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15 Best Small Beach Towns In Florida

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

If one Southern state has cornered the market on beach towns , it's Florida. But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal. These idyllic locales easily earn bragging rights as Florida's best small beach towns, thanks to their beautiful shorelines, fun food scenes, and win-you-over-for-a-lifetime character. Travel down to Seaside on Highway 30A , where the 1998 cult-classic movie The Truman Show was filmed, to watch a show at the local-favorite amphitheater or grab a beach read at Sundog Books . Or head over to Anna Maria Island and lay out on its pristine beach. Going to the beach in winter? See the lights on Captiva Island during the Sanibel/Captiva Luminary Festival in December, where miles of glowing candle lanterns are lit to kick off the holiday season. No matter where you go while traveling in the Sunshine State, make sure to plan a stop at one of these sunny and small coastal towns .

Located at the halfway point in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a whimsical paradise where small-town businesses cater to the ultimate island state of mind. If you're a beer lover, Florida Keys Brewing Co. and Islamorada Beer Company both serve up an impressive selection of local craft brews. Fine Florida-kitschy institutions like Lazy Days Restaurant and Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar offer killer water views, fruity cocktails, live music, and fish tacos.

Fernandina Beach

The birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, Fernandina Beach, is a waterfront village nestled on the north end of Amelia Island . Celebrating pirate culture is a way of life, so it's not uncommon to see people dressed as swashbucklers just for the heck of it. Visit during the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, when the historic district bustles with parades, live music, lots of shrimp, and—you guessed it—pirates. You can spend many happy hours checking out the shops and restaurants around historic Main Street , or exploring the natural areas around nearby Fort Clinch State Park .

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is what beach town dreams are made of. You won't find any hotel chains or condominium towers here, just a collection of tropical-style homes and friendly neighbors who wave from golf carts. Stretching from the bay to the gulf, Pine Avenue is the perfect place to shop funky boutiques, dine at local cafes, and get a feel for that ultimate island lifestyle. Make sure to grab a Margarita Donut or some other crazy confection from The Donut Experiment for breakfast.

Key Biscayne

Flanked by two picturesque beach parks and home to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne is an island village with a sophisticated feel. It's close enough to Miami that you can easily get to and from the 24/7 action of the city, but just far enough out into the ocean that you immediately get that sense of "ahhhhh" when you drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway. This oasis is the perfect place to lay on the beach without a thought of city life, but you can also dine at the Rusty Pelican for an amazing view of the Miami skyline.

Captiva Island

Perhaps one of the quirkiest beach towns in Florida, Captiva Island is full of character. Golf carts are the preferred method of transportation, and there are zero traffic lights on the island. Beaches here are second to none and offer some of the best shelling you can find. The island sparkles every year during the Captiva Luminary when residents light candles from one end of the island to the other, marking the launch of the holiday season. The Mucky Duck is a laidback beach pub where you can catch live music and the glowing sunsets.

A colorful coastal town full of pastel houses and funky local eateries, Seaside is a breathtaking nod to life on the beach. The town is so idyllic it served as a film set for The Truman Show . The best way to soak up stunning Gulf of Mexico views and explore this friendly community is by foot or bicycle. Neighbors and visitors alike gather every year for the annual 30A Songwriters Festival, with live music performances at Seaside venues and other locales along scenic 30A Highway.

A hidden gem nestled on the east coast of Florida, Vero Beach is a nature lover's paradise. Think unspoiled beaches, salt water lagoons, and protected wildlife refuges. With miles of biking and hiking trails, there are ample opportunities for eco-friendly adventures. Then enjoy the small-town charm in the main street area of Vero Beach, where you'll find weekly gallery strolls, a vintage market, and plenty of quaint cafes.

Delray Beach

Cruise down Atlantic Avenue, the main drag in Delray Beach , and you'll end up at one of the most beautiful beaches on Florida's east coast. A haven for beachcombers and art lovers, you'll find more than 20 galleries and iconic public art pieces in downtown and in the Pineapple Grove Arts District. Go for one of the popular Friday gallery nights and browse local art, listen to live music, and dine at one of the eclectic eateries on the "Ave."

Pass-A-Grille Beach

A laid-back beach town with a healthy—and well-loved—population of vintage ice cream parlors, Pass-A-Grille Beach is an island town located at the southernmost end of St. Pete Beach . Sunset is a nightly rite of passage as locals and visitors gather at the seawall outside of Paradise Grille to ring the sunset bell. The rooftop deck of the Hurricane Seafood Restaurant also offers spectacular views of the sun's descent into the Gulf of Mexico.

Gasparilla Island

Surrounded by the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Gasparilla Island is truly an ode to Old Florida. Shelling enthusiasts find an impressive assortment of treasured sea shells and sand dollars tucked between layers of pure white sand, while fishermen flock to the area for its prized tarpon fishing. Visit one of the two stately lighthouses on the island, where you'll find postcard-perfect views, especially at sunset.

Some secrets are meant to be shared. Just 25 miles from the heart of Tampa, this easygoing locale feels worlds away. But don't expect a sleepy little spot. Downtown Dunedin is home to ample good eats, locally-owned shops, and an unexpected beer scene (there are seven breweries within a five minute walking radius). And, of course, there's the beach: Honeymoon Island State Park touts 4 miles of unspoiled white shorelines and one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests, plus it's a gateway to Caribbean-reminiscent Caladesi Island State Park .

New Smyrna Beach

Flagler Avenue is the heartbeat of this town on the A1A, where you'll find all the kitschy beach souvenirs your heart desires. It dead-ends on the beach where drivers scope out a spot to park and spend the day basking in the sun and surfers meander by with their boards. You'll find plenty of tiki bars and casual watering holes in this town. New Smyrna Beach is tucked between Orlando , Daytona, and the Kennedy Space Center, making it a great destination for families looking for an low-key place to relax.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Near bustling Fort Lauderdale, the small town of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is known for its charming fishing pier, colorful town square, and superior diving. In "Florida's Beach Diving Capital," snorkelers and divers can explore a British shipwreck and a living coral reef just 100 yards from shore. Eat at the Aruba Beach Cafe and you'll feel like you've been transported to the Caribbean.

This gulfside paradise used to be called "Little Sarasota Key," which clues you in to its location. The 8-mile barrier island has three beaches and plenty of shopping, galleries, and restaurants to frequent in Siesta Village. Hop on the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley for free rides between the village and the island's glittering white sands. The public beach frequently gets chosen as first or second best in the nation. After the sun goes down, you can cruise down Ocean Boulevard to check out the nightlife.

Madeira Beach

Madeira Beach lies on the Gulf west of artsy, vibrant St. Petersburg . Most vacationers spend their days relaxing on the sand here, whether they're staying in the beachfront hotels or vacation rentals. Otherwise they're wandering along the boardwalk at Johns Pass , a fishing village named for the pirate who first traveled its waters. Today it's the hot spot on the island for booking a boat tour, eating, and shopping.

Related Articles

18 Small Beach Towns In Florida That Are Laid-Back & Low-Key

Craving a Florida beach getaway in spots that aren’t overrun by crowds? These small beach towns are a world away from fast-paced locations.

Read update

More Quaint And Low-Key Small Beach Towns In Florida

• Florida offers a mix of adrenaline-filled attractions and laid-back beach towns that provide a serene and relaxed atmosphere for a low-key vacation.
• Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Siesta Key, and Sebring are some of Florida's best small beach towns that offer a combination of cultural fun and exciting outdoor adventures.
• These beach towns provide attractions such as blue-flag beaches, fishing piers, shopping centers, nature parks, and historic sites, making them ideal destinations for a peaceful getaway.

Adrenaline-filled amusement parks, buzzing nightlife, pristine beaches, and family-friendly fun are some attractions that garner thousands of tourists in Florida. These spots deserve attention for their wide offerings, but nothing beats the satisfaction of vacationing in places without busy crowds.

Mellow vibes and a relaxed atmosphere don't quite exist in some of the most popular destinations like Miami (which offers lots of must-see hot spots) , but Florida is home to some of the most laid-back beach towns, too. So, anyone who prefers under-the-radar destinations with a mix of cultural fun and exciting outdoor adventures will love these beautiful seaside destinations in Florida. Here are some of Florida's best small beach towns for a low-key vacation.

UPDATE: 2023/11/19 22:26 EST BY REENA JAIN

This list has been updated with two more of the best small beach towns in Florida that are quaint, serene, and perfect for a leisurely getaway by the water. Have fun, and be well!

18 Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is yet another one of the best beach towns in Florida that deserves to be on this list. Just a 15-minute drive from the famous Fort Lauderdale, this little town is not as buzzy as its famous neighbor. Certainly, it has a serene appeal and incredible experiences for an unforgettable trip. The town is all walkable, so guests can enjoy the blue-flag beach for one moment and head to Commercial Boulevard for some dining and shopping.

• Places to visit: Anglin's Fishing Pier, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Beach, Sea Ranch Village Shopping Center, El Prado Park, Datura Avenue Shipwreck Snorkel Trail
• Best time to visit: December to April,

17 Siesta Key

Despite having an award-winning beach with sugary, soft white sand, the town retains its serenity and laid-back vibes, making it one of the quiet beach towns in Florida. The town's crown jewel is its beach, where visitors can relax while taking in the scenery, take a rejuvenating dip in warm waters, or get an adrenaline rush by jet skiing or parasailing. Take the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley, bike to the neighboring Siesta's Sands, and visit Sunset Point for amazing views.

• Places to visit: Siesta Beach, Siesta Village, Point of Rocks, Siesta's Sands, Sunset Point
• Best time to visit: October to May

Sebring, Florida, is best known for the historic annual race that is held at its internationally renowned racetrack. For tourists and locals looking to avoid crowds at the state's more commercial and touristy attractions, Sebring, which is situated in an especially underdeveloped area of the state, is the ideal destination. However, it is perfectly situated halfway between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, providing tourists with a variety of Florida’s best beach options .

• Places to visit: Sebring International Raceway, Highlands Hammock State Park, Downtown Historic Sebring, Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works, Sebring Golf Courses
• Best time to visit: November to April

15 Boynton Beach

Boynton Beach is home to some of the most picturesque coastlines in the state and is close enough to numerous cultural, historical, and natural attractions for day trips. Boynton Beach, Florida, feels like it exists on a completely different planet, even though it is actually a part of the posh and privileged Miami metropolitan area. Boynton Beach is one of the best Florida beaches for families because it offers a ton of kid-friendly attractions, many of which are reasonably priced.

• Places to visit: Boynton Inlet, Oceanfront Park Beach, Green Cay Nature Center and Wetlands, Schoolhouse Children's Museum and Learning Center, Mangrove Nature Park

Anyone without little ones will still love this place, though; there are many exhilarating and relaxing things to do in Boynton Beach for all ages, after all.

14 Sebastian

Along Florida's central Atlantic coast, tourists can explore Sebastian's natural beauty and rich history. Sebastian, Florida's top fishing and surfing spot on the East Coast, is conveniently located across from Sebastian Inlet and is regarded as North America's biologically diverse estuary.

Although this spot is a relatively small Florida beach town, tourists can find a wide range of fun and interesting activities and attractions that will suit adventure seekers, eco-lovers, and relaxation enthusiasts. Pelican Island, the country's first National Wildlife Refuge , is also located near Sebastian, renowned for its pristine beauty and varied fisheries.

• Places to visit: Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, Sebastian Inlet State Park, McLarty Treasure Museum, Riverview Park, Captain Hiram's Resort
• Activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding, picturesque pontoon and airboat rides, world-class surfing and skydiving, etc.

13 Hernando Beach

Tourists have probably never heard of the coastal town of Hernando Beach, Florida. Although this refuge is off the usual road and out of the way, it has some of Florida's best-kept secrets. This shrimping hamlet, one of the low-key Florida beach towns near the Weeki Wachee River and Springs on the state's west coast, provides much more than easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Gilligan's Island, Hernando Flats, and the best canal life may be found there.

• Places to visit: Jenkins Creek Park, Linda Pedersen Park, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Pine Island Park, Hernando Beach Marina
• Best time to visit: October to March

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12 key biscayne.

With a population of 15,547, Key Biscayne is widely known as one of the most scenic and laid-back Florida beach towns. It is home to stunning beaches, a vast array of local restaurants, and a lighthouse that dates back to 1846 in the Bill Baggs Cape State Park, Florida.

To the north, the island borders Crandon Park, which features a tennis court, marina, nature center, and a picturesque beach. So, travelers will have a lot of easy-going yet exciting activities to keep them occupied. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center is another attraction where guests can learn about the local flora and fauna.

• Places to visit: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Crandon Park, Miami Seaquarium, Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne Beach
• Best time to visit: December to April

11 Apalachicola

Apalachicola is a quaint fishing beach town in Florida, offering delectable seafood, gorgeous seaside parks, charming inns, and a rich maritime history. This distinctive town also has unique art galleries, boutiques, and popular music venues tucked in tin-roofed warehouses.

History buffs will love strolling the Historic District as they view the Victorian homes and learn about the town’s diverse but colorful history. Apalachicola has over 900 historic homes from the 1830s , worth exploring on a self-guided tour.

• Places to visit: Apalachicola Historic District, St. George Island, Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, John Gorrie Museum State Park, Orman House Historic State Park
• Best time to visit: March to May and September to November

Best known for being the filming location of the 1998 film The Truman Show , Seaside is one of Florida’s best beach towns with a relaxed vibe (and with a name like this, it's unsurprising). Seaside has everything worth touring, from white sandy beaches and some of Florida's most beautiful seaside hiking trails to the farmer’s market.

The nine pavilions at the entrance to the beach are some of the unique finds in this charming town. Besides beautifying this small beach town with varying architectural styles, they protect the dunes from traffic and add a beautiful backdrop to pictures.

• Places to visit: Seaside Beach, Central Square, Seaside Amphitheater, Modica Market, Grayton Beach State Park
• Best time to visit: March to May and September to October

9 Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach boasts two miles of calming beaches facing east toward the Atlantic Ocean. The shores have a pier where anglers can catch fish while admiring spectacular views of the beautiful sunrise. Travelers longing for lush vegetation, ponds, or trails can head to the nearby Howell Park.

This park is one of the less-visited areas, adding to the fact that this whole area is one of the many quiet beach towns in Florida that's perfect for anyone who wants to avoid crowds. The park also features a meandering 2500-foot nature trail , a favorite of cyclists and hikers.

• Places to visit: Hannah Park, Atlantic Beach Town Center, Dutton Island Preserve, Howell Park, Atlantic Beach Boardwalk

18 Places In Florida That Feel Like The Caribbean

8 anna maria island.

Anna Maria is all about scenic beaches, crystal clear waters, ocean activities, and stunning nature preserves. Some watersport activities to enjoy include kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Guests who crave glorious, unobstructed sunrises and sunsets will find what they seek here.

Several restaurants, such as The Waterfront Restaurant, offer ocean views of dazzling sunsets, creating a romantic backdrop. Attractions are within walking distance, so travelers don’t need a car to explore the island. There are rental bikes to get people around.

• Places to visit: Bean Point, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria Beach, Historic Bridge Street Pier, Coquina Beach

7 Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a real-life treasure trove for shell collectors . This curved shape 35 square-mile island has around 400 types of shells. But those that are easy to find include clams, scallops, tulips, and sand dollars. The beach town also hosts the Sanibel Shell Show each March, where shell lovers can admire shell art and show off their impeccable collections.

Nature lovers can visit the Botanical Gardens situated in the Sanibel Moorings Resort. These stunning gardens feature hundreds of native and non-native plants, with nature talks happening weekly.

• Places to visit: J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Bowman's Beach, Sanibel Island Lighthouse, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Captiva Island

6 Islamorada

Known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is a popular destination (even over places like Key Largo) for water sports enthusiasts, families, and art lovers. One of the most intriguing places to tour is the non-profit History of Diving Museum. The owners, Joe and Sally Bauer, started collecting diving antiquities in the 1970s and have been growing their collections for over 40 years.

The museum is now home to one of the largest collections of diving artifacts. Some of the museum’s exhibits include vintage underwater equipment and diving helmets.

• Places to visit: Theater of the Sea, Morada Bay Beach Café, Robbie's of Islamorada, Founders Park, Indian Key State Historic Site

14 Safest Beaches In Florida To Visit This Summer

5 gasparilla island.

Gasparilla Island is perfect for anyone looking for an off-the-radar destination. The beautiful tranquil beaches with blue-green waters attract peace seekers yearning to sunbathe and swim. Tourists can catch sight of turtles, dolphins, and manatees as they swim offshore. The 1-mile stretch of Gasparilla Island State Park beach is home to native plants, snowy plovers, and several tern species.

In addition to lounging at the beach, visitors can look for fossilized shark teeth and shells along the shores.

• Places to visit: Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum, Gasparilla Island State Park, Banyan Street, Gasparilla Island Maritime Museum, The Gasparilla Inn & Club
• Best time to visit: December through April

4 Fernandina Beach

With an exciting mix of culture, history, and distinctive attractions, Fernandina Beach never runs out of things to keep visitors intrigued. Main Street Fernandina has a variety of coffee shops, historical attractions, restaurants, and galleries where guests can spend a few hours before heading to Fort Clinch State Park.

The park sits near the northern tip of Amelia Island, and its major draw is the 19th-century fort, which played significant roles in the early years. Anyone visiting this beach town should attend the Isle Of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, one of the most popular events.

• Festival Date: May 5 to 7, 2023
• Places to visit: Fort Clinch State Park, Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island Lighthouse, Fernandina Beach Main Beach Park, Amelia Island Museum of History
• Best time to visit: March to May and September and October

3 Captiva Island

Despite its remote location, Captiva Island never fails to amaze holidaymakers with its fantastic weather and magnificent beaches. This beach town has an unrushed pace of life. People wake up late, enjoy breakfast leisurely, and spend the day relaxing at the beach. It’s the ultimate destination for anyone looking to escape from the stir of big cities.

Strolling around the island’s market, watching manatees play, and trying exciting watersports are a few activities that keep vacationers in high spirits. The gorgeous sunset gives the town a more inviting atmosphere.

• Places to visit: Captiva Beach, Alison Hagerup Beach Park, Captiva Chapel By The Sea, McCarthy's Marina, Blind Pass Beach

Visitors should also discover when and where to see manatees in Florida if they want to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitats.

2 Key Largo

The vibe of the Florida Keys is distinctively relaxed throughout the island archipelago. While Key West may be the most well-known of the bunch, thanks to all its action, those looking for laid-back Florida beach towns should add Key Largo to their vacation bucket list instead. Since Key Largo is one of the northernmost Keys, it is within easy driving distance from Miami (about 65 miles).

Home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat rides are a must - the colorful coral covers over 70 protected nautical miles. Thanks to the Dagney Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, nature lovers won't be disappointed on land either.

• Places to visit: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Christ of the Abyss, Everglades National Park, Dolphin Cove, Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
• Best time to visit: December to March

Looking for more laid-back beach towns in Florida? Look no further than some of the other nearby Florida Keys:

• Duck Key : small and secluded with several luxury oceanfront resorts
• Little Torch Key : hidden gem best known for its untouched atmosphere
• Marathon Key : a family-friendly island home to the jaw-dropping Seven Mile Bridge
• Big Pine Key : home to incredible wildlife, including the only natural colony of the Miami blue butterfly

1 New Smyrna Beach

Vacationers looking for laid-back vibes and a relaxed atmosphere should consider heading to New Smyrna Beach. Located on the state's Central Atlantic Coast, this charming locale is easily one of Florida's best small beach towns. A friendly and tight-knit local community sets the ambiance apart from other tourist beach towns due partly to its longstanding significance in surfing.

• Visit the Museum of East Coast Surfing , located at 424 Canal Street and open 10 am - 4 pm Tuesday - Saturday
• Watch the action : head to Ponce Inlet to see some of the best East Coast surfers in the water or maybe catch one of the contests frequently held there.

Pristine white sand beaches will have visitors feeling like they're in the Caribbean . A lively downtown is also filled with art, culture, and locally-owned eats and boutiques. Apart from surfing, outdoor adventure lovers can take advantage of abundant fishing options, kayaking or paddle-boarding in the Indian River Lagoon, or climbing the 200+ steps of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse (the tallest lighthouse in Florida).

• Places to visit: New Smyrna Beach, Canaveral National Seashore, Smyrna Dunes Park, Flagler Avenue, Marine Discovery Center

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14 Best Small Beach Towns In Florida – Cute & Quaint Florida Coastal Towns

In this article, read about small and cute beach towns in Florida. They have a unique charm, are attractive, and are full of activities, making them the perfect cute beach towns in Florida for a memorable vacation.

👉🏼11 Best Beaches In Florida With Beach Resorts, Things to Do, Pet-Friendly Tips, Parking Tips, and Route

Best Small Beach Towns In Florida – Florida Beach Towns

Florida boasts an array of stunning beach towns, each offering its unique charm, attractions, and activities. These quaint beach towns in Florida offer a slower pace of life, natural beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect destinations for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Read this list of some of Florida’s top beach towns, their nearest big city, transportation options, things to do, mid-budget accommodations, activities/tours, and why they’re worth visiting.

Miami Beach

Miami Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural scene.

• Nearest Big City:  Miami
• How to Reach:  Miami International Airport is the closest major airport. You can take a taxi, Uber, or public transportation to Miami Beach from there.

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of South Beach.
• Stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive.
• Relax on the sandy shores of South Beach.
• Visit the Art Deco Historic District.
• Explore Lincoln Road Mall for shopping and dining.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Freehand Miami or Circa 39 Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at reasonable rates.

Activities/Tours:

• Take a boat tour of Biscayne Bay .
• Explore the Everglades on an airboat tour .
• Join a guided walking tour of the Art Deco district .

Miami Beach stands out as one of the best beach towns in Florida due to its vibrant nightlife, iconic Art Deco architecture, world-renowned beaches, and diverse cultural scene, offering a unique blend of relaxation, excitement, and sophistication.

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Key West offers a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and a rich history blended with quirky charm.

• Nearest Big City:  Key West is quite remote, but Miami’s closest major city.
• How to Reach:  Key West can be reached by driving from mainland Florida or flying into Key West International Airport.
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• Visit the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum .
• Explore Mallory Square for street performers and sunset celebrations.
• Snorkel or dive at the Florida Reef .
• Tour the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Lighthouse Court Hotel or Almond Tree Inn – Adults Only offers cozy accommodations with Key West charm.

• Take a sunset cruise .
• Kayak through the mangroves.
• Join a ghost tour of Key West’s haunted locations.

Key West is renowned as one of Florida’s best cute beach towns. Its laid-back island vibe, vibrant sunsets, rich history, and eclectic charm perfectly blend relaxation and adventure in a tropical paradise.

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, along with plenty of family-friendly attractions and water sports activities.

• Nearest Big City:  Tampa
• How to Reach:  Tampa International Airport is the closest major airport. You can rent a car or take a shuttle to Clearwater Beach.

Things to Do :

• Relax on the pristine white sands.
• Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium .
• Take a dolphin-watching cruise .
• Explore Pier 60 for sunset festivities and local artisans.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Pelican Pointe Hotel or Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at reasonable rates.

• Try parasailing over the Gulf of Mexico .
• Rent a jet ski for some water adventure.
• Join a fishing charter for a day of angling.

Clearwater Beach is one of Florida’s cutest beach towns. Its pristine white sands, family-friendly attractions, lively atmosphere along Pier 60, and many water activities make it a picturesque seaside escape with plenty of charm and character.

