where to visit west coast florida

The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)

One of the most iconic road trip experiences you can have in the USA is to hop in your car and explore the best that the west coast of Florida has to offer. From world-class beaches, remote islands, trendy downtowns, lush state parks, mangrove forests and everything in between, this route offers something for everyone.

The overall purview of this route can be defined as a 660 mile stretch of road that starts in Pensacola, way up in the Florida Panhandle, and follows the Gulf coast all the way to Everglades City.

It includes iconic places like Panama City Beach, Crystal River, Tampa, St Petersburg, Sarasota, Fort Myers and so much more.

While it might only take you 9 hours to drive the route straight through, you could spend weeks diving into the best it has to offer. We took 9 days to highlight the best on offer along the St Petersburg to Fort Myers stretch of the drive.

Additionally, this guide will also offer some information on expanding your trip to include the Florida Panhandle, Crystal River, and Everglades City, should you want to add more days to your Florida road trip.

Ultimate West Coast Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Table of Contents

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:  Above you’ll find a map of our highlights in Key West, Florida. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places we mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version.

The map above features all of the things to do, places to stay, and places to eat that are recommended in this guide.

St Petersburg Area

Our west coast Florida road trip started off in St Petersburg , a place that offers a perfect blend of culture, beach, and city life. The bulk of our time was spent digging into the downtown area and enjoying St Pete Beach, rather than traveling further afield.

That said, this area is fascinating and offers a variety of towns that each offer their own flare.

You could spend a week here and only scratch the surface. We’re offering you our highlights as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to venture further afield during your visit.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the St Petersburg area, click here to watch our St Petersburg Instagram stories

St Pete Highlights & Activities

Fort desoto park.

Located not too far south of St Pete Beach is the largest park within Pinnellas County, Fort Desoto. The park spans more than 1,000 acres and offers 5 interconnected islands to explore.

It offers some spectacular beaches, mangroves, wetlands, and wildlife opportunities, among other natural environments to admire.

Most notably, it offers the chance to tour the decommissioned historic Fort Desoto. Constructed in the late 1800s, this fort has played a key strategic role through many conflicts and occupations of the land it sits on.

Be sure to check out the many cannons and wander to the top of the fort where you’ll be awarded with panoramic views over the ocean and Tampa Bay.

Speed Boat Adventures

One of the coolest ways to get out on the water in St Petersburg is by joining a follow the leader style speed boat tour with Speed Boat Adventures .

You’ll get your own speed boat that can seat up to 3 people, meaning you get to be the captain and are in full control of the boat.

You’ll follow a guide who will take you through several bays, under bridges and past dolphins while narrating the trip through speakers installed in each boat.

We had so much fun speeding around, looking at the beaches, wildlife, and areas around Tampa, Clearwater, and St Petersburg. Being in control of your own boat without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar waters makes this a thrilling adventure.

Don Cesar Day Pass

The Don Cesar is the most iconic hotel in St Petersburg and its commanding presence sits right on a spectacular stretch of powdery white sand on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect place to recharge and relax when traveling down the west coast of Florida.

If you’re not staying there it’s possible to purchase a day pass that will give you access to the pool area and beach. You’ll also be able to book spa appointments and enjoy a few other amenities during your visit. The day pass costs $75 per person and is available for purchase online or at the resort.

If you’d like to stay at the Don Cesar during your time in St Pete, consider booking the Life’s Reward Package. This includes a 2-night stay in a Dan-approved luxury suite with complimentary resort fees, complimentary Lionfish Larry valet parking and all of the Pink Palace perks.

You’ll also enjoy a daily $150 food and beverage credit to spoil yourself with coastal cocktails, beachside eats, fine dining, and a $250 recreation credit to treat yourself at the spa or go jet skiing on the Gulf of Mexico. You can book this package directly with the Don Cesar resort here , using the promo code REWARDS.

Bike Around Pass A Grille

Some of the best stretches of beach in St Petersburg can be found around Pass A Grille and one of the best ways to explore them is by bike.

We rented bikes and cruised from the Don Cesar all the way to the end and back one afternoon. This gave us the freedom to stop whenever we wanted without worrying about parking, which can be a headache.

In doing this we were able to see several different places in the area and enjoy the different boardwalks too. Be sure to pack a beach towel so you can spend some time relaxing and playing in the waves too.

The James Museum

The James Museum is one of those museums that you’re not sure you’ll like and then it totally surprises you. We spent 2 hours here because the art is incredible. Not only is the detail unreal, but each piece tells the story of the people it features.

The work in this museum is mesmerizing, telling stories of the Native Americans and how they used the land across North America. Of course, the art also carries you through history, from before colonial times, during, and after, taking you on an emotional journey.

Personally, if you only have time for one museum when you visit St Petersburg, I’d recommend this one, even though there are others in town.

Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is home to the largest collection of artist Salvador Dali’s work outside of Spain. A surrealist known for his technical skill and bizarre images; his work will take you on a bit of a magic carpet ride.

This museum offers large, tall ceiling galleries with ample room to observe and reflect on the pieces that are on display.

During our visit, we also had the opportunity to experience the temporary Van Gogh Alive exhibit. This display brought many of the works of the famed artist to a larger-than-life-size set to music from the era, as well as narrations from Van Gogh’s journals.

St Pete Pier

New to the St Petersburg landscape is the St Pete Pier. A place where people can come together to enjoy the water and culture of this area. One of the things we loved about the pier was that is mainly pedestrian, so you’re not competing for space with vehicles.

Locals utilize the pier for biking, walking, and rollerblading. It offers a few restaurants, a bar, a beach, and numerous grassy parks. We visited the pier in the evening, intent on exploring in the golden light and watching the sun go down.

Not only did we get a spectacular sunset, but we enjoyed watching dolphins swim in the waters right off the pier, too!

Participate in the Gulp Coast Challenge

If you like craft beer (who doesn’t?), then you’ll want to join in on the Gulp Coast Challenge during your visit to the west coast of Florida. Before you start, stop in at any craft brewery or tourism office to pick up your passport.

This book outlines all of the participating breweries and what you can expect to find there. Each offers a unique spin on beer and an opportunity to connect with local brewers. 

We personally enjoyed the varying atmosphere at each brewery we visited, with each one offering its own form of city oasis to enjoy.

Where to Eat in the St Pete Area

• IL Ritorno – This Italian restaurant features homemade pasta and traditional Italian dishes with a seafood flair. Everything we ordered here was delicious and we highly recommend you eat here during your visit to St Petersburg. It is a busy place, so be sure to make reservations.
• The Society Table – Located at the Don Cesar hotel, this poolside café offers a variety of seafood dishes and sandwiches in a relaxed setting.
• Snapper’s Sea Grill – If you’re looking for fresh-caught seafood, then you’ll want to put this place on your list! Affectionately known as the ‘Gem of St. Pete Beach Restaurants’, you really cannot go wrong.
• Bodega – This place offers traditional Cuban dishes in a street setting and it is wildly popular. We suggest ordering the Cuban and a hibiscus soda Fresca.
• Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille – This place is all about the atmosphere as it’s located on the water along St Pete Pier. Serving up some amazing seafood dishes, the signature Yucatan shrimp are to die for, you can order any type of rum-inspired drink, too.

Where to Stay in the St Pete Area

Accommodation options are really endless, from city life spaces to beachside getaways. We opted for a VRBO vacation rental versus a hotel during our stay in St Petersburg and were able to find the perfect balance by staying on St Pete’s Beach. We could walk to the beach and were only a short drive to downtown St Petersburg.

Our vacation rental was a super cute, newly remodeled studio in a complex that offered a great pool and free parking.

Sarasota Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a destination with a lot to do but that also offers diversity, Sarasota is a good one. The area offers a rich history paired with stunning beaches and a very upscale vibe.

Getting out of the city affords the chance to discover smaller communities like Venice, where you can search the beaches for shark teeth, or Englewood, where you can enjoy tasty food and a quieter atmosphere.

We loved that we were able to bounce easily between city life and nature here, which gives a fantastic balance for any road trip. Below you’ll find our highlights from 3 days in the area to get you started on your own planning.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Sarasota area, click here to watch our Sarasota Instagram stories

Sarasota Highlights & Activities

The ringling museum.

The first thing we did when we arrived in Sarasota was head straight for the Ringling Museum ! This museum that is dedicated to the history of the circus sits on what was once the massive personal estate of John Ringling.

Give yourself several hours to visit, as the grounds feature the circus museum, personal residence of John Ringling known as the Ca’ d’Zan, a massive art museum, and several acres of lush gardens to explore.

Sunset on Siesta Key

When the sun sets in Sarasota, the place to be is on Siesta Key . It is here that you’ll find miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that set the perfect stage for sunsets that melt into the water.

