Last Updated on March 20, 2024

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There’s something truly memorable about a Florida sunset.  It may be the way the sun dips down into the ocean or the way the sky lights up. 

Whatever the reason, sunsets in Florida are simply breathtaking.

Whether you’re watching from the shore, a waterfront restaurant, or even one of the piers, there’s no bad seat in the house when it comes to sunsets at the beach.

And luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to catch them since Florida is known for its sunny weather.

So if you’re looking for a place to relax and take in some stunning views, be sure to check out one of these sunset spots next time you’re in Florida. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

Here are 10 amazing places to catch a sunset in Florida.

 

 

10 Places To See Stunning Sunsets In Florida

 

1. Pier 60- Clearwater Beach

With its white-sand beaches and stunning sunsets, Clearwater Beach is a must-visit for anyone visiting Florida.

One of the best places to see a sunset in Clearwater Beach is from Pier 60.  This pier is located right on the water, giving you a front-row seat to the stunning colors of the setting sun.

Pier 60 has a nightly sunset celebration year-round, as long as the weather allows.  Here, artisans sell crafts and other arts, and there are street performers and entertainment, as well.

The fun starts about 2 hours before sunset and goes for 2 hours after.  For more information and the time of sunsets at Pier 60, go here.

You can also watch the sunset from anywhere on the beach or from the outdoor seating at restaurants such as Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill and Palm Pavillion, which are both right on the beach. 

Another great spot for watching the sun go down is from Sand Key Park.  This park has a wide-open beach area where you can set up your beach chair and watch the sunset below the horizon.

If you want to get away from the crowds, head over to Caladesi Island.  This beach is located north of Clearwater Beach in Dunedin and is a bit more secluded than other spots.  Here, you can relax on the sand and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature as the sun sets.

No matter where you watch it from, a sunset in Clearwater Beach is an unforgettable experience.  So, be sure to add it to your list of things to do while you’re in town!

Where To Watch A Sunset In Clearwater Beach

Pier 60

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill or Palm Pavillion

Sand Key Park

Caladesi Island

 

√ Check Out A Sunset Tiki Cruise In Clearwater Beach

 

 

2. Naples Pier

Sunsets at the Naples Pier are some of the most beautiful in Southwest Florida.  Every evening, locals and visitors alike gather to watch the sun slowly fall in the sea, painting the sky in a spectrum of oranges, pinks, and purples.

The pier is located on the Gulf of Mexico, so you can watch the sunset over the water. There are also plenty of benches to sit on, so you can relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a romantic setting, there’s no better place than Naples Pier.  The pier is also a great place to take pictures, so be sure to bring your camera.  It’s pretty common to see dolphins and other marine life playing in the water. 

Whether you’re strolling along the pier itself or simply enjoying the views from the beach, a sunset at the Naples Pier is an unforgettable experience.

The sunsets in Naples are some of the most beautiful in the state.  You can also head to Lowdermilk Park or Vanderbilt Beach for breathtaking views. 

If you’re looking to enjoy the sunset at a restaurant while here, visit The Turtle Club and grab an outdoor seat.   They have excellent food and seafood choices here, as well. 

Where To Watch A Sunset In Naples

Naples Pier

Lowdermilk Park

Vanderbilt Beach

The Turtle Club

 

 

 

3. Seaside 

 

There’s something special about sunsets in Seaside, Florida.  Maybe it’s the way the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico always seem to be picture-perfect.  Or maybe it’s because there’s just something about watching the sun drop down over the water that makes you feel at peace.

Whatever the reason, sunsets in Seaside are definitely a must-see.  And there’s no better place to watch them than right from the beach or from one of the restaurants and bars located right on the beach.

Bud & Alley’s Restaurant is a particularly great place to watch a sunset since they have a rooftop bar.

Grab a seat, order a drink, and enjoy the show as the sun sets over the water. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Another excellent place to watch the sunset in Seaside is right in the town square area, just across from the beach. 