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Naples – Cities In Florida By The Beach

Naples is known for its upscale atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and abundant outdoor recreational activities.

• Nearest Big City:  Fort Myers
• How to Reach:  Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers is the nearest major airport. You can rent a car or take a shuttle to Naples from there.

• Visit the Naples Pier for fishing and sunset views.
• Explore the upscale shops and restaurants on Fifth Avenue South.
• Take a stroll through the Naples Botanical Garden .
• Relax on the beaches of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Lemon Tree Inn or Bayfront Inn 5th Ave offer comfortable accommodations with a touch of Old Florida charm.

• Embark on a sightseeing cruise around Naples Bay .
• Go paddleboarding or kayaking through the mangrove estuaries .
• Take a guided tour of the historic neighborhoods.

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Naples shines as one of the cutest beach towns in Florida. With its upscale ambiance, elegant boutiques and dining on Fifth Avenue South, serene beaches framed by swaying palms, and rich cultural offerings, it presents a charming coastal retreat with sophistication.

Anna Maria Island – Florida Coastal Towns

Anna Maria Island exudes old Florida charm with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and charming small-town atmosphere.

• Nearest Big City:  Bradenton
• How to Reach:  Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is the closest major airport. You can rent a car or take a shuttle to Anna Maria Island.
• Explore the quaint shops and restaurants of Pine Avenue .
• Relax on the pristine beaches.
• Rent a bicycle and tour the island.
• Visit the historic Anna Maria City Pier .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Anna Maria Island Inn or Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages offer cozy accommodations with a laid-back island vibe.

• Take a dolphin-watching cruise.
• Go fishing off the Rod & Reel Pier.
• Rent a kayak and explore the mangrove tunnels.

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Anna Maria Island is one of the most charming beach towns in Florida for its quaint atmosphere, picturesque streets lined with pastel-colored cottages, pristine beaches, and laid-back island vibe. It offers a serene and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Seaside is known for its charming New Urbanism design, beautiful beaches, and laid-back vibe, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

• Nearest Big City:  Destin
• How to Reach:  Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City Beach is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Seaside.
• Explore the pastel-colored cottages and quaint streets.
• Relax on the picturesque beaches.
• Browse the boutiques and art galleries.
• Watch a movie under the stars at the Seaside Amphitheater .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Seaside Inn or WaterColor Inn offers cozy accommodations with a coastal cottage feel.

Activities/Tours :

• Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the coastal dune lakes.
• Take a bike ride along the Timpoochee Trail.
• Join a guided eco-tour of Grayton Beach State Park.

Seaside captivates as one of the most adorable beach towns in Florida with its charming New Urbanism design, pastel-hued cottages, bustling town center filled with boutiques and cafes, and pristine beaches, creating a picture-perfect coastal community straight out of a storybook.

Cedar Key offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds with its small-town charm, scenic beauty, and abundant outdoor activities.

• Nearest Big City:  Gainesville
• How to Reach:  Gainesville Regional Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Cedar Key.

Things to Do:  

• Explore the historic downtown area with its art galleries and shops, 
• You can take a boat tour to visit nearby islands and wildlife refuges, 
• Go birdwatching at Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve , 
• Enjoy fresh local food at local restaurants.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Cedar Key Bed & Breakfast or Beach Front Motel offers comfortable accommodations with a rustic coastal charm.

Activities/Tours:  

• Go kayaking or paddleboarding along the shoreline,
• Take a fishing charter to catch your dinner, or
• Join a sunset cruise for breathtaking views of the Gulf.

Cedar Key is one of Florida’s most quaint and beautiful beach towns. Its rustic coastal allure, historic downtown adorned with colorful cottages, tranquil island atmosphere, and breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and natural beauty.

Fernandina Beach

Fernandina Beach is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and quaint downtown area, making it a charming destination for a relaxing getaway.

• Nearest Big City:  Jacksonville
• How to Reach:  Jacksonville International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Fernandina Beach.
• Explore the historic downtown area with its Victorian architecture and boutique shops.
• Stroll along the Amelia Island Trail .
• Visit Fort Clinch State Park for hiking and birdwatching.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:   The Addison on Amelia or Hampton Inn & Suites Amelia Island offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of Southern hospitality.

• Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the historic district.
• Go horseback riding on the beach.
• Join a guided kayak tour of the Amelia River .

Fernandina Beach delights as one of the most enchanting beach towns in Florida. Its Victorian architecture, quaint downtown area brimming with boutique shops and eateries, pristine beaches, and rich history create a captivating coastal retreat with timeless charm and character.

Vero Beach offers a peaceful escape with its unspoiled beaches, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a hidden gem on Florida’s east coast.

• Nearest Big City:  Port St. Lucie
• How to Reach:  Orlando Melbourne International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Vero Beach.
• Visit the McKee Botanical Garden .
• Explore the Vero Beach Museum of Art .
• Relax on the uncrowded beaches.
• Go surfing or paddleboarding.
• Take a scenic drive along the Indian River Lagoon .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Caribbean Court Boutique Hotel or Costa d’Este Beach Resort offers cozy accommodations with a laid-back beach vibe.

• Join a guided eco-tour of the Indian River Lagoon .
• Go snorkeling at Pepper Park Beach .
• Take a fishing charter to catch snook or tarpon.

Vero Beach captivates as one of the most charming beach towns in Florida with its laid-back coastal vibe, unspoiled beaches, cultural attractions like the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and abundance of outdoor activities, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

St. George Island

St. George Island is a secluded paradise with its untouched natural beauty, tranquil beaches, and small-town charm, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway.

• Nearest Big City:  Tallahassee
• How to Reach:  Tallahassee International Airport is the closest major airport. You can rent a car from there and drive to St. George Island.
• Explore St. George Island State Park for hiking, birdwatching, and beachcombing.
• Visit the Cape St. George Lighthouse Museum .
• Go fishing or crabbing.
• Take a sunset stroll along the pristine beaches.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The St. George Inn or Buccaneer Inn offers comfortable accommodations with a laid-back island vibe.

• Rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic trails.
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Apalachicola Bay .
• Join a guided fishing excursion.

St. George Island enchants as one of the most adorable beach towns in Florida with its pristine, uncrowded beaches, quaint seaside cottages, abundant wildlife, and serene, laid-back atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape to paradise.

  St. Augustine

St. Augustine is the  oldest city in the United States,  offering a unique blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches, making it a charming destination for a getaway.

• How to Reach:  Jacksonville International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to St. Augustine.

👉🏼Best Things To Do In St Augustine Fl this weekend Itinerary

• Explore the historic district with its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture .
• Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument .
• Stroll along St. Augustine Beach .
• Take a guided ghost tour of the city’s haunted sites.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:   The Bayfront Marin House or St. George Inn offers cozy accommodations with a historic charm.

• Climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse .
• Take a scenic cruise along Matanzas Bay .
• Explore the shops and restaurants of St. George Street .

St. Augustine captivates as one of the most charming beach towns in Florida with its historic cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, picturesque beaches, and rich cultural heritage, creating a captivating blend of history, romance, and seaside beauty along the Atlantic coast.

Islamorada is known as the “ Sportfishing Capital of the World ” and offers a laid-back island atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities.

• How to Reach:  Miami International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Islamorada.
• Go snorkeling or diving at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary .
• Visit the Theater of the Sea for marine animal encounters.
• Enjoy fresh food at local restaurants.
• Relax on the sandy beaches.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Islander Resort or La Jolla Resort offers comfortable accommodations with a tropical island vibe.

Activities/Tours:  Take a fishing charter to catch mahi-mahi or sailfish, go paddleboarding or kayaking through the mangroves, or join a sunset cruise for breathtaking views of the Florida Keys.

Islamorada is one of the most enchanting beach towns in Florida. With its tranquil island charm, vibrant marine life, world-class fishing, and breathtaking sunsets, it offers a quintessential tropical escape along the scenic Florida Keys.

Key Biscayne – Florida Coastal Towns

Key Biscayne offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Miami, with its pristine beaches, outdoor recreational opportunities, and scenic beauty.

• Nearest Big City:  Miami
• How to Reach:  Miami International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Key Biscayne.
• Visit  Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park for beachcombing and hiking.
• Explore the Miami Seaquarium for marine life exhibits.
• Relax on Crandon Park Beach .
• Ride along the Rickenbacker Causeway .

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The Silver Sands Beach Resort or Coral Reef at Key Biscayne offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the beach.

• Go snorkeling or paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters.
• Take a guided eco-tour of the mangrove forests.
• Enjoy a picnic in one of the island’s scenic parks.

Key Biscayne shines as one of the most charming beach towns in Florida. With its pristine beaches, lush parks, scenic trails, and relaxed island atmosphere, it provides a serene and idyllic retreat just minutes from the bustling city of Miami.

Captiva Island

Captiva Island is a tranquil paradise with its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and relaxed vibe, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway.

• How to Reach : Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Captiva Island.
• Relax on the secluded beaches.
• Go shelling along the shoreline.
• Visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching.
• Take a cruise to nearby islands for dolphin sightings.

Mid-Budget Overnight Stay:  The South Seas Island Resort or Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa offers comfortable accommodations with a laid-back island atmosphere.

• Rent a kayak and explore the mangrove estuaries.
• Go fishing off the pier or on a charter boat.
• Take a guided nature walk to learn about the island’s flora and fauna.

Captiva Island captivates as one of the most adorable beach towns in Florida with its secluded beaches, charming cottages, abundant wildlife, and laid-back island vibe, offering a tranquil and picturesque escape amidst the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.

All these beach towns in Florida offer their distinct flavor of the state’s coastal lifestyle, making them all worth visiting for a memorable beach getaway. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, natural beauty, or cultural attractions, you’ll find them along Florida’s picturesque coastline.

These cute beach towns in Florida provide the perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and coastal charm, making them ideal destinations for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

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21 Best Quiet Beach Towns In Florida: Small and Quaint!

Looking for the best quiet beach towns in Florida? Worry not. As a frequent traveler to Florida, I’m here to show you some of my favorite small Florida beach towns. These towns are quaint, peaceful, and ideal for a relaxing vacation right by the water!

Whether you are looking to escape the chaos of Miami and Orlando, just looking for a destination where you can enjoy some quality time with your family, or want to go somewhere that is a little bit cheaper, there is a beach town in Florida perfect for you.

Without further ado, here are 21 of the best small beach towns in Florida!

Best Small And Quiet Beach Towns In Florida

1. gasparilla island.

If you’re looking for peace, relaxation, and tranquil white-sand beaches – head to Gasparilla Island in Southwest Florida. This off-the-radar destination is home to a mile-long beach that boasts calm aqua waters (perfect for snorkeling and swimming) and offers the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and manatees swimming offshore.

The crowning glory of Gasparilla Island is the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse , built in 1890, and now houses an interesting museum. The main town on the island, also called Boca Grande , is, in our opinion, one of the best small beach towns in Florida – and we really love that it’s car-free.

Yes, the only way to get around here is by bike or on the island’s recognizable pastel-colored golf carts. This small town is so photogenic, and it’s lined with palm trees and Key West-style cute stores and restaurants. 

2. Fernandina Beach

With no less than 13 miles of gorgeous beaches, we think it’s fair to say that the coastal town of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island is a top-class beach vacation spot! And it’s never too busy here, except in May when the super-popular Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival takes place.  

And despite its relaxed vibe, there’s plenty to do here, from golfing to wandering the cute downtown area that’s filled with adorable coffee shops, quirky stores, and galleries. Be sure to stop into Fernandina’s Fantastic Fudge for a sweet treat you’ll remember! 

3. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Just a 15-minute drive from the more famous, similarily-named Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea couldn’t be more different from its buzzy neighbor. This small coastal enclave is home to just 6,000 residents, and everything is walkable – which means you could be at one of the town’s blue flag beaches and five minutes later checking out the adorable stores along Commercial Boulevard. 

Lovely Lauderdale-By-The-Sea exudes an old-world charm as there are no tall buildings in the town nor along the beach, so visiting here is like stepping back in time to the Florida of the 1950s. 

Interestingly too, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is Florida’s Beach Diving Capital . Only 100 yards from the shore is a three-tiered coral reef filled with marine life like nurse sharks, stingrays, and lobster. 

4. Captiva Island

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than the remote Captiva Island on Florida’s southwest coast. Known for having some of the best sunsets in the state as well as excellent water activities and sailing, it’s no wonder this tiny island is gaining in popularity of late! 

Captiva Island is picture-perfect with colorful bougainvillea and huge cacti growing all over the island, and that, coupled together with the island’s easy-going, friendly atmosphere, makes this a great alternative to busy Miami or Key West! 

Spend your days here relaxing on one of the island’s beaches (we love Turner Beach or Captiva Beach ), hop on a sailing boat to explore the nearby islands, or watch for manatees or dolphins from the shore.

Read More: What Are The Warmest Places In Florida In December and January?

5. Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is just 15 minutes down the road from Miami but feels worlds apart. It’s widely regarded as one of the best small beach towns in Florida, and it’s home to glorious white sand beaches and excellent eateries.

And when you tire of beach time, head to Crandon Park , which has a tennis court, a lovely marina, and the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center . 

In fact, Key Biscayne is sandwiched between two parks – the other is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park , and spending a few hours here is a must. It’s home to a historic lighthouse (which you can explore on a guided tour) and a glorious public beach.

Read More: Best Warm Winter Destinations In The United States

6. Islamorada

With a nickname like the ‘sport fishing capital of the world, ‘ it’s no surprise that Islamorada in the Florida Keys is one of the Sunshine State’s best small beach towns! Located only 90 minutes from Miami and surrounded by bright blue ocean, fill your days here fishing, sampling fresh seafood from one of the waterside restaurants, and ending the day catching the sunset from one of the island’s piers. 

One of our favorite spots to visit here is the History of Diving Museum , a non-profit museum that displays a wide array of diving artifacts – which the owners have collected for over 40 years. 

7. Siesta Key

Despite its name, Siesta Key ain’t a sleepy town. Home to what TripAdvisor ranked in 2023 as the second-best beach in the U.S. , this destination attracts many tourists but maintains a ‘quiet town’ atmosphere. 

The town’s jewel is its award-winning beach, which features sugary soft white sand. Here, you can sunbathe or go for a dip in its warm waters or try something more adventurous, like renting a jetski or parasailing. 

Other than the beach, you can rent a bike and cycle across to nearby Siesta’s Sands, ride the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley , and catch the sunset from the aptly named Sunset Point.

8. Anna Maria Island

Another quiet beach town in Florida that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time is Anna Maria Island – hugging the Manatee County Coast; it offers vacationers seven miles of pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking and, snorkeling! 

Downtown, you’ll find colorful, historic buildings which house everything from antique stores to art galleries to restaurants. In fact, the buildings here look like they belong in the 1950s as strict laws forbid modern-looking buildings. There’s a free trolley that starts at the pier and ends at Coquina Beach , with 14 stops along the way, so you can hop on and off where and when you please! 

Read More: What Is Miami Known For?

9. Flagler Beach

In between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach and along the wild Atlantic Ocean is Flagler Beach, an eclectic town that enjoys miles of white sandy beaches and a cozy downtown area with plenty of stores and excellent restaurants. Oozing a kind of retro vibe, this is the type of quiet beach town in Florida you come to if you’re looking for a truly laid-back vacation.  

As for things to do here – you can try your hand at fishing from the pier, sunbathing, swimming at Flagler Beach, or enjoying a coffee (or stronger beverage) from one of the rooftop Cafes on Ocean Boulevard. 

10. Madeira Beach

Under 30 minutes from St. Petersburg is Madeira Beach, a small beach city most well-known for its 335-meter-long boardwalk, lined with some fantastic stores and restaurants, and its 2.5-mile white sandy beach! 

Fishing is the best and most popular thing to do here, as John’s Pass has more grouper than any other fishing spot in Florida! If you’re visiting in the Fall, try to plan your stay for October when the Seafood Festival takes over; this fun celebration of food, music, and art attracts upwards of 130,000 tourists!

Read More: What Is Florida Known For?

11. Dunedin

Dunedin, a coastal city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is one of the oldest cities on this side of the state. Although it offers a relaxing escape, there’s still plenty to do in this city conveniently located an hour from Tampa – from relaxing on the gorgeous beaches of Honeymoon Island State Park (and keeping your eyes peeled for ospreys while you’re there) to exploring the wildlife haven of Hammock Park in the downtown area, home to a butterfly garden, owls, and woodpeckers! 

While more adventurous tourists can kayak through the mangroves of nearby Caladesi Island State Park . Beer lovers will be happy here with several popular craft breweries to enjoy!

12. Sebastian

Another Florida gem with a fantastic fishing scene is Sebastian on the central Atlantic Coast. It’s also regarded as one of the best surfing spots on Florida’s east coast, so if you’re into that sort of thing, you couldn’t choose a better Florida vacation spot!

Steeped in history and renowned for its natural beauty, you can fill your days in this small, charming town examining lost treasure from historic voyages at Mel Fisher’s Treasures or enjoy the stunning great outdoors with a kayak or SUP down the Intracoastal Waterway here.

13. Vero Beach

This treasure of a city, along Florida’s treasure coast (see what we did there?!), is a bit of a hidden gem but beloved by those in-the-know for its fishing, golf, and water sports. Vero Beach is a growing city with oodles of small-town charm, and its vibrant but small downtown area has everything you need, from restaurants to museums to lovely parks. 

A two-hour drive from Orlando will get you to this laid-back city with ease, and once here, you should check out South Beach, a gorgeous beach park with plenty of grassy areas, shade, and forested walking trails. 

And on the Intracoastal Waterway (aka Indian River Lagoon), you can enjoy kayaking and fishing, or if you’re after something truly bucket-list-worthy, how about a speedy airboat ride along the waterway?!

14. Miramar Beach

Located on the Gulf Coast and in Walton County, Miramar Beach is another small beach town in Florida that embraces its nostalgic vibe. Just under an hour from the more famous Panama City Beach, Miramar is reminiscent of a 1950s beach town with its colorful beach houses, retro-looking restaurants, and surf shops.

Miramar Beach offers all the contemporary amenities a modern-day vacationer needs, like luxury resorts and vacation rentals and fun activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. Hikers or cyclists, too, will love the 3-mile Scenic Highway 98 Trail here. 

Plus, you can shop ’til you drop at one of the biggest designer outlets in the U.S. – Silver Sands Premium Outlets boasts over 100 stores. And some of the best sunrises in the country can be witnessed in nearby Grayton Beach State Park , home to Grayton Beach and its glorious sugar-white sand!

15. Amelia Island

Offering no less than 13 miles of uncrowded, beautiful beaches, awesome, highly-rated eateries, and world-class golf courses, this barrier island on Florida’s Atlantic Ocean has been a popular luxury holiday destination for holidaying Floridians and overseas visitors for decades. 

But one of the coolest things about Amelia Island is its turtle nesting season. From May to October, hundreds of sea turtles (namely the Leatherback, the Loggerhead, and the Green Sea Turtle) come to the beaches here to lay their eggs.

16. Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach, which is, yes, you guessed correctly, nestled along the Atlantic Coast of Florida, offers vacationers over two miles of uncrowded beaches. This small beach community is one of the least-visited regions in the state, so if it’s a peaceful vacation you’re after, you’re in luck! 

Fishing, sunset-watching, and hiking through nearby Howell Park make up some of the best things to do here. The almost 800-meter-long nature trail here passes by unique vegetation and ponds (which are home to many turtles) and offers the chance to see wildlife like coyotes, great-horned owls, bobcats, and bald eagles. 

17. Sanibel Island

Sister island to the earlier mentioned Captiva Island, Sanibel Island, is known for having some of the best beaches in Florida. The beautiful beaches here are popular with shell hunters, with shells of all shapes and sizes scattered along its shorelines.

When you’re not treasure hunting for shells (there are 400 different types here!), you can stop by the historic Sanibel Lighthouse or drive through the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge . Here, visitors (for a small fee) can drive for around 4 miles through the mangrove ecosystem and see many different species of birds up close! 

18. Delray Beach

Sandwiched between Boynton Beach and Boca Raton, you’ll find the fun-loving city of Delray Beach, which was once awarded the title of the ‘most fun small town in the U.S.’ by USA Today . The center of the action here is Atlantic Avenue , with its lovely brick sidewalks and a seemingly neverending stream of restaurants, Cafes, and stores. 

Art lovers will be in heaven in Delray Beach, as just off Atlantic Avenue is the Pineapple Grove Arts District which is lined with art galleries and plenty of art murals and public art displays. Other things worth checking out in this small city include the Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens and the Cornell Art Museum. 

19. New Smyrna Beach

For a taste of the Caribbean in Florida, head to New Smyrna Beach on Florida’s Central Atlantic Coast, which boasts miles of pristine beaches that wouldn’t look out of place in Barbados . 

It’s a renowned surf destination too, and surfers worldwide flock here to catch some of the best waves on the East Coast at Ponce Inlet . Keeping with the surf theme, try to visit the Museum of East Coast Surfing here, which houses hundreds of surf-related memorabilia. Or, for some of the best views in the area, climb the more than 200 steps to the top of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse. 

20. Seaside

With a name like Seaside, it’s no surprise this small town along the Gulf of Mexico made the list of the best Florida beach towns. And in fact, you may recognize Seaside from The Truman Show – yes, this lovely town was the setting for the famous 1998 movie starring Jim Carrey!

Named the prettiest town in Florida by Architectural Digest , the downtown area is full of adorable cafes and colorful storefronts, and it’s just a hop, skip, and jump from the town’s famous white sand beach.

Spend your vacation here, hiking one of the many stunning coastal trails here, swimming or trying out the watersports on offer at Seaside Beach, or shopping at the great Farmer’s Market held every Tuesday and Saturday morning.

The laid-back vibes are surely what make this town in Florida Panhandle one of the best places to live !

Read More: What Is Key West Known For?

21. Juno Beach

And last but certainly not least is Juno Beach – nestled in-between West Palm Beach and Jupiter. This chilled-out town is home to immaculate beaches and some very famous residents – the nesting sea turtles who take over the beaches between March and October. 

The Juno Beach Pier is the place to be in this picturesque beach town, and it’s a popular fishing and sunrise-watching spot. While if you’re keen on a fun beach day, head over to Juno Beach Park, one of the best surf spots in Palm Beach County . 

Map of The Best Florida Quiet Beach Towns

Quiet and Small Beach Towns In Florida FAQs

What is the most affordable beach town in florida.

The most affordable beach town in Florida is Cedar Keys. This small historic fishing village is considered the cheapest beach town in Florida, with a mere cost of 1,330 USD per week on average.

What Is The Quietest Beach Town In Florida?

Gasparilla Island is considered the quietest beach town in Florida. It is the only beach town in Florida that is completely car-free, and visitors must get around by bicycle or golf carts.

Are There Any Small Beach Towns Left In Florida?

There are plenty of incredible small beach towns left in Florida, such as Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Key Biscayne, Islamorada and more. Whether you are looking for a laid-back getaway or to enjoy watersports in peace, you can do so in one of the small beach towns in Florida.

Are There Any Quiet Beach Towns In Florida?

Yes, there are several quiet beach towns in Florida that are perfect for those looking for a more laid-back and peaceful vacation, such as Boca Grande, St. George Island, Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, and more.

Final Thoughts

The Sunshine State of Florida is famous for its bustling seaside cities and towns. But for those that look closely, you’ll also find that there are plenty of small and quiet beach towns that are perfect for a relaxing visit.

Not only are they quieter, but they are only cheaper and offer better value for money in terms of attractions, activities and accommodations!

