Amelia Island
Atlantic Coast
Amelia Island stands out for 13 miles of uncrowded, pristine beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
The best family-friendly beaches in Florida with calm waters, clean facilities, and plenty of activities for kids of all ages.
Florida is one of the best family beach destinations in the world. With warm Gulf waters, gentle Atlantic waves, and year-round sunshine, there's a perfect beach for every family. We've ranked the best options based on water safety, amenities, parking accessibility, and kid-friendly activities.
| # | Beach | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amelia Island 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 2 | Anna Maria Island 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 3 | Anne's Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 4 | Bahia Honda State Park 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 5 | Caladesi Island 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 6 | Captiva Island 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 7 | Clearwater Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 8 | Coco Plum Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 9 | Cocoa Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 10 | Daytona Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 11 | Deerfield Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 12 | Delray Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 13 | Destin Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 14 | Dry Tortugas National Park 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 15 | Fort De Soto Park 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 16 | Fort Lauderdale Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 17 | Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 18 | Grayton Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 19 | Henderson Beach State Park 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 20 | Higgs Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 21 | Hollywood Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 22 | Honeymoon Island 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 23 | Indian Rocks Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 24 | Jacksonville Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 25 | Jupiter Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 26 | Lauderdale-by-the-Sea 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 27 | Lido Key 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 28 | Long Key State Park 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 29 | Longboat Key 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 30 | Madeira Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 31 | Mexico Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 32 | Navarre Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 33 | New Smyrna Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 34 | Palm Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 35 | Panama City Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 36 | Pass-a-Grille Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 37 | Pensacola Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 38 | Perdido Key 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 39 | Rest Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 40 | Rosemary Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 41 | Sanibel Island 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 42 | Santa Rosa Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 43 | Seaside Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 44 | Siesta Key Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 45 | Smathers Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 46 | Sombrero Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 47 | South Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 48 | St. Augustine Beach 👨👩👧 | Moderate |
| 49 | St. George Island 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 50 | St. Pete Beach 👨👩👧 | Popular |
| 51 | Venice Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
| 52 | Vero Beach 👨👩👧 | Quiet |
Atlantic Coast
Amelia Island stands out for 13 miles of uncrowded, pristine beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
Anna Maria Island stands out for no high-rise buildings preserve island charm. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Anne's Beach stands out for shallow tidal flats perfect for small children. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Bahia Honda State Park stands out for pristine white sand beaches rarely found in the keys. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $8 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 single occupant, $2 pedestrians/cyclists.
Gulf Coast
Caladesi Island stands out for accessible only by boat or ferry. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs $8 per vehicle at Honeymoon Island State Park.
Gulf Coast
Captiva Island stands out for spectacular gulf of mexico sunsets. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
Clearwater Beach stands out for #1 rated beach in america. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $2-3/hour, lots $20-30/day.
Florida Keys
Coco Plum Beach stands out for calm, shallow waters perfect for families. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Cocoa Beach stands out for best surfing on florida's atlantic coast. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Daytona Beach stands out for only beach in florida where you can drive on the sand. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $20 daily beach driving pass; regular parking $10-15.
Atlantic Coast
Deerfield Beach stands out for international fishing pier extending 720 feet into ocean. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $1.50-2 per hour; all-day parking available $10-15.
Atlantic Coast
Delray Beach stands out for vibrant atlantic avenue dining and entertainment district. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Panhandle
Destin Beach stands out for powdery white quartz sand beaches. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Dry Tortugas National Park stands out for historic fort jefferson, the largest masonry structure in the americas. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs Ferry $190-220 per adult, Seaplane $400+ per person, National Park entrance fee $15.
Gulf Coast
Fort De Soto Park stands out for consistently ranked among america's top beaches. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $5 per vehicle.
Atlantic Coast
Fort Lauderdale Beach stands out for wave-lined oceanfront promenade perfect for biking and rollerblading. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $2 per hour metered, garages $15-20 daily.
Florida Keys
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park stands out for best snorkeling in key west with abundant marine life. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 single occupant, $2 pedestrians/cyclists.
Panhandle
Grayton Beach stands out for grayton beach state park with untouched dunes. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $6 per vehicle at state park.
Panhandle
Henderson Beach State Park stands out for over 6,000 feet of protected gulf beachfront. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $6 per vehicle (2-8 people).
Florida Keys
Higgs Beach stands out for long fishing pier extending into the atlantic. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Hollywood Beach stands out for historic 2.5-mile broadwalk promenade. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $1.50-2.50 per hour; garages $10-15 daily.
Gulf Coast
Honeymoon Island stands out for four miles of natural beaches. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $8 per vehicle.