There are food trucks in town that line up Scenic Highway 30A for about a block.  Grab some food and drinks from here and relax at the grassy town square area, while catching a sunset.  

 

Where To Watch A Sunset In Seaside

Vann Ness Butler Beach

Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant

Town Square

 

Book A Sunset Catamaran In Nearby Panama City Beach

 

 

4. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin

 

Watching the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico leaves people in awe.  And perhaps there’s no better place to do it than from Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, Florida.

The sugar-white sand and emerald green waters are simply beautiful and make for a perfect backdrop to watch the sun go down.

There are also boardwalks that allow access to the beach, which is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll while enjoying the stunning views.

If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch sunsets in Florida, Henderson Beach State Park is definitely worth checking out.

This state park is located on a scenic stretch of Highway 98, and features more than 6,000 feet of sugar-white beaches.  It’s an ideal place to watch the sunset over the water.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a family-friendly activity, be sure to catch a sunset at Henderson Beach State Park.  You won’t be disappointed.

Other beaches to watch a Destin sunset include James Lee Park and Norriego Point.  James Lee Park is right on the edge of Destin by Miramar Beach on Scenic Highway 98.

Norriego Point is a more secluded spot in Destin just south of the Marler Bridge and Crab Island, where the Choctawhatchee Bay flows into the Gulf of Mexico.

Destin HarborWalk is a waterfront village with shops, activities, and restaurants, just across the bay (Destin Harbor) from Norriego Point.  Grab a seat at Harry T’s or one of the other restaurants to catch a sunset.

Another recommended spot to see a sunset is in nearby Fort Walton Beach at the Okaloosa Island Pier & Boardwalk.   Not only is this an awesome place for waterfront restaurants and shopping, but they also have weekly fireworks in the summer.

Where To Watch A Sunset In Destin

Henderson Beach State Park

James Lee Park

Norriego Point

HarborWalk Village

Okaloosa Island Boardwalk

 

√ Check Out This Sunset And Dolphin Cruise In Destin Harbor!

 

 

5. Blind Pass Beach, Sanibel Island

 

Sanibel Island is well known for its sunsets, and it’s easy to see why.  With its incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico, this is one sunset you won’t want to miss.

Beach sunsets are a must-see while in Florida.  And, Blind Pass Beach on Sanibel Island is no exception.

Located where Sanibel Island and Captive Island connect on the Gulf of Mexico and the bay, this beach is truly a slice of paradise, with its white sand and turquoise waters. 

This beach is a great spot for shelling, water activities, and seeing wildlife such as manatees. 

As the sun sets, the sky turns beautiful shades of pink and orange, making it the best location here to watch the day come to an end. 

If you are looking for a place to watch the sunset, Blind Pass Beach is the perfect spot for you.

Other beaches on the island to watch the sunset include Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach Park. 

 

For a restaurant on the island to catch the sunset, try Upper Deck Pool Bar at West Wind Island Resort. 

 

Where To Watch A Sunset In Sanibel Island

Blind Pass Beach

Lighthouse Beach Park

Bowman’s Beach

 

We Recommend This Nearby Dolphin And Sunset Cruise

 

 

 6. Bean Point- Anna Maria Island

 

Beach sunsets are a quintessential part of life in Florida.  And there’s no better place to enjoy them than at Bean Point on Anna Maria Island.

Positioned on the northernmost tip of the island, Bean Point is a secluded spot with peaceful vibes and perfect ocean views.

What Bean Point lacks in amenities, it makes up with its stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, and has magnificent sunsets.

While all of Anna Maria Island’s beaches are great spots to catch a sunset, none are quite as special as watching from Bean Point.

The white sand and clear waters make it the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Florida.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic setting to watch the sun go down or just a beautiful spot to enjoy the view, Bean Point is sure to please.

Other nearby places to watch the sunset in Anna Maria Island include Rod & Reel Pier and the Anna Maria Pier, both of which are within a mile of Bean Point.