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bikini and swimwear and book your ticket to Florida!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

11 Best Small Beach Towns In Florida To Visit

Florida is a great place to visit because it has some of the best small beach towns in the world that are located on both the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico.

The warm, paradise state has pristine beaches, fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, and perfect weather.

Florida has many well-known cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, but there are some fantastic small beach towns in Florida as well.

These small beach towns in Florida offer a more casual and authentic experience. You can often get around on foot or bike, and there are just as many great activities, restaurants, and shops.

After living in Florida for the last two years, I can attest to the fact that sometimes it is nice to avoid the crowds and enjoy the quieter side of Florida.

So if the party scene is not your vibe consider visiting one of these spots on your next trip to Florida and find out what all the hype is about.  

Best Small Beach Towns In Florida

1. hollywood , florida.

Hollywood is located on Florida ’ s east coast and isn ’ t to be confused with Hollywood, California, which is notorious for its star-studded streets. It is one of the best small beach towns in Florida that is hard not to fall in love with.

Hollywood, Florida, has a 2.5-mile beach boardwalk lined with palm trees which is iconic to the spot. It ’ s also known for its street art and pristine beaches.

Hollywood has a thriving community nestled between larger cities, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

It has beaches that are just as nice as the town’s larger, nearby neighbors, but with the added benefit of not being too busy or congested.

The vibrant yet chill town is perfect for your Florida vacation if you don ’ t want to be in too large of a city, but you still want many options of things to do.

Check out the fantastic downtown murals, relax on the beach, partake in water sports, and explore the Arts and Culture Center, which are just some of your options in Hollywood.

Arguably the best thing to do in Hollywood is to stroll along the extensive boardwalk that lines the beach. It’s a great way to get in some exercise and enjoy the top-notch views.

Jupiter is one of those small beach towns in Florida that you will want to come back to every year.

On the southeastern coast of Florida, Jupiter is a town on the Loxahatchee River. From Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse built in 1860, you can enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views and marvel at the historic structure.

It is one of the best lighthouses in the state of Florida , so worth checking out. It also has one of the prettiest beaches in Florida .

What makes Jupiter so great is visitors can enjoy both the river and the ocean, offering water views from almost all directions because the river runs right through town and Jupiter is on the coast.

Jupiter is a historical place, but it’s also tropical and lively.

Enjoy the many parks and beaches and get in some exercise at the Jupiter Waterway Trail, which is almost 40 miles long and includes rivers, beaches, and inlets.

The Loxahatchee River has mangrove swamps you can kayak through and Riverbend Park even has horse trails and hiking through Indian historic sites. Jupiter has it all and would be an excellent place to visit.  

On Florida’s southeast coast, Delray is one of those small beach towns in Florida you will never want to leave. USA Today once even named it the “ Most Fun Small Town in the USA.”

It has excellent beaches, a lively art culture, and many things to do. Delray’s Atlantic Avenue runs from downtown to the beach and is the longest main street in Florida, perfect for strolling through town!

Along the avenue are tons of restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes boasting great places to stop for a bit to eat or some window browsing.

The Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a fantastic place to observe and explore. You may spot tons of different animals and you can also enjoy the lush flora and fauna all over the park.

You should also check out the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, a unique museum of Japanese artifacts.

Altogether, Delray has a ton to offer and would make for a great Florida vacation.  

4. Vero Beach

Vero Beach is on the east coast of Florida on a barrier island in the Indian River Lagoon. The small town is known for its natural beauty.

It is only an hour and a half drive to Orlando giving you a nice small beach town vibe with still having the benefits of Orlando close .

Make sure to check out Mckee Botanical Garden, which is full of tropical and native plants and streams of water with lilies.

There is a ton of land area in the park to explore, perfect for getting in a bit of exercise and enjoying the views.

Vero Beach is also home to the Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge, which cares for brown pelicans. This beach town is hard not to love.

It has a fabulous downtown beside the gorgeous beaches, long coastlines, and fantastic hiking and biking trails.

The historic main street is full of little cafes, restaurants, and shops worth exploring. There are even spots listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Vero Beach has a weekly gallery and vintage market and is a cultural and creative hub of Florida.

The Vero Beach Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the area, with pieces from state and national artists. This is why it ’ s considered one of the best small beach towns in Florida.

Destin is located in northwest Florida on the panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico. Crab Island is a favorite activity of Destin.

It’s a sand bar where boats anchor and spend the day. You can also partake in any water sport imaginable if that interests you.

Destin has arguably some of the most beautiful powder white sand in all of Florida and some of the best beaches in the world.

The pristine, fine sand is alluring and perfect for spending a day relaxing on the beach.  

Harborwalk Village is an excellent central area with shops, restaurants, water sport rentals, nightlife, and more right along the water.

It can definitely keep you busy for a day of wandering around. Deep-sea fishing is also prevalent and Destin has even been called the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.

There are tons of species you can catch in the Gulf and there are often fishing tournaments that bring people to the beach town.

Destin is the perfect Florida vacation spot if you ’ re hoping to hang out by the beach and enjoy the views.  

6. Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce is an up-and-coming city but still rocks the small beach town in Florida that makes for the perfect vacation.  It’s got quaint and quirky shops and hosts small farmer’s markets every Saturday morning.

Located only an hour north of West Palm, you will feel like you are in a completely different part of Florida, and no longer in South Florida.

There is plenty to do here and it hosts a huge boating community, however, you can also fish, and surf and it is known for its bike-friendly community.

Stroll through the town on your bike and check out one of the many amazing restaurants.

7. Siesta Key

Siesta Key is a small 8-mile barrier island off the coast of Sarasota in the Gulf of Mexico. Siesta Public Beach has been named America’s Number One beach multiple times because of its pure quartz sand and beautiful turquoise blue ocean views.

The beach also has a fantastic boardwalk and excellent facilities and parking for visitors to enjoy.  

Siesta Key Village is known for its excellent shopping, cafes, and restaurants. It also has a playground and tennis courts.

What makes Siesta Key so great is it completely caters to the public with parks, beaches, picnic tables, stores, playgrounds, and other things for people to enjoy.

It’s the ideal place for families and people traveling to Florida and would make a great stop on your Florida vacation.  

8. Islamorada , Florida Keys

Located in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is the halfway point of the keys. The village community includes 6 of the Florida Key islands.

It ’ s known for its coral reefs, fabulous beaches, and fine coastal living. The Keys are known for their beauty, and Islamorada is no outlier to that fact.  

There are tons of quaint restaurants and cafes to explore and several breweries. Islamorada is one of the best places to go if you’re looking to relax and enjoy the moment.

With charming buildings, fantastic weather, and gorgeous sites, it ’ s no wonder it’s up there on people’s list of their favorite places in the world.

Of course, once you ’ ve been to the Keys, you ’ ll be itching to go back, especially to this small beach town.

Some of the most popular activities in Islamorada include backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly fishing.

Other great activities include scuba diving, relaxing on the beach and some of the best snorkeling in Florida .

On the Gulf of Mexico, Seaside is a small community in northwest Florida. It ’ s full of pastel-colored buildings and quaint shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes downtown.

The town has a funky, eclectic, and lively vibe. It’s easy to get around by foot or bicycle to truly enjoy beachside living, making it ideal if you ’ re visiting and don ’ t have a car.

The most interesting thing about Seaside is the town is an example of   New Urbanism. This means that there is a community full of schools, restaurants, shops, homes, entertainment, and more within a 10-minute walk which is great for tourists and locals.

It ’ s truly the perfect little place to visit.

The small beach town center also hosts a weekly market, outdoor concerts, and other events bringing together the community and its guests.

Enjoy the crystal clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and perfect weather. Seaside is also a great place for families because the gentle waves allow people to swim at ease.  

So pack your bags for Florida , and get ready for a vacation of a lifetime.

10. Apalachicola

A small beach town on the panhandle of Florida, Apalachicola is a quaint beach town to consider visiting. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the town has some of the best seafood and some fantastic restaurants.

The Gulf ’ s waters are calm, which is perfect for water sports and swimming and the beaches are ideal for relaxing.

The Apalachicola National Forest and Tate ’ s Hell State Forest offer tons of hiking opportunities for those that are looking for outdoor activities.  

For those who love historic towns, Apalachicola has over 900 historic structures dating back as early as the 19th century.

In addition, Apalachicola has four museums in town that educate visitors on the fishing village’s history. This quaint town would make a great place to visit, especially if you love seafood, history, and the great outdoors.  

It is just one of the small Florida beach towns you won’t want to leave.

11. Crystal River

In western Florida, Crystal River is a great place to visit. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is in Kings Bay, fed by springs. There is plenty to do in Crystal River .

Here you ’ ll find manatees all year long because of the water’s warm temperature. It ’ s an awesome place to kayak with these sea cows and enjoy the views.

The crystal clear waters of Crystal River are famous for sighting “ sea cows” and other sea life like turtles and schools of fish. You can see as far down as 200 feet, making it the perfect snorkeling location!

Year-round, the water is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s warm enough to swim anytime during the year. Crystal River is the ultimate place to swim and spot sea animals.

Crystal River Archaeological State Park is another great place to check out and it’s a National Historic Landmark that was once a pre-Columbian site.

Today, you can view the ruins, burial grounds, and the remains of structures from 2,500 years ago.  

Why Visit One of These Small Beach Towns in Florida?

There are plenty of beach towns in Florida worth exploring. While the large cities can be a ton of fun, small beach towns boast just as many things to do and have a great community feel.

Sometimes it is great to leave the hustle and bustle behind and have a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience. These Florida beach towns help you do exactly that.

If you ’ re visiting Florida, you should consider checking out a small beach town during your trip because they ’ re much easier to get around and offer almost as many things to do.

There are pros and cons to large and small cities, so consider checking them both out during your stay!  

Do you have a favorite small beach town in Florida that wasn’t mentioned on this list? Say so in the comments below.

If you enjoyed this article you might want to check out

• The Prettiest Beaches in Florida
• Florida Vacation Packing List
• Small Beach Towns in California

Related Posts

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

Top 11 Small Beach Towns in California

Best Beach Towns in Southern California

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Explore 31 Small Beach Towns in Florida You Will Love

Discover the best small florida beach towns.

Welcome to our blog post featuring 31 small beach towns in Florida! Whether you’re a Florida local looking for hidden gems or a traveler seeking a relaxing coastal getaway, we’ve got you covered.

We know these best beach towns in Florida and have visited all of them! After 40 years of travel in Florida, we think we can judge what small beach towns in Florida should be on our list.

From quaint fishing villages to charming seaside communities, these small beach towns offer a laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

So grab your flip-flops, sunscreen, and sense of adventure as we take you on a virtual tour of these charming coastal destinations. Let’s dive in and explore the best small beach towns in Florida!

Why Are Small Beach Towns So Attractive to Visitors, Tourists and Residents of Florida

Small beach towns in Florida, like many coastal areas around the world, are attractive to visitors, residents, and potential residents for a variety of reasons.

Here are some of the key factors that contribute to their appeal:

• Natural Beauty : Florida’s best small beach towns often offer breathtaking coastal scenery with pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. The beauty of the natural environment is a major draw for those seeking a peaceful and scenic setting.
• Relaxation and Recreation : Beach towns in Florida provide a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for unwinding and enjoying recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, water sports, and fishing. The warm climate of Florida is especially appealing for those who want to enjoy these activities year-round.
• Community and Lifestyle : Small beach towns tend to have a close-knit and welcoming community. Residents and visitors are often attracted to the sense of camaraderie and a slower pace of life. These towns may offer unique cultural events, festivals, and local traditions that create a strong sense of place.
• Outdoor Activities : Florida beach towns offer a wide range of outdoor activities beyond the beach, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The natural environment provides opportunities for adventure and exploration.
• Waterfront Living : Many people are drawn to the idea of living near the water, which can provide easy access to boating, fishing, and water views. Waterfront properties are often highly sought after.

• Climate : Florida’s mild climate is a significant draw for both residents and tourists. The warm temperatures and abundant sunshine make it an appealing destination for those seeking an escape from colder climates.
• Tourism : Small beach towns in Florida often rely on tourism as a major source of income, which can create a vibrant local economy. Visitors bring revenue to local businesses, which can help support community infrastructure and services.
• Retirement Destination : Florida has long been a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its favorable tax policies, healthcare facilities, and senior-friendly activities. Many small Florida beach towns cater to an older population looking to enjoy their retirement years.
• Cultural and Culinary Scene : Florida beach towns often have unique local cuisines and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors and residents can enjoy fresh seafood, local art galleries, and music events that reflect the local flavor.
• Low Crime Rates : Many small beach towns in Florida have lower crime rates compared to larger urban areas, which can make them feel safer and more secure.
• Proximity to Major Cities : While these towns offer a serene atmosphere, they are often within a reasonable distance of larger cities, providing residents with access to amenities, healthcare, and cultural events.

In summary, the appeal of small beach towns in Florida lies in their natural beauty, recreational opportunities, community spirit, and the desirable lifestyle they offer. These towns provide a tranquil and scenic escape, making them attractive to both visitors and those looking for a new place to call home.

Our Best 31 Small Beach Towns in Florida You Will Love

Each of these hand-picked small beach towns is along Florida’s Coast. There are no two alike. Each has different qualities. Many are very small and none are over 26,000 residents. Are there others we missed? Yes, but all of these we have visited and can suggest them as one of the best beach towns in Florida.

Here are our best small beach towns in Florida:

• Anna Maria Island
• Charming and laid-back. Population under 2000. One of our favorite destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast. No high-rises on the beach among the colorful cottages. Check out the restaurants in Anna Maria Island . Things To Do in Anna Maria Island
• Quaint and picturesque. Population under 6000. One of a half dozen beaches in a 28-mile stretch of the panhandle . Any one of them would be a good place to live or visit. Attractions in Seaside
• Sanibel Island
•  Serene and natural. Population under 7000. After being hit by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the island community is coming back strong. Always known for great shelling. Things To Do on Sanibel Island
• Captiva Island
• Exclusive and secluded. Population under 400. Actually, another island next to Sanibel with the rebuilding going on. Just cross a bridge to visit each other.
• Fernandina Beach
• Historic and charming. Population under 14,000. This is a must-visit town on a fabulous tourist island in northeast Florida. A lot of historical structures here and some beautiful resorts. Attractions in Fernandina Beach
• St. Augustine Beach
• Rich in history and has beautiful beaches. Population under 7000. Just south of St. Augustine . Small-town feel as compared to tourist-laden St. Augustine.
• Relaxing and upscale. Population under 17,000. East coast popular town with some great restaurants near the middle of the Atlantic coast of Florida.
• New Smyrna Beach
• Surfing and family-friendly. Population under 31,000. Just south of Daytona Beach. A neat coastal town that is a favorite of bikers. Great beach here also.
• Santa Rosa Beach
• Immaculate and uncrowded beach. Population under 15,000. In the panhandle west of Destin Florida.

• Artsy and vibrant. Population under 13,000. A small eclectic community between St. Petersburg and St. Petersburg Beach.
• Tranquil and rustic Population under 1000. If you like fishing and and history, they combine here for a waterfront popular place.
• Indian Rocks Beach
• Relaxed and family-oriented. Population under 5000. This fun community is literally 5 miles down the Gulf from our location at Florida Travel Blog. Great restaurants and beaches in this beach town.
• Flagler Beach
• Laid-back and scenic. Population under 5000. In the northeast coast of Florida known as an active outdoor community.
• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
• Lively and beach-centric. Population under 7000. Huge ocean pier and and friendly neighborhood.
• Mexico Beach
• Tranquil and unspoiled. Population Under 1500. Most of us became familiar with Mexico Beach when Hurricane Michael all but destroyed the town in 2018. We visited Mexico Beach in January 2024 and can assure you the rebuilding is in full force. Lots of new buildings along the Gulf Coast beaches.
• Holmes Beach
• Quiet and family-friendly. Population under 4000. Located just south of Anna Maria Island with a very large popular beach.

• Secluded and pristine. Population under 9000. One of the best remote beaches in the country. The town is on a peninsula extending out into the Gulf almost like an island. Highly recommended for total relaxation.
• Crystal River
• Nature-rich and adventurous fishing town. Population under 4000. This is also known as the Manatee Capital of the World. This is our go to place for fishing, golfing and visiting manatees. One of our favorite Florida beach towns.
• Relaxing and tropical in the Florida Keys. Population under 8000. This is our favorite island in the Keys. We love Key West , but if you are going to relax and enjoy the Keys, Islamorada is the place to visit or live. Try one of their  many beach restaurants .
• Key Biscayne
• Upscale and picturesque. Population under 15,000. This island off Miami’s shoreline one of the most upscale locations and popular places in Florida.
• Pensacola Beach
• Vibrant and lively. Population under 3000. Directly across the bay from Pensacola. More laid back and a beautiful beach in the Gulf.
• Historic fishing village. Population under 3000. Quaint town is known for fishing and one of our favorite dive bars in Florida called Harry’s.
• Port St. Joe
• Beaches uncrowded and a getaway in the panhandle. Under 4000 population.
• Clean and immaculate family-oriented beaches. Population under 6000.  Upscale town north of Miami Beach on the same island.
• Cedar Grove
• Serene beach town surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities near Panama City, Florida. Under 4000 residents.
• Madeira Beach
• Gulf Coast little town in a string of beaches. Population under 4000. This busy area is between Clearwater Beach on the north and St. Pete Beach on the south. A must-visit in Madeira Beach is John’s Pass with a hundred quaint shops , restaurants and water sports.

• On the Anclote River with  the beaches nearby . Population under 26,000. This is one of the coolest Greek communities in the state of Florida. Tons of things to do and an active home market.
• Marco Island
• Population under 16,000. One of the most upscale islands in Florida. This is our go-to place to get away to a place with exceptional restaurants and a location that lets you visit Naples or the Everglades for a day trip  from Marco Island.
• Cocoa Beach
• A coastal town with a surfing background. Population under 12,000. In a mid-coast location along Florida’s east coast. Exceptional location for watersports. The first Ron Jon Surf Shop in Florida was opened here in 1963.
• Ros emary Beach
• Upscale colorful community. Population under 1000. Another beach along the strip of 28 miles of the most beautiful beaches in Florida.
• Boca Grande
• Upscale island with quaint community. Population under 2000. Island living on a well-known community on Charlotte Harbor just north of Sanibel and Captiva islands.

We have visited all of these communities over many years. One thing we can suggest is they all have some form of waterfront activity. There all have different levels of access to different amenities that you need to consider for your circumstances. For trips, excursions and activities in these Florida beach towns,  check the resources at Viator .

What To Consider When Looking for a Small Beach Town in Florida

When looking for a small beach town in Florida to visit, reside in, or potentially relocate to, there are several important qualities and factors to consider. Your ideal beach town will depend on your personal preferences and priorities, but here are some key qualities to look for:

• Proximity to the Beach : Naturally, the beach is the primary attraction, so choose a town with easy access to a beautiful, well-maintained beach.
• Safety and Security : Check the safety statistics of the area and ensure you feel comfortable and secure in the Florida beach town you choose.
• Climate and Weather : Consider the climate, as Florida can have hot and humid summers. Make sure you’re comfortable with the year-round weather.
• Community and Lifestyle : Research the local community and lifestyle. Some beach towns are known for being family-friendly, while others may cater to retirees or a younger, more vibrant crowd.
• Amenities and Services : Ensure the beach town in Florida you choose has the amenities and services you need, such as grocery stores, medical facilities, and schools if you have children.  
• Recreation and Activities : Look for a town that offers a variety of recreational activities beyond the beach, such as parks, sports, and cultural events.  
• Cost of Living : Florida, in general, is known for its affordability, but costs can vary from town to town. Consider the cost of living, housing, and property taxes.   We can assure you the cost of living in Key West is double the cost of living in some Florida beach towns.
• Real Estate Market : Study the local real estate market, including property values, trends, and investment potential, especially if you’re looking to purchase a home.  
• Schools and Education : If you have children or plan to in the future, investigate the quality of local schools.  
• Healthcare Facilities : Access to quality healthcare facilities is crucial. Ensure there are hospitals and medical services nearby.  

• Cultural and Dining Scene : Explore the town’s cultural offerings, such as museums, theaters, and restaurants. A vibrant cultural scene can enhance your quality of life.  
• Economic Opportunities : If you plan to work in the area, consider the local job market and economic opportunities.  
• Tourism vs. Year-Round Living : Some towns are heavily reliant on tourism, which can influence the town’s atmosphere. Decide whether you prefer a more touristy or a quieter, year-round community.  
• Natural Environment : Assess the town’s natural environment, including the presence of wildlife, conservation areas, and the overall ecosystem.
• Zoning and Development : Investigate the town’s zoning regulations and development plans to ensure they align with your vision for the future.  
• Infrastructure and Services : Check the quality of roads, utilities, and public services like waste management and water supply.Infrastructure in small beach towns in Florida can vary greatly.
• Resilience to Natural Disasters : Coastal areas and river basins in Florida can be susceptible to hurricanes and flooding. Investigate the town’s resilience measures and preparedness for such events.
• Local Regulations and Taxes : Familiarize yourself with local regulations and tax policies, which can significantly impact your cost of living.
• Personal Preferences : Ultimately, your personal preferences and priorities will play a significant role in your decision. Do you prefer a bustling beach town with a lively nightlife or a quieter, more secluded spot for relaxation?

It’s essential to conduct thorough research, visit the area in person if possible, and speak with locals to get a better sense of what a small beach town in Florida has to offer and whether it aligns with your lifestyle and goals.

All of the recommended evaluation points will not apply to all people. Use the issues most important to you to create a list.

Beaches and Water Quality in Florida Beach Towns

One thing that should be evaluated above all others is the quality of the water and the beach. Nothing can ruin a property valuation any quicker than water or beach pollution, not to mention the health of the people on the beach.

When evaluating the quality of a beach and its water quality, several factors should be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience. Here are the key factors to look for:

• Water Clarity and Color**: Clear, turquoise water is generally a good sign of water quality. Murky or brownish water may indicate pollution or sediment runoff.
• Water Temperature**: Check the water temperature, which can affect your comfort while swimming or engaging in water sports.
• Water Smell**: The water should not have a foul or unpleasant odor. Foul smells can indicate pollution or the presence of harmful bacteria.
• Water Texture**: The water should feel smooth and clean. If it feels slimy, oily, or has an unusual texture, it may be a sign of pollution.
• Visibility**: You should be able to see your feet when standing in waist-deep water. Poor visibility can be a sign of water pollution.
• Algal Blooms**: Algal blooms can indicate poor water quality. Look for signs of excessive algae, especially if it forms large, unsightly mats on the water’s surface.
• Waterborne Hazards**: Be aware of potential waterborne hazards, such as jellyfish, sharks, or dangerous currents. Local authorities often post warnings about such hazards.
• Water Testing Results**: Local health or environmental agencies typically conduct water quality tests and post results online or at the beach. Check for recent water quality reports and advisories.
• Beach Maintenance**: A well-maintained beach with clean sand and regularly emptied trash cans can indicate a town’s commitment to beach quality.
• Public Health Advisories**: Pay attention to public health advisories and beach closures. These are typically issued if there are health concerns related to water quality.
• Wildlife Activity**: Observe wildlife activity. Healthy beaches often have birds, fish, and other wildlife present, which can be a sign of a balanced ecosystem.
• Local Regulations**: Familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding water quality, such as restrictions on pollution sources and sewage discharge.
• Waste Disposal Facilities**: Ensure the presence of proper waste disposal facilities, such as restrooms and trash receptacles, to prevent pollution.
• Nearby Industry and Development**: Consider the presence of industrial or urban development in the area. Pollution from nearby sources can affect water quality.
• Local Efforts for Conservation**: Research local conservation efforts and initiatives. A strong commitment to environmental conservation often correlates with better water quality.
• Reviews and Local Knowledge**: Reading reviews from other beachgoers and talking to locals can provide valuable insights into the quality of a beach and its water.
• Water Quality Alerts**: Sign up for water quality alerts or notifications from local authorities or environmental organizations. These alerts can keep you informed about any water quality issues.
• Historical Data**: Investigate historical data on water quality in the area to identify trends and potential issues.

