North Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. From white sand beaches to hidden gem beaches, there is something for everyone in this gorgeous region. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly beach adventure, these 11 best beaches in North Florida should be at the top of your list. From St. Augustine to Destin, these beaches offer a variety of activities and breathtaking views. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s explore the 11 best beaches in North Florida that you need to visit!
1) Gulf Islands National Seashore
Gulf Islands National Seashore is an area of pristine beauty and a must-see for beachgoers in North Florida. Located off the Gulf of Mexico, this picturesque shoreline stretches from Santa Rosa Island to Perdido Key.
The beach here is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sound of waves, and you can explore the wildlife habitats along the shoreline. The beaches are also a great place to go snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking. There are also a variety of trails to explore, making it a great place to explore nature.
The area also offers excellent camping opportunities, with a range of options available. Whether you’re looking for RV sites or primitive camping spots, there is something for everyone. There are also some great restaurants and lodging options near the beach.
Gulf Islands National Seashore is definitely a must-see destination for any beachgoer looking for some fun in the sun in North Florida!
2) Grayton Beach State Park
Located in the Florida Panhandle, Grayton Beach State Park is one of the most beautiful beaches in North Florida. With its wide, sandy beaches and turquoise waters, this state park offers a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxing day at the beach. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including swimming, fishing, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and beachcombing. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a nearby hiking trail to explore.
There are many amenities available at Grayton Beach State Park, including picnic areas, camping sites, bathhouses, and grills. There are also concession stands where you can purchase snacks and drinks. For those looking to stay longer than a day, there are cabins available for rental. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Grayton Beach State Park is an ideal spot to enjoy your time in North Florida.
3) St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park, located in Panama City Beach, is one of the best beaches in North Florida. With over 1.5 miles of white sandy beaches and crystal clear emerald green waters, it is the perfect place to take a swim or just relax in the sun. The park also offers two fishing piers, camping facilities, nature trails, and a boat ramp.
One of the best features of St. Andrews State Park is its wildlife. It is home to an abundance of birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else in the area. There is also a wildlife viewing area where you can observe the creatures without disturbing them. In addition to its natural beauty, the park also has picnic pavilions and a playground for families with children.
If you are looking for some more adventurous activities, you can try kayaking, paddle boarding, or boating around Shell Island, which is located just off the coast of St. Andrews State Park. You can also take a tour of the park’s nature trails, explore its unique maritime forest, or go on a guided beach walk with a ranger. No matter what type of outdoor activity you prefer, St. Andrews State Park has something for everyone.
4) T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Located in Port St. Joe, Florida, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is a stunningly beautiful beach that is worth the visit. This state park offers breathtaking views of the gulf coast and plenty of activities for beach-goers to enjoy. The park is home to a three-mile long white sand beach that offers amazing swimming opportunities and plenty of chances to spot dolphins and other marine life. The area also offers excellent fishing opportunities with its plentiful number of fish species including redfish, spotted sea trout, and flounder. In addition to fishing, the park offers various trails for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers alike. There are also several camping sites available for those who want to stay a bit longer and enjoy all the park has to offer. All in all, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore North Florida’s beautiful coastline.
5) Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach, located on the Emerald Coast of Northwest Florida, is a great destination for beach lovers. This vibrant beach town offers a plethora of activities, attractions, and restaurants that make it an ideal destination for families and vacationers alike. From its crystal-clear water to its white sand beaches, Fort Walton Beach is a paradise for beachgoers.
Fort Walton Beach is home to two main public beaches: Okaloosa Island Beach and Henderson Beach State Park. Okaloosa Island Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful views. The area also offers a range of activities such as fishing, kayaking, and parasailing. At Henderson Beach State Park, visitors can explore nature trails, play in the surf, or relax on the beach.
In addition to its stunning beaches, Fort Walton Beach has plenty of other attractions to keep visitors entertained. It’s home to several golf courses, including Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club, one of the top golf courses in the state. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities at the Santa Rosa Mall and Emerald Coast Shopping Center. Other attractions include the Indian Temple Mound Museum and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
For a delicious seafood dinner, head over to the Crab Trap Destin or Fudpuckers On The Island. And if you’re looking for some nightlife, check out the area’s many bars and clubs. With so much to do and see, Fort Walton Beach is the perfect place to spend a day or a week in paradise.
6) Destin
If you’re looking for a beach that has a ton of activities, great food and fantastic scenery, then you should definitely consider Destin. This vibrant city is known as the “world’s luckiest fishing village” and its beaches provide miles of gorgeous white sand beaches.
The city is known for its incredible sunsets and fishing, but it also has many other activities like parasailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling. The waters around Destin are crystal clear and the waves are gentle, making it perfect for families. If you’re looking to explore the area, you can take a boat tour of the Choctawhatchee Bay or head over to the Henderson Beach State Park.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Destin is home to a variety of shopping and dining options. HarborWalk Village is a popular spot along the waterfront that features shops, restaurants and live entertainment. There are also plenty of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate local art, music, food and culture.
