If you’re dreaming of a beach getaway this year, there’s no need to fly across the world—some of the best beaches on the planet are right here in Florida.
According to the latest rankings from U.S. News, several Florida beaches made the list of the Best Beaches in the U.S. for 2025—and honestly, we’re not surprised.
From powdery white sands to crystal-clear water and family-friendly vibes, Florida’s beaches continue to prove why they’re some of the best anywhere.
Here are the top Florida beaches that made the list—plus what makes each one so unforgettable.
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
1. Siesta Key (Ranked #1 Overall in the U.S.)
No surprise here! Siesta Key snagged the top spot as the best beach in the country—and it totally deserves it.
Why it’s amazing:
-
The sand is pure white quartz (so soft it feels like powdered sugar)
-
It has something for everyone: tennis courts, playgrounds, snorkeling at Crescent Beach, and beachcombing at Turtle Beach
-
Free trolley = free fun getting around the island!
- Siesta Village has awesome restaurants nearby. If you are a fan of oysters, you’ll love Siesta Key Oyster Bar.
Whether you’re building sandcastles or sipping a frozen drink as the sun sets, Siesta Key hits the mark for a perfect beach day.
2. Clearwater Beach (Ranked #6 in the U.S.)
A family favorite and a sunset hotspot, Clearwater Beach is the total package.
Why people love it:
-
Relatively calm, shallow water that’s perfect for young swimmers
-
Endless activities like parasailing, paddleboarding, and dolphin cruises
-
Pier 60’s nightly sunset celebration with street performers and vendors
- I love the oceanfront restaurants here, such as Palm Pavilion and Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. There’s also Crabby’s, which has good food and beautiful views.
Clearwater Beach is just as fun off the sand as it is on it. The area is walkable, and everything is easy to get to.
If you’d like to go a little further, the Jolly Trolley will take you around the area.
3. Destin (Ranked #7 in the U.S.)
They don’t call it the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” for nothing. Destin is a gem on the Florida Panhandle.
Top beach spots here:
-
Henderson Beach State Park (for nature trails + uncrowded shores)
-
Crystal Beach (for that postcard-perfect sand)
-
Crab Island (a floating party on a sandbar!)
HarborWalk Village is a great place to visit with waterfront restaurants, shops, and events throughout the year.
This is the kind of place where you can spend your morning snorkeling, your afternoon lounging, and your evening eating fresh-caught seafood with Gulf views.
Check out these must-eat seafood restaurants in Destin!
4. Sanibel Island (Ranked #13 in the U.S.)
Shell lovers, this one’s for you. Sanibel Island is the best beach in Florida for shelling—so much so that people come just to search the sand.
Why it’s unique:
-
Bowman’s Beach is quiet and great for shell hunting
-
Lighthouse Beach has nature trails and scenic views
-
Tarpon Bay Beach = calm water for a swim
Whether you’re collecting treasures or just enjoying the peace and quiet, Sanibel has a relaxed, natural feel that’s hard to beat.
My favorite activity on Sanibel is riding bikes around the island and visiting all of the must-see beaches and restaurants!
5. Key West (Ranked #14 in the U.S.)
Down at the southernmost tip of the U.S., Key West brings the beachy vibes and the quirky island culture.
Must-visit beaches:
-
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: the best for snorkeling and history buffs
-
Smathers Beach: volleyball, water sports rentals, and palm tree views
- I also love the small beach at Southernmost Beach Cafe
Don’t miss a sunset at Mallory Square and a slice of key lime pie after your beach day.
Check out the best things to do in Key West for couples! (Don’t worry, singles and families will enjoy this list, too!)
6. Amelia Island (Ranked #18 in the U.S.)
A less talked-about gem on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, Amelia Island is perfect for travelers who want space, nature, and small-town charm.
What makes it special:
-
13 miles of beaches with over 40 access points
-
Horseback riding on the beach at Amelia Island State Park
-
Main Beach Park has playgrounds, volleyball, and picnic spots
It’s low-key and less crowded than many other Florida hotspots—perfect for a quiet coastal escape.
7. Miami Beach (Ranked #22 in the U.S.)
Of course, Miami Beach made the list! It’s where beach days and nightlife collide.
Here’s why it stands out:
-
Lummus Park has outdoor gyms, volleyball courts, and great people-watching
-
South Beach is legendary for Art Deco buildings and palm-lined streets
-
Haulover Park offers a quieter scene—and even a clothing-optional zone
- I love hitting Key Biscayne and enjoying the sunset views at Crandon Beach Park.
Whether you’re here to party or just soak up the sun, Miami Beach delivers.
8. St. Petersburg (Ranked #24 in the U.S.)
Just west of Tampa, St. Pete offers a mix of wide beaches and outdoor adventure.
Top spots:
-
St. Pete Beach: perfect for lounging, beach bars, and jet skiing
-
Fort De Soto Park: more secluded, with nature trails and wildlife viewing
- Pass-A-Grille Beach: southern end of St Pete Beach with lots of restaurants nearby.
With the most sunny days in Florida, it’s no wonder St. Pete is a favorite for beach lovers year-round.
Final Thoughts: Florida Brought the Heat in 2025
From the white sands of Siesta Key to the sunsets in St. Pete, Florida dominated this year’s Best Beaches in the U.S. list—and it’s easy to see why.
Whether you’re into shelling, snorkeling, or sipping a cocktail in the sand, there’s a Florida beach with your name on it.
Which one will you visit first?
Want help planning your beach trip? Check out my Florida itineraries and travel guides below!
Follow Our Discover Florida Facebook Page!
We’re Also On Pinterest!
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