Remember that water quality can change due to various factors, including weather conditions, tides, and human activities. It’s essential to stay informed, exercise caution when swimming, and follow any posted guidelines or advisories from local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience.

Culture and Community Differences Between Florida Beach Towns

As we have stated, Florida is the size of several combined states. It is also made up of cultures that may date back hundreds of years and cultures that come from other countries.

Florida is made up of people from all walks of life and from many nationalities. That being the case, the small beach towns in Florida reflect their inhabitants to a great degree.

You will see a lot of Spanish culture in northeast Florida while the northwest seems more of the old southern hospitality style. Miami area is faster-paced and generally more upscale, while the Florida Keys are heavily reliant on tourism.

The small west coast towns tend to be more fishermen and older residents while the Florida Keys are very relaxed with significant Cuban influences.

Our point here is that community and culture should be part of your decision if you plan a long-term stay in the area. We think Florida is the best state in the union and haven’t found a bad place in the small beach towns in Florida list.

Final Thoughts About Small Beach Towns in Florida

Everyone loves a beach and a community nearby.

Residents considering a move, tourists looking for something different, people considering moving to Florida all can use or list of small beach towns in Florida to make their visitation decision.

There is no single website or other data instrument that can tell you everything about any destination. We recommend you determine what is important to you and narrow those factors. Then make your visit(s).

That advice applies to vacations, travel and relocating. Send us your comments.

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The Best Small Towns in Florida Are Big on Charm

Get the best of both worlds with idyllic beaches and quaint downtown districts.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Want to feel like you're in Spain? Head to Pensacola. Italy? Venice, of course! French Riviera? Post up at Rosemary Beach, off of Scenic Highway 30A. We're talking brick-paved streets, old-school trolleys, lighthouses galore (photo ops, anyone?), pastel cottages, welcoming inns, cute cafes, vibrant Main Streets (New York isn't the only state with a Park Avenue!), and more. And almost all of these towns are just steps (or a bike ride) away from glorious white sand and brilliantly blue water.

While not all of these Florida destinations are technically small towns (some are neighborhoods within a city), we think you'll agree that they feel quaint, personal, and belong on this list. Which one are you booking first?

Anna Maria Island

Step back in time on this barrier island where strict regulations govern the type of buildings and businesses allowed. Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and Florida's main peninsula, Anna Maria features seven miles of white sand beaches. Its downtown offers antique retailers, galleries, and yummy seafood restaurants. Hop on the free trolley or stroll the wooden City Pier dating back to 1911.

Fernandina Beach

This Amelia Island enclave on Florida's northeastern border boasts 13 miles of pristine beaches. Visit during the May's Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival or year-round for top-notch golf, upscale resorts, and adorable bed and breakfasts. A walkable downtown is popular for restaurants and shops, like decades-old Fernandina's Fantastic Fudge .

Apalachicola

This fishing town in Florida's panhandle is the place for fresh catch. Book a room at an inn ( The Gibson Inn is cute ) and learn about the local oyster, timber, and fishing history—or relax on miles of unspoiled beaches on nearby St. George's Island.

Rosemary Beach

Located off the famous Scenic Highway 30A is a hidden gem called Rosemary Beach. Come for the peaceful beach and stay for the European vibes on Main Street. ( The Pearl Hotel is stunning , as you can see! )

Leave the car behind in this walkable and bike-friendly town in northwest Florida—named the prettiest town in Florida by Architectural Digest . The setting for The Truman Show , its downtown offers quaint cafes, as well as food vendors in airstream trailers , just a stone's throw away from the sugar-white sand beach.

Winter Park

North of Orlando, this arts and culture community offers a small-town feel outside of Disney's hometown. Home to Rollins College and The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art, its walkable downtown is packed with restaurants, upscale shopping, and parks that play host to various events throughout the year.

It's no wonder retirees flock here. You get pristine beaches and picturesque neighborhoods that instantly feel like home. Blocks from the famous Naples Pier is Third Street South —where you'll find palm trees, pastel buildings, shops, bistros, fountains, and more. Naples even has an upscale Fifth Avenue of its own!

Crystal River

Swim with manatees in this central Florida town beloved by nature-seekers. The Three Sisters Springs flow at a constant 72 degrees, creating an ideal home for the gentle giants when the temperature drops in the Gulf of Mexico.

Head to Palm Beach in South Florida if you want to feel a little fancy. (The Kennedys had a vacation home here.) Walk down Worth Avenue to find high-end boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, then take a tour of Whitehall , a Gilded Age mansion that's now open to the public.

Sister to nearby Sanibel, this captivating isle on Florida's southwest coast offers biking, sailing, birding, and a variety of water activities. Its tropical topography of giant cacti and bougainvillea vines is a picturesque backdrop for the already stunning sunsets that attract visitors from far and wide.

Make your way to the Fort Myers River District for the small-town feel you're craving, where brick-paved streets and historic buildings meet quintessential palm trees. Check the events schedule to catch one of the town's Art Walks (like flower displays in the business windows!) or Music Walks (local and regional musicians line the streets on the third Friday of the month).

Part fishing village and part artists' enclave, this quirky community over the bridge from Pine Island is quintessential old Florida. Enjoy the bohemian vibes by visiting shops, galleries, seafood markets, or hanging out at the community park.

One of the oldest towns on Florida's west coast, Dunedin features a walkable downtown, four miles of beach known as Honeymoon Island, and popular craft breweries—all about an hour from Tampa. The town's annual Scottish celebrations honor its heritage and history, as it was founded by two Scotsmen in 1899.

St. Augustine

On the northeast coast of Florida sits St. Augustine—the oldest city in the U.S. Known for its Spanish architecture and irresistible charm, you'll feel like you just hopped off a plane to Europe as you walk the cobblestone streets. Also, did someone say Fountain of Youth ...?

Just 15 minutes south of Gainesville, this Seminole-named enclave features dozens of antique vendors on oak-lined Cholokka Boulevard. The annual Fall Harvest Festival brings music and crafts, but you can also escape the crowds in nearby Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and watch wildlife from a 50-foot-high observation tower.

Boca Grande

Katharine Hepburn was known to vacation in this idyllic village off the Gulf Coast, on Gasparilla Island. Don't miss the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum —which is adorably adorned during the holidays.

Rivaling St. Augustine for the title of America's first European settlement (though St. Augustine is said to be the oldest continuously occupied city), Pensacola is teeming with Spanish-influenced architecture and restaurants. History buffs will want to stop by National Historic Landmark Plaza Ferdinand VII to see the precise spot where Florida was transferred from Spain to the U.S. in 1821.

Sanibel Island is known for being one of the best shelling beaches in the Sunshine State, because it sits perpendicular to the coastline. When you're not shell-hunting, visit the historic Sanibel Lighthouse or explore the quiet island by bike.

Set on the shores of Lake Dora, an hour from Orlando, this " Bass Capital of the World " offers a more than 100-year-old historic village and a myriad of annual festivals. Book a room at a country inn or bed and breakfast and spend the day antiquing in the city center. Don't forget a photo op at the iconic lighthouse in Grantham Point Park.

Known as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World," this slice of paradise sits 90 minutes south of Miami in the Florida Keys. Enjoy views of the aqua blue waters from its various bridges, fresh seafood at its many waterfront restaurants, and gorgeous sunrises at one of the piers.

Cristina Corvino is a senior editor for Hearst Magazines. A few of her favorite things include all things Christmas, cheese, coffee, and baseball. (Let’s go Mets!) She loves rewatching Gilmore Girls and Downton Abbey, and her favorite new(ish) shows are Ted Lasso and Trying. (Seriously, try it!)

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Florida’s Best Small Beach Towns

• By Rebecca McKinney
• January 17, 2019

Planning your next vacation or day-trip to the beach? Check out these small beach towns along the Gulf and Atlantic Coastlines of Florida. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top places to stay, eat, and things to do in each location.

Anna Maria Island

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This barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico is home to white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue water, and an “Old Florida” charm. At only 7-miles long and with a speed limit of 35mph, residents and visitors primarily travel around town by bike, scooter, or on foot. Serene sunsets, a laid-back vibe, and family-friendly activities make Anna Maria Island a fun place to visit for all ages.

Tip: Hop aboard the island’s free trolley system to visit the local attractions.

• Main Sail Beach Inn 101 66th Street Holmes Beach, FL 34217 (888) 849-2642
• Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club, Autograph Collection 5325 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, Florida 34217 (941) 238-6262
• Visit the historic Bridge Street for shopping, dining, live music, and more.
• Take a guided Segaway tour around the island with Segs By The Sea .
• Rent a kayak from Beach Bums Island Attitude and explore the wildlife surrounding Anna Maria.
• The Sandbar Restaurant 100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216 (941) 778-0444
• Ugly Grouper 5704 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 (941) 778-4402
• Island Haus Coffee 5350 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 (941) 896-4870

Boca Grande

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On the barrier island of Gasparilla is a small village called, Boca Grande . Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise water, it is known as one of the best places in the world for tarpon fishing. Boca Grande is home to loggerhead turtles and a variety of birds . Its natural beauty, history, and wildlife make it perfect for disconnecting from city life.

Tip: The Boca Grande Marina is the only place to purchase gas on Gasparilla Island. The main mode of transportation is by bike or golf cart.

• The Gasparilla Inn & Club 500 Palm Avenue Boca Grande, FL 33921 (941) 964-4500
• Visit the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum and learn why this is the oldest structure on Gasparilla Island.
• Go beachcombing and search for unique shells and treasures from the ocean. Shelling is a popular activity in Boca Grande.
• Charter a fishing boat at the Boca Grande Marina for a fun-filled day of adventure at sea. Catch tarpon, redfish, snook, and much more.
• The Pink Elephant 491 Bayou Avenue Boca Grande, FL 33921 (941) 964-4540
• Eagle Grille & Miller’s Dockside 220 Harbor Drive Boca Grande, FL 33921 (941) 964-8000
• Tipsy Cake Company 301 Park Avenue, Suite B. Boca Grande, FL 33921 941-855-9437

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Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway lies the small coastal town of Juno Beach . It is home to some of the most abundant loggerhead sea turtle nesting spots and the 569-acre Juno Dunes Natural Area . With its panoramic sunrises, dog-friendly parks, and full-service pier, this town has something to offer for everyone.

Tip: If you’re looking to catch a wave or paddleboard, Groundswell Surf Shop offers rentals.

• Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa (4.1 miles from Juno Beach) 5 North A1A Jupiter, FL 33477 (877) 389-0571
• Wyndham Grand Jupiter (4.4 miles from Juno Beach) 122 Soundings Avenue Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 273-6600
• Visit the Loggerhead Marinelife Center to learn about sea turtles, rehabilitation, and conservation.
• Practice your photography skills or go fishing at the full-service 990-foot Juno Beach Pier .
• Take your furry friend with you to the pet-friendly Juno Beach Park for some fun in the sun. This is an off-leash beach.
• Sinclairs Ocean Grill 5 North A1A Jupiter, FL 33477 (877) 389-0571
• Lazy Loggerhead Cafe 6 Van Kessel Parkway Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 747-1134
• Matty’s Gelato Factory 867 Donald Ross Road Juno Beach, FL 33408 (561) 557-3539

Pass-A-Grille

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Travel to the southernmost point of St. Pete Beach and find yourself in the charming beach town of Pass-A-Grille . This town is only one block wide and is sandwiched between the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Boca Ciega Bay on the other. With its laid-back vibe, pink sunsets, unique shopping, and tasty eats, Pass-A-Grille is a beach town you won’t want to pass up on.

Tip: The “Free Beach Ride” offers free transportation around Pass-A-Grille and St. Pete Beach. All you have to do is tip the driver when you arrive at your destination.

• The Don CeSar 3400 Gulf Boulevard St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 (727) 360-1881
• Inn on the Beach 1401 Gulf Way St Pete Beach, FL. 33706 (727) 360-8844
• Shop at some of the most eclectic and original stores in St. Pete Beach at the historic 8th Avenue shopping district.
• Take a 10-minute boat ride on the Shell Key Shuttle over to the barrier island of Shell Key for a day of snorkeling, shelling, and dolphin watching. Sunset cruises are available, as well.
• Rent a fishing rod or bicycle to explore Pass-A-Grille at the Merry Pier . Check out their fresh fish and seafood market that features fish caught straight from the Gulf.
• Grace 120 8th Avenue St. Pete Beach, FL (727) 317-4770
• The Wharf 2001 Pass-A-Grille Way St Pete Beach, FL 33706 727) 367-9469
• Seahorse Restaurant 800 Pass a Grille Way Pass-a-Grille Beach, FL 33706 (727) 360-1734

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Located on the Gulf of Mexico between Panama City Beach and Destin is a town called, Seaside . It’s here that you will find pastel-colored coastal homes with white picket fences and wrap around porches. Known for its 20th century “New Urbanist” design, Seaside’s community was built with the tagline, “The Dream of a Simple, Beautiful Life.” Everything from shops, dining, and the beach are all within walking distance to gorgeous cottages and homes.

Tip: There are nine unique pavilions around Seaside that are not only landmarks, but they mark the end of every street and stand as a passageway to the ocean. Pack a picnic one evening and marvel at the sunset through one of these distinctive structures.

• Cottage Rental Agency 2311 E County Highway 30A Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (866) 966-2565
• WaterColor Inn & Resort (0.1 miles from Seaside Beach) 34 Goldenrod Circle Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (850) 534-5000
• Let Cabana Man make your day at the beach a little more relaxing by setting up lounge chairs, beach umbrellas, or even private cabanas. If you’re looking for some extra fun, they provide kayak, paddleboard, and boogie board rentals too.
• Looking for a good beach read? Check out one of the oldest businesses in Seaside, Sundog Books , for a wild mix of classic literature, popular fiction, children’s books, and more.
• Visit the Seaside Farmers Market on Saturdays from 8:00am to noon. Taste some of the local fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, and much more.
• Bud & Alley’s Restaurant 2236 East County Road 30-A Seaside, FL (850) 231-5900
• Great Southern Café 83 Central Square Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (850) 231.7327
• The Meltdown on 30A 2235 E County Hwy Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (850) 231-0952

St. Augustine

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Known as the oldest city in the nation, St. Augustine is rich with historical beauty and an old-world atmosphere. It is located on the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re a history buff or a beachgoer, St. Augustine is filled with places to see and things to do.

Tip: Take a walk down the oldest street in the United States, Aviles Street. Dating back to the 1570s, this cobblestone street is packed with museums, boutique shops, live music, and fine dining.

• The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens 149 Cordova Street St Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 209-5800
• Casa Monica Resort & Spa 95 Cordova Street St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 827-1888
• Hop onboard one of Old Town Trolley’s St. Augustine Sightseeing Tours . They offer an unlimited “Hop On & Off” privileges at 23 different stops around town.
• St. Augustine’s history is brought to life in the Colonial Quarter . This pet-friendly immersive attraction transports guests back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.
• Climb 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and experience an unparalleled view of the nation’s oldest port, the Atlantic Ocean, and St. Augustine.
• O. C. White’s Restaurant 118 Avenida Menendez St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 824-0808
• The Gourmet Hut 17 Cuna Street St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 824-7477
• Peace Pie 8 Aviles Street St. Augustine, FL 32084 1-904-295-8232

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Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Vero Beach is home to white sandy beaches, gourmet food and drink, museums, and cultural events. A haven for watersports enthusiasts, artists, and those looking to enjoy a relaxing getaway, Vero Beach offers an invitation to a slower pace of life.

Tip: Explore the shipwreck of the S.S. Breconshire, which is located a quarter mile in front of the Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa. The resort offers a 90-minute guided tour, which includes a kayak rental and snorkeling gear.

• Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 (877) 562-9919
• Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa 3500 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 231-5666
• Stroll through Ocean Drive (only one block away from the ocean) and explore boutique shops, Kilwin’s ice cream shop , and local art galleries.
• Visit the pet-friendly Farmers Market Oceanside on Saturdays from 8:00am to noon on Ocean Drive at Humiston Park. Enjoy a variety of local organic foods, botanicals, live music, and more.
• Taste some of the best local Vero Beach brews on tap at the Walking Tree Brewery .
• Cobalt 3500 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 469-1060
• The Wave Kitchen and Bar 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 410-0100
• Grind + Grape 925 Bougainvillea Lane Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 231-5536

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9 Best Beach Towns in Florida

These beach towns in Florida offer picture-perfect views, lively nightlife scenes, family-friendly vibes, and much more.

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

If there’s one thing the Sunshine State is known for, it’s beautiful beaches . With more than 825 miles of sandy coastline to explore, it’s nearly impossible to pick a favorite, but we've rounded up some of the best beach towns in Florida, whether you’re looking for an affordable place to live or a vacation straight out of a storybook. Note that while most are small towns, with populations under 30,000 (and many under 10,000), we also included a few larger cities that still hit the mark with their beach-town vibes.

For Picture-perfect Views: Seaside

krblokhin/Getty Images

This small resort destination in northwest Florida was the first New Urbanist community, built in the late 1900s by a visionary named Robert Davis. Its architecture, relaxed pace of life, and bike-friendly streets are everything you'd want from a beach town and more. As you stroll past pastel homes with porches and white picket fences, you might feel as if you’re on the set of a Nicholas Sparks book-turned-movie, but no, this is real-life Seaside.

For a Ritzy Vibe: Palm Beach

Crystal Bolin Photography/Getty Images

With more than 30 billionaires calling Palm Beach home, the eight-square-mile barrier island may seem like the definition of unapproachable, but pay a visit and you’ll find a palm-fringed paradise that’s anything but. While its gorgeous beaches have notoriously frustrating parking facilities and limited public access, off-sand highlights like Worth Avenue , The Royal Poinciana Plaza , and the Flagler Museum are eager to welcome visitors. Book a stay at The Breakers and bike the Lake Trail for the full experience in one of America’s first resort towns.

For Peace and Quiet: Captiva Island

jmichaelmedia/Getty Images

Those seeking a peaceful, breezy sojourn will find what they’re looking for on Captiva Island, Sanibel Island ’s charming little sibling. Ripe for shell collecting and getting back to nature, this quiet destination has a downtown village, but the main attractions are walking the beach, golfing, tennis, fishing, and boating. While Sanibel and Captiva are still actively working to recover from September 2022’s devastating Hurricane Ian, the two beloved islands will need the support of visitors to get back on their feet as businesses reopen.

For a Lively Nightlife Scene: South Beach, Miami

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

No Florida destination combines nightlife and beach life quite as vibrantly as Miami’s South Beach . And though it has a sizable population, South Beach maintains an insular beach town quality, albeit with worldly connections. Whether you go to party all night, soak up the sun, relax in one of the many historic luxury oceanfront hotels, or snap photos of every charming example of art deco architecture you can find, South Beach is a feast for the senses. Just off its famously sandy shores, there’s great shopping along the Lincoln Road Mall and a plethora of celebrity chef eateries.

For the Coolest Views: Cocoa Beach

Julie Culy/Getty Images

Plan a beach day at Cocoa Beach and you might be greeted with an unexpected sight: the launch of a rocket from the nearby Kennedy Space Center. Whether it’s a NASA mission or a SpaceX test launch, the regular liftoffs are a sight to behold. While these launches may be visible as far as Orlando, Cocoa Beach provides a veritable front-row seat to the action. Plus, if space exploration piques your interest enough to draw you away from the sand, you can buy tickets to check out the many interactive attractions and view astronaut presentations at the Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island. If you're seeking “beach with a side of space shuttle,” Cocoa Beach belongs on your itinerary.

For a Family-friendly Getaway: Clearwater Beach

John Coletti/Getty Images

Yes, Clearwater’s population numbers more than 100,000, but locals can confirm this beach haven has a small-town atmosphere. From the many beachfront restaurants and hotels to Pier 60 to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium , home of the late "Dolphin Tale" star Winter, it doesn’t get more family-friendly than Clearwater Beach. The stunning white-sand beaches with calm waters perfect for jet skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding don’t hurt, either. For the perfect Clearwater day, begin with a morning stroll along the beachfront promenade, spend the afternoon building sandcastles, and end with a sunset celebration at Pier 60, home to a daily festival with street performers and local craft vendors.

For Lots of Charm: Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is one of those places you visit, fall in love, and spend the rest of your life dreaming about moving to eventually. This Gulf Coast barrier island has wide, welcoming beaches, bike trails and trolley stops, and a sweet main street lined with shops, galleries, restaurants, and more. While the island has an old-town feel, you won’t be short of modern conveniences: Check out the Rod and Reel Pier for the perfect introduction to Anna Maria Island.

For Tranquility: Amelia Island

Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images

Located in a quiet area of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is actually part of the Sea Islands chain of barrier islands that stretches from Florida to South Carolina along America’s Eastern Seaboard. It’s the perfect beach town if you hope to relax and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. Along Amelia Island’s 13 miles of beautiful beach, visitors will experience native wildlife, pristine waters, marshland, a slow pace of life, and natural beauty unmatched by any of Florida’s other beach towns. While the island clocks in just under 40,000 residents, more than 10 percent of the place is made up of park preserves, so its tranquil natural beauty feels more prevalent than its residents. 

For Star Status: Siesta Key

Jack Elka Photo/Getty Images

If Siesta Key wasn’t famous enough for its have-to-feel-it-to-believe-it powdery sand, MTV solidified its celebrity status with the 2017 debut of reality TV show Siesta Key , a Laguna Beach -style saga for the next generation. Whether or not you’re a fan of the show, it’s hard to resist the eight-mile island’s sugar-white sand and stunning blue-green waters — not to mention the shopping, resorts, dining, and nightlife.

Related Articles

12 Adorable Small Beach Towns in Florida: the Sunshine State’s Hidden Gems

By Author Disha Smith

Posted on Published: May 3, 2022  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

Categories Destination Tips , Florida , North America , USA

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If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami and Orlando, these small beach towns in Florida are perfect for you!

There are plenty of small beach towns located all throughout the state that offer visitors a more laid-back and relaxed vacation experience.

These quiet beach towns in Florida provide a more authentic experience of life in the Sunshine State away from all chaos of the big cities.

The best part about these laid-back towns is that they offer a wide variety of activities, gorgeous scenery, and small-town charm that makes for the perfect getaway.

So, if you’re looking for a quiet beach town to explore on your next vacation, look no further than these 12 best small beach towns in Florida!

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust.   This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.   See full disclosure here.

In This Post:

The Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

Whether you’re looking for a USA trip or a longer vacation retreat, there’s no shortage of amazing small beach towns in Florida.

From sleepy fishing villages on the Gulf Coast to lively coastal towns dotted with bustling bars and cute boutiques, these 12 spots are sure to meet all your beachy needs .

As a matter of fact, these small beach towns in Florida are actually home to some of the best beaches in the USA !

With its sugary soft sand and clear blue waters, it’s no wonder that Siesta Key is one of the best small beach towns in Florida.

