The best Florida beach towns are cozy and quaint, reflecting an Old Florida ambience. Here are seven of our favorites, all small enclaves worth discovering.
Best Florida Beaches
Best Beaches in Florida
Florida Rambler’s full catalog of stories about our favorite Florida beaches, many of them hidden treasures where you can find solace and sun, surf and sand, or excellent fishing. Family beaches to play and hidden gems you can only reach by kayak.
Browse our beach stories below…
Oleta River State Park feels like island getaway in Miami urban sprawl
This Miami state park is a remarkable island of green where you can kayak, mountain bike, picnic and enjoy a sandy beach. There are even rustic cabins to rent. It’s the largest urban park in Florida.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: Top beach, lighthouse & sangria on Key Biscayne
The Cape Florida lighthouse, the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County, celebrates its 200th birthday in 2025. This state park is more natural than it has been for decades. Enjoy the terrific beach, tropical hammock, tour the historic lighthouse ande dine at restaurants with great views.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve: Kayak to wild island and beach
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve fits my definition of a hidden paradise: A scenic kayak trail on a wild island that ends at a spectacular hidden beach or secret lagoon. This little-known state park in Stuart is accessible only by boat.