The entire coastline of Florida is enriched with beautiful beaches for all to enjoy. The Atlantic side, or East Coast, is known to have the best surfing conditions and offers surfers of all skill levels the ability to shred some waves. However, the Gulf Coast is known to have calmer waters with stunning tropical beaches that people will travel far and wide to visit.
Most notable, of course, is Siesta Key Beach. With the fine powdery white quartz sand mixed with the vibrant blue ocean, it's no small wonder that Siesta Key was voted #2 in the country in 2022! Living here on
, we are lucky enough to have access to this beach in most cases in under a half-hour. Joining Siesta Key on this list are several other beaches that, in our opinion, are close runners-up. All are within a stone's throw of Sarasota and have many amenities to offer visitors and locals alike.
Whether you are looking for fun beaches to entertain your out-of-town guests or play in the surf, this list of beaches will certainly deliver. Keep in mind that the Gulf of Mexico side of the state serves up small waves which makes it perfect for body surfing, skim boarding, and paddle boarding. We don't mind surfing on the small waves but then again, we are beginners. More experienced surfers may find bigger waves going North to the Tampa Bay area or to the Atlantic side for even bigger swells.
Our criteria for this list are simple, these beaches must be great backdrops for lots of fun in the water and plenty of space to spread out on the beach. The beaches also have to be accessible to the public, clean, have decent parking, and aren't overly crowded.
1. Siesta Key Beach
This beach being first on our list is, of course, expected. This beach is top-rated, so it is on the busier side of things, but the sand and setting make it worth it.
2. Coquina Beach
This is one of our favorite beaches to visit for a few reasons. One, it is not overcrowded; even on a Saturday, we quickly found parking and prime spots to set up our day on the beach. It is especially appealing to not have to be practically sharing blankets or shade cloth with our neighbors. The sand is soft and powdery, and the water is warm and inviting. The South end of the beach serves as the perfect backdrop for capturing romantic pics.
3. Bradenton Beach
Travel a little bit further North of Coquina Beach (about a 5 min drive); this beach is like its neighbors with pretty beaches and warm water. This area also has several restaurants and bars on the beach, a nice break from the sandy beach picnic.
4. Anna Maria Island
Even a little further north, you will find several quiet beach access points that are good for trying a little snorkeling and capturing family photos. When you've had enough of the beach scene, Anna Maria has terrific shops to explore and eateries worth waiting in line for.
5. Lido Key
Last on this list is Lido Key, accessed off St. Armand's Circle. With white sandy beaches and calm waters, this beach is ideal for a little romantic walk or quiet reflection. Like the other beaches, this one does get a lot of activity during the day but check out the Lido Key Resort for the perfect wedding and reception destination.
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