Siesta Key is a small barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, and it’s one of the best small beach towns in Florida.

The whole island has a laid-back vibe with plenty of things to do, making it perfect for a USA weekend trip or an extended trip.

The three main beaches in Siesta Key Siesta are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

If you want to explore beyond the beaches, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Siesta Key.

Siesta Key Village is the main area of town , and it’s full of small shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

You can also hop aboard the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley for free to explore all of the best things to do in Siesta Key.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Sarasota is a luxury small city that’s just a 20-minute drive away. It’s perfect for visitors who want to experience both the small beach town and big city vibes during their trip to Florida.

🏠 Where to stay: The Inn on Siesta Key | Hyatt Siesta Key Beach | Siesta Key Palms Resort

• Sanibel Island

This list of quiet beach towns in Florida includes Sanibel Island.

Sanibel Island is one of the prettiest small beach towns in Florida for families and couples.

The small island is located off the southwest coast of Florida and is known for its beautiful beaches and amazing shelling.

Sanibel Island has over 12 miles of beache s, and it’s one of the best places to go shelling in Florida because of the variety of shells you can find.

The island is also home to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge , which is a great place to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

The best beaches on Sanibel Island are Blind Pass Beach, Bowman’s Beach, Lighthouse Beach Park, and Causeway Islands Park.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Naples is a great day trip from Sanibel Island, which is about an hour and fifteen-minute drive.

🏠 Where to stay: Sundial Resort & Spa | The Palmview and Sandpiper Inns | Waterside Inn on the Beach

Islamorada is one of the best small beach towns in Florida.

Islamorada is a small village located in the Florida Keys, and it’s one of the best small beach towns in Florida for both relaxing and adventure.

It’s also one of the best stops on a Miami to Key West drive .

The village comprises five small inhabited islands, and it’s known for its clear turquoise waters and beautiful coral reefs.

Islamorada, known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World, ” is a great place to go diving or snorkeling, and there are plenty of charter companies that offer fishing trips.

Some of the coolest attractions in Islamorada include Theater of the Sea where you can learn about marine life, the History of Diving Museum where you can learn about all things diving, and the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, where you’ll learn about the Florida Keys in detail.

The top-rated Islamorada beaches are Anne’s Beach, Holiday Isle Beach, Founders Park, Long Key State Park, Sea Oats Beach, and Islamorada Library Beach.

⛵️ What’s nearby: A weekend in Key West is a popular getaway that’s about an hour and forty-five-minute drive from Islamorada. Key Largo and Marathon are also nearby.

🏠 Where to stay: Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina | Islander Resort | Amara Cay Resort

• Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a small island off the coast of Bradenton on the mainland, and it’s one of the best small beach towns in Florida for a quiet and relaxing vacation.

The small island is only seven miles long, but it’s packed with things to do.

The island has three main towns — the City of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, and each town has its own unique personality.

Anna Maria is the quietest and most laid-back of the three towns, Holmes Beach is a bit more lively with plenty of shops and restaurants, and Bradenton Beach is the perfect mix of both.

The beaches on Anna Maria Island are some of the best in Florida, and they include Manatee Public Beach, Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach, and Bean Point.

⛵️ What’s nearby: St. Petersburg is a popular tourist destination that’s about an hour’s drive from Anna Maria Island.

🏠 Where to stay: Tortuga Inn Beach Resort | Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club, Autograph Collection | Anna Maria Island Inn

Located on 30A, Seaside is one of the most quiet beach towns in Florida.

Seaside is one of the best beaches in the Florida Panhandle and one of the best small beach towns in Florida.

Seaside is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is known for its white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.

This quaint, coastal town feels has a luxurious vibe and feels a lot like Malibu, except it’s more laid back.

Seaside has plenty of small shops and restaurants, as well as art galleries and cute cafes.

Some of the best things to do in Seaside include visiting the Truman Show House , hanging out at Central Square , and going on a bike ride around the town .

The top-rated beaches in Seaside are Seaside Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, and Seagrove Beach.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Destin is a popular tourist destination that’s about a forty-five-minute drive from Seaside. Panama City Beach is also an hour away.

🏠 Where to stay: Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse | 30A Inn & Suites

Vero Beach is a small town located on the east coast of Florida, and it’s one of the best small beach towns in Florida for a quiet and relaxing vacation.

Vero Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, elegant small-town feel, and luxury resorts. It’s a pure Florida wonderland.

Known as the Hamptons of Florida , Vero Beach has plenty of upscale boutiques and wine bars, as well as art galleries and museums.

Some of the best things to do in Vero Beach include visiting the McKee Botanical Garden , exploring Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge , and wandering around the Vero Beach Museum of Art.

The prettiest beaches in Vero Beach are South Beach, Sexton Plaza Beach, Jaycee Park, and Turtle Trail Beach.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Vero Beach is around an hour and a half drive to West Palm Beach and Orlando.

🏠 Where to stay: Hutchinson Island Plaza Hotel and Suites | Hampton Inn Vero Beach | Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa

• Amelia Island

Small beach towns in Florida: Amelia Island.

Located off the coast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is known for its pristine beaches, world-class resorts, and golf courses.

It’s one of the best islands in the USA and one of the best small beach towns in Florida for a luxury vacation.

Amelia Island lies on a chain of barrier islands that extend from Florida to South Carolina and is thirteen miles long and four miles wide.

While on Amelia Island, explore the waterways via kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. You’ll be able to spot all sorts of marine life like dolphins, turtles, and manatees.

When on Amelia Island, check out Fort Clinch State Park, Amelia Island Historic District, Amelia Island Museum of History, Little Talbot Island State Park, and Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve.

The beaches on Amelia Island are some of the best in Florida, and they include Fernandina Beach, Little Talbot Island State Park, Burney Park, and Peters Point Beachfront Park.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Jacksonville is a 45-minute drive away and St. Augustine is an hour and a half away.

🏠 Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott Amelia Island | Seaside Amelia Inn | SpringHill Suites by Marriott Amelia Island

Juno Beach is a blissful and quiet beach town in Florida. Located on a barrier island, the coastline is unspoiled.

From May through October, Juno Beach is in full turtle season swing. This is when loggerhead sea turtles return to Juno Beach to lay their eggs.

Juno Beach is home to the world’s largest concentration of sea turtle nests during this period.

June Beach is also a haven for nature lovers and has serene blue waters, which are famous for fishing.

The best things to do in Juno Beach include going to Loggerhead Marinelife Center, bird-watching at Juno Dunes Natural Area, and hiking at Frenchman’s Forest Natural Area.

Two of the best beaches in Juno Beach are Juno Beach Park and Loggerhead Park.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Jupiter is only a 15-minute drive away, and West Palm Beach is 30 minutes away.

🏠 Where to stay: Hampton Inn – Jupiter/Juno Beach | Holiday Inn Express North Palm Beach | Hilton Garden Inn Palm Beach Gardens

• Madeira Beach

John’s Pass at Madeira Beach

Madeira Beach is a cute town located on the Gulf of Mexico and adjacent to St. Petersburg.

The pretty two-mile white sand beaches and the Gulf of Mexico’s emerald waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

It’s important to note that Madeira Beach isn’t crawling with things to do. The main attraction here is the beach itself.

The pain area of the town is John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk , a historic fishing village that has now been transformed into a touristy village with over 100 small shops and restaurants.

Other than that, there’s little else to do in Madeira Beach except relax on the beach.

Madeira Beach, Archibald Memorial Beach Park, and John’s Pass Park are the best beaches in Madeira Beach.

⛵️ What’s nearby: St. Petersburg is a 15-minute drive away and Tampa is about an hour away.

🏠 Where to stay: Barefoot Beach Club | 6west Beach Cottages by AMI Locals | Schooner Hotel

• Flagler Beach

Sandwiched between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, Flagler Beach is a small, cozy beach town.

Flagler Beach has a vintage and retro feel with its old-fashioned main street that’s lined with mom and pop shops, cafes, and restaurants.

You’ll be greeted by long stretches of beach and a huge pier that’s great for fishing.

The best things to do in Flagler Beach include going to the Flagler Beach Historical Museum , perusing the artwork at the Gallery of Local Art , enjoying a drink at Flagler Beachfront Winery , and visiting the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park .

The beaches in Flagler Beach are small but beautiful. They include Flagler Beach and Flagler Beach Pier.

⛵️ What’s nearby: Daytona Beach is a 30-minute drive away and Orlando is about an hour and a half away.

🏠 Where to stay: Island Cottage Inn | Flagler Beach Motel and Vacation Rentals | Golden Magnolia Resort & Spa

• Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach, one of my very favorites on this list of the best small beach towns in Florida.

Located in the Panhandle of Florida , Miramar Beach is a small beach town with extensive beaches.

The white sand beaches are definitely the highlight here, and they include Destin Beach, Henderson Beach State Park, and Miramar Beach.

Miramar Beach is undoubtedly one of the top beaches in Destin , with its emerald green water beckoning you to come in for a swim or just lay there and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing.

Miramar Beach is also home to charming small shops, cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. There are also a number of championship golf courses in Miramar Beach , if that’s your thing.

If you’re looking for things to do, you can try your hand at fishing, golfing, or shopping. Miramar Beach is as chill or as active as you want it to be.

For a fun day trip to soak up the sand and sun, head to Crab Island Destin . It’s a sandbar that offers a unique experience. 

You can even go on a dolphin tour in Destin and get a closer look at these charming creatures in their own environment. 

The best things to do in Miramar Beach include going to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets , Destin Commons , and HarborWalk Village .

⛵️ What’s nearby: Destin is a 20-minute drive away and Panama City Beach is about an hour away.

🏠 Where to stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard | Bay Club of Sandestin | Hotel Effie Sandestin

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is a small town near Miami with miles of beautiful beaches. Don’t worry — you won’t get the Miami crowd here!

The long stretch of sand and the turquoise waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. You can access the beaches at Laura Ward Washington Avenue Portal and El Prado Park.

One thing to note about Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is that it’s small — very small. But, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its beauty and gorgeous beaches.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea has a number of small mom-and-pop shops, cafes, and restaurants.

The best things to do in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea include hanging out in Anglin’s Square , going fishing at Anglin’s Fishing Pier , touring Bonnet House Museum and Gardens , and hiking at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park .

⛵️ What’s nearby: Fort Lauderdale is a 20-minute drive away and Miami is an hour away.

🏠 Where to stay: Coral Key Inn | Plunge Beach Resort | Tides Inn Hotel

Best Small Beach Towns in Florida Checklist:

Other small beach towns in florida not on this list:.

These aren’t all the small beach towns in Florida. For the sake of this post, I focused on small beach towns that are lesser-known and off the beaten path.

But here are some other small beach towns in Florida that you might be interested in as well.

• Fernandina Beach
• Key Biscayne
• Gasparilla Island
• Grayton Beach
• Pass-A-Grille Beach
• Captiva Island
• Melbourne Beach
• Delray Beach

Map of the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

Here’s a map so you can see where these small beach towns in Florida are located.

Final Thoughts About the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

If you’re looking for charming small beach towns to visit in Florida, these are some of your best options.

From fishing to kayaking to sunbathing, these towns have something for everyone.

And with their hometown feel and beautiful scenery, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time there.

What are some of your favorite quiet beach towns in Florida? Let me know in the comments below!

Small Beach Towns in Florida Related Posts:

• Crab Island Destin: Complete Guide + 5 Fun Tours
• 11 Top Beaches in Destin Florida (+Best Beaches Nearby!)
• The Ultimate Florida Road Trip: 14 Epic Days!
• Miami to Key West Drive: 25+ Amazing Stops!
• 14 Best Beaches in the Florida Panhandle With Powdery Sand and Emerald Waters
• 18 Fun Things to Do in Seaside Florida
• 13 Best Sunset Cruises in Key West
• 8 Best Dolphin Tours in Destin, Florida
• The Ultimate Weekend in Key West

Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.

15 Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023

Looking for the best east coast beach towns but hoping to avoid the massive crowds? Look no further. Here we’ve got a list of the best small beach towns in Florida . From the Atlantic Coast, to the Gulf of Mexico, along the panhandle, and even as far down as the Florida Keys, the list considers it all.

No matter what type of small beach town you’re looking for, Florida has it. Varying from artsy towns to those near major cities (but not actually in the major cities), the towns are so different from one to the next. But the thing they all have are the best beaches in the US, nah, some would say best in the world!

So why wait any longer? Let’s get going to 15 Florida beach towns you will LOVE!

In This Article:

Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

Delray beach.

Ranking on many lists of Best Small Towns in America, Delray has everything from perfect beaches to a stellar Atlantic Avenue (the main street in town).

With white, soft sand, sun and a great breeze, it’s no wonder folks flock to the beach for an amazing day by the water. It’s also a wicked place to go kiteboarding, so if you’re keen to give it a try or just want to watch the pros, head down to Delray beach.

After a beautiful beach day the town is alive with restaurants, nightlife, and a great art scene in Delray Beach.

LEARN MORE: 12 Epic Weekend Getaways on the East Coast

Fernandina Beach

You’ll love it at Fernandina Beach. Located on Amelia Island on the Atlantic coast, it’s the furthest north point in Florida.

Being so close to Georgia, the Southern charm is felt throughout the entire town. While in Fernandina strolling the downtown historic district is a fun activity for everyone but history buffs will especially appreciate this area.

With great restaurants, quaint shops, an awesome nightlife and a thriving art scene, it’s no wonder Fernandina Beach is on our list of Small Beach Towns in Florida You Will Love.

Live the tropical island life without leaving the country. Key West is the best place to sit back and relax in paradise.

The thing we love best about Key West is that despite its international reputation, it’s still got that small beach town feel.

Here you can enjoy the beautiful blue waters, sandy beaches, and visit the Southernmost Point of the Continental USA – only 90 miles from Cuba!

When you’re looking for more action, head to the lively Duval Street for some great places to eat, drink, and be merry.

Key West is also on our list of 12 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

If you want to check out the coolest, most unique, and most colorful town in Florida, head to Matlacha.

This beautiful, small town has a vibe you’ll love and that you won’t find anywhere else. Homes in this small town of less than 700 people are colorfully decorated so that each has its own personality.

Fishing and water-centered activities reign supreme here. Local art shops and boutiques are great to peruse while restaurants in the area specialize in locally caught seafood.

Madeira Beach

Get the pirate feel at Madeira Beach, just west of St. Petersburg. This small town is named after the Portuguese island of Madeira, but locals often refer to it as Mad Beach.

Thanks to a pirate named John Levique, you’ll find the pirate theme in and around the entire community and in May Madeira Beach hosts the 3-day event John Levique Pirate Days !

John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk is the lively part of town where you’ll find tons of places to eat, drink, and be merry.

Beachgoers love Madeira Beach’s 2.5 miles of soft sandy beaches, while fishing enthusiasts (pro and novice) love to throw a line in the waters of Madeira. It’s also a great place to head out on the Gulf of Mexico for offshore fishing.

Vilano Beach

A favorite among locals, Vilano Beach is a perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a great beach town on the east coast of Florida.

Among the beach towns around St. Augustine , Vilano Beach also has beautiful beaches and a history dating back just as long.

Boasting two coasts, Vilano Beach is the perfect place to go fishing oceanside and on the Intracoastal Waterway. Or simply hit the soft sandy beach on the Atlantic side, it’s one of the best beaches near St Augustine .

Vilano features some of the best fishing spots on the east coast

Captiva Island

Captiva Island is the perfect getaway on the southwest coast of Florida. Located just under an hour’s drive from Fort Meyers, this quiet little island is a perfect place to stay when you’re looking for paradise without the massive crowds.

Once you arrive, leave the car to explore the island on foot. It’s only five miles long and half a mile wide so there is so much to enjoy along its sandy white beaches.

Or travel on the water by hopping on a boat to get from place to place on the island or venture to North Captiva.

The beach and all its natural beauty is what stands out in Vero Beach.

Located 200 miles south of Jacksonville and 150 miles north of Miami, Vero Beach is a quiet getaway for Floridians and visitors alike.

You won’t find massive crowds here, which is just perfect if you’re looking for a small east coast beach town. Instead, keep an eye out for local wildlife including loggerhead turtles, gopher tortoises , and manatees.

After a day enjoying the tranquility of the beach head to the small town itself for delightful restaurants, shops and art galleries.

Ponce Inlet

Looking for the perfect retirement town on the east coast? Ponce Inlet may be just the right seaside town for you.

Located on the barrier island south of Daytona and just north of New Smyrna Beach this charming coastal town is a place to relax and enjoy nature.

Home to Florida’s tallest lighthouse you can climb 203 steps for wondrous views of the coastal area and the ocean. Or get your exercise while walking the white-sand beach and let the sound of the waves carry your worries away.

In Ponce Inlet you can visit the tallest lighthouse in Florida and enjoy the beautiful white sands at the beach

Apalachicola

We can’t forget about the fabulous beach towns located on Florida’s panhandle. Apalachicola is a perfect small town that has everything to make your trip one to remember.

Beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Mexico are perfect for relaxing in the sun and sand. Head out onto the water for fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding.

For a bit more adventure, see if you can spot a gator as you soar through the river on an airboat. When it’s time to eat Apalachicola has tons of great restaurants that serve up seafood including the area’s favorite oysters.

Carrabelle is another lovely small beach town on Florida’s panhandle.

Located just to the east of Apalachicola, this fishing town is known for its calm waters in the Gulf of Mexico that are perfect for water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.

When you’re in town, definitely check out the world’s smallest police station and the Crooked River Lighthouse which dates back to 1895.

Anna Maria Island

A barrier island located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, Anna Maria Island is a gorgeous place that has a charming small town feel with some of the best beaches in the state of Florida.

The soft, white sands of the Gulf of Mexico are the ideal setting to have an epic beach day, fish off the pier or even explore the coast on horseback.

Previously, zoning laws helped to prevent the overdevelopment of the island and we’re so grateful. Let’s hope Anna Maria Island continues to be one of the most beautiful beach towns in Florida.

Picturesque Anna Maria Island is an ideal small town in Florida for a coastal vacation

Juno Beach is a beautiful small beach town in Florida that’s just north of West Palm Beach.

Located on the barrier island, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other.

It’s a stellar spot to do just about everything you can imagine on the water like paddleboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing. Fishing is made easy at the Juno Beach Pier where you can get all the gear you need right there at the Pier House.

Catch a glimpse of nesting loggerhead turtles on the beach or head to the Loggerhead Marine Life Center to learn about them up close.

Flagler Beach

To the south of St. Augustine you’ll find the beautiful Flagler Beach.

This laid back town is full of waterfront shops, open air restaurants and of course some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Head to the Bulow Creek Paddling Trail for a unique way to see the area by paddling upstream. For a bit of history check out the Flagler Beach Museum .

The North Peninsula State Park is a great way to get into nature on the two mile hike on the Coastal Strand Trail.

Santa Rosa Beach

Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Hogtown Bayou, Santa Rosa Beach is near the halfway point between Pensacola and Panama City.

The charm of this beautiful Florida small town is felt throughout. Here, you can enjoy the sugar sands of the beaches along the Gulf or the calm waters of the bayou.

For the best that nature has to offer head to Grayton Beach State Park where you can enjoy the soft beaches of the gulf, the brackish waters of the coastal dune lakes and the impressive woods in between.

Final Thoughts on Best Florida Beach Towns

As you can see, there are tons of cute beach towns in Florida that make for an amazing vacation. No matter if you choose one on the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, or so far south it feels like you’re in the Caribbean, the beaches are the best in the world. Heading to a small beach town is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for a way to escape the crowds and enjoy paradise on your own.

More Places to See in Florida

15 Best Things to Do in Orlando (Besides Theme Parks)

12 Best Day Trips from Orlando

50 Things to Do in St Augustine Florida

9 Beautiful Beaches Near St Augustine

12 Cool Things to Do in Key West

15 Best Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach

8 Gorgeous Springs in Ocala

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8 Charming Small West Coast Florida Towns You Should Visit On Your Next Vacation

• Destinations
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

With a population of more than 22 million, Florida is the third most populous state in the union. And, it’s still growing as people continue to move to the Sunshine State. Maybe it’s because of all the beautiful beaches near the west coast Florida Towns, the warm weather, or the cultural and outdoorsy pursuits. Whatever it is, you don’t have to live in Florida to take advantage of all it has to offer. 

When it comes to visiting Florida , I’ve found that people fall into two camps: those that prefer the Atlantic Coast and those that love the Gulf side. I say both coasts have their advantages and you can’t go wrong with either one. This time we toured small towns on the Gulf coast and these are some of our favorites!

I was hosted at some of these locations. All opinions are my own.

8 Charming Small West Coast Florida Towns You Should Visit

1. longboat key.

Located about 25 minutes by car from Sarasota , the town of Longboat Key was established in 1955 and is part of the Bradenton-Sarasota metropolitan area. With over 10 miles of white sandy beaches, Longboat Key is known as a luxury resort community offering golf, gourmet restaurants, upscale shopping, and luxury resorts for vacationers.

Shopping On Longboat Key

Just over the bridge from Longboat Key, you’ll find St. Armands Circle , an outdoor space 

developed by circus magnate John Ringling in the early 1900s. The area offers open-air shopping and dining in a lovely, tropical atmosphere. Here you’ll find boutiques and restaurants amid lush courtyards and patios dotted with historic statues.

Stay At Zota Beach Resort

The perfect place to stay in Longboat Key, Zota Beach Resort has a prime gulf-side location and a private beach. There are so many things to love about Zota. First and foremost, it provides a peaceful night’s sleep. I didn’t hear a sound, and thanks to the incredible blackout curtains, our room stayed pitch black. It may have been the darkest hotel room ever — with absolutely no annoying LED lights. 

The modern resort offers luxury in a relaxed setting with the convenience of a full-service, on-site restaurant — the Viento Kitchen + Bar. Zota offers in-room amenities like single-cup coffee makers, ultra-fluffy robes, spa bath products, free Wi-Fi, and stunning views of the gulf from your private balcony. 

Outside your room, you’ll find all the amenities you’d expect at an upscale waterfront resort. Take a dip in the extraordinary infinity pool. Grab a cocktail at the poolside bar and settle in on one of the many loungers on the expansive poolside deck. Relax in your private cabana, complete with a mini fridge and TV. Or head out the back gate directly to the sand and explore the beach. 

Pro Tip: At night, the place to be is on the private beach directly behind Zota. Grab a cold drink and claim a spot on the beach about 30 minutes before sunset and prepare to be dazzled as the sun slips beyond the horizon.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Longboat Key

2. Crystal River

This small Florida Gulf town of about 3,100 people is situated about an hour and a half north of Tampa. With its location in the middle of Florida’s “Nature Coast,” it’s no wonder Crystal River is an outdoorsman’s paradise. It’s also one of the very few places in the world where you can legally swim with manatees. You can see manatees and many other native Florida animals at the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Spring Wildlife State Park in nearby Homosassa, just down the road from Crystal River. This is old Florida at its best with lots of outdoor fun to enjoy.

Vintage On 5th

A culinary centerpiece in Crystal River for more than 10 years, Vintage on 5th specializes in fresh seafood and traditional southern dishes. Located in the historic district of the town in a former church, the vibe here is upscale but comfortable. A glass of wine is definitely in order here as Vintage on 5th pours over 25 wines by the glass and more than 100 selections by the bottle. 

They’re known for their award-winning fine wines including the Daou Paso Robles Chardonnay I selected. The eclectic dinner menu offers something for everyone with an emphasis on quality and creativity. The fresh-cut gulf grouper is exceptional, along with the fabulously creamy smoked gouda grits. I’m not even a fan of grits normally, but I’d have these every day of the week if I could!