So if you’re looking for a beach getaway that offers something for everyone, then make sure to add Destin to your list!
7) Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach is one of the best beaches in North Florida. Located on Santa Rosa Island, Navarre Beach is home to white sand, emerald green waters and plenty of recreation opportunities. Popular activities here include swimming, surfing, boating, fishing, parasailing, beachcombing and relaxing on the sand. There are plenty of amenities in the area too, such as restaurants, shops and bars. The Gulf Islands National Seashore is also located nearby, making this beach a great destination for a day or a weekend trip. The beach also offers easy access to Pensacola, making it a great base for exploring the area. Navarre Beach is a great spot for a relaxed vacation by the sea.
8) Pensacola Beach
Located in the western panhandle of Florida, Pensacola Beach is a popular destination for beach-goers and sunbathers alike. The white sandy beaches stretch for miles, providing plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the crystal blue waters. There are also several restaurants, bars, and shops to explore along the boardwalk.
A variety of outdoor activities are available at Pensacola Beach, including fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing, surfing, and windsurfing. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach or take a walk along the waterfront. Additionally, the Gulf Islands National Seashore is located just minutes away, offering beautiful views and an abundance of wildlife.
For those who are looking for a unique experience, Pensacola Beach also hosts several festivals throughout the year. These festivals feature local music, art, food, and craft vendors. It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs or local specialties like fresh seafood dishes.
No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone at Pensacola Beach. From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why this destination continues to draw people in year after year!
9) Perdido Key
One of the best beaches in North Florida is Perdido Key. Located just west of Pensacola, this lovely barrier island is known for its crystal clear waters and white sand. Perdido Key is home to an array of wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and shore birds. There are several state parks and conservation areas, including Johnson Beach and Gulf Islands National Seashore.
At Perdido Key, you can enjoy a variety of activities. There are plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, kayak, and fish in the gulf. You can also explore the natural beauty of this barrier island by hiking or biking along the trails. And if you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, you can relax on the beach or go shelling.
The area is also a great spot for camping. There are several campsites available with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you choose a waterfront campsite or one located further inland, you will be able to take in stunning views of the gulf and experience nature up close.
Perdido Key is a perfect place to spend some quality time in nature. With its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and beautiful wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for an unforgettable beach vacation.
10) South Walton Beaches
Located along the Emerald Coast, South Walton Beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. With nearly 20 miles of white-sand beaches, there’s plenty of room to stretch out and relax in the sun. From beachfront communities to exclusive resorts, this is the perfect spot for a beach getaway.
Popular activities here include sunbathing, swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The area is also home to over 25 state parks, including Grayton Beach State Park. This park boasts emerald waters and white-sand dunes and is a popular spot for camping and beachcombing.
Another must-visit beach in South Walton is Seaside. A historic town known for its unique architecture and colorful cottages, it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll. The nearby town of Rosemary Beach is also worth a visit. It’s home to luxury accommodations and upscale boutiques.
No matter where you stay in South Walton, you’ll be close to plenty of great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. When you want to unwind after a day of fun in the sun, head to one of the many bars and clubs that line the beachfront. There are also several music festivals and special events held in the area throughout the year.
From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant nightlife, South Walton offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a night on the town, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy your time here.
11) Panama City Beach
Located in the Florida Panhandle, Panama City Beach offers visitors plenty of fun in the sun. It has some of the most beautiful beaches in North Florida and is also home to a variety of family-friendly attractions. The white sand beaches stretch for miles and provide plenty of room for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. In addition to its beach activities, Panama City Beach offers great shopping, restaurants, and plenty of water sports. You can also visit the Gulf World Marine Park or try out the thrilling Sky Wheel Ferris wheel at Pier Park. With its many attractions, Panama City Beach is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Final Words
When it comes to North Florida beaches, there is no shortage of things to do. From the Gulf Islands National Seashore to the T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, there are plenty of options for a beach vacation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or a more active experience on the water, North Florida’s coastline has something for everyone.
If you’re considering a beach vacation, take some time to explore the 11 best beaches in North Florida. With its stunning views and great amenities, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget.
F&Q
Q: What are the best beaches in North Florida?
A: The best beaches in North Florida include Gulf Islands National Seashore, Grayton Beach State Park, St. Andrews State Park, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Navarre Beach, Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key, South Walton Beaches, and Panama City Beach.
Q: What can I do on these beaches?
A: The beaches in North Florida offer a variety of activities including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, boating, and more! Many of these beaches have beautiful trails for hiking and biking as well as picnic areas and campgrounds.
Q: Are there any facilities available at the beaches?
A: Most beaches in North Florida have restrooms, showers, and other amenities available for visitors. Some of the more popular beaches also offer beach rentals such as umbrellas and chairs.
Q: Are there any restrictions to visiting these beaches?
A: There may be some restrictions depending on the beach you are visiting. Most beaches are open to the public but may require a parking or access fee. Alcohol is not allowed on most beaches and pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
