Miami Beach gets much of the attention, but some of the best beaches in Florida, beyond Miami, offer just as much beauty with fewer crowds. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic side, here are some of the best beaches beyond Miami.
Clearwater Beach
On Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach is famous for its powdery sand and family-friendly atmosphere. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, and Pier 60 is a hub of activity, featuring sunset celebrations every evening.
Restaurants, shops, and kid-friendly attractions line the beachfront, making it easy to spend several days here. It’s lively without being overwhelming, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a fun and balanced beach escape.
Check out Best U.S. Beaches for Families in 2025 for more family-friendly coastal destinations.
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key, located near Sarasota, boasts sand composed of quartz crystals, resulting in a cool, powder-soft texture underfoot. Families love its shallow waters and the playgrounds situated right on the beach.
Evenings bring a relaxed social scene with drum circles and casual dining. The mix of natural beauty and friendly community atmosphere makes Siesta Key one of Florida’s most enjoyable beach destinations.
Amelia Island
Located in northeast Florida, Amelia Island offers a quieter alternative to the state’s better-known beaches. It’s 13 miles of coastline features vast sandy stretches and rolling dunes, perfect for long walks and shell collecting.
The historic Fernandina Beach town nearby adds charm with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. The slower pace here is perfect for travelers seeking both beach time and a cultural touch.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a shell collector’s paradise, with its unique east-west orientation washing up an incredible variety of seashells. Families and nature lovers flock here to explore the beaches and wildlife refuges.
Kayaking through mangroves or biking along scenic paths adds to the experience. Sanibel’s calm, natural environment makes it a favorite destination for those seeking more than just a day in the sun.
Explore Hidden Caribbean Beaches Locals Love to discover lesser-known island escapes.
Fort Walton Beach
On the Florida Panhandle, Fort Walton Beach combines emerald-green waters with a relaxed, family-focused vibe. The sand is soft and white, and the gentle surf is welcoming to swimmers of all ages.
Beyond the beach, attractions like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park give families plenty to do. The mix of affordability and beauty makes Fort Walton a strong contender for budget-conscious travelers.
Navarre Beach
Often called “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place,” Navarre Beach in the Panhandle is a hidden gem. With fewer crowds than nearby Pensacola or Destin, it offers pristine white sand and clear emerald waters. Families appreciate its unhurried pace, making it easy to spend the day lounging or swimming without the bustle of busier resorts.
The Navarre Beach Pier is one of the longest in Florida, offering stunning views of the coastline. Anglers love it for fishing, while visitors enjoy sunsets that feel almost private. It’s the perfect mix of simplicity and natural beauty.
St. George Island
St. George Island on Florida’s Forgotten Coast is another underrated treasure. Known for its uncrowded beaches, it’s ideal for those seeking peace and an authentic coastal experience. The island’s state park protects miles of shoreline, offering plenty of space for walking, shelling, and spotting wildlife.
Vacation rentals dominate over large resorts, providing families and groups with a cozy, home-like base. Combined with its small-town charm and spectacular starry skies at night, St. George Island is a reminder that Florida’s best experiences are often the most low-key.
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The Takeaway
Florida’s best beaches beyond Miami deliver everything from family fun to natural tranquility. Whether it’s the powdery sands of Siesta Key or the quiet beauty of St. George Island, you’ll find the perfect coastal escape that fits your pace without the crowd.
