touring the Gulfarium for aquatic animal encounters, or parasailing high over the Choctawhatchee Bay, it’s easy to find Okaloosa Island things to do to satisfy all ages and interests!
Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande, FL
Gorgeous island that is separated from the mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound! Gasparilla island is part of a chain of Gulf Coast barrier islands. The centerpiece of the island is the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse built in 1890. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling and shelling and the gorgeous views of course!