Gulf Coast
Indian Rocks Beach stands out for popular with local families. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Jacksonville Beach stands out for 22 miles of wide, sandy atlantic coastline. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $1.50-2 per hour metered; lots $5-10 daily.
Atlantic Coast
Jupiter Beach stands out for historic red jupiter lighthouse and museum. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs $2 per hour metered; park lots $15-20 daily.
Atlantic Coast
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea stands out for only living coral reef accessible directly from shore in florida. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
Lido Key stands out for beautiful lido beach with excellent facilities. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $5 daily.
Florida Keys
Long Key State Park stands out for both atlantic ocean and florida bay access. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs $5 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4.50 single occupant.
Gulf Coast
Longboat Key stands out for twelve miles of pristine beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
Madeira Beach stands out for famous john's pass village and boardwalk. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $3-5 per hour or $10-15 daily.
Panhandle
Mexico Beach stands out for rebuilt and resilient beach community. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Panhandle
Navarre Beach stands out for longest fishing pier in florida (1,545 feet). It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
New Smyrna Beach stands out for surfing capital of florida with excellent wave conditions. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Palm Beach stands out for pristine, uncrowded beaches with powdery white sand. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs $2-3 per hour, some areas require parking permits.
Panhandle
Panama City Beach stands out for 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
Pass-a-Grille Beach stands out for historic beach community dating to 1900s. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Parking runs $2-3 per hour.
Panhandle
Pensacola Beach stands out for crystal-clear emerald gulf waters. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $2-5 per hour in peak season.
Panhandle
Perdido Key stands out for gulf islands national seashore protection. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Rest Beach stands out for spectacular sunrise views over the atlantic. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Panhandle
Rosemary Beach stands out for upscale planned beach community. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $15-20 per day.
Gulf Coast
Sanibel Island stands out for world-class shelling destination. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $5 per hour at most beach parking areas.
Panhandle
Santa Rosa Beach stands out for central location on famous highway 30a. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Panhandle
Seaside Beach stands out for famous filming location for the truman show. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Parking runs $10-15 per day in peak season.
Gulf Coast
Siesta Key Beach stands out for 99% pure quartz crystal sand. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Smathers Beach stands out for half-mile stretch of soft imported sand. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Free parking is a bonus.
Florida Keys
Sombrero Beach stands out for soft sandy beach with palm tree groves. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
South Beach stands out for iconic art deco historic district with pastel-colored buildings. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $2-4 per hour, garages $15-30 daily.
Atlantic Coast
St. Augustine Beach stands out for minutes from historic downtown st. augustine. It offers a good balance of activity and space. Free parking is a bonus.
Panhandle
St. George Island stands out for 28 miles of uncrowded barrier island beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Gulf Coast
St. Pete Beach stands out for iconic pink don cesar resort landmark. It offers a popular destination, so arrive early for the best spot. Parking runs $3-5 per hour or $15-20 daily.
Gulf Coast
Venice Beach stands out for world-famous shark tooth hunting. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Vero Beach stands out for 26 miles of pristine, uncrowded atlantic beaches. It offers a peaceful escape with few crowds. Free parking is a bonus.
Atlantic Coast
Amelia Island combines 13 miles of pristine beaches with Victorian charm in historic Fernandina Beach, offering an upscale yet laid-back barrier island escape. This northernmost barrier island on Florida's Atlantic coast delivers natural beauty, rich history, and Southern hospitality.
Gulf Coast
A charming seven-mile barrier island that preserves Old Florida character with a strict ban on high-rises, offering pristine beaches, quaint shops, and a relaxed island lifestyle.
Florida Keys
This unique nature-focused beach in Islamorada offers shallow wading areas, scenic boardwalks through mangroves, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families with young children. Anne's Beach celebrates the natural beauty of the Keys with minimal development.
Florida Keys
Consistently ranked as one of America's best beaches, Bahia Honda offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the historic Old Bahia Honda Bridge. This tropical paradise is a must-visit destination in the Florida Keys.
Gulf Coast
An unspoiled barrier island state park accessible only by boat or ferry, offering three miles of pristine natural beaches that consistently rank among America's best.
Gulf Coast
A romantic, boutique island paradise just north of Sanibel, famous for spectacular sunsets, upscale resorts, and a charming village atmosphere that feels like a tropical escape.
Gulf Coast
Consistently ranked America's #1 beach, Clearwater Beach offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the famous Pier 60 sunset celebration.