Sprinkle in some palm trees, colorful lifeguard stations, lapping ocean waves and you have the perfect place to end your day. We recommend getting there early, around 1 hour or more before sunset to ensure that you can find a nice location that is close to the water.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

You don’t have to be a plant aficionado to appreciate all that you can find in the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens . However, you will find yourself in awe at the stunning collection of orchids that it offers. This is the only botanical garden in the world that is dedicated to the display and study of epiphytes.

Being part of the Smithsonian Affiliate Network means this place is popular. If your schedule allows it, head to the gardens in the morning, right when they open. This will give you a chance to stay ahead of the crowds and the heat.

Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking on Lido Key

To put a bit of adventure into your itinerary and get you out on the water, we’d highly recommend that you book a mangrove tunnel kayaking trip with Kayaking SRQ on Lido Key.

We spent 2 hours paddling the calm, protected waters on the Northside of Lido Key where we explored both open water and mangrove forests. The highlight, of course, is being able to paddle along a narrow and shallow channel tunnel within the mangrove trees.

Not only do you get an up-close look at some of the flora and fauna found along the west coast of Florida, but you’ll be led by a local guide that will offer some insight on what you are seeing both in the water and on land.

Search for Shark Teeth on Venice Beach

You cannot take a road trip along Florida’s Gulf coast without stopping in Venice to search for fossilized shark teeth on the beach! Before you head to the waters, start your day by stopping in at Shark Frenzy , a small shop located right in downtown Venice.

Here, you’ll want to rent or purchase a sifter and scoop. To increase your chances of good finds, you’ll need this stuff, trust us. The staff will show you how to use the tools and provide you with some insight on how to find areas that will provide a good opportunity for finding teeth.

Once on the beach, be sure to use sunscreen, wear UPF clothing, and stay hydrated. Looking for shark teeth is addicting, and you’ll find that hours have gone by without you even noticing. It’s easy to get burnt or dehydrated when you’re having so much fun mining teeth from the ocean.

We found more than 50 teeth the day we were in Venice and easily highlight this activity as one of our favorites out of 2 months spent road tripping through Florida.

Sarasota Ghost Tour

If you like to hear tales of ghosts, then we’d recommend you join a ghost tour with Discover Sarasota Tours .

This 90-minute tour cruises around the city sharing all the fables, folklore, and ghost tales that Sarasota has to offer. It also includes complimentary beer or wine before your departure, so get there early!

We thought this tour was really fun as the hostess is very animated and personally connected to some of the stories that are shared about strange encounters in the city. We also liked the history aspect, shedding some light on how Sarasota was established.

Where to Eat in the Sarasota Area

• Duval’s – Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, this restaurant offers high-end seafood dishes with its own twist. Be sure to ask for a table outside to soak in the atmosphere of the city while you dine.
• Blu Kouzina – If you want authentic Greek food, look no further. Eating at this restaurant will transport you to Greece with each bite. Be sure to order a Greek salad, it is to die for!
• Sharky’s on the Pier – Who doesn’t love a beachside restaurant? Tropical drinks and seafood abound with fantastic views of Venice Beach.
• Farlow’s on the Water – This place is a bit of a gem and a total hidden oasis. Located in Englewood, it’s worth the drive from Sarasota. Be sure to ask for a table on the water.

Where to Stay in the Sarasota Area

Location is everything in Sarasota and you’ll have plenty of options from beachside to downtown. We chose to be just outside of the downtown, which was an ideal location for things both in the city and on the islands.

Sticking with our vacation rental theme we opted for another VRBO property and were able to score a super cool studio apartment in a historic Ringling building .

Fort Myers Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

Have you ever jived with a place even though you have never visited? This was Fort Myers for us. We’ve always known, somehow, that we would love this place and we totally did.

Why? Well, Fort Myers is a place that caters to outdoor and nature lovers. You can spend your time on the water, on remote islands, in state parks, hiking along trails, or paddling ancient waterways.

But not only that, it balances all of that with a social beach town and entertaining downtown area. You really can’t go wrong spending your time in the Fort Myers area.

We spent 4 days here, could easily spend a week or more, and are offering our highlights for you below.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Fort Myers area, click here to watch our Fort Myers Instagram stories

Fort Myers Highlights & Activities

Edison and ford winter estates.

The first place we stopped in Fort Myers was the Edison and Ford Winter Estates . Not only is it a lovely estate, but you have the chance to immerse yourself into the lifestyle of the famed inventors.

Thomas Edison purchased the property in 1885, when he decided to start relocating to southwest Florida for the winter. A visit includes the opportunity to tour the grounds, houses, and learn more about the people behind the inventions.

We both found this visit fascinating and insightful; it was an experience that humanized the lightbulb and automobile for us. The property is stunning, including huge gardens that overlook the water. It’s a fantastic place to spend a morning and make sure you don’t miss the museum.

Sunset Wildlife Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Fort Myers is by getting out on the water at sunset. It is at this time that you can see thousands of seabirds flying to the various islands in the area to roost for the night. This makes for good sightings and prime light for photography opportunities.

It’s also a great way to see dolphins, as they frequent the waters close to shore where they hunt for fish.

You have a lot of options for cruises, so choosing one comes down to your preferences. We decided on a pontoon-style boat as it offers more stability and room for photography. This is how we ended up with Adventures in Paradise .

The motorized pontoon offered plenty of space for people that wanted to have drinks and enjoy the view while others focused on photography. 

Jet Ski Dolphin Tour

The morning we spent jet skiing with Wind and Water Sports was some of the most fun we’ve had on the water. Not only did we have the thrill of the jet ski, but this motorized eco-tour allowed us to cover a lot of ground and see a lot of wildlife.

There were times when pods of dolphins not only approached our jet skis but also played behind them while we cruised around. We saw giant rays playing in the water and hundreds of fish and bird species during our tour.

We were also able to access the historical midden area near Lovers Key State Park from the water, which is a challenge to access from land.

Our tour left directly from Fort Myers Beach and lasted 2 hours. David and I shared a jet ski and followed our guide, who had his own jet ski. While we didn’t book a private tour, we got one because nobody else had booked for that morning!

Lovers Key State Park

The 712-acre Lovers Key State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida, offering a wide variety of activities, beaches, trails, and water access. You could easily spend a full day, if not more, exploring all it has to offer. For us, this park was where we were able to exhale and enjoy nature.

If you like to kayak, it’s possible to rent kayaks right in the park and then put in for some paddling on the Great Calusa Blueway. This is a great way to get on the water in a protected area and see Florida’s wildlife up close.

If you have time for nothing else, make a date to be here at sunset. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Florida to walk along the beach and see tall deadwood. Illuminated in the setting sun makes it an otherworldly experience.

Shelling on Sanibel & Captiva

Located just off the coast are the islands of Sanibel and Captiva . If you like to wander the beach looking for ocean treasures, this is the place for you.

With miles and miles of beaches that face the Gulf of Mexico and unique geography that both invites and traps, these islands offer mounds of shells that wash up on its shores every day in the tides.

Of course, you’ll want to get up early to not only beat the crowds but also have a chance for the good finds. Be prepared to pay for parking and bring something to collect shells with. Either a bucket or bag will do fine.

We went early in the morning and drove as far north on Captiva Island as we could. Here we found few people and thousands of shells. As the morning went on, we beach hopped our way back along the Gulf side before heading off to explore other areas of Sanibel Island.

JN Ding Darling Wildlife Drive

If you enjoy spending time in nature and seeing wildlife, as we do, then you’ll want to leave time to visit the 6,400-acre J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge . They offer a one-way drive that allows you to pull off anywhere along the way and observe what you see.

We enjoyed this drive so much we actually did it twice! Both times seeing many species of birds, alligators, and water critters. For the best light and wildlife spotting, go when they first open in the morning or later in the evening, when it’s cooler and the animals are on the move.

Something worth noting, if you have an America the Beautiful Annual Pass, it lets you into this reserve like it would any of the national parks in the USA.

Day Trip to Cayo Costa

Our last morning in Fort Myers we wanted to get a bit off-grid, so we booked a day trip out to Cayo Costa , a place that rests 24 miles from Fort Myers and is only accessible by boat. What an adventure that turned out to be.

Not only was our boat the only one there, but we got to experience the thrill of riding out a Florida storm on a remote island. Shortly after we arrived a decent storm system rolled in that brought high winds and completely soaked us.

Lucky for us, it was fleeting, and we spent the remainder of our time searching for large shells and sand dollars in large waves right off the beach. It was both exhausting and rewarding, we actually found a sand dollar!

Leaving the beaches of Cayo Costa we made our way to North Captiva, where we enjoyed lunch at a small beachfront restaurant before making our way back to Fort Myers.