If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in Anna Maria Island to enjoy sunset views, grab a table at Kokonut Hut.

This restaurant is located in Bradenton Beach, which is near the center of the island, and has a laid-back atmosphere and good food.

Where To Watch A Sunset In Anna Maria Island

Bean Point

Rod & Reel Pier

Anna Maria City Pier

Kokonut Hut

 

 

Take A Look At This Sunset Electric Bike Tour In Nearby Siesta Key

 

 

7. Fort Myers Beach Pier

 

Another great beach spot for sunsets is Fort Myers Beach.  Be sure to catch the sunset from the pier for a truly stunning view.

There’s something about a Fort Myers Beach sunset that just captivates visitors and locals alike.

Maybe it’s the way the sun dips down on the clear waters lining the shore.  Or perhaps it’s the fact that no matter what time of year you visit, you’re guaranteed a beautiful show.

The best spot to watch the sun go down is definitely from the pier.  But anywhere along the shore will do.  As the sun slowly falls below the horizon, the sky turns into a beautiful canvas of orange and red.

There are few things as relaxing as watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.  And there’s no better place to do it than at Fort Myers Beach.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just a chance to unwind, be sure to catch a Fort Myers Beach sunset during your next visit.

While at the Fort Myers Beach Pier, be sure to visit Times Square, which is in the same area and filled with bars, restaurants, and shops.

Sunsets are a big deal at Times Square- they have Sunset Celebrations on Friday and Saturday nights here, throughout the year, with food, music, and entertainment for the whole family (you can even bring your dog).

If you’re looking for a restaurant with the ultimate sunset views, there’s probably no place better in the area than Pier Side Bar & Grill, which is right next to the pier.

Where To Watch A Sunset In Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach Pier

Times Square

Pier Side Bar & Grill 

 

 

Book A Sunset Sail In Fort Myers Beach

 

 

8. St. Pete Beach

 

St. Pete Beach makes for a perfect day trip from Tampa and is one of the best places to watch sunsets in Florida.  The white sand and clear water make for a beautiful backdrop, and the sunsets here are truly amazing.

If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sun go down, St. Pete Beach is definitely the place to be.

There’s something special about watching the sun set at Pass-a-Grille Beach, especially when you’re surrounded by the natural beauty of St. Pete Beach.

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and the southern part of St. Pete Beach, this beach is well-known for its stunning sunsets.  Every day, visitors and locals alike flock to the beach to watch the sky turn a beautiful shade of orange as the sun sets.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or take a swim in the Gulf, St. Pete Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset.

So grab your friends and head down to the beach for a truly unforgettable experience.

Other Tampa area beaches to see the sunset include Treasure Island and St. Pete County Park Beach.

Downtown St. Petersburg has the St. Pete Pier which is another terrific spot to see the sunset, especially from Pier Teaki, the rooftop bar, and the end of the pier.

At Paradise Grille in Pass-a-Grille Beach, they do a nightly ringing of the bell every night at sunset, making it a special occasion here to celebrate with friends and family!

Another one of the best St. Pete restaurants with optimal sunset views is Hurricane Seafood Restaurant, with its rooftop bar overlooking the ocean.

Where To Watch A Sunset In St. Pete

Pass-a-Grille Beach

Treasure Island

St. Pete County Park Beach

St. Pete Pier

Hurricane Seafood Restaurant and Paradise Grille

 

Book A Sunset Cruise In St. Pete Beach

 

 

9. Key West

 

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental United States, and sunsets here are truly something unique.

Every day, locals and visitors alike flock to the beach to watch the sunset in Key West.

The colors of the sky during a Key West sunset are simply amazing.  You’ll see hues of orange, pink, and red as the sun sets over the water.

And as the sun sinks lower and lower, it reflects off the waves in a truly mesmerizing way.