Tea House 650

Tea House 650 built its reputation on tea. Today, it offers a large variety of teas and a full lunch menu. My panini — full of mesquite smoked turkey, Vermont white cheddar cheese with sweet jalapeno honey mustard, rosemary, and mayo — was the perfect light lunch before our afternoon kayaking adventure. While you’re here, try the strawberry smoothie. It’s a delicious way to cool off on a hot day and you can absolutely taste the homemade goodness. In fact, everything here is made from scratch. The Tea House 650 is the perfect lunch spot in downtown Crystal River.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Crystal River

3. Inverness

Located about an hour north of Tampa , Inverness — a small town of about 7,000 — is known to be a prime area for outdoor pursuits. With the 46-mile Withlacoochee Trail running through town, Inverness is super bike-friendly. Check out Select e-bike to rent or purchase super fun e-bikes right near the trail.

Breakfast At Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters

This downtown spot was hopping on a recent Saturday morning where families and bicyclists alike stopped for a cup of joe and housemade goodies like muffins, scones, and bagels. Coffee enthusiasts will love Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters for their large selection of coffee beans and bagged coffees. A chocolate biscotti was the perfect accompaniment to my vanilla latte. My husband, a dark roast enthusiast, gives the midnight express a big thumbs up. Next time, I’ll try a sandwich from their expansive lunch menu.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Inverness

4. Anna Maria Island

Head north on Longboat Key and cross the bridge to quaint Anna Maria Island . Here you’ll find three distinct towns on the island, all with a laid-back, beachy vibe complete with golf carts on the roads. 

Directly over the bridge is the town of Bradenton Beach, in the center of the island lies Holmes Beach, and the town of Anna Maria occupies the northern tip of the island. 

On the island, you’ll find gorgeous beaches and parks along with plenty of restaurants and lots of colorful cottages and beach rentals. Much of the charm on the island lies in the fact that there are no highrises. City statues are in place to keep buildings at a maximum of 3 stories high so you’ll have perfect, unobstructed views of the gulf.

Pro Tip: Anna Maria Island has a free trolley service that runs daily with frequent stops along the island. Sit back and enjoy the cool, air-conditioned ride to the beach, or maybe to historic Bridge Street for a casual lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Anna Maria Island

Known as the shark’s tooth capital of the world, Venice, Florida , is a community of about 26,000 people. Located just south of Sarasota, Venice is known for its historic downtown , beautiful golf courses, and, of course, miles of sandy beaches including the popular Venice Beach. Venice was recently in the path of Hurricane Ian and did suffer extensive damage, so keep this in mind when planning a trip here.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Venice

6. Cape Coral

While not a small town like the others on this list, Cape Coral manages to keep a small-town feel despite it being the largest city between Tampa and Miami in both population and area. And, with over 400 miles of canals, Cape Coral has more canals than Venice, Italy. Cape Coral sustained damage in recent Hurricane Ian. Some businesses in town may be temporarily closed while damages are repaired.

Stay At The Westin Cape Coral Resort At Marina Village

The Westin Cape Coral Resort manages to keep a small-town feeling with its cozy apartment-style suites with waterfront views of the Gulf of Mexico, Caloosahatchee River, and San Carlos Bay. The spacious pet-friendly units, all designed as condos, are decorated with an understated elegance that emphasizes comfort, modern, and clean lines. Equipped with a full kitchen, ceiling fans, and a washer and dryer, our 1 bedroom unit had everything we could need, including marvelous views of the Caloosahatchee River from our private balcony. 

For extended families, the Mariner Suites feature two master bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a whopping 2,100 square feet of space to enjoy. On the top floor of the property offering incredible space and views, the bi-level Admiral Suite is true luxury living. 

Here you can spend time enjoying the Florida weather with a vast assortment of outdoor recreation options. Enjoy three outdoor pools, free bicycles, ping pong and corn hole on the lawn, multiple golf courses, tennis courts, bocce ball, horseshoes, and walking trails. With a marina on-site, boat rentals, and charters right outside your door, you’ll find many things to keep you and the family occupied. Stroll the shops on the adjacent promenade, watch the boats come and go in the marina, or enjoy a sunset dolphin cruise. With on-site dining and a dockside bar, you can enjoy the convenience of dining at The Westin — no driving needed! 

Whatever you choose, you’ll find the Westin is the perfect spot to relax in a luxe environment with all the conveniences you’d expect. This timeless property provides upscale accommodations in a classy and comfortable atmosphere that will appeal to both families and business travelers alike.

Pro Tip: The resort offers free daily boat rides to and from Ft. Myers Beach. Spend a couple of hours on the sand then stop at Snug Harbor Waterfront Restaurant for a delicious outdoor lunch before jumping on the boat for the return ride to Westin Cape Coral.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Cape Coral.

7. Fort Myers

Sitting on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Fort Myers attracts visitors with its pristine beaches, golf courses, fishing, and shopping spots. You can spend your days on Fort Myers Beach, exploring the Edison and Ford Estates , or going to Estero Island. If you love seeing animals up close, Manatee Park is for you too.

Fort Myers has a lively culture, awe-inspiring sunsets, and abundant surrounding nature. With amazing temperatures year-round, anytime you visit, it will be a lovely time in this tropical paradise oasis. The downtown area is very walkable and quite charming. Dubbed the “City of Palms,” this Gulf Coast gem is lined with palms and exudes tropical vibes.

8. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, or St. Pete , is a super popular destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast due to its sheer beauty and incomparable beaches. Located near the Tampa Bay Area, this self-proclaimed Sunshine City is a true Florida gem that you do not want to miss.

Aside from its innate beauty, St. Petersburg offers so many incredible museums, art galleries, and a thriving artistic community. With impeccably detailed street art and stunning murals, the arts and culture in St. Pete continue to grow every day.

Does the East Coast or West Coast of Florida Have Better Beaches?

Florida’s West Coast is responsible for breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear water, and its barrier islands. The East Coast gets the better waves which makes it perfect for water sports. 

What Are the Nicest Beach Towns on the West Coast of Florida?

Some of the nicest beach towns on the West Coast of Florida are Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, Venice Beach, Port Charlotte, Panama City Beach, Marco Island, Honeymoon Island, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Islands. 

Why Are Florida Gulf Coast Beaches So Special?

Florida Gulf Coast is famous for its powder-like, white-sand beaches. Gulf Coast offers beachgoers a slightly warmer temp and calmer waters. Top Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches are Pensacola Beach, Panama City Beach, Clearwater Beach, Sanibel Island Beaches, and Siesta Key Beach.

What is the Most Popular State Park on Florida’s West Coast?

The Everglades National Park on Paradise Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular state parks, not only on the West Coast of Florida but in the entire USA as well. Henderson Beach State Park in Destin is another popular state park on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

What Are the Major West Coast Florida Cities?

With a population of nearly 3.2 million people, the Tampa Bay area is the largest metropolitan area on Florida’s West Coast. Tampa Bay area includes the primary cities of Tampa, St Petersburg, and Clearwater. Living in Tampa Bay feels like being on a year-round vacation.

SJ is a professional travel writer based in the Midwest. She has a background in credit card points and miles, having spent years working on loyalty campaigns for various financial institutions. She has a B.A. in history and is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and the International Travel Writers Alliance. SJ specializes in writing about travel, food, and wine.

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FLORIDA SMALL TOWNS

By   Mike Miller    Updated August 17, 2023

Here are 16 small Florida towns that we have visited and enjoyed.  All told, our website now has articles featuring more than 220 towns.  What you see here is only a small sample of what we have.

The population of a town does not always define "small" in this case. 

Some relatively large Florida towns, though high in population, have still retained that small town Old Florida feeling we love so much.

You can click on any photo to visit our article about that town.  Each article includes maps, photos, histories, dining and lodging.

SOME FAVORITE FLORIDA SMALL TOWNS BY REGION

MILTON is one of the oldest cities in Florida, incorporated in 1844 before Florida became a state.  Florida was still a territory and did not achieve statehood until the following year, 1845. 

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS is one of the prettiest of Florida towns.  Numerous Victorian era homes encircle little Lake DeFuniak, and it's at times difficult to tell the old homes from the new ones built in the same Colonial Revival and Queen Anne styles. 

MELROSE is a quiet unincorporated residential community about halfway between Jacksonville and Gainesville.  Many artists and writers are attracted to the town because of its quiet beauty.  The rustic streets, many of them unpaved, are canopied by ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss. 

MONTICELLO   is a pretty little town with giant oak trees forming canopy streets and a lot of old restored homes, many of them going back to before the Civil War. Many of these homes were restored during the Great Depression of the 1930's. 

FERNANDINA BEACH is as far north as you can go in Florida.  It is on the St. Marys River that forms the Georgia state line.  It was one of Florida's first major cities.  The downtown area of the town preserves and displays many of the old historic buildings.  

ORMOND BEACH is the first town north of Daytona Beach on Florida's east coast. Part of the town is on the mainland and the rest is across the Halifax River on the Atlantic Ocean barrier island. 

MELBOURNE BEACH is a quiet bedroom community of about 3,000 people on the barrier island across the Indian River Lagoon from the larger city of Melbourne.  It is Brevard County's oldest beach community. 

VERO BEACH has three areas that are almost like separate towns. The first is out near I-95, the second is along US-1, and the third is on the barrier island with beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches. 

LAKE PLACID is south of Sebring and is noted for its many downtown murals.  The town is surrounded by 29 lakes and is noted for its good fishing and water sports. 

WAUCHULA   is a pretty little country town on the Peace River in Hardee County about 50 miles east of the Bradenton-Sarasota area.  Watermelons, cattle and citrus are important to the local economy. 

DADE CITY is a popular destination for antique hunters. Many shops, quaint restaurants and historic buildings are located downtown.A popular attraction is the  Pioneer Florida Museum and Village. 

SAFETY HARBOR is a tranquil oasis in the busy Tampa Bay metropolitan area. It is home to a popular historic spa and is a favorite location for artists and writers to live and work.

ENGLEWOOD on Florida's gulf coast.  It is a typical old Florida town nestled along the shores of Lemon Bay, an estuary of the Gulf of Mexico.  In spite of being surrounded by large lot sales residential communities, it has retained its small town charm. 

PUNTA GORDA is on Charlotte Harbor which opens into the Gulf of Mexico.  It has many nice waterfront residential communities, and has extensively redeveloped its downtown in the aftermath of Hurricane Charley in 2004. 

DELRAY BEACH has beautiful beaches and an attractive downtown dining and shopping area.  It was settled by people from Michigan and many of the little old houses and cottages reminiscent of old Michigan neighborhoods.

JUPITER is on the inlet to the Atlantic Ocean.  It is home to a historic lighthouse.  The town is growing, and is quite often voted by travel sites and one of the best beach towns in Florida.

Learn about all 220 towns featured on our website by going to: 

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The 16 Most Charming Small Towns in Florida

We’re all for a quick escape from Miami, especially when it involves a visit to one of Florida’s quaint small towns. Many of them revolve around a beach, and all of them will guarantee you a few days filled with sunshine, charm and relaxation. Here, our 16 favorite small towns in Florida.

The Best Mini Vacations You Can Take in Florida

1. St. Augustine, Fl

Established more than 450 years ago, this northern Florida town is as charming as it is old (we mean that as a compliment). Located on the Matanzas River, St. Augustine is brimming with history intertwined with European flair and Southern hospitality. Roam cobblestone streets lined with palm trees and take in the Spanish Renaissance Revival–style architecture.

Where to stay: Filled with historic charm, Casa Monica Resort & Spa is one of St. Augustine’s best hotels. Beyond the top-notch accommodations, the famed Florida hotel, originally constructed in 1888, is located at the heart of the city’s Historic District and within walking distance to destinations like the award-winning San Sebastian Winery and Castillo de San Marcos .

2. Naples, Fl

The upscale resort town on the Gulf of Mexico feels like another world entirely, complete with serene beaches, top-notch dining and some of the most gorgeous sunsets we’ve ever seen. If you go, make it a point to visit the Naples Pier , which offers striking views of the ocean, and pop into Jane’s Café on 3rd for a mimosa, gluten-free avocado toast and a stack of sweet pancakes.

Where to stay: This one’s a no-brainer: The perfect place to stay during a quick getaway to Florida’s west coast is the Naples Grande . About ten minutes from downtown Naples, this affordably priced hotel includes everything you’ll need for the ultimate vacation. The sprawling property features more than 400 beautiful rooms, three glistening pools, stellar restaurants and bars and even a waterslide for the kids. It’s only a short walk to a gorgeous private beach, complete with cabanas and an oceanfront Greek restaurant, too.

3. Micanopy, Fl

At just over a mile long, Micanopy is Florida’s self-proclaimed antiques capital. It’s known as a rural, sleepy town just south of Gainesville, which is why it earned the nickname of “the little town that time forgot.” With a population of about 600, the busiest road (Cholokka Boulevard) is lined with typical Florida architecture, old oak trees covered in Spanish moss and antique storefronts.

Where to stay: Ever dreamed of vacationing at a mansion? Same. That’s where Micanopy’s Herlong Mansion comes in. This adorable bed-and-breakfast spot greets every guest with a glass of wine and a warm cookie. The rooms are chock-full of old Florida glamour, which makes sense considering the home itself dates back to the early 1840s. (If you’re recently engaged, Herlong is known as one of the area’s most beautiful places to host a wedding, too.)

4. Lakeland, Fl

We’re not sure what we love most about Lakeland: the architecture by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, the award-winning bread by Lakeland’s own Born & Bread Bakehouse or the beauty that is Hollis Garden (home to some 10,000 flowers). In any case, we’re pretty sure it’s one of the quaintest spots in the entire state.

Where to stay: Situated in downtown Lakeland, the Terrace Hotel is a gorgeous spot to spend a few nights. With picturesque walking and jogging trails along Lake Mirror, make sure to bring your sneakers during your stay. What’s more, the Terrace is a short drive away from Orlando’s theme parks, giving you the best of both worlds.

5. Sanibel Island, Fl

It’s impossible to say which Florida town is the prettiest (there are just too many to count), but Sanibel is definitely a top contender. Just off Florida’s peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico, this place is a perfect seaside vacation spot, replete with miles of crystal-clear waters for boating, fishing and snorkeling—plus thousands of patterned seashells waiting to be collected.

Where to stay: Along the coast, Sanibel Siesta on the Beach offers spacious, two-bedroom suites with access to a private beach on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a great place to get the most out of your trip to Sanibel, giving you direct access to the beach as well as other water-centric excursions. It’s also within walking distance to area restaurants, bars and shops.

6. Key Largo, Fl

Hop in the car and drive to Key Largo. This oceanfront spot is a welcome change of pace from Miami, offering picturesque sunsets, charming restaurants and quiet hotels. Bring a couple of bathing suits (and lots of sunscreen) and get ready to spend a few days on the water, whether that means fishing, sailing, jet skiing or swimming.

Where to stay: We love Playa Largo Resort & Spa , a luxury Key Largo resort replete with secluded shoreline and stunning views of the Florida Bay. With on-site restaurants and bars, various entertainment and a seemingly never-ending coastline, Playa Largo features everything you need for a tranquil getaway.

7. Islamorada, Fl

Looking for a quick getaway that unites your love of the Florida Keys with beachy cocktails, seaside excursions and tropical eats? Just under two hours from Miami, the four islands of Islamorada are known for having an upscale, small-town vibe with museums, seafood restaurants, boating and lots of sunshine. Psst: Beaches aside, Islamorada is home to not one but two funky breweries worthy of a visit— Florida Keys Brewing Co. and Islamorada Beer Company both brew local beers with Keys-inspired ingredients, from key limes to starfruit and honey.

Where to stay: For the best of both the beach and boating, book a villa at Hadley House , which is located near the center of Islamorada. This remodeled boutique is set up near some of the Key’s most popular restaurants and attractions, with cocktails, water sports and other activities like breweries and museums all less than a five-minute drive away. With a location practically sitting on the sand, guests of the hotel can take advantage of complimentary on-site kayaking and paddle boarding or (for an added charge) a private jet-skiing tour of the surrounding keys.

8. St. Pete, Fl

St. Pete is Florida’s most underrated gem. It’s got all the fixings for an epic escape from Miami (think gorgeous beaches, cooler weather, stellar restaurants and top-notch art museums). Plus, downtown St. Petersburg is less than ten miles from St. Pete Beach. But because there’s virtually no traffic in the area, the drive is just under 15 minutes. That means you get to experience the excitement of downtown but squeeze in a few hours a day on the sand too.

Where to stay: Booking a room at the Kimpton Hotel Zamora will guarantee you an amazing stay. About ten minutes from downtown St. Pete, this boutique Mediterranean-inspired property near the beach is full of expansive (and affordable) suites with balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The rooms are modern, cozy and dog-friendly (rates start at $169 per night). It also has a first-rate rooftop bar that makes for an epic sunset viewing spot.

9. Vero Beach, Fl

Located along Florida’s Treasure Coast, Vero beach is a sophisticated getaway offering scenic beaches, charming museums, nature attractions and luxurious accommodations. This charming destination, often referred to as the “Hamptons of Florida,” is the perfect place to decompress. If you go, make sure to get the full experience by renting a golf cart to explore this unique seaside community.

Where to stay: Gloria and Emilio Estefan fans, anyone? You’ll want to stay at Vero Beach’s Costa d’Este . This glamourous hotel brings Miami-flair to the Treasure Coast with everything from a luxurious spa retreat to fine dining to craft breweries to boutique shopping. One thing’s certain: You’re in good hands with the Estefans at Costa d’Este.

10. Venice, Fl

Named one of the “Happiest Seaside Towns in America,” Venice is an oasis like no other. Located in the heart of Sarasota County, this enchanting town features a magnificent shoreline, recreational parks and a lively beach area that’s home to spectacular boutiques and dining. Oh, and did you know Venice is also considered the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World”? Make sure to go shark teeth-collecting among Venice’s picturesque shores, too.

Where to stay: Gulf Shore Beach Resort features the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Venice Inlet on the other, putting you in the center of Florida beach paradise. These private oceanside bungalows give every guest private access to the sun and stand for their entire stay.

11. Sebring, Fl

Sebring is a hidden gem, nestled in the center of Florida’s peninsula. Often referred to as “The City on the Circle,” Sebring offers a wide range of exciting tourist attractions, accommodations, fine and casual dining and shopping in the Downtown Sebring Historic District. Visitors can even hop on a hot air balloon and ride it over Sebring’s magnificent freshwater lakes. Um, count us in.

Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with booking a room at the Inn on the Lakes . Restaurants and bars, world-class golf courses and walking distance from Sebring’s historic area, the Inn is an excellent choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in all that this Florida city has to offer.

12. Coconut Grove, Fl

We know, we know: Coconut Grove is practically in our backyard, so you may be wondering why you’d bother to spend a few nights here. But it feels like another universe compared to Greater Miami (plus there’s no chance of pesky travel delays). As Miami’s oldest neighborhood, Coconut Grove offers no shortage of things to do , from roaming Italian-inspired gardens to drinking sauvignon blanc frosé to indulging in honey-infused spa treatments. Yep, this plot of bohemian land has it all.

Where to stay: For top-notch luxury, book a room at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove . This upscale, villa-like hotel features gorgeous floor-to-ceiling marble bathrooms (hello, home inspo), bright balconies overlooking the bay and a next-level spa featuring organic Florida Keys honey in almost every signature treatment.

13. Dunedin, Fl

Not only is Dunedin one of Florida’s oldest towns on the west coast, but it’s also famous for its annual Scottish celebration. Located west of Tampa, Dunedin is home to more than four miles of picturesque waterfront along with a lively downtown area, art museums, antique shops and plenty of restaurants and nightlife options. If you plan a visit, make sure to slot in time to check out nearby Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands.

Where to stay: For more than 90 years, the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin has welcomed some of the world’s most famous artists, politicians and celebrities. A landmark for the jazz world, this spot was home to the country’s first radio station, adding to the Fenway’s historic legacy. As for the space itself, expect cozy guest rooms and stylish common areas.

14. Captiva Island, Fl

With beaches spanning for more than 15 miles, Captiva Island is a tropical paradise. Known for its quaint, tropical atmosphere, Captiva is home to over 250 types of shells, unique wildlife and enchanting sunsets. You can fill your days by exploring nearby wildlife preserves, booking a private fishing excursion or unwinding on white-sand beaches.

Where to stay: The South Seas Island Resort in Captiva Island blends the best of old Florida with modern elegance. Surrounded by a 330-acre wildlife preserve, spend your time kayaking, sailing, boating and relaxing on the sand. Enjoy playing golf? South Seas has that too, featuring a picture-perfect course along the water.

15. Amelia Island, Fl

Established in 1562, Amelia Island is a timeless city with rich history. It’s home to more than 13 miles of quiet beaches, next-level golf courses, shore excursions and a historic district replete with ghost tours (!!!), art museums and waterfront restaurants. Looking for a slice of heaven? Head to Fernandina Beach for date night and explore the sparkling shoreline.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is worth the splurge here. With more than 400 rooms and four restaurants, plus on-site tennis, an unbelievable spa and an 18-hole golf course, we wouldn’t blame you if you never left the resort’s grounds.

16. Key West, Fl

Would this list be complete without including this chain of islands off the tip of Florida? Colorful pastel-painted beach houses, swaying palms, Ernest Hemingway’s historic home and the rowdy bars of Duval Street—Key West might not be as “small” as the others, but it’s always worth a visit.

Where to stay: For the best of both the beach and the city, book a room at Oceans Edge , located in Key West’s Stock Island neighborhood. It’s one of Key West’s newest and largest luxury properties, featuring 360-degree waterfront views, six glistening pools, complimentary paddle boarding and kayaking, and an open-air waterside restaurant and bar.

9 Quiet Beach Towns in America

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21 Cutest Small Towns In Florida

February 8, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

You’ve been to Tampa, Orlando, and even the State Capitol, but how many of these small towns in Florida have you visited? We bet there are a few towns here that even the locals haven’t heard of before!

Thanks to Florida’s location in the country, it has one of the most diverse populations of all the states. The Sunshine State’s sunny skies, clear waters, and warm weather draw in people from all walks of life. Many tourists eventually make Florida their permanent home.

When you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities, there are a lot of places where you can recharge their batteries. Many small towns in Florida are quaint, homey, and welcoming.

Keep in mind that small doesn’t mean dull. Many of these small towns in Florida are beloved for their niche communities. You can find fishing havens, thrift shop meccas, and even Scottish villages!

We guarantee that a trip to each of these small towns in Florida will provide you with unique memories from a new adventure. So whether you’re in need of an escape or just looking for something new, check out the best small towns in Florida!

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St. Augustine

A visit to the nation’s oldest city has lots to offer! Founded in 1565 it wasn’t until Henry Flagler transformed the city into a bustling hub in the late 1800s with his railroad.

One of the most romantic cities in Florida, St. Augustine offers something for everyone. Between castles , beaches, museums , national parks , ghost tours, distilleries, restaurants , and wineries there is a ton of things to do in Saint Augustine .

If you head just to the north, you’ll find a great beach for surfing at Jacksonville Beach. Head to the shoreline to see the St. Augustine Lighthouse , featured many times in television and film.

Plan your trip well, and you can even get spooky as fall in Florida approaches! With a reputation as one of the most haunted towns, you can take ghost tours in St. Augustine that will chill you to your core! Where To Stay in St, Augustine : Sandy Feet Retreat : Check Rates on VRBO

Safety Harbor

On the west shore of Tampa Bay, you’ll find a small community in Pinellas County tucked away. Less than 5,000 people live here, and the town is only five square miles.