Day Trip to Everglades

If you find yourself with an extra day in Fort Myers, you may want to consider booking a day trip to Everglades National Park and Everglades City. Personally, this area deserves its own set of 2 to 3 days, but if you don’t have that a day trip can be a great way to dip your toes in.

There is a variety of day trips available from Fort Myers that will offer you transportation and a selection of activities. The main ones offer kayaking, a swamp buggy experience, and/or an airboat ride.

Key West Express

Additionally, if you’re in Fort Myers and have the desire to visit the Florida Keys, it is possible to book transport there on the Key West Express . This catamaran-type ferry will have you in Key West in as little as 3.5 hours.

You will then have the option to stay a few hours before returning, making it a day trip, or you can plan ahead and stay a few days in Key West before returning again to Fort Myers. This is a great option if you want to visit the West Coast of Florida and see a bit of Key West too.

Where to Eat in the Fort Myers Area

• Pinchers – while you can find this locally owned seafood chain in a couple of different Fort Myers locations, we walked over to the location next to the Edison & Ford Museum in the downtown area. They are located on the water, so ask for a patio seat and order the seafood tower!
• Snug Harbor – this little place is located in the marina area of Fort Myers Beach, across the street from the more commercial Nervous Nellie’s. They offer a lot of outdoor seating and some creative dishes with a waterfront view.
• Mr. Tequila – if you’re craving Mexican food in Fort Myers Beach, this is the place to go! They serve authentic Mexican dishes, have a great outdoor patio, and endless chips with salsa.
• Salty Crab – for seafood on the beach, this place is a great option. We loved sitting at the picnic tables with our feet in the sand. They have a great menu, order the fish tacos! And an extensive drink menu to go with it.
• Doc Ford’s Sanibel – after enjoying Doc Ford’s in St Petersburg, we had to try it again in Sanibel and it was just as excellent the second time around. Again, order the Yucatan Shrimp , it’s an amazing dish. We also loved the Cuban sandwich and Caprese salad.

Where to Stay in the Fort Myers Area

If you want to be in the center of it all and within walking distance of things, then we would highly recommend you stay in Fort Meyers Beach. We were able to find a nice vacation rental right on the beach that offered free parking in an onsite lot.

Admittedly, it was loud in the evenings and into the night with people partying and loud music. If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to look at a different area.

It also possible to stay over on Sanibel, the mainland or a bit further down from the main area where all the bars and restaurants are. Depending on how you like to travel, this might be a better choice.

Expanding Your Florida West Coast Road Trip

The places highlighted above make up a small section of the wider west coast road trip route and if you find yourself with more time, you may want to expand on that to include more fabulous Florida vacation destinations.

We’ve personally explored more of the west coast and wanted to highlight a few areas that we really enjoyed, especially if you want to get off the beach and explore more of Florida’s natural side.

Everglades City

If you continue heading south beyond Fort Myers, you’ll pass through Naples and eventually end in the small town of Everglades City. This is the end of the road on the west coast and your only option here is to turn back around and head north or head east towards the Atlantic Ocean.

But don’t let that deter you. We absolutely adored Everglades City, it’s funky and the official gateway to the west side of Everglades National Park. That leaves no shortage of things to do when you visit.

We’d recommend spending 2 to 3 days here, if you can, taking the time for a boat tour around the 10,000 islands, a kayak trip to see alligators up close, an airboat ride, and a swamp buggy adventure into the Big Cyprus National Preserve.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to Everglades City, click here to watch our Everglades City Instagram stories

Florida Panhandle

If you want to start at the furthest north part of this drive before continuing south, you’ll find yourself in the Florida Panhandle.

Starting in Pensacola, this section of the drive also traverses through Destin, Fort Walton, Panama City Beach , and the Forgotten Coast of Florida before taking a sharp turn south.

This area has spectacular beaches and crystal-clear water, but it also offers a completely different vibe than what you’ll find in the beach towns in south Florida. That alone makes it worth exploring, in our opinion.

Crystal River

Between the Forgotten Coast and Tampa is one of the most spectacular natural areas in Florida and the jewel of this area is Crystal River .

It is here that hundreds of manatees seek protection in the warm spring waters during the cold winter weather. It’s the only place in North America that you can swim with manatees .

But that’s not all this area offers, and you’ll find a different side to Florida here. Beautiful springs abound, rich indigenous history and plenty of wildlife make it both interesting and enjoyable.

What you won’t find are beaches. But instead, miles of undisturbed natural coastline offer thick mangrove forests and the ecosystems that come with them.

We fell in love with this area on our last visit and to date, is one of our favorite places in Florida. If you can add only a couple of days to your itinerary, add Crystal River. It fits in well as an addition to the St Petersburg to Fort Myers route we highlighted above.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Crystal River area, click here to watch our Crystal River Instagram stories

You might also like:

• Essential Packing List for Florida
• How to Plan A Road Trip in 10 Easy Steps
• Ultimate USA Travel Guide
• 38 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Packing List
• Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Planner

Our Florida West Coast road trip was done in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA . All opinions, recommendations, and stories are 100% our own, as always.

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)”

NOTHING from Ft. Myers to Everglades City? Really??!!

I mean, you could go to Naples and Marco Island, but we opted not to. So rather than write about something we haven’t done, we opted to omit it. Cheers!

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Your Ultimate Florida West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

September 24, 2023

This Florida West Coast road trip itinerary brings you soft sand, art and more. Buckle up and enjoy everything from manatees to mint-soaked cocktails. It’s one way to tackle your Florida bucket list.

Table of Contents

Your Two Week Florida West Coast Road Trip Itinerary 

Forget dear old Mickey. Florida’s Gulf Coast offers wildlife of a different kind. Gentle manatees and wild dolphins that skit through sparkling surf. Scorching pink flamingoes and American Bald Eagles.

Mile after mile of soft white sand bordered by mangroves and lifeguards. Just pull up and go for a swim, no organisation required.

Let me walk you through the exact Florida west coast fly drive I did with my husband and young toddler. After that, I’ll share the other things you could add to your Florida road trip.

• Recommended reading: how to plan a road trip by yourself

Who is this Florida itinerary for?

This Florida Gulf Coast road trip itinerary leaves time for you to slow down and enjoy life.

With a toddler, it means there’s time for naps and early bedtimes and not too much time spent in the car. There’s the chance for a run-around or swim (or both) every single day. 

Restaurants are close enough to the hotels to mean that little ones won’t be too late to bed. But none of them are plastic fantastic fare.

That said, if you’re travelling without children , you could pick up the pace. You could probably spend one less night in each of the places if you’re determined to cram things in.

But pace yourself. Part of Florida’s charm involves moving slowly through her landscape, across her water. When trying to see wildlife in the, well, wild, you need time.

Day by Day Florida West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1 – 4: Crystal River

From Orlando Airport, it’s a straightforward if unspectacular drive towards the west coast. And then you get close to  Crystal River, Manatee Capital of  the World.  

The  streets drip with green , as branches fall to the floor to meet a rug of tangled tropical roots. Crystal River sits at the northernmost point of this itinerary and it resembles most people’s ideas of   Louisiana’s Great River Road : all lush vegetation, grand white houses and plenty of alligators. 

Make the most of jet lag by scheduling an early morning swim in the waters of Crystal River in search of manatees .

And then, explore the rest of the land around Crystal River. 

• Homosassa Spring Wildlife State Park , with its flamingoes, manatees and American Bald Eagles. 
• The  Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Museum traces back thousands of years of human activity through steep pyramids of shells that overlook the water.
• And the beaches. Try Hunter Springs Beach or Fort Island Gulf Beach.

Where to stay in Crystal River

The Plantation on Crystal River is a sprawling complex with a grand avenue of live oaks and 232 acres of green. It sits on the edge of King’s Bay and perfectly placed to arrange trips to swim with manatees.

Days 4 – 6: Clearwater

If there’s one place you MUST stop at on this section of the journey, it’s Tarpon Springs. 

TARPON SPRINGS

Laced with kitsch, this tiny fishing village is, wait for it,  the sponge capital of the world.

It’s also home to a proud Greek community and the two are intertwined. Around 100 years ago, when the sponge beds were discovered here, young Greek immigrants had the skills to get them out and sell them. And if you’re really lucky, you can hop on a boat for a demonstration of how this used to be done.

It’s far more daring than it sounds.

From Tarpon Springs, it’s just a quick 20 minute drive to Clearwater.

Clearwater is a fairly built up beach town, but the work from its aquarium inspired a Morgan Freeman film. Dolphin winter lost her tail in an accident and the work from the Clearwater Aquarium resulted in a prosthetic tail to help her swim. Not only did that research fuel the development of technology for humans missing limbs but it also connected with and inspired children with illnesses and disabilities. 

• Top tip: try the grouper sandwiches at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill.

