The 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Florida
Florida attracts millions of tourists every year for a reason. With incredible beaches, famous theme parks, and unique culture, there are several beautiful vacation destinations for visitors. Here are the 10 most beautiful places to visit in Florida.
With over 400 towns located in Florida, it can be hard to know where to start.
Millions of tourists visit Florida each year. You won’t have time to visit all the vacation destinations, so make the best of your time by planning ahead.
Read below to discover the 10 most beautiful places to visit in Florida.
1. Key West
Key West is one of America’s Caribbean Islands. Gingerbread mansions and palm-lined streets show off the island’s history and natural beauty.
Spend your days snorkeling, golfing, shopping or enjoying water sports. During the evening stop by any of the world-class restaurants. Later, join in on the fun with the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.
For more helping getting to and traveling around Key West, view this helpful guide.
2. Miami Beach
Miami Beach is one of the best Florida vacation spots. U.S. News and World Report rank Miami Beach as the second-best nightlife scene in the United States.
Don’t fret if the clubs aren’t your scene. Cuba has a large influence on Miami Beach’s food, entertainment, and architecture. Don’t forget to check out South Beach and enjoy the beautiful waters.
If you’re looking for a place to stay during your trip, check out these hotel recommendations.
3. Disney World
Disney World is the happiest place on earth. You can’t plan a trip to Florida without stopping by to join Mickey and his friends on an adventure.
Disney World offers many beautiful attractions. During your visit, make sure to check out the following locations:
- Morocco Pavilion
- Polynesian Resort grounds
- Disney’s Boardwalk
- Grand Floridian lobby
- Magic Kingdom’s entrance
The four main parks offer entertainment for both young and old. Adults will enjoy eating and drinking their way through the World Showcase in Epcot. Magic Kingdom is a great place for families with fun rides like Splash Mountain.
4. Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach spans three miles of the Pinellas Peninsula on the Gulf Coast.
Clearwater Beach’s claim to fame is inside the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The aquarium is home to Winter the Dolphin, the star of the movie Dolphin Tale. Winter is a sight to see as she swims with a prosthetic fin.
Take to the sea with a variety of boat trips. Try Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Tours or Yacht Starship Dining Cruises.
5. Sanibel Island
If you’re looking for a calm and relaxing vacation, Sanibel Island is the place for you. The gulf coast island is well-known for its uncrowded beaches. Everyone will enjoy searching the sand for the perfect seashells. Beachgoers have named the act of shelling the Sanibel Stoop.
When you and your family aren’t soaking up the sun, stop by J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This is a great place to catch sight of herons and ospreys.
6. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg holds the record for the most consecutive days of sunshine, 768 days. With weather like that, this is a top Florida vacation spot. St. Petersburg has over seven miles of waterfront parks and white sand beaches.
Art lovers can enjoy the Dali Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts. With over 1,000 festivals each year, there’s an event catered to every interest.
7. Sarasota
Sarasota is one of the best places to visit in Florida for nature lovers. Myakka River State Park is one of the state’s largest parks. It consists of 58 miles of prairies, wetlands, and pinelands.
Once you’re done exploring the state park, check out these other nature-loving spots:
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
- Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
- Sarasota Jungle Gardens
If you need a break from the outdoors, make sure to visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum.
8. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is a 14-mile-long, half-mile-wide island. The island consists of luxurious homes and wealthy residents. The most notable residents include the Vanderbilts, the Kennedys, and the Rockefellers.
When you’re done searching for celebrities, check out the fine dining restaurants. Families and nature-lovers should make time for John D. MacArthur State Park. The park is a great place to view marine life and take a nature walk.
9. Pompano Beach
Pompano Beach has some of the warmest and clearest waters. Take advantage of the wonderful waters by going deep sea fishing or paddle boarding.
Visitors to Pompano Beach must take advantage of the scuba diving opportunities. The area is home 10 18 shipwrecks and multiple miles of reefs. The Gulfstream current creates perfect conditions for drift diving or valet diving.
Consider these safety tips before you embark on your scuba diving adventure:
- Continuously practice your skills
- Use a buddy system
- Don’t hold your breath
- Always check your gear
- Know your limits
- Regularly check your gauges
One of the most notable scuba diving locations is Shipwreck Park. It’s an artificial reef with a sunken 300-foot tanker ship. This “dive bar” includes a casino-themed deck. At 40 feet below the surface, it’s accessible by divers of any skill level.
10. Treasure Island
Treasure Island is the Sand Sculpture Capital of Florida. Each year, the island hosts Sanding Ovations. This is a Master Cup Sand Sculpting Competition and music festival all in one. This four-day festival is a sight to see.
The island is a barrier island with four miles of Gulf beachfront. The beaches are home to world’s longest waterfront bar, Gators Cafe & Saloon. You’ll need several days to explore this island and all it has to offer.
Beyond the Places to Visit in Florida
To be able to see all the best places to visit in Florida, you should plan your trip carefully. Look into RV rentals or home rental opportunities to save money and extend your trip.
Consider the following free ways to enjoy Florida while saving money:
- Spend a day reading, shelling or building sand castles on the beach.
- Take a hike along any of the popular trails.
- Window shop for the most unique souvenirs.
- Find a local festival or free concert.
- Talk to locals to discover more ways to have fun.
If you’re ready to book your next trip to Florida, read more about our tourist tips for frugal families.