The downtown stretch of Main Street is lined with trees, family restaurants , small shops, and boutiques. This small-town feel is absent in the heavily urbanized Pinellas County, making Safety Harbor a cultural gem.

Main Street dead-ends into the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa , which offers affordable treatments using Florida’s natural springs for the family. The town is so charming, Lifetime even filmed one of their movies in Safety Harbor!

Make sure to visit Whimzeyland, a small home that uses bowling balls, mosaics, and glass bottles to create a place where color explodes non-stop. This is a private residence, and while visitors are welcome to explore the grounds, please be respectful.

Where To Stay in Saftey Harbor : Casa La Cala: Check Rates on VRBO

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs , Florida is one of Tampa Bay’s best-kept secrets and cutest small towns in Florida. Rich in history, Greek culture, great food, and natural beauty, this little coastal town is a great destination for the whole family.

Due to the abundance of Greek Immigrants brought by the sponging industry, a large number of the residents in Tarpon Springs come from greek heritage. Depending on when you visit you may find yourself walking through a massive Greek festival or in the middle of the Epiphany, a traditional Greek celebration out on the bayou. 

The Sponge Dock in Tarpon Springs is a must-visit. Here you will find the largest variety of natural sponges, so fresh you can still smell the salt and sea all over them. 

In addition to great antiquing, vintage shops, specialty markets, and boutiques, you can visit the Safford House Museum. Filled with original furnishings and old Safford family possessions, it remains a prime example of late 19th century Victorian architecture.

Where To Stay in Tarpon Springs : Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Just a 30-minute drive from  Tampa  and an hour away from  Orlando , a trip to Dade City is a perfect  day trip  or quiet  weekend getaway . One of the best small towns in Florida, you’ll always find something to do in Dade City .

Dade City is a quiet town full of history, native Florida wildlife , and culture. The rolling hills and pasture lands provide a beautiful backdrop for a dense suburban lifestyle in Pasco County.

Downtown is full of incredible antiquing and thrifting, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Because there are plenty of mom and pop diners and cafes to choose from, you’ll always have a good homecooked meal. Life is so quiet here, motorists actually slow down for pedestrians!

Dade City is full of rich Florida history. Reenactment festivals depict battles from the Second Seminole War and the Civil War. Settled in the early 1900s by railroad workers, you can learn about Pioneer Life at the Pioneer Village and the Dade City Heritage Museum.

Where To Stay in Dade City : Tiki Paradise: Check Rates on VRBO

Winter Park

The next time you’re near Orlando , don’t hesitate to visit Winter Park. Originally a resort for business magnates, don’t let its now-sleepy facade fool you. Winter Park is one of the best small towns in Florida.

The main drag, Park Avenue is lined with civic buildings, retail, art galleries, and a private liberal arts college, Rollins College. There’s also museums, a park, a train station, a golf course country club, a historic cemetery, and a beach and boat launch!

Peacocks often roam around in neighborhoods, especially throughout the community of Windsong. You can find them in the beautiful, lush parks. Former President Chester A. Arthur even called Winter Park “the prettiest place in Florida [he had] seen.”

Plan your visit and you can be in Winter Park for their annual Sidewalk Art Festival ! Thousands of people travel from all over the world to apply to compete, and only 225 are selected per year. With that many applicants, you know you’re going to see some amazing chalk art!

Where To Stay in Winter Park : Casa Aloma: Check Rates on VRBO

Just a 35-minute drive northwest of Orlando , Mount Dora is a sleepy town known for its antique shops and the  best festivals in Florida . Small enough to explore in a day, but interesting enough to lure visitors back, this is a great place to explore on a date night .

As you walk through Mount Dora, you’ll notice the historic buildings downtown dotted with palm trees on the streets. Filled with boutique shops, walking tours, and art galleries, there is so much to explore.

The highlight of the town is Renninger’s Vintage Antique Center & Farmer’s Flea Market. Over 117 acres of scenic, rolling land are filled with vendor booths selling everything from produce, meats, cheeses, and a variety crafts.

On the second Friday of every month, catch the Mount Dora Art Splash. Walk through an outdoor art gallery, where the quirkiness of the town really shines. The shops stay open late and there is live music to enjoy!

The crown jewel of the town is Lake Dora. 6 miles long and a third of a mile wide, enjoy the sunset on the Palm Island Park Boardwalk. Take a tour of the 35-foot tall working lighthouse! There are not many freshwater lighthouses in the state, so take advantage!

Mount Dora is said to be magical, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Extend your stay with a  charming Airbnb  and take in the small town in all of its allure.

Where To Stay in Mount Dora : The Carlton: Check Rates on VRBO

Adjacent to Cape Coral , you can find one of the most quaint small towns in Florida! Pronounced “mat-la-SHAY,” Matlacha means “big warrior” in Seminole!

A quirky, historic fishing village, Matlacha feels like Key West , minus the crowds. The colorful charm and laidback vibe capture the essence of turn-of-the-century Florida. On a walking tour, you’ll see pink palm trees, dolphins painted with polka dots, and one-of-a-kind homes painted in neon colors.

When you visit Matlacha Pass, you’ll always see an angler reeling in a big catch! Known as the “World’s Fishing-est Bridge,” a tidal current runs beneath that sweeps in snook, redfish, and tarpon.

After, you have to pass by the “Doll Lady’s” House. She decorates her front yard with her collection of “junktiques.” You’ll be charmed by hobby horses and rag dolls sitting in salvaged garden chairs.

Matlacha Village is also home to renowned international artist Leoma Lovegrove. Her eclectic, colorful artistic medium has influenced the entire village. In her gallery, you’ll find her vibrant paintings displayed throughout a whimsical garden.

Where To Stay in Matlacha : Waterfront Getaway: Check Rates on VRBO

Not only is Webster one of the best small towns in Florida, it’s also one of the best places to live in Florida! In Sumter County, the town boasts a population of only 726 residents!

Locals enjoy an atmosphere that is equal part suburban communities and rural Old Florida charm. With great public schools and affordable housing, many retirees and snow birds have made Webster their permanent home.

Webster is a haven for shopaholics with an enormous 35 acres of weekly open-air markets. A haven for thrifters, the town attracts more than 50,000 people every Monday to stroll the streets to attend its popular markets.

At the Webster Swap-O-Rama, you’ll find over 2,000 spaces and 1,500 local vendors selling a variety of goods at this combination flea market and farmers market. Then cross the street to Webster WestSide to comb through the 500 antique and collectible dealers.

Where To Stay in Webster : Lakehouse Getaway: Check Rates on VRBO

Apalachicola

Apalachicola’s name derives from Hitochi Native American words meaning “on the other side,” and “people.” But locals will tell you it means “land of the friendly people.” One of the cutest small towns in Florida, one step into Apalachicola and you’ll understand why.

The welcoming port town radiates hometown charm, friendly neighbors, and rich maritime history. You’ll find bustling seafood houses, weather-worn fishing boats, and impressive historical buildings.

Walkthrough the town’s many parks and nature trails before taking a self-guided walking tour through the Historic District. Under the shade of lofty oak trees, you’ll see the regal homes of past sea captains and river pilots.

The 900 homes you can see date back to the 1830s and are a perfect example of Victorian architecture. You can learn more about the picturesque homes and the town’s diverse and colorful history on the city’s self-guided walking tour!

When you need to escape to the great outdoors, the Apalachicola River and Bay boast freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. If you’re not much of an angler, you can explore the calm waterways by kayak , riverboat, or sailboat!

Where To Stay in Apalachicola : Rivers Edge West: Check Rates on VRBO

Mexico Beach

Mexico Beach, a seaside community, is so tiny that it has no traffic lights. There are no big chain restaurants, everything is family-owned. One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, Mexico Beach is the perfect place to relax in quiet seclusion!

With only 1,000 residents, Mexico Beach encompasses five grand miles of pristine white-sand beaches along the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico! With such a beautiful coastline, the opportunities for water sports and activities are endless.

From the beaches, you can enjoy easy access to artificial reefs and the historic shipwreck of the Vamar. Simply swim out to enjoy the best snorkeling in Florida!

If you’re a fisherman or an angler visiting, you don’t even need to own a boat! There are many fishing charters available that will take you to spots popular with Spanish mackerel and kingfish! Spear fishermen can also enjoy their sport right on the shore!

If you bring your pup along, you can head over to St. Joe’s Beach. You don’t have to feel guilty about leaving your pet behind on a fun beach day, because Mexico City has their own dog beach !

Where To Stay in Mexico Beach : Beach Walk Bungalow: Check Rates on VRBO

Normally, most people don’t associate Florida with Scotland. In Dunedin, one of the oldest towns on the West Coast of Florida, you’ll change your tune forever!

Famous for its quaint and walkable downtown and annual Scottish celebrations, Dunedin is one of the most quaint small towns in Florida. Its residents protect the wooded and subtropical lands, recently winning a hard-fought battle against developers.

The charming and active downtown boasts beautiful parks, history, culture, and educational opportunities. You won’t find big chain food joints here, either. The Dunedin restaurant scene boasts pubs, seafood joints, and even fine dining establishments along the four miles of picturesque waterfront.

Just off the coast of Dunedin are Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands. Both absolute treasures renowned for their unspoiled beauty, make sure to look out for the hidden shell trees, where locals hang shells on branches and make wishes.

Check out our full guide for exploring Honeymoon Island !

Where To Stay in Dunedin : Beautiful Condo: Check Rates on VRBO

Sometimes the best small towns in Florida also happen to be beach towns as well! That’s the case for Islamorada, found in the always beautiful Florida Keys.

Islamorada or “purple island” is located in the Florida Keys! Located 15 minutes from the local airport or just 1.5-hour drive south from Miami.

Spanning 7 miles long, Islamorada is the best small beach town in Florida if you’re looking to fish. The sports fish capital of the world, you have angling opportunities on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You can find over 500 species of fish here. Peak season is in December through May! 

No trip to Islamorada is complete without a stop at Robbie’s Marina found at MM 77. You can feed tarpon for $2.25 per person, or for the more adventurous you can rent a kayak to visit Indian Key State Park. 

While at Robbie’s try the Hogfish Sandwich at the Hungry Tarpon. Or Chef Michael’s for a more upscale dining experience.  

Theater of the Sea is a great place to get up close to dolphins, sea lions, or take a glass-bottom boat ride. For those looking for an all-inclusive resort, the Cheeca Lodge will provide you with an upscale all-inclusive getaway! 

Located in the 6-block cultural downtown, you will find tons of art galleries. Plan your trip correctly and you can experience Art Walk, one of the best festivals in Florida! 

Where To Stay in Islamorada : Luxurious Home: Check Rates on VRBO

DeFuniak Springs

In 2019, MSN.com named DeFuniak Springs as the best of all the small towns in Florida. Home to just over 5,000 people, you can find DeFuniak Springs in the panhandle.

DeFuniak Springs holds a notable place in Florida’s history. Here, you can find a resort and campus built during the Victorian Era. Marketed to the nation as “The Education Resort of the South,” the campus was once gated and very exclusive.

A tour of Downtown will guide you through some of DeFuniak Spring’s most historic sites. Make sure to stop and see the Train Depot, the old Tented Classrooms, Hotel Chautauqua, and the Wooden Sidewalks.

Come during Christmastime to see the grounds as more than 6 million lights adorn the Victorian structures. A stroll while gazing at the lights twinkling in the spring-fed lake is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas in Florida .

If you’re tired of reading wine labels, then visit Chautauqua Winery! They’ll help you take the guesswork out of picking your new favorite wine with all-day tastings and tours through the vineyards.

Where To Stay in DeFuniak Springs : Secluded Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Nestled in the heart of the Apalachicola National Forest, you can find one of the most unique small towns in Florida. Sopchoppy will be your gateway into rural Florida.

Less than 500 people call Sopchoppy home. 45 minutes from Tallahassee, Sopchoppy is not just a fun word to say. It’s also known as the Worm Gruntin’ Capital of the World.

Every April, on the second Saturday of the month, people come from all over Florida, Georgia, and Alabama congregate. During a special festival, grunters use a specialized technique to draw earthworms up to the ground’s surface to use as fishing bait.

Use those worms and head over to the Ochlockonee River State Park for a grand day of boating and fishing. Sopchoppy is actually one of the best places to go camping in Florida !

Where To Stay in Sopchoppy : Beachfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Along the Atlantic Coast of Florida, you can find the Sailfish Capital of the World. To the north of Palm Beach and south of Vero Beach , you’ll find Stuart , one of the cutest small towns in Florida.

Famed for its historic and pedestrian-friendly downtown, you shouldn’t miss the Stuart Green Market. A small farmers market, you can find it every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM just near City Hall.

For nature lovers, head over to Seabranch Preserve State Park. Perfect for birding, you can also enjoy nature trails and even a butterfly garden! Then head over to St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park to observe sea turtles nesting.

History buffs will enjoy the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar. A restored home, it was once used as a haven for shipwrecked sailors dating back to the early 1900s. You can also find restored homes and furniture of early pioneers at the Stuart Heritage Museum!

Where To Stay in Stuart : Private Oceanfront Condo: Check Rates on VRBO

White Springs

There are many tourist attractions in Florida, but did you know the town of White Springs was Florida’s first? One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, White Springs offers a quintessential look into Old Florida.

Home of the annual Florida Folk Festival, White Springs is a tourist destination famous for its historic charm, antiquing and water activities on the Suwannee River. The river cuts right through the town, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The proximity of the river affords many opportunities for kayaking in Florida ! Don’t be afraid to bring your rods and lures along. Fishermen can enjoy catching red-bellies, brim, mullet, and catfish.

For the more adventurous, there are many natural springs that spawn off of the Suwannee River. Grab a mask and some fins and enjoy snorkeling with the manatees . Divers will love the many water caves to explore.

Where To Stay in White Springs: Hidden Creek Cabin: Check Rates on VRBO

Just an hour southwest of Gainesville , you’ll find the tiny enclave known as Cedar Key. One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, it offers beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and old-fashioned, traditional Florida beauty.

With very few traffic lights, you’ll stop and wave at locals as they pass you on the sidewalk. The local police ride around on spiffy golf carts. The houses and shops sit on stilts over the Gulf of Mexico.

Over the tiny keys that make up Cedar Key, you can easily find a tasty clam chowder with a cold brew to wash it down. Your backdrop? The natural beauty of the tranquil village and the almost forgotten natural Florida beauty.

Cedar Key remains a haven for artists, writers, and a special breed of tourists who seek out unspoiled environments. Join the thousand of visitors who make their way to Cedar Key for their local festivals.

The Old Florida Celebration of the Arts in April celebrates local artists, old and new. The Fourth of July party takes fireworks to a new level with the bursts reflecting in the ocean water. With no high-rises, Cedar Key is perfect for The Stargazing Party in February!

Where To Stay in Cedar Key : Aqua Vista: Check Rates on VRBO

Micanopy holds the title of the oldest inland town in Florida. It means “head chief,” a title bestowed upon the leader of the Alachua Seminoles. Micanopy, “the town that time forgot,” is one of the best small towns in Florida.

Ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss line Micanopy’s narrow streets. The shade is welcomed by the numerous historic homes and old cracker houses that create the picturesque warmth of the town.

Once occupied by the Alachua Seminoles, you can often see excavators and preservation initiatives searching for artifacts in residents’ yards. You can learn more the Alachua Seminoles at the Micanopy Native American Heritage Preserve, which protects a Native American mound.

The town is so appealing, many films and television shows have been shot on location here, including Doc Hollywood, Cross Creek, and Top Gear! Shooting locations include the Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast, a Greek revival mansion.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park protects a massive natural basin in the “great Alachua Savannah.” Here, bison and wild horses roam free in the state’s largest grassland at 22,000 acres. At times, the fields are covered in wildflowers.

Where To Stay in Micanopy : Treetop Artists Retreat: Check Rates on VRBO

Lake Placid

Arguably the prettiest of the small towns in Florida, Lake Placid has two nicknames. “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World.” Well, three titles if you count Reader’s Digest dubbing it “America’s Most Interesting Town.”

Lake Placid earned its “Town of Murals” nickname because of the 49 murals that adorn commercial buildings. They tell the story and history of Lake Placid and its people.

It is also “the Caladium Capital of the World” because 70 – 80% of the world’s caladium (or the colorful Heart of Jesus plant) is grown here. The Caladium Festival each summer features a massive car and motorcycle show!

Lake Placid’s other attractions include 27 freshwater lakes, Toby’s Clown School, and the Saturday Morning Market. Catch it on the second Saturday of each month from October through March.

The town is not without its festivals, either. Catch the annual Grape Stomp at Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery in August. And in February, you can attend the Arts & Crafts Country Fair!

Where To Stay in Lake Placid : Lake View Cottage: Check Rates on VRBO

Known as “The Historic Town at the End of the Road,” you’ll dead-end into St. Marks at the end of Woodville Highway, or State Road 363. One of the cutest small towns in Florida, St. Marks is one of the oldest settlements in North America and is believed to be the third oldest in the new world.

With a population of less than 300, its historical significance in Florida remains unparalleled. Just 20 miles south of Tallahassee, St. Marks was one of the most important early ports in Florida.

While it is small, St. Marks makes up for its size with a bounty of natural attractions. Visit the archeological displays at San Marcos de Apalache Historic Park. Walk the salt marshes at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuse and take a selfie in front of the St. Marks Lighthouse!

Wakulla Springs with its wonderful swimming holes is right down the road. You can charter a fishing boat with a crew or on your own at Shields Marina!

Where To Stay in St. Marks : Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Steinhatchee

The gateway to Florida’s Nature Coast, Steinhatchee remains one of the most charming fishing towns in Florida. With only 1,000 residents, Steinhatchee provides the perfect backdrop for your laid-back beach vacation.

The atmosphere in Steinhatchee is warmed by quaint landscapes of Victorian homes. Towering live oaks provide shade with Spanish moss draped over their branches.

Nature lovers will appreciate miles and miles of quiet, unspoiled country roads. You can also find miles of white sand beaches. With no noisy crowded beach resorts, the shoreline remains unspoiled and cozy.

Surrounded by gardens and lush foot trails, Steinhatchee is often referred to as “Florida’s Best Kept Secret.” Shhh, we won’t tell if you don’t!

Where To Stay in Steinhatchee : Romantic Angels Attic: Check Rates on VRBO

• 6 Delightful Towns to Visit in Florida's Emerald Coast

With the longest coastline in the contiguous United States and 825 miles of public shore, Florida stands as a top destination for beachgoers. Among its many beautiful shores, the Emerald Coast shines as one of the most exquisite stretches of sand in the state. Renowned for its crystal-clear emerald waters and pristine sugar-white sands, the Emerald Coast epitomizes the ideal postcard beach scene and promises some of the most unique coastal attractions in the state, from dolphin spotting to historic shipwrecks. For views almost too good to be true and coastal attractions you will never forget, here are 6 delightful Emerald Coast towns to consider for your next Florida escape.

A true “gem” of a town, Destin is famous for its shimmering quartz-sand beaches. Formed over thousands of years, the pristine sugar shores have the Appalachian Mountains to thank for their bright white hue, visible at popular locales like Henderson Beach State Park. Along with over 6,000 feet of shore, the park is popular for its nature trail through a rare coastal dune ecosystem.

Elsewhere in town, the bustling Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a hub of activity. In addition to waterfront restaurants like Harry T's Lighthouse and cute beach shops like Aloha Surf Company, the boardwalk is your gateway to exciting excursions. Whether booking a Flipper's Destin Snorkel & Dolphin Cruise or a Destin Parasailing Adventure, the opportunity for fun is endless.

But no visit to Destin would be complete without checking out its star attraction, Crab Island. Located on the southern entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, this famous sandbar can be reached by renting a boat or booking a Crab Island Catamaran. The latter is a great alternative for those looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

About an hour west of Destin, Navarre is an easy-going coastal town for those who prefer more peaceful beach days. In place of boardwalk crowds, you will find locals enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Navarre Beach, “Florida’s most relaxing place.” With a 12-mile shoreline, there's ample space for sunbathing and swimming. And throughout the year, beachside businesses like Andy D's Beachside Restaurant host fun family-friendly events like the Navarre Beach Bash, happening July 4th to 6th, 2024.

For those seeking scenic views, Navarre boasts Florida’s longest fishing pier. Stretching 1,500-feet, the 30-foot-tall pier makes for a pleasant day of angling or a delightful sunset stroll. Alternatively, for visitors looking to experience the waters up close, the beach is famous for its snorkeling. With 4 artificial reefs in the area, snorkelers will encounter a diverse range of marine life like sea turtles and octopuses, making for a truly breathtaking underwater adventure.

Nature enthusiasts will also love Navarre’s other wildlife attractions. The Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center and the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge are 2 fun and educational experiences with interactive activities. Likewise, the nearby Gulf Breeze Zoo is a great place to bring the whole family. With over 800 other animals from around the world, people of all ages will appreciate the wonders of the animal kingdom at this Navarre attraction.

Panama City

With one of the highest concentrations of bottlenose dolphins in the world, Panama City is another delightful vacation spot for animal lovers. The best place for dolphin spotting is at Shell Island, a pristine 7-mile barrier island just off the coast from this pleasant resort town. Visitors can take the Shell Island Ferry or book a more intimate excursion. Shell Island Eco-Tour & Dolphin Encounter with Captain Anderson’s Marina are a popular choice, as well as the Panama City Beach Pontoon Boat Rental.

In addition to wildlife spotting, Panama City tops other charts, like being the Seafood Capital of the South and the Wreck Capital of the South. Restaurants like the Shrimp Basket and Harpoon Harry's Beachfront Restaurant are some landmark seafood joints right on the Gulf.

As for shipwrecks, Panama City Beach is a gateway to some gorgeous diving spots with historic sunken ships. Companies like Empire Mica Dive Charters allow divers the chance to dive and witness vessels like the Empire Mica, a British Tanker torpedoed in 1942. Back on land, visitors can learn more about deep sea diving at one of the only deep sea diving museums in the US, the Man in the Sea Museum.

Mexico Beach

As the "Artificial Reef Capital of the World,” the idyllic town of Mexico Beach also knows a thing or 2 about diving. With nearly 300 artificial reefs deployed since 1997 by the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, this Bay County town has become a paradise amongst divers and snorkelers. Tour agencies like Maritime Expeditions make both a breeze, offering everything from daily scuba charters to equipment rentals.

As the name implies, Mexico Beach also has 5 miles of gorgeous beach. While some sections are private, the town prides itself in boasting ample public beach spaces, including Canal Park, Parker Park, and Sunset Park to name a few. The Mexico Beach City Pier is also open to the public and makes for a lovely stroll. For the more adventurous beachgoers, booking a ride with Crazy Waverunner Parasail is the perfect addition to your time in Mexico Beach.

Fort Walton Beach

With an estimated 40,000 dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico waters surrounding Fort Walton Beach, much like Panama City, dolphin adventures are in high demand here. With companies like Soundside Cruiser and Bikkini Bottom Boat Charters, adventurers can experience the Gulf in all its glory. From sunset tours to dolphin cruises, no matter your reason for venturing out, you are guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime.

If you would prefer to enjoy Fort Walton Beach back on land, there is still plenty to see and do, including 24 miles of beach in the area. Families will also enjoy attractions like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Here, kids and adults alike can marvel at dolphins, stingrays, alligators, and even penguins. Elsewhere in town, another popular spot for families is the Emerald Coast Science Center, whose interactive exhibits are equally fun and educational.