Where to stay in Clearwater

The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Resort & Spa suits family travel with its spacious swimming pool and kitchenettes in rooms. With 287 rooms, it’s far from boutique but staff are friendly and rooms still feel fresh and quiet.

It’s just a short walk to the beach, local restaurants & Pier 60, the public mingling spot as the sun sets.

Days 6 – 8: St Pete

Next up is St Pete, short for St Petersburg, and awash with classy charm.

It’s only a 45 minute drive from Clearwater, making this an easy day on the road, but the characters of Tarpon Springs, Clearwater and St Pete are so different that it pays to spend enough time in each one. 

The Salvador Dali Museum

The razzle-dazzle feature of St Pete is  the Salvador Dali Museum. 

This really is a remarkable museum, with thought provoking tours, stunning architecture and better gazpacho than I had in four years of living in Spain. 

Showcasing more than 100 pieces, the museum made me realise just how much of a genius Salvador Dali was. And the bright airy space made his work feel a lot less creepy: it gave it the space to breathe. 

Stand in front of the Abraham Lincoln piece and see for yourself.

MORE ART IN ST PETE

But Dali isn’t the only big name in town.  The Morean Arts Center  hosts a permanent collection of Chihuly glasswork and lives on a whole avenue dedicated to exploring and understanding the arts. 

Where to stay in St Pete

The Vinoy Renaissance St Petersburg Resort and Golf Club shocks in salmon pink as a fascinating historic hotel with a modern extension. With lavish rooms and a fantastic breakfast service, the Vinoy offers great views across the Marina. You can walk to the Dali Museum if it’s not too hot and you have time on your hands.

• Did you know?  Fresh and funky Paul’s Landing restaurant claims to mark the spot where oranges first reached Florida. 

Days 8 – 10: Bradenton

It’s another short drive (45 minutes) from St Pete to Bradenton but it’s the kind of drive that sums up driving in Florida. Water everywhere. Blue skies everywhere. And concrete bridges sweeping across great swathes of even more blue. 

• Watch out for pelicans swooping as you make it over Highway 275.

Bradenton itself has a very different feel to the other stops on this Gulf Coast Florida itinerary.

Most visitors, I sense, zoom on past to the well-heeled sands of Anna Maria Island, leaving downtown Bradenton with a quieter, more riverside feel. 

From the 1930s historic Hampton Inn & Suites,  you can walk to through Bradenton’s Old Main Street and on to its new, creative Riverwalk, stopping off at Corwin’s for ice cream along the way.

Here splash pads and art installations wait just minutes from the South Florida Museum, home to a planetarium and some rescued manatees. 

Further afield, a car is handy for checking out the quirky Arts Village and for making a stop at two very different foodie stops: the citrus  Mixon’s Fruit Farm , which claims to serve the state’s best Reuben sandwich, and  Farmhouse Donuts,  which serves donuts called Sweet Squealing Pig and Cow Patties amid rustic home decor.

You can also, of course, drive to the coast to soak in the sand of the lovely Anna Maria Island.

When it’s time to drive on to Sarasota, stop off in the intriguing Manatee Village Historical Park en route for a look at how buildings used to look back in the pioneer days. 

Where to stay in Bradenton

The Hampton Inn & Suites Bradenton Downtown Historic District is an historic hotel with plentiful parking and an excellent location for local art, history, culture and the Riverwalk. Breakfast options are pretty simple so it’s a good time to head out for brunch.

Days 10 – 14: Sarasota and Around

It’s the shortest drive to Sarasota, at only 30 minutes or so, but you’re saving yourself for the drive back to Orlando, not to mention all the upcoming day trips.  You’ll find so many unique things to do in Sarasota , making it a place well worth visiting.

But the highlights are these:

• The Ringling Museum – half museum, half Renaissance fantasy. Founded by circus magnates, John and Mable Ringling, expect to find vast art galleries, theatre performances and bayfront gardens and plan to spend the whole day here. 
• The gorgeous  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the world centre for orchid and epiphyte research with tranquil gardens that overlook the bay mixed in with truly creative floral art.
• The Mote – The Mote Marine Laboratory &  Aquarium on City Island researches endangered species and has a 135,000 gallon shark habitat.
• Get on the water at Sarasota Bay with Sea Life Encounters Cruise with Sarasota Bay Explorers  We saw dolphins, osprey, crabs and snapper fish – and that’s not even the half of it.
• Reserve a day to drive inland to the moss and alligator wetlands of  Myakka River State Park,  stopping off in the Amish holiday enclaves of  Yoder’s  on the way there and  Der Dutchman on the way back for a legendary slice of pie.
• Shopping – St Armand’s l ines up chic eateries and concept surf stores into a compact, walkable circle (it’s another legacy of the Ringlings, through both design and the Italian statues standing on the circle.)
• Lido Beach lives just a short distance from St Armand’s, with white sand and blue water.
• Siesta Beach – ranks as the USA No. 1 beach. Its quartz sand from the Appalachian mountains leave it white and cool underfoot, and the painted lifeguard stations give its horizon an iconic, timeless feel.Beaches run for miles along Siesta Key; parking is pretty easy and access is free. 

See this article on Is Sarasota worth visiting? for more about this great city.

Where to stay in Sarasota

The Hyatt Regency Resort Hotel Sarasota has beautiful views of the marina and easy parking. The swimming pool is great for kids and it’s a good base for day trips into the surrounding area. 

How to end your West Coast Florida Road Trip Itinerary

If you can squeeze in an extra day then drive further south to Venice Beach. 

Otherwise, it’s time to pack up the car and head back to Orlando (leave three hours to be on the safe side if you have an international flight to catch.)

I hope you enjoyed this Florida west coast road trip itinerary. Please share or bookmark and have a great time in the sunshine state!

Ideas for Other West Coast Road Trips

If you have more time available, consider visiting these key spots:

Pine Island

If you want to spend a few days fishing, kayaking, or birdwatching, Pine Island is the best place on Florida’s Gulf Coast for these activities. Its small-town atmosphere, combined with the tropical plants and palms, turns it into a paradise for history lovers who will feel like slipping back in time as they cross the bridge toward the island. Be prepared to be welcomed into a friendly rural community that has been living here for centuries.

Panama City Beach

The alabaster beaches, emerald waters and sunshine make Panama City Beach a popular tourist destination. It offers a bit of everything from sunbathing, fishing, dolphin and bird watching to nature exploration at nearby St. Andrews or Pier Park. Panama City Beach is also famous for its festivals, starting with the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April and ending with the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in August.

Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers loves its watersports. Tourists come here for kayaking and parasailing and resting on the thick layers of soft sand. The beach gradually slopes into the sea, making it a good fit for families with kids or hesitant swimmers. During the warm season, two major baseball teams occupy a part of the beach along with their fans eager to see them training. Fort Myers Beach also has the historic winter estates of Edison and Ford.

No Florida itinerary is complete without a stop in Ybor City, a picturesque neighbourhood in Tampa, which was once an important hub for the cigar industry. The historic 7th Avenue, with its brick-paved streets and wrought iron balconies reflects the multicultural heritage of the city, where Spanish, Cuban, and Italian influences are still present. Stroll around the neighbourhood to discover the many charming cafes and restaurants and take your time shopping around the local cigar stores for a scent of local history.

Marco Island

Marco Island houses many of the luxury resorts on the Gulf Coast. Treat yourself with a Spa treatment and enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From canoeing and fishing to picnic facilities, this place offers you the possibility to relax far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, plus you can visit Collier Seminole State Park.

Captiva Island

Taking time to relax and meditate is an important part of life, and Captiva Island is a great place to do it. It’s a serene place with calm tides and soft sand, as well as golf, kayaking, boating, and taking drives along rows of giant cactuses.

Everglades National Park

Right at the southernmost tip of Florida’s west coast, you’ll find the Everglades. Only a one-hour drive from Miami,the 1.5 million acres of the Everglade National Park is one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. It gathers mangroves, freshwater sloughs, and marl prairies, as well as the Florida panther and American crocodile.

But the main attraction is the West Indian manatee. If you want to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat, then plan your trip during the winter season (November to April) when the population is at its peak.

Keen to travel further afield but unsure where to start? Check out our guide to choosing between Los Angeles and Miami .

Classic Sights for a Florida Road Trip

You won’t find these on the west coast of Florida but they are definitely worth seeing. So, if your Florida road trip has some space on the end, then consider adding these in.

St Augustine

This lively city on the coast of north-eastern Florida is among the oldest settlements established by the Europeans in America and a wonderful place to spend a few days. Every year, the brick-paved streets fill with tourists who come here for its white beaches and stately castles. If you are travelling with your kids, show them the breathtaking nature trails, historical reenactments, and the scary ghost tours that take place every day.

Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the greatest experiences you can have in Florida is spending a day at the Dry Tortugas National Park. An oasis combining the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico with colourful coral reefs, marine life, and tropical birds, it is accessible only by boat or seaplane, so it is usually quieter than other places in the area. Take your time to scuba dive and search for the legendary sunken treasure. And don’t forget to check out the massive coastal fortress of Fort Jefferson, which is said to be composed of over 16 million bricks.

Tamiami Trail

Although today the Tamiami Trail is no longer the fastest way to travel from Tampa to Miami, in the 20th century, when it was built, it was considered a feat of human engineering. However, if you are on vacation, there is no reason to take the faster Alligator Alley trail when you can drive on this historic route that will take you across untainted natural landscapes. Start your trip at Brickell Avenue and keep going along the border of the Everglades National Park. This is the best portion of the trail so take it slow, admire the birds and the blue sky and give yourself time to meditate.

Cape Canaveral

If you want to get as close as possible to the place that served as a launch pad for many of America’s space exploration programs, don’t miss the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. You will learn a lot of interesting things here, like, for example, how the International Space Station was built or how satellites are repaired. You can also meet real astronauts and even attend a launch event. But this is not all. Cape Canaveral is also known for its cruise ship port, fine restaurants and friendly hotels and inns.

Fort Pierce

The nights on Fort Pierce’s historic waterfront are spectacular, as all its restaurants, bars, and hotels start shining under the blueish-black Florida sky. One of the oldest communities on the east coast, the region is still bustling with life, offering excellent shopping opportunities and music events held inside a historic theatre.

Blue Spring State Park

Housing one of the largest springs in Florida, Blue Spring Park functions as a sanctuary for the West Indian manatee which needs warm waters to survive throughout the winter. Unlike in Crystal River, however, you are not allowed to swim with them here. On the other hand, you can practice canoeing or boating. You can even spend the night inside the reservation at one of the air-conditioned cabins or campsites on the premises.

West Palm Beach

If you are looking for a more luxurious location, the upscale shops and restaurants at West Palm Beach should offer the requisite razzle dazzle. Get ready for days spent in the sunshine of Florida’s Atlantic coast, sipping tropical cocktails and swimming in some of the bluest waters in the country. When you get bored of the beach, head to the Norton Museum of Art to see big names like Gaugin, Brancusi, or Rodin.

New Smyrna Beach

With its artistic vibe, New Smyrna Beach is a cosmopolitan town that is a favourite with surfers. It also has a reputation for strong eco-tourism.

Universal Studios

Get ready to take the Hogwarts Express or teleport yourself to Diagon Alley. Universal Studios Florida is ready to entertain. The Transformers studio is also very popular at the moment, and a fight against the Decepticons takes place multiple times a day. Bring the kids and offer them an unforgettable cinematic adventure.

Ocala National Forest

A world-famous natural site for its wonderfully large number of bird and animal species, Ocala National Forest attracts many adventurers every year. Join the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail through scented pine forests or put on your boots and spend half a day hiking. Migratory birds circle the tops of the trees while woodpeckers keep on with their ‘chores’ on this restful, natural place.

Key Largo is all about luxury and relaxation, so be prepared to be dazzled. Scuba diving is a way of life here, and people love to go scavenging for lost treasures in the deep waters. For those less adventurous, an underwater hotel offers the opportunity to spot the dolphins without getting wet.

Travel Tips for the United States

• Leave plenty of time to arrange your visa. Most standard visas can be arranged online for a small fee but you will be checked before you board your flight. 
• Get ready to tip up to 20% for things you never imagined you’d need to tip for. 
• Pack a US two-pronged travel adapter . 
• Pack a lightweight jumper or cardigan. Air conditioning inside can be fierce!
• Watch out for “resort fees” – extra charges from some hotels for using the pool or other facilities. Always ask at check in to get some clarity. 

Miami Beach

If you’ve heard that Miami beach is all about splurging, you’ve got it right. The whole place is upscale, with luxury shopping centres and fine restaurants. Add in the Art Deco architecture and historic landmarks and the place is a dream. For more serious pursuits, check out the Holocaust Memorial and Ancient Spanish Monastery

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is the motorsports beach. Here you can see the annual Daytona 500 racing event and even drive your own car on some portions of the beach if you are willing to pay a fee. If you are up for a special church service, you just need to park your car in front of the Daytona Beach Drive-In Church, turn on your radio, and select the right frequency to hear the pastor.

Fort Lauderdale

The ‘Venice of America’ is famous for the vast structure of waterways and canals that languish over a distance of 165 miles. Fort Lauderdale is a great place to take photos along its signature white wall which extends along the historic waterfront.

• Recommended Reading: How to Plan Your San Francisco to Santa Barbara Road Trip

Amelia Island

On Amelia Island, you can take a guided horse ride along the shore or explore the Atlantic Ocean in search of dolphins and whales. At the end of the day, emjoy a delicious dinner close to the beach at one of the many 5-star restaurants famous for their seafood.

Sick of the beautiful but overcrowded Florida beaches? Check out Vero Beach for its small-town atmosphere and cosy shores, where you have higher chances of seeing turtles hatching and heading to the ocean. This elegant city has plenty of shops and restaurants but none of the towers that dominate Miami Beach.

More on Travel in Florida and the Deep South

• The best road trips for couples in the US
• How to put together the perfect Florida bucket list
• Driving the Great River Road in Louisiana
• What is Miami famous for?
• Planning a road trip from New Orleans
• The best road trip itinerary through Alabama

Disclosure:  We worked in partnership with some great companies to help put this trip together, while always keeping the right to write what we want, the way we want, of course (it gets a bit pointless otherwise.) If you book through links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Top 10 Best West Coast Florida Towns

Florida has a very long coastline, so there is a boatload of places to choose from when visiting the Sunshine State.

While the east and west coast of Florida are great places to visit, this article will explore the ten best west coast towns in Florida that are situated on the Gulf of Mexico rather than the Atlantic Ocean.

Depending on what interests you, whether it ’ s a place to retire peacefully, golf courses on the beach, party towns, or a town with tons of restaurants and bars, there is something for everyone on this list.

Famous for the white, sandy beaches, pristine waters, and lively atmosphere, the gulf coast is a great place to explore.

So get ready for relaxing days on the beach, snorkeling, and swimming as much as your heart desires, these west coast beach towns in Florida are great places to visit.  

Best West Coast Florida Towns

1. bonita springs, florida.

Situated near popular cities, including Naples, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral, Bonita Springs is the perfect place to visit if you want a calmer environment while still being able to head into the city.

It has great nightlife and a nice suburban feel. Bonita Springs is located on mainland Florida and also has barrier islands off the coast.

The Estero Bay separates Bonita Bay from Hickory Island and several other barrier islands, which are all part of Bonita Springs.

Some attractions in Bonita Springs include Barefoot Beach Preserve State Park, the dog beach park, and Lovers Key State Park.

Which has several barrier islands and is home to dolphins and manatees. There are also tons of water activities, including tours in clear kayaks.

Bonita Springs also has a large boardwalk and dedicated swimming area so visitors can enjoy the earth’s natural swimming pools.

🏨 Stay Here: Trianon Bonita Bay – Beautiful hotel in a great location

2. Naples, Florida

Naples is most well known for being a highly praised retirement city.

Many well-off older people live in Naples and enjoy the golf courses, high-end shopping, and of course, the beach.

It ’ s a very walkable city and includes pedestrian-only areas to walk around. Naples is a very safe, easy-going place to visit.

The main tourist attractions include the Naples Zoo, the Naples Pier, the multiple golf courses, Castle Ovo, a seafront castle on the peninsula, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

Naples is the self-proclaimed Golf Capital of the World, so if that interests you, this city is a no-brainer.

In addition, there are many nearby parks and forests to visit, including Picayune Strand State Forest, Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Romano Aquatic Preserve, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Everglades National Park, just to name a few.

Because of Naples’s location in southwest Florida, it ’ s one of the last cities in the state on the west coast before reaching an uninhabited, natural landscape.

🏨 Stay Here: Inn at Pelican Bay – Stunning pool and property

3. Tampa, Florida

If you love sports, Tampa might be a great spot to visit. There are a lot of teams out of Tampa, including the Tampa Bay Lightning National Hockey League Team, the Tampa Bay Rays Major League Baseball Team, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Football League Team.

Other major tourist attractions include visiting Anna Maria Island and Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park. It is by far one of the best west coast Florida cities.

It ’ s also in great proximity to many day trips that are desirable in the area, including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve.

Also, be sure to check out The Florida Aquarium and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Bayshore Boulevard is also a must. It ’ s the longest continuous pedestrian walkway in the world at 4.5 miles long, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.

If you get lucky, you may also spot manatees in the Tampa Bay area, so if you love this ocean cow, Tampa is a great choice.