Florida Keys
This hidden gem in Marathon offers a secluded beach experience away from tourist crowds, with calm shallow waters and natural beauty beloved by locals. Coco Plum Beach provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking a quiet, authentic Keys beach day.
Atlantic Coast
Cocoa Beach is Florida's premier surfing destination and gateway to the Space Coast, combining excellent waves with rocket launch viewing opportunities. This laid-back beach town centers around the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop and offers authentic surf culture.
Atlantic Coast
Daytona Beach is famous for its hard-packed sand that allows cars to drive right onto the beach, combined with a rich NASCAR heritage and 23 miles of wide, beautiful shoreline. This iconic destination blends motorsports history with classic Florida beach fun.
Atlantic Coast
Deerfield Beach features the iconic International Fishing Pier stretching 720 feet into the Atlantic, combined with pristine Blue Wave certified beaches and a charming beach town atmosphere. This family-friendly destination offers excellent amenities and consistently clean, beautiful shoreline.
Atlantic Coast
Delray Beach combines small-town charm with sophisticated dining and nightlife along its famous Atlantic Avenue. This award-winning 'Most Fun Small Town in America' offers two miles of pristine beach and a vibrant downtown just steps from the ocean.
Panhandle
Discover why Destin calls itself the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" with pristine white sand beaches, legendary deep-sea fishing, and the famous Crab Island sandbar.
Florida Keys
This remote island paradise 70 miles west of Key West offers pristine beaches, world-class snorkeling, and the magnificent Fort Jefferson, accessible only by boat or seaplane. Dry Tortugas represents the ultimate Florida Keys adventure for those seeking untouched natural beauty.
Gulf Coast
A sprawling 1,136-acre county park featuring award-winning beaches, historic fort, extensive campgrounds, and the area's most popular dog beach at North Beach.
Atlantic Coast
Fort Lauderdale Beach offers seven miles of golden sand along the famous beach strip, combining family-friendly amenities with vibrant dining and nightlife. Known as the 'Venice of America,' this beach destination balances spring break energy with year-round sophistication.
Florida Keys
Home to the best snorkeling beach in Key West, this historic state park combines Civil War history with pristine natural beauty and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. The protected cove offers calm conditions perfect for families and snorkelers.
Panhandle
Discover the artistic soul of 30A at this bohemian beach community where Grayton Beach State Park's pristine dunes meet a charming village of galleries, local eateries, and creative spirit.
Panhandle
Discover protected pristine dunes and sugar-white sands at this award-winning state park in Destin, offering natural beauty and full amenities just minutes from resort development.
Florida Keys
This popular Key West beach offers calm waters, a long fishing pier, excellent facilities, and a vibrant local atmosphere where families and beachgoers enjoy the Atlantic shore. Located between downtown and the airport, it's convenient and well-equipped for a full beach day.
Atlantic Coast
Hollywood Beach features the iconic 2.5-mile Broadwalk, where vintage Florida charm meets modern beach resort amenities. This family-friendly destination offers a nostalgic beach town atmosphere with pristine sand and endless ocean views.
Gulf Coast
A natural barrier island state park featuring four miles of beautiful beaches, world-class shelling, and abundant wildlife just minutes from Dunedin.
Gulf Coast
A laid-back residential beach community beloved by locals, offering a quieter alternative to busier neighboring beaches while maintaining excellent access and amenities.
Atlantic Coast
Jacksonville Beach offers 22 miles of wide sandy beaches with a casual, surf-friendly atmosphere and vibrant pier district. This accessible beach town combines excellent waves, family amenities, and a thriving local restaurant scene just minutes from Jacksonville's urban center.
Atlantic Coast
Jupiter Beach offers pristine natural beauty with the iconic red Jupiter Lighthouse standing guard over turquoise waters and white sand beaches. This upscale yet relaxed beach community is renowned for sea turtle nesting and excellent diving opportunities.
Atlantic Coast
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a charming village known as the Shore Dive Capital of Florida, featuring the only living coral reef directly accessible from the beach. This walkable beach town offers world-class snorkeling and diving just steps from shore in a quaint, Old Florida atmosphere.
Gulf Coast
An upscale barrier island just south of downtown Sarasota, featuring pristine Lido Beach, the famous St. Armands Circle shopping district, and easy access to cultural attractions.
Florida Keys
This scenic state park combines ocean and bay beaches with extensive nature trails through tropical hardwood hammock and mangrove wetlands. Long Key offers a nature-focused beach experience perfect for kayakers, hikers, and those seeking a quieter Keys adventure.