Higgs Beach Memorial Pier is a picturesque beach and pier.  This Key West beach offers clear turquoise waters known for snorkeling, and a wide range of amenities, from a Civil War Era Fort to a Caribbean-inspired cafe, to a kids’ playground.

If you’re lucky enough to be at Higgs Beach during sunset in Key West, don’t miss out on this amazing experience.

Grab a beach chair, sit back, and enjoy one of nature’s most beautiful shows.

Salute! On The Beach is a restaurant at Higgs Beach with oceanside views and is a terrific place to catch a Key West sunset.

Key West has a nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square with food vendors musicians, artists, and performers that make this a memorable experience.  While at Mallory Square, visit the local shops and restaurants that are here, as well.

 

Where To Watch A Sunset In Key West

Higgs Beach Pier

Salute! On The Beach Key West

Mallory Square

 

 

 

10. Fort Lauderdale

 

There’s something about a Fort Lauderdale sunset that just makes you feel alive.  Maybe it’s the way the sun slowly falls down behind the skyline, or the way the colors reflected off the water seem to change by the minute.

Either way, there’s no denying that sunsets here are pretty special.

If you’re looking to catch a Fort Lauderdale sunset (and trust us, you should), here are a few of the favorite spots:

Las Olas Beach is definitely one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset in Fort Lauderdale.  Head to Las Olas Boulevard and find a spot on the sand to watch as the sun sinks into the horizon.

Another great spot for nearby sunset watching is Deerfield Beach Pier, which is north of Fort Lauderdale.  Not only do you get a beautiful view of the sun setting, but you also get to enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.

The Pompano Beach Pier is also just north of Fort Lauderdale, and a perfect spot to see the sunset, with people often gathering on the pier and beach to witness it.

No matter where you choose to watch it, a Fort Lauderdale sunset is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.  So go ahead and soak it all in.

Where To Watch A Sunset In Fort Lauderdale

Las Olas Beach

Deerfield Beach Pier

Pompano Beach Pier

For restaurants and more places to watch a sunset in Fort Lauderdale, go here

 

 

 

 

Sunsets In Florida- FAQ’s

 

 

What Time Does The Sun Set In Florida?

 

It may vary a little depending on your location in Florida, but this should give you a fairly close idea. 

 

January 1- 5:43 pm

February 1- 6:07 pm

March 1- 6:27 pm

April 1- 7:44 pm

May 1- 8 pm

June 1- 8:17 pm

July 1- 8:25 pm

August 1- 8:14 pm

September 1- 7:46 pm

October 1- 7:11 pm

November 1- 6:41 pm

December 1- 5:30 pm

 

 

Best Time Of Year For Sunsets In Florida?

 

Florida’s sunsets are amazing all year-round but particularly in late fall and winter when there’s less humidity.  

 

 

Final Thoughts: Places To See Stunning Sunsets In Florida

Whether you’re a Florida local or just visiting for a few days, be sure to enjoy at least one of these beautiful sunsets.  You won’t be disappointed!

It doesn’t matter if you’re watching from the beach, a restaurant, or a pier, it’s always a beautiful sight.

The colors are simply breathtaking, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.  There’s nothing quite like a Florida sunset.

 

 

Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended tours and hotels!

Top Tours in Florida

Speedboat Sightseeing Tour – (Miami Coastline Cruise)

Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour – (Discover the Beauty And Marine Life of Naples Florida)

Key West Sunset Sail – (Sunset Sail With Full Bar, Live Music, & Hors D’oeuvres)

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour – (Wild Florida Admission With Optional Lunch)

Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet – (Best Rated Clearwater Sightseeing Cruise)

Top Hotels & Accommodations in Florida

FUSION Resort – (Top Booked Hotel In St Pete Beach)

Four Seasons Hotel Miami – (A Tropical Paradise In Miami)

Hotel Effie Sandestin – (Top Rated Hotel In Destin)

Buenavista Suites Orlando – (High Rated Hotel Near Walt Disney Resort)

Looking To Get Around In Florida

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