🏨 Stay Here: Tampa Edition – Stunning rooftop pool with views of the city

4. Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota has a beautiful stretch of coastline on the Gulf Coast. It is both in part on mainland Florida and there are several barrier islands off the coast. Visiting Sarasota is just one of the awesome things to do on Florida’s gulf coast  .

Part of the island of Siesta Key lies within the city of Sarasota. Siesta Key is famous for having one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire state of Florida.

It ’ s known for its growing art scene, gastronomy, craft beers, and white-sand beaches.

If trying out all the best food and beer is up your alley, you will fall in love with Sarasota.

As for tourist attractions, there are a few celebrity homes in Sarasota people love to stake out, including Jerry Springer, Brian Johnson of AC/DC, and Stephen King.

There are also several excellent museums and a botanical garden.

🏨 Stay Here: Art Ovation – Awesome roof top bar and pool

5. St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg has popular tourist attractions and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year.

It also has a vibrant nightlife scene, many museums, art districts, and more fun to be had. It ’ s another popular location among retirees for its amazing beaches and relaxing art environment.

With various art museums and opportunities for art education, it ’ s a great place for those who love fine arts to explore.

Some of the street art will leave you baffled by its intricate details and colors. Which means they make great Instagram photos.

St. Pete is also one of the sunniest places in Florida and is the self-proclaimed Sunshine City after the Sunshine State.

The hipster city is the perfect place to explore and is a nice place to sit on the beach enjoying the views and the warm weather.

🏨 Stay Here: Hollander Hotel – Awesome decor and inviting pool

6. Fort Myers, Florida

This city is another popular location for the retired population. It ’ s a very accessible city because it ’ s home to an international airport, lots of shopping, restaurants, bars, and some top golf courses.

The downtown area is adorable and great for walking around. Fort Myers is often nicknamed the City of Palms because of all the palm trees that line the city.

It sits on the Caloosahatchee River, so Fort Myers isn ’ t actually on the beach. It is often confused with Fort Myers Beach, located on Sanibel Island, a barrier island off the Gulf of Mexico.

Both are great places to enjoy on the West Coast.

Regarding tourist attractions, people enjoy visiting Estero Island, Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Regional Park, Manatee Park, JetBlue Park, Sanibel Island, and more.

Fort Myers is also known for its food and craft beer scene.

🏨 Stay Here: Luminar Hotel – Can’t beat this location

7. Venice, Florida

Venice has an offshore coral reef, so it ’ s known for its surreal surfing conditions.

At Caspersen Beach, you can also find tons of shark teeth which is a fun activity when walking along the sand.

Venice Beach is the most popular place in the city, though not to be confused with Venice Beach, California, a neighborhood in Los Angeles or Venice, Italy.

For tourist attractions, the Venetian Waterway Park has lots of trails along the water.

In addition, there are several other great parks, including Centennial Park, with an interactive fountain, Oscar Scherer State Park, and West Blalock Park, to name a few.

Venice also has a historic downtown which is charming and filled with small boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and other establishments on palm tree-lined streets.

🏨 Stay Here: Inn at Venice Beach Florida – Top location in Venice Beach

8. Cape Coral, Florida

This West Coast city in Florida is best known for its many canals that run through Cape Coral, 400 miles of canals, in fact.

The City sits where the Caloosahatchee River meets the bay and into the ocean.

It ’ s even been called the Waterfront Wonderland because there is so much waterfront to enjoy with that many miles of canals.

It ’ s also situated just across from Fort Myers, another popular city worth visiting. It can sometimes be overlooked because it ’ s on the river rather than the ocean.

Still, you ’ d be missing out because there is so much to do here, including a wide array of water activities from jet skiing, to boat tours, to Sunsplash Family Water Park.

Sirenia Vista Park is home to manatees and leads to Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve by kayak, where you can explore the birds, mangroves, and other wildlife. Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is another great area to explore by kayak.

It ’ s another popular retirement location because of its beautiful environment and appealing entertainment opportunities.

🏨 Stay Here: Westin Cape Coral – Beautiful hotel right on the marina in Cape Coral

9. Dunedin, Florida

Dunedin is located on mainland Florida but includes two islands: Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island, which are linked by the Dunedin Causeway.

Both islands have state parks with lots of wildlife and opportunities to swim, kayak, and explore. In addition, the downtown area has many shops, dining, and bars to indulge in.

Visitors will love Hammock Park, which is right in downtown Dunedin and has owls, woodpeckers, and a butterfly garden.

It ’ s a more quiet and relaxed city than some of its neighbors, so if you ’ re looking for a place to visit where you can mainly focus on relaxing, you ’ ve found it here in Dunedin.

What makes Dunedin so great is it ’ s still considered a hidden gem.

As a result, it ’ s not nearly as well known as its neighbors, Clearwater, Tampa, or St. Petersburg, so it ’ s much less crowded, which can appeal to visitors. Looking for more info on Dunedin? Click here for the ultimate guide on Dunedin .

🏨 Stay Here: Meranova Guest Hotel – Cute boutique hotel that you will fall in love with

10. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is the most western city in Florida and is located on the very edge of the Florida panhandle, bordering the state of Alabama.

Located on Pensacola Bay, it ’ s a great place to relax and enjoy the calm water views. Pensacola Beach can be accessed by highway and is located on Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island on the Gulf Coast.

Another big hit about Pensacola is that it is a much more affordable place to visit because it ’ s so far removed from many other Florida tourist attractions.

This is an excellent option if you ’ re looking to travel on a budget. Another interesting tidbit is that Pensacola is one of the oldest settlements in America.

There is a ton of history to uncover with original Spanish and British forts downtown. You can go on tours through the historic homes and even watch period-dressed living history interpreters who will teach you all about the history of the area.

🏨 Stay Here: Emerald Waters Beach Front Hotel – Simply the best hotel in Pensacola

Conclusions

As you can see, there are many great places to visit on the West Coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.

It can be hard to choose the best place to visit when there are so many great options to consider.

We hope you found a place on this list that is right for you!

Whether you ’ re looking to relax by the water, kayak in the wildlife, spot sea animals or enjoy a great meal along the water, there is something here for everyone.

All you have to do now is choose the best city on the Gulf Coast for you. Get packing because the West Coast of Florida is calling your name.

Recommended Reading

• Florida Vacation Packing List
• Best Small Beach Towns in Florida
• Best Walkable Beaches in Florida

Related Posts

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

Top 11 Small Beach Towns in California

Best Beach Towns in Southern California

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

14 Beautiful Florida Gulf Beaches On The West Coast

December 23, 2020 //  by  Florida Trippers

Wondering which Florida Gulf Beaches to visit? It can be so overwhelming to choose. There are so many incredible Florida west coach beaches each unique in its own way. In this article, we will walk you through what we feel are the best beaches in the Gulf of Florida. We will give you all the information you need to decide which one of the gulf coach beaches to visit first.

From the popular Clearwater Beach to the lesser know Port St.Joe Florida gulf beaches are we feel among some of the best in the world.  There is a beach for every personality type and every experience. There are beaches great for surfing, beaches great for shelling , family beaches, dog beaches, really pretty beaches even nude beaches .  Florida draws a diverse array of visitors each year to its 825 miles of beaches.

Most Florida gulf shore beaches have the same relaxing warm waters, powder white sand, and a tropical feel but they each have a distant vibe.  Some are more relaxing with few amenities; others go full out offering everything. Some are beaches loved by surfers others are very family-friendly. Some are more quirky and some are picture-perfect.

So are you ready for us to take your through our picks of the best?

Siesta Key Beach

One of the Florida Gulf beaches great for families. Named after the Spanish word for a nap this beach is a great place to relax and rejuvenate. This is truly one of the best things to do on the West Coast Of Florida!

Ranked the #1 Beach in the U.S. in 2020 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™ it is one that just has to go on your list.

With quartz-crystal powdery sand, tranquil waves and the Florida sun this beach is perfect. Lots of watersports and boat rentals are available and you can even attend yoga classes in the morning.

In the evening the beach bars are the place to be or sampling the local seafood at one of the restaurants.

There is a large car park and all the amenities you would expect, there is even a free trolley to take you around the town if you get bored of the beach.

This is one of the beaches in the Gulf of Florida that really will suit most people. It’s what most of us picture as the perfect beach. It’s only a short drive from Sarasota so you can easily combine it with a trip there.

Beer Can Island

Don’t let the name put you off this beach. This is not Beer Can Island that was named after beer cans left from day-trippers and now turned into a party island. No, this is the other one.

This Beer Can island also know as Greer Island is near Sarasota and is in  Longboat Key. This spot is magical and beautiful and it took my breath away.

It can be tricky to find so make sure you read this article to find out the exact location. Tips For Visiting Beer Can Island (Longboat Key)

This is one of the Florida gulf beaches that will offer you seclusion. There is no parking and it’s a bit of a trek through some mangoes to get to but nothing strenuous. However, if you go at the weekends it is likely to be crowded.

What’s unusual about this beach is all the fallen trees and driftwood on it. It makes the beach look like a movie set and makes for some amazing photographs. And a visit at sunset because honestly, it’s gorgeous.

This is one of Terrence’s’ favorite spots and I love it too.

Honeymoon island

One of the Florida gulf beaches within a state park. The disadvantage is that it costs to get in($8 per vehicle), the advantage is there is a lot more to do. Before you go make sure you read our Tips For Honeymoon Island State Park: A Florida Gem.

Honeymoon Island State Park has 4 miles of beaches although there are only several areas that are good for swimming. The three popular beaches are Main Beach, North Beach, and Dog Beach.

Main beach is the beautiful typical Floridan type beach, North Beach is like a smaller scale Beer Can Island beach and is great for shelling. Dog Beach speaks for itself.

What we love about a trip here is that there is so much more than just the beach. The surrounding area is also well worth exploring and it makes a lovely day out.

Fort De Soto

If you like your Florida gulf beaches to have a bit of history then Fort De Soto Park is just what you are looking for.

This park has it all, beaches, waterways, forts to explore, and a unique history. Southwest of St Petersberg the park consists of five offshore islands. There is parking with a $5 fee but the park is free to enter.

The largest park in the Pinellas County Parks system there really is something for everyone here.

There are 7 miles of coastline in the park and a few different beaches to explore. The popular ones are North Beach and East Beach.

North Beach is the more popular, East beach less so. There is also a beach near the fort but it is smaller and more prone to bugs. There is also a dog-friendly beach.

This is one of the Florida gulf shore beaches that has so much to offer and is for those who like to explore more than sunbathing, although the sunbathing is pretty good too.

Before you go check out our guide Tips For Fort De Soto: A Coastal Florida Playground .

Navarre beach

One of the Florida gulf beaches at the northwestern tip of the state just east of Pensacola.

Relaxation is the name of the game here and with 12 miles of pristine white shoreline you will be spoilt for choice

The beach is beautiful and named year after year as one of the best in the nation. The beach is famous for having the longest fishing pier on the entire Gulf of Mexico extending out 1,545 feet in length.

With beautiful white sand, emerald water this beach offers solitude and simplicity far away from the tourist crowds.

Clearwater beach

Named the #1 beach in America by multiple sources like TripAdvisor, USA Today, and Forbes. Clearwater beach is well loved for a reason.

It’s the perfect Floridan Beach, white powdery sand, crystal clear water and the gentle Gulf coast breezes. This place really is heaven.

The sand is raked every morning to keep it clean and soft and there are lifeguards on duty year-round. It’s a really safe beach with lots of amenities and even does Sunset Cinemas a few times a month.

Due to its popularity, it can get busy. However, if you head further north on the beach it does get less crowded. The best areas are near Pier 60 and South Beach.

Marco Island

Marco Island is a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, linked to the mainland by bridges. The Island is beautiful and there are lots to do other than just visit the beach.

The island offers visitors three Florida gulf beaches to choose from and they are considered some of the top in the world. You can choose from South Beach, Tigertail Beach, and Sand Dollar Island. Tigertail Beach has a tidal lagoon which is great for kayaking and paddleboarding.

The beaches are great for shelling and people travel here from all over the world to hopefully find a rare Junonia shell.

Destin Beach

We could talk about Florida gulf beaches without mentioning Destin.

On Florida’s Emerald Coast this beach wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. It’s picture perfect in ever way.

There is a lot of amenities here and things to do although it can get crowded and some say it’s a bit touristy. If you want something quieter head to Pensacola which we have spoken about below.

It’s also a great place to learn to surf and is known as the world’s luckiest fishing village.

St Petersburg Beach

Often referred to as St Pete’s this is one of those Florida gulf beaches that everyone has heard of. The shoreline is immaculately clean, the sand is soft and white and the sea is crystal clear. What is not to love?

About 40 minutes away from Clearwater these beaches sit on some of the longest undeveloped stretches of public beach.

There is lots to do here including kayaking, canoeing, speed boating, windsurfing, and parasailing.

St Pete’s beach is easy to get to and a good all-round beach that never disappoints and always seems to have plenty of room.

It’s also the home to the incredible Don Ceaser pink hotel which is well worth a visit.

Take a look at this article before you go 15 Best Beaches In Clearwater and St. Petersburg Florida .

Vanderbilt Beach

This is one of the best beaches in Naples and has the most amazing sunsets. This Florida gulf beach is conveniently located, and easy to access.

It’s a great beach to go shelling, especially at low tide after a storm.

A family-friendly beach with shallow water a distance from the shoreline and the sand makes great sandcastles.

You will feel a gentle breeze which will be a welcome relief from the heat.

This beach can get crowded and the car park has limited space so get there earlier and walk up the beach a little.

Naples Municipal Beach & Pier

If you can never being to Naples you are in for a treat. The sunsets in this area are stunning and you can often see pods of dolphins from the shore.

The beach area is vibrant and bustling and the large pier is free to fish from. The pier extends 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico so you can get amazing views of this 10 mile stretch of public beach. Also, take a look at the water and don’t be surprised to see some stingrays.

The beach has many amenities and you can pretty much get everything you need even fishing supplies.

The area around here is stunning so if you have time you might want to check out some of the other beaches in the area too. 8 Best Beaches In Naples Florida You Must Visit .

Sanibel and Captiva Island

Sitting off the coast of Cape Coral is a little gem of an island with some incredible beaches. Sanibel and Captiva Island are paradise and tend to be more secluded. Once you have found this place you won’t want to leave.

The beaches are unique since they have an east-west orientation when most islands have a north-south orientation. This makes them not only perfect but great for shelling.

There are so many beaches in this area we suggest you look here so you can make the best decisions.

We tend to prefer the pristine and quiet Bowman’s Beach or Captiva Beach which has been nominated for the Best Restored Beach in three different categories.

Whichever beach you choose we know you will be as charmed with this area as we are.

Port St. Joe

This beach is not only on Florida’s forgotten coast but it’s also here where the Eastern Time Zone meets the Central Time Zone

The area including St. Joe Beach and WindMark Beach is often just called ‘The Beaches’. It’s a laid back place with incredible sunset views.

Port St. Joe, call itself ‘a small beach town with a big heart’ and you instantly feel at home here. Nestled in the panhandle of the Sunshine State the beaches are pristine and unspoiled.

The mosquitos here can be quite bad so make sure you take some bug spray.

Pensacola Beach

A list of Florida gulf beaches wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Pensacola . The water is crystal clear, the sand sugar white and it’s pretty good for surfing too.

Nearly eight miles long this beautiful beach is on the 40-mile-long Santa Rosa barrier island. Surrounded on either side by the federally protected Gulf Islands National Seashore.

There is lots to do here including swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

Also, make sure you visit the 1,471 feet long Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier and Observation Post, the views are stunning.  

Whichever one of these Florida gulf beaches we know you will have a great time. The challenge with writing an article about Florida gulf shore beaches is that you have to leave lots out. Most notably Treasure island , Mexico Beach and Venice Beach.

However, the great thing about gulf coast beaches is that a lot of them are close together so you can visit more than one in a day. Please let us know which one you choose to visit and if you have any you would like to add let us know in the comments.

Best Vacation Spots On The West Coast Of Florida, Unveiling Florida’s Coastal Treasures

Last Updated on January 3, 2024 by Dr. Shannon Barrett

Choosing the best vacation spot on the west coast of Florida may feel overwhelming, especially with many beautiful places in Florida.

We’ve lived in this area for the past few months and explored the fantastic vacation spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast.  

From my personal experiences, I’ve discovered that this coastline is filled with hidden gems like the Safety Harbor and downtown Dunedin. 

This article provides a roadmap to navigate the best vacation spots on the sunny coast of Florida.

Let’s prepare to get swept off our feet by charming beach towns, majestic wildlife, and artistic downtowns!

Key Takeaways

• The West Coast of Florida is rich in vacation spots. Each spot has its charm and fun.
• Tampa Bay, Clearwater Beach, and St. Petersburg are the top places to see on Florida’s west coast.
• Sarasota has yummy food and beautiful beaches, while Venice wows with lovely sunsets.
• Other great stops include Fort Myers for history lovers, Sanibel and Captiva Islands for nature fans, Dunedin for a chill vibe, Honeymoon Island State Park for family fun, and Siesta Key, which has some of the best sand in the world!

This site only contains items I love and highly recommend.  It is reader supported and contains affiliate links.   Read more

Why choose the West Coast of Florida for your vacation

The West Coast of Florida is a dream spot for your vacation.

It’s famous for its  stunning white sand beaches  and  unique charm .