Gulf Coast
An exclusive 12-mile barrier island resort destination featuring upscale resorts, championship golf courses, and pristine beaches perfect for a luxurious Gulf Coast getaway.
Gulf Coast
A vibrant beach town centered around the popular John's Pass Village boardwalk, offering excellent fishing, waterfront dining, and a perfect blend of beach relaxation and entertainment.
Panhandle
Experience the resilient spirit of this rebuilt beach town offering uncrowded shores, excellent fishing, and authentic small-town charm following its remarkable recovery from Hurricane Michael.
Panhandle
Escape to "Florida's Most Relaxing Place" where pristine white sands, the longest fishing pier in Florida, and uncrowded beaches create the perfect tranquil getaway.
Atlantic Coast
New Smyrna Beach is known as the surfing capital of Florida, offering consistent waves and a charming small-town atmosphere. This artistic coastal community combines world-class surf breaks with a historic downtown and pristine 13 miles of beach.
Atlantic Coast
Palm Beach epitomizes luxury and elegance with its pristine shoreline, upscale resorts, and world-renowned Worth Avenue shopping. This exclusive island paradise offers a refined beach experience in one of Florida's most prestigious communities.
Panhandle
Stretching 27 miles along the Gulf Coast, Panama City Beach delivers spring break energy, family-friendly piers, and stunning emerald waters perfect for beach lovers of all ages.
Gulf Coast
A historic, quiet beach town at the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, offering Old Florida charm, a quaint downtown area, and uncrowded beaches perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Panhandle
Experience sugar-white sands and emerald waters on Santa Rosa Island, home to the legendary Blue Angels and family-friendly Quietwater Beach Boardwalk.
Panhandle
Escape to one of Florida's last undeveloped barrier islands where Gulf Islands National Seashore protects pristine beaches, towering dunes, and abundant wildlife.
Florida Keys
This peaceful eastern Key West beach offers stunning sunrise views, calm waters, and a quiet escape from the more crowded tourist beaches. Rest Beach provides a serene setting perfect for morning meditation, gentle swimming, and enjoying natural beauty.
Panhandle
Experience upscale 30A living in this meticulously planned community featuring cobblestone streets, Caribbean-inspired architecture, and exclusive beach access with world-class dining and shopping.
Gulf Coast
A world-renowned shelling destination featuring 15 miles of pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and a commitment to natural preservation that makes it one of Florida's most unique islands.
Panhandle
Explore the heart of the 30A corridor where rare coastal dune lakes meet pristine beaches, surrounded by boutique communities, farm-to-table dining, and authentic Panhandle charm.
Panhandle
Step into the iconic New Urbanist town made famous by The Truman Show, where pastel cottages, white picket fences, and pristine beaches create a picture-perfect coastal experience.
Gulf Coast
Famous for its 99% pure quartz sand that stays cool in the sun, Siesta Key Beach consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful beaches.
Florida Keys
Key West's largest and most popular public beach stretches along South Roosevelt Boulevard with soft sand, swaying palm trees, and endless water sports. This vibrant beach offers the quintessential tropical island experience with plenty of amenities and activities.
Florida Keys
Marathon's premier family-friendly beach features soft sand, swaying palm trees, calm shallow waters, and excellent facilities making it perfect for a relaxing day. This well-maintained local favorite offers a quintessential Keys beach experience without the crowds.
Atlantic Coast
Miami's world-famous South Beach combines stunning Art Deco architecture with vibrant nightlife and pristine white sand beaches. This iconic destination offers the perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and ocean paradise.
Atlantic Coast
St. Augustine Beach offers pristine Atlantic coastline just minutes from America's oldest city, combining historic charm with excellent surfing and family-friendly amenities. This laid-back beach community provides the perfect complement to exploring St. Augustine's colonial heritage.
Panhandle
Discover a peaceful barrier island sanctuary where 28 miles of pristine beaches, a renowned state park, and laid-back island living create the ultimate escape from mainland crowds.
Gulf Coast
A classic Florida beach destination featuring the iconic pink Don CeSar hotel, powdery white sand, and a vibrant beachfront scene perfect for families and sunseekers alike.
Gulf Coast
Known worldwide as the Shark Tooth Capital, this charming beach town offers exceptional fossil hunting, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming downtown area with Old Florida character.
Atlantic Coast
Vero Beach epitomizes the Treasure Coast's upscale yet relaxed character with pristine beaches, excellent shopping and dining, and a thriving arts scene. This sophisticated coastal town offers natural beauty and cultural amenities in an uncrowded, Old Florida setting.