Apalachicola

Nested where the Apalachicola River merges with the Apalachicola Bay , the town of Apalachicola promises a laid-back atmosphere with some truly underrated landmarks. Perfect for a day trip or weekend away from the stresses of everyday life, this friendly port promises hospitality, world-class seafood dining, and nature that will take your breath away.

Nicknamed “Oystertown” for producing 90% of Florida’s oysters, you can reap the benefits of this local delicacy at restaurants like Half Shell Dockside, Up The Creek Raw Bar, and Apalachicola Seafood Grill. Later this year on November 1st and 2nd 2024, Apalachicola will also host the Annual Florida Seafood Festival. With an Oyster Eating Contest, Oyster Shucking Contest, and Fresh Florida Seafood selling some of the best seafood in the state, this is one event to mark your calendars for.

Beyond its culinary delights, Apalachicola is also a portal to outdoor attractions like Dr. Julian G. Bruce St George Island State Park, “a little strip of paradise.” With white sand shores on one side and forested marshlands on the other, relaxation and exploration are within arm’s reach. Whether lounging beachside or hiking nature paths like the 1-mile East Slough Overlook Trail, this island park is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and soak up some sun.

Final Thoughts

With 825 miles of public shore to choose from, it may feel overwhelming to decide your next Florida destination. And while all of these shores boast their own distinct features, these Emerald Coast towns stand out as some of Florida’s finest. From Destin’s quartz-sand seashores to the "Artificial Reef Capital of the World” in Mexico Beach, these towns promise a truly delightful and unforgettable experience that will beckon you back time and time again.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Enjoy waterfront charm at the 10 best coastal small towns across the US

Best Coastal Small Town (2024) April 10, 2024

Big cities on the water have their perks, but these 10 coastal small towns — nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the country — offer a calm and charm that is hard to find in more heavily populated areas. You can enjoy scenic views, historic attractions, delicious food, and plenty of things to do both on and off the water.

No. 10: Long Beach, Washington

Not to be confused with the Southern California city, Washington's Long Beach is just as relaxed, albeit with a different vibe (and somewhat chillier weather come winter). People-watch on the boardwalk, go birding or biking along their nature trails, take a leisurely lighthouse tour, check out the unique World Kite Museum, or just go restaurant-hopping — the choice is yours in this quaint seaside spot.

No. 9: Washington Island, Wisconsin

Trek to Wisconsin's Washington Island via car ferry and then let your adventure begin! Whether you do some biking and hiking, go back in time at the local history museums, or slow down to smell the lavender at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm, you're bound to go home with plenty of marvelous memories of this delightful town.

No. 8: Cape May, New Jersey

This seaside town in the southernmost part of the Cape May Peninsula is a popular destination that's quieter and cleaner than its more boisterous cousin to the north, Atlantic City. Families love the free Cape May County Park and Zoo, as well as free summer movies on the beach, while couples might enjoy a sunset cruise, strolling through the various gardens and parks, and getting pampered at the local Cape May Day Spa.

No. 7: Sandusky, Ohio

This Ohio town on the coast of Lake Erie is home to Cedar Point — one of the top roller coaster-laden amusement parks in the country — but there's more to Sandusky than thrill rides. Visitors can enjoy learning more about the town's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, visit scenic Shoreline Park, go on an island-hopping cruise, and dine at a number of top-notch waterfront restaurants.

No. 6: Newport, Rhode Island

This Rhode Island town has a little something for everyone, from breweries and wineries to regattas and Gilded Age mansions — and that's just the start. Go paddleboarding or sailing, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, hike along the Cliff Walk with gorgeous ocean views, or simply stroll about downtown to grab a bite and do some souvenir shopping.

No. 5: Pismo Beach, California

Located along California's Central Coast, Pismo Beach draws in plenty of visitors with its quiet beaches and array of wineries and outlet shopping. Other highlights to check out include Dinosaur Caves Park, the Monarch Butterfly Grove, and the award-winning boardwalk. You might also enjoy some fishing or surfing if you prefer to stay on the water.

No. 4: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Drive an hour west of Pensacola, Florida, and you'll find yourself in the midst of Alabama's best beaches aka Gulf Shores. Swim, surf, and sunbathe by the sea, and then check out some of the area's top attractions like Waterville USA, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (home to sloths and kangaroos), and Gulf State Park. Visitors also love the multitude of beachfront restaurants.

No. 3: Key West, Florida

Key West boasts everything from conch train tours and six-toed cats to a bevy of bars and festivals, not to mention it's the southernmost point in the continental United States. This walkable Florida town is full of historic and coastal charm, with gorgeous white sand beaches and palm-tree lined streets. It's also home to a robust arts scene, a butterfly garden, an aquarium, and buskers a-plenty for year-round entertainment.

No. 2: Saugatuck, Michigan

This lakeside destination is home to award-winning beaches, spas, breweries, art galleries, and so much more. Whether you're looking for a wedding venue or a romantic place to renew vows, want to enjoy a fun wine tasting, or take an unforgettable family vacation with plenty of outdoor time, Saugatuck has it all.

No. 1: Stuart, Florida

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions.

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Chez Chesak

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‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jonathon Stalls

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary...   Read More

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary "Walking Artist". Some of his creative work involves media/organizing with the Pedestrian Dignity project, hosting walking/rolling events and leader training with Walk2Connect (a program of America Walks), pen drawing, meditative practices, and more. He is the author of  WALK - Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour  (North Atlantic Books, Aug 2022). In 2010, he walked for 242 days across the U.S., walked el Camino de Santiago in 2012, and has continued to move, write, and create alongside a wide variety of longer-distance routes. Learn more:  www.IntrinsicPaths.com

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Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning LGBTQ+ travel creators and trailblazers, using their platform, On Airplane Mode, to inspire others to follow their passions while celebrating their unique identities. With the leading LGBTQ+ travel platform in the US, they have a thriving community of over 650,000+ followers. The dynamic duo craft unique storytelling content that resonates with diverse audiences, sparking positive transformation within the travel industry, making it a more inclusive and vibrant space.

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Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

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Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Marla Cimini

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Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

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Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

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Florida's Charming Small Towns And Cities You Have To Visit

Posted: November 10, 2023 | Last updated: November 10, 2023

Sunshine State spots with plenty of charm

DeLand, Volusia County

Dubbed the 'Athens of Florida', DeLand was founded by wealthy businessman Henry A. DeLand in 1876, who wanted the city to embody the culture, education and beauty of the Greek capital. With its red-brick buildings and oak-lined streets, its charm may be more New England than Ancient Greece, but there are plenty of cultural and historic hotspots. Here you’ll find Florida’s oldest college, Stetson University, named after famous hatmaker and donor John B. Stetson. There’s also the 1920s-era Athens Theatre, the colorful Mural Walk, plus record stores, antique stores and independent breweries.

Niceville, Okaloosa County

With its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, Niceville certainly lives up to its name. Located in the western panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City, this dinky city has a population of around 12,500. As well as being an ideal base for exploring the white sandy beaches of Destin, a 20-minute drive away, Niceville has plenty of attractions of its own. These include the nature trails of Turkey Creek Park and the Mattie Kelly Arts Center , which has two galleries and showcases performances year-round.

Ponce Inlet, Volusia County

The striking red beacon that crowns Ponce Inlet has become a symbol of the town. Built in 1887, at a height of 175 feet (53m) it’s the tallest lighthouse in Florida, as well as being considered one of the best-preserved historic light stations in the country – it’s one of just 11 recognized on the National Historic Landmark list. The town is just as gorgeous at ground-level too. A fishing hub in past and present times, it has several attractive marinas and shipyards, as well as oceanfront restaurants serving up the catch of the day.

Check out the most beautiful lighthouses in the world

Chipley, Washington County

The quaint city of Chipley is tucked away in the panhandle between Tallahassee and Pensacola. Despite being a small community of just 3,600, it has a vibrant cultural life and plenty of natural beauty. One of the biggest draws is Main Street Market, a bustling farmer’s market filled with the best local produce, from fresher-than-fresh oysters to seasonal fruit and vegetables. Just three miles (5km) south of Chipley is Falling Waters State Park (pictured), home to fern-draped landscapes thronged with native butterflies, as well as Florida's tallest waterfall. 

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Vero Beach, Indian River County

Located in southeastern Florida’s Treasure Coast region, Vero Beach has been nicknamed the Hamptons of Florida: it’s where the well-heeled go for a little rest and relaxation. The palm-fringed paradise is the perfect location for trendy bars, boutiques and restaurants. Vero Beach started life as a citrus farming region and today Schacht Groves , a fourth-generation business, offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of fruit growing here and taste its bounties for themselves.

Discover the world's most beautiful coastlines

Crystal River, Citrus County

Fernandina Beach, Nassau County

Mount Dora, Lake County

When it comes to old-school charm, Mount Dora ticks all the boxes. Situated in central Florida, around a 45-minute drive from downtown Orlando, the quaint city is an enticing combination of antique stores – which draw in enthusiasts from all over the world – outdoor cafés, galleries and historic gems. Its best-known building is the Lakeside Inn, Florida’s oldest continuously operating hotel, which was constructed in 1883 and remains popular today.

These are America's most historic towns and cities

Stuart, Martin County

Known as the 'Sailfish Capital of the World', the waters around Stuart are swarming with these blue-and-silver finned fish. The town in Martin County is said to have gained its moniker in 1938, after a team of journalists came to visit and caught more than 1,000 sailfish in under a week. Aside from its glistening azure waters, Stuart is known for its former silent movie theatre turned performing arts center, The Lyric, and its uncluttered downtown, boasting low-rise buildings, a smattering of upscale boutiques and restaurants and a weekly farmer's market.

Key Largo, Monroe County

Key Largo is often the first stop for those visiting the Florida Keys – it’s the northernmost and longest of the islands. While it’s a popular destination, Key Largo’s year-round residents number around 10,000 and it still retains much of its easy-breezy, small-town feel. It’s known for having the world’s second-largest artificial reef, created by the sinking of ships off the coast, which means there are ample opportunities for diving here as well as snorkeling, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Explore more of the Florida Keys with our area guide

Winter Park, Orange County

The red-brick streets of Winter Park look like they’re made for lazy strolling. Although it’s just a 20-minute drive northeast of Orlando, this leafy city with a suburban feel is a world away from Disney’s homeland. It has a thriving food scene, with acclaimed restaurants serving everything from sushi and seafood to classic American fare, plus there’s a farmer’s market every Saturday. Natural beauty is never far from these streets either: Winter Park has a chain of lakes and canals which can be cruised by boat tour .

Boca Grande, Charlotte and Lee Counties

Situated on Gasparilla island, off the Gulf Coast, the town has certainly earned name-dropping rights, having been graced by the likes of Henry Ford, JP Morgan, the Bush family and Audrey Hepburn in its 100-plus years as a tourist destination. It was put on the map in the 1880s after railroads were built into the area, shortly after which wealthy visitors began to trickle in from the North. One of its main draws is the Gasparilla Inn & Club, completed in 1911, a luxurious manor that still retains every inch of its timeless glamour.

Islamorada, Monroe County

A village with a difference, Islamorada is spread across six islands that sit between the Everglades National Park and Florida Strait. It’s the epitome of a tropical paradise: think shimmering turquoise waters, swaying palms and some 1,200 feet (366m) of stunning beaches. Regarded as the 'Sportfishing Capital of the World', Islamorada’s crystal-like seas are teeming with sailfish, permit, tarpon, redfish and bonefish (to name a few), plus it’s reputed to have the largest fishing fleet per square mile on the planet.

Punta Gorda, Charlotte County

This Gulf Coast gem is the perfect place to step away from the crowds and embrace laid-back waterfront living. Surrounded by the stunning Charlotte Harbor, which curves its way inland along Florida’s west coast, Punta Gorda is a popular spot for sailing, fishing and a range of watersports. Despite being badly damaged by Hurricane Charley in 2004, its historic district, made up of late-19th and early- 20th century buildings, has been carefully restored and gives a glimpse into Punta Gorda’s beguiling past.

St. Petersburg, Pinellas County

St. Petersburg owes much of its recognizable Mediterranean Revival architecture to the Sunshine State's boom of the 1920s, when an influx of new residents moved to Florida. During this time, the city gained many of its most notable buildings, including the opulent Don CeSar Hotel or 'Pink Palace', which was frequented by F. Scott Fitzgerald in its heyday. It holds a few modern-day accolades too: St. Pete Beach was voted the best in the US by TripAdvisor in 2021; it also holds the Guinness World Record for the most consecutive days of sunshine at a whopping 768.

Discover what else to see and do in the Tampa Bay area

Dunedin, Pinellas County

Destin, Okaloosa County

Situated in the panhandle against the Gulf of Mexico, Destin’s pristine white beaches owe their trademark hue to tiny crystals of Appalachian quartz, which washed in during the last Ice Age. Yet there’s plenty more to discover besides: from fishing in clear waters to eating fresh seafood in local restaurants, or taking a peek at the luxurious condos lining the shore. Despite being a popular resort, Destin’s permanent population is small at just 13,000 and the town has kept its friendly, community feel.

Anna Maria Island, Manatee County

Around 50 miles (80km) south of Tampa, Anna Maria Island is a tropical treasure with something for everyone. There are jaw-dropping beaches, ranging from the central Holmes Beach to the secluded Coquina Beach. Then there’s the historic Bridge Street, with a mix of independent shops, restaurants and galleries. The jewel in Anna Maria Island’s crown, though, is its pier. Completed in 1912, it contains more than 1,100 unique engraved planks dedicated to locals and their loved ones. 

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Venice, Sarasota County

Venice holds the somewhat unusual title of “'Shark Tooth Capital of the World'. Roughly 10 million years ago, Florida was submerged underwater and sharks were native to the area, but as the water gradually retreated the animals died, and all that remains today are their fossilized teeth. As well as attracting fossil-hunters, the town brings in visitors of all stripes thanks to its charming Italian Renaissance-style downtown, unspoiled Gulf Coast beaches and around 30 miles (48km) of panoramic bike trails.

Coconut Grove, Miami-Dade County

While it’s technically part of the city of Miami, Coconut Grove moves to the beat of its own drum. This laid-back neighborhood started life in 1873, when an eclectic mix of artists, writers, pioneers and adventurers moved to the area, lending it the bohemian character it’s known for today. With its buzzy outdoor bars and cafés lining its streets, as well as plenty of luxurious yachts dotted along its harbor, The Grove as it’s known by locals, has earned a reputation as a hip neighborhood with a village-like feel.

Sebring, Highlands County

Picturesque Sebring is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Located on the dreamy shores of Lake Placid in central Florida, surrounded by Cypress swamps and sand pine scrubland, it’s the perfect backdrop for a range of activities from hiking and cycling to watersports. It’s also been dubbed the 'City on the Circle' thanks to the unique circular design of its streets, designed around the central Circle Park. Adding another feather to its cap, the town is home to Sebring International Raceway , a former Second World War base turned car racing track that hosts the annual 12 Hours of Sebring event.

Apalachicola, Franklin County

Key West, Monroe County

The last of the Florida Keys , located on a dinky four-mile-long (6.4km), two-mile-wide (3.2km) island, Key West is a sun-drenched beach town with a lot going for it. The crystal-clear waters that surround it are a haven for scuba diving, sailing and snorkeling, while there’s plenty to see on dry land too. Its compact downtown is a patchwork of palm-fringed streets lined with pretty conch-style houses, seeped in the histories of famous names who once holidayed here, from Ernest Hemingway to Tennessee Williams.

Matlacha, Lee County

Colorful beachfront cabins such as this one are a common sight in Matlacha. Located on a small spit off the coast of Fort Myers, the hamlet is painted in a rainbow of unashamedly bright hues. It started life as a fishing village but in the 1990s, when it became clear that the dwindling fishing industry wasn’t enough to support all residents, locals took to the paint palette to revive the town and attract tourists. Inside these vivid buildings you’ll find art galleries, beach bars, independent restaurants and more.

Grayton Beach, Walton County

Seen from the skies, Grayton Beach is a winning combination of pristine sands and almost fluorescent turquoise seas. Situated in the panhandle about halfway between Pensacola and Panama City, the town is mostly covered by the 400-acre Grayton Beach State Park, with landscapes including everything from pristine beaches to windswept forests. As well as exploring its jaw-dropping scenery, visitors can stroll through the town’s quaint white-picket-fence communities or pop into a waterfront restaurant for a taste of Southern cuisine.

Sanibel Island, Lee County

Sanibel Island is completely show-stopping at sunset, when its seaweed-dappled shores are painted an array of pastel hues. Located west of Fort Myers, the 15-mile (24km) long, five-mile (8km) wide island is crowned by the 19th-century Sanibel Lighthouse, which remains in operation today. But that’s not the only treasure to be found in this small city. Known for being home to a wide range of seashells, Sanibel Island’s beaches are so popular with shell-hunters that hotels provide special facilities for sorting and cleaning them, while there's even a dedicated museum here containing the world's largest shells. 

Tarpon Springs, Pinellas County

St Augustine, St. Johns County

Naples, Collier County

Naples is a tropical charmer on the Paradise Coast. Of course, it’s home to the sugar-sand beaches you’d expect from this stretch of coastline, but the city itself is just as striking too. The historic streets of Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South are the perfect eye candy, their pastel-hued buildings decorated with cascading blooms, providing a unique location for the upscale shops, bars and restaurants which you’ll find there today. 

Seaside, Walton County

Cute-as-a-button Seaside attracts visitors for – you guessed it – its stunning beaches. Located in the panhandle between Panama City and Fort Walton Beach, it’s home to nine unique pavilions leading down to the shore, each designed by a different architect. But there’s plenty to discover aside from the stunning coastline: think independent bookstores and record stores, farmer’s markets, art galleries and theatres. 

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Flagler beach, the everglades, boynton beach, weeki wachee springs, dry tortugas, savannas preserve, map of florida's regions.

Northwest Florida has piney woods and some of the state’s most beautiful beaches. Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Panama City, Panama City Beach, and Apalachicola are well worth your time.

North Central

North Central Florida is rich in history, and abundant outdoors activities balanced with serenity. From the capital city of Tallahassee all the way to Gainesville, enjoy Southern charm.

Northeast Florida has natural wonders, tawny beaches, pioneer history, and big-city attractions in Amelia Island, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine.

Central Florida was practically built with fun in mind, starting with the theme parks of Orlando, Kissimmee and Winter Haven. It’s great for kids and adults of all ages.

Central East

Central East Florida, with Daytona Beach, Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, is home to the space industry, top-notch birding, verdant parks, and the state’s top surfing.

Central West

Central West Florida offers the big-city lures of Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, but is also home to magnificent beaches, wildlife, clear springs, and scenic rivers.

Southeast Florida radiates balmy temperatures, luxury, and Latin and Caribbean flavors. Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Palm Beaches, and the Keys are for vacations you never outgrow.

Southwest Florida, and the cities of Fort Myers and Naples, spreads a welcoming blanket of sugar-white beaches and tropical warmth for all visitors, a comfortable blend of the classic and cosmopolitan.

FLORIDA CITIES

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Floridians and those who visit enjoy a few common luxuries: no matter which florida city or region you're in, you're always within a few hours from the ocean, the winters are generally warm and fresh, and locally caught seafood and homegrown citrus is plentiful.  .

But that doesn't mean all  Florida cities  are alike. Each has its own unique history, identity and story to tell, whether it's a large urban metropolis or a small community built around its strawberry crops or cattle ranches. 

Whether you're looking for big-city excitement and entertainment or small-town quiet and curiosities, the  best places to visit in Florida  are the ones tailored to  your  taste. 

While  Jacksonville  is the most populated city in the Sunshine State, tourists often overlook its strengths as a vacation spot next to theme park-heavy  Orlando  or the beach-blessed coastal cities. But Jacksonville's parks, museums and historic sites are marvelously laid our and the  Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens  is an amazing attraction for visitors young and old. 

There's also  Tampa , enjoying a revitalized downtown that includes some of the city's best restaurants, urban parks, bars and a Riverwalk that attracts joggers, bikers and couples out on a stroll.  Fort Lauderdale  is one of the  best places to visit in Florida  for those wanting a winning combination of beaches, shopping and dining. 

For visitors looking for a more quiet  place to visit in Florida  that still offers plenty of activities, cities such as  Cape Coral ,  Gainesville ,  Fort Myers  and  Pensacola   offer the perfect getaway plans. All offer top-notch golf courses, cozy bed and breakfast inns and fabulous restaurants without the traffic of the big  Florida cities .  Palm Bay , the biggest city in the Space Coast area, has some of the state's best nature trails at the Turkey Creek Sanctuary but also has beaches and other attractions for both kids and adults. 

Some prefer more off-the-beaten-path towns such as  Dunedin   with its tiny but charming downtown and nearby parks, the historic  St. Augustine  filled with old stone fortresses and museums or quaint  Mount Dora  and its fun shops and restaurants. 

Tiny  Weeki Wachee  built its livelihood on its 70-year-old underwater  mermaid show  and its natural springs, and  Arcadia   is known for some of the best antiquing around, all concentrated within a few blocks. 

Each  Florida city  has its own collection of  places to visit  and gems to offer, whether its secluded beaches, Spring Training baseball, roadside oddity attractions or award-winning golf courses. Pinpoint your favorites to create the perfect escape. 

Planning a trip to the Sunshine State but can’t decide between beaches or theme parks?

Torn between surfing on the  Atlantic Coast   and  fishing   on the  Gulf Coast ? Wondering what there is to do near your secluded, romantic bed and breakfast? Checking out VISIT FLORIDA’S interactive  map of Florida  before you travel is a helpful starting point.

Whether you’re going on a weekend getaway, a spring break jaunt or a summer road trip, you’ll never run out of  things to do in Florida , a state packed with  nature trails ,  parks ,  boating docks ,  roller coaster rides ,  museums  and more.

Many visitors have a starting point in mind – say,  Daytona Beach  or  St. Augustine  – but then get curious about what there is to explore nearby, which is where our  Florida map  comes in handy. Others have a general activity they like to do while traveling, such as  camping  or trying unique  restaurants , and want to know exactly where the best Florida destinations are before booking a ticket or hitting the road. And speaking of roads, a trip from the top of the peninsula to the southernmost point is doable in a day or two. But why rush when you can take time to discover some of Florida’s hidden gems, weird roadside attractions, quirky beach towns, outdoor art festivals and wildlife rescue sanctuaries?

Check out some of the small-town, family-friendly events going on within an hour or two’s drive from  Jacksonville ,  Orlando   or  Miami   using our  map of Florida . Or hit some of the best campsites in north Florida, coolest natural springs in central Florida or most popular outlet malls among true bargain hunters in South Florida.

Browse the  Florida map  and take a detour off of Interstate 4 to check out some odd museums and parks, or break off from I-75 to do some nature hiking or wine tasting. Relax on a front-porch rocking chair and try fresh citrus juices at the Grove House in  Lake Wales  or make a day trip out of a stopover in beautiful  Naples   or the laid back  New Smyrna Beach .

If you’re anywhere near the  Everglades , swing over to Billie Swamp Safari on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, where you can learn the history of the Seminole Tribe or sample frog legs or alligator tail at the Swamp Water Café. It’s easy to hunt down some of the lesser known but most memorable Florida destinations by doing a little bit of map-scanning before you travel. Even the best laid plans should leave room for spontaneous adventure.

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Bethany Beach, Delaware

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Delray Beach, Florida

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