You’ll find  world-class beach towns , busy downtown areas, quiet wildlife refuges, and shady mangroves here.

Many cities on Florida’s Gulf Coast make great stops, too.

No matter what time you visit, you can look forward to  beautiful landscapes  and  natural attractions .

So, if you’re considering where to go next, pick the West Coast of Florida.

It has everything you need for a fantastic trip!

Must-Visit Destinations on the West Coast of Florida

Florida’s west coast brims with must-visit destinations. 

Clearwater Beach

Safety harbor.

• Honeymoon Island

Tarpon Springs

• St.Petersburg

Port Charlotte

• Sanibel Island
• Captiva Island

Marco Island

Tampa Bay is a must-see spot on Florida’s west coast.

It is big, covering 400 square miles!

This area has a large natural harbor and shallow estuary that joins the Gulf of Mexico.

The views are lovely!

Here, you’ll find Busch Gardens.

It’s one of Florida’s main fun spots to visit! Tampa Bay also shines in how it keeps old things new.

There are tons of century-old buildings here, but they look like new!

Check out these cool places when you’re in Tampa Bay for your vacation.

Ybor City is a historic district located northeast of downtown Tampa, Florida, and is a unique way to experience old Florida. 

Once known as the “Cigar Capital” of the world, Ybor City is now a collection of historic buildings converted into shops, restaurants, bars, and tourist-based endeavors.

They have an outdoor market every Saturday and they are known for chickens which roam the streets.

It’s one of our favorite areas of Tampa and they have some delicious restaurants.

Clearwater Beach is a  top spot in Florida .

It won the TripAdvisor award for the best U.S. beach in 2018.

You will love its white sand that came from the Appalachian Mountains!

The beach also has a lot of fun things to do.

There’s a  play area for kids  and even one for dogs.

Plus, if you use a wheelchair, you can still enjoy this beautiful place because it is easy to move around here.

And don’t worry about going into deep water – lifeguards are there to keep everyone safe during summer.

Take your family or furry friend, and have an exciting day at Clearwater Beach!

Safety Harbor is a  cozy spot  on the west coast of Florida.

Founded in 1823, this town sits on Tampa Bay’s west shore.

It’s a small but charming area, home to the famous  Safety Harbor Resort and Spa .

This resort has been around since 1925 and is marked as a  U.S. Historic Landmark .

This is one of the cutest downtown areas on the Gulf Coast.

We love it here!

There are lots of restaurants with outdoor patios and adorable shops.

You can easily spend a weekend here.

Philippe Park and Safety Harbor Marina Park offer excellent fishing spots at their piers.

I recommend planning a stay so you will be there on a Sunday so you can take advantage of their outdoor Sunday market.

Dunedin holds a charm of its own on Florida’s West Coast.

It treats you to the most  beautiful beaches like Honeymoon Island .

You can also access Caladesi Island from here.

You’ll love this place for its untouched nature and quiet beaches .

Going around in Dunedin is fun with the Jolley Trolley .

This ride will also take you to  nearby Clearwater .

Food lovers find joy here with  lots of tasty food spots .

The city  sits near Tampa and north of Clearwater , making travel plans easy.

Make sure to  stop by Dunedin on your West Coast Florida trip !

Honeymoon Island State Park

Honeymoon Island State Park  is a must-see spot.

Honeymoon Island is not far from Palm Harbor and downtown Dunedin.

This key state park is one of the busiest in Florida for good reasons. 

Bright white sand beaches  and  clear blue waters  pull people to this place.

There’s so much room here.

Four miles of beach  means plenty of space to rest or play.

You won’t feel squeezed in at all.

Want more than just the beach?

There is a  three-mile trail  leads you through a rare slash pine forest – untouched and wild.

Head north from Clearwater over the  Dunedin Causeway , and you’re there.

Pop by Honeymoon Island State Park on your trip down the West Coast of Florida.

Tarpon Springs is a must-see spot in Florida.

It has a  rich Greek history  that makes it unique.

Many Greeks came here long ago to dive for sponges.

Now, the  Sponge Docks  are a big hit with tourists.

The city sits between Lake Tarpon and the Gulf of Mexico.

This means you can enjoy lake views and beach fun all at once.

You will love walking around this town, tasting  Greek food , and  learning about its past !

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is a must-see on Florida’s west coast.

This city buzzes with  art, shopping, and sports events  all year round.

Its beaches are some of the best you will find anywhere.

You can spend hours walking in its  beautiful waterfront parks downtown .

Some stops include  Sunken Gardens ,  Fort De Soto Park , and  The Dalí Museum .

Trust me, this place has it all for a fun vacation.

Gulfport, Florida (not to be mistaken for Gulfport, MS) is a charming waterfront town with weekly markets and live music.

They have excellent restaurants lining Beach Blvd and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer than your vacation will allow.

You can walk from the beach to downtown within 5 minutes and then dance the night away at the Gulfport Casino. 

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Sarasota is a gem on the west coast of Florida.

You will love its world-class beaches with soft, white sand by the Gulf of Mexico.

This city also has an incredible arts scene to explore.

Many fine dining places here serve yummy meals.

Sarasota even has  ties to circus fun  from days gone past!

Siesta Key is a fun spot you will want to take advantage of.

The barrier island is 8 miles long and home to some of the  top beaches in the U.S.  

You’ll find great  things to do at Siesta Village , from  shopping in cute boutiques  to  eating tasty food at local spots .

If you love water sports, there are many activities here too.

Many people say Siesta Key is one of their favorite places for vacation in all of Florida.

Venice sits along Florida’s Gulf coast, famed for its  14 miles of white sand beaches .

It blends  old-world charm  with the relaxed pace of a beach town.

Like its namesake in Italy, this Venice offers waterside beauty that will take your breath away.

The old-area part of this city is full of history.

Stroll through  downtown Venice  and experience the allure firsthand.

There are plenty of things to do here, from excellent shops to world-class eats.

The streets are lined with  palm trees , and the people are warm and friendly.

This  easy-going vibe  makes it one of the best vacation spots on the west coast of Florida.

Port Charlotte is an excellent spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

It’s known for its  waterways  and  green parks .

Many people love to retire here because of how nice it is.

You can also check out other top places on the coast from Port Charlotte.

So, make sure to take advantage of it when planning your trip. 

Sanibel and Captiva Islands

I love going to  Sanibel and Captiva Islands .

They are  quiet places  with  blue water and white sand beaches .

You can see many birds there too.

If you seek a place to relax, this is it.

These islands also have  gardens that win awards  and  spots to watch nature .

When visiting Florida’s west coast, any traveler would enjoy the peace of these beautiful beach spots.

Fort Myers is a place you must see.

It sits on Florida’s Gulf Coast and attracts many people with its  top-notch beaches , fishing, and shopping spots.

This city has so much fun to offer! You can spend your days exploring the  Edison and Ford Estates  or going to Estero Island.

If you love seeing animals up close,  Manatee Park  is for you too.

No matter what kind of vacationer you are, Fort Myers has something exciting waiting just for you.

Marco Island is a must-see spot in Florida.

It’s the  most significant island of the Ten Thousand Islands of Florida .

You’ll find it on the west coast, just south of Naples.

Get ready to feel soft white sand on  six miles of uninterrupted beaches .

The Tigertail Beach area shows off some tremendous natural beauty, too.

Marco Island has abundant  palm trees  and a  unique coastal scene  that will leave you in awe.

Where to Eat on the West Coast of Florida

I’ve savored a host of mouthwatering meals at the West Coast’s top restaurants – from Tampa Bay to Clearwater Beach, and I’ll share my favorites and recommend local dishes you won’t want to miss.

So, if you’re a foodie like me, keep reading.

Top restaurants in each destination

I have found some great places to eat on the West Coast of Florida.

Each spot has its own unique taste. Here are some of them:

In Tampa Bay, Ulele stands out for its native-inspired  food and drinks.

Clearwater Beach is home to Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, known for their crab fries and grouper sandwiches.

The St. Petersburg area boasts Cassis, an American Brasserie with delicious food and cocktails.  

Sarasota’s Indigenous is famed for using local food in their dishes.

Venice’s Dockside Waterfront Grill offers fresh seafood with a view.

Fort Myers features The Veranda , an old Florida classic serving southern cuisine since 1978.

On Sanibel Island, Traders offers up delicious dishes in a cozy setting.

Honeymoon Island State Park visitors enjoy beachside snacks and drinks from the South Beach Pavillon Cafe. 

Marco Island’s Fin Bistro provides patrons with fresh fish dishes inspired by global flavors.

Must-try local dishes

I want to share some tasty food you must try on the West Coast of Florida.

Dishes that will make your mouth water.

• Cuban Coffee : It’s a robust and sweet shot of caffeine.
• Key Lime Pie : A sweet and tart classