This offbeat historic hotel is the classic place to stay in Vero, a laid-back beach town that charms visitors with its funky Florida history, gorgeous beaches and cute downtown.
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…
Two Florida favorites grace 2024 list of Best Beaches in America
Both beaches are on Florida’s Gulf Coast and are perennial favorites of “Dr. Beach,” whose annual Best Beaches in America list is highly regarded.
Dramatic Washington Oaks beach is lined with sculpted rocks
Florida has miles of beaches, but nothing like the Washington Oaks State Park beach, lined with coquina rocks that wind and surf have turned into sculpture. It’s located in Flagler Beach, where the sand looks like it has been sprinkled with cinnamon.
Siesta Key kayaking trail: Paddle a pretty Sarasota waterway
Siesta Key is famous for its top-ranked beaches, but this kayak trail is another reason to visit. It takes you through a bird-filled preserve to a beach accessible only by boat. The origin of this beach involves the fascinating tale of Midnight Pass, which some locals want to restore.
Barefoot Beach, one of best beaches in America, is wild and wonderful
Barefoot Beach in Bonita Springs occupies one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest coast.
Fort Myers Beach: Work ongoing after hurricanes, but Margaritaville Resort is open
Fort Myers Beach was a charming Old Florida town, but Hurricane Ian blasted it. More than a year later, much damage remains and you see it everywhere. But a big Margaritaville resort is opening in December, which can help turn things around.
Beach camping in Florida: Living the dream
What could be better than this? Camping within earshot of the surf, soft breezes and soaring seagulls. Beach camping in Florida is living the dream.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: Beaches that wow, rare old forts in Panhandle
Florida Panhandle’s greatest treasure might be Gulf Islands National Seashore, with an unspoiled barrier island, sand as white as snow and a rare Civil War fort whose spooky spaces you can wander.
Five Florida islands to discover while Sanibel rebuilds
Florida Islands don’t come any better than Sanibel, but while that paradise recovers from Hurricane Ian, we think you’ll find lots to love in these 5 other destinations.
Deerfield Beach: Scenic beach with a smidgen of Old Florida
One of South Florida’s most scenic beaches, Deerfield Beach is a diamond in the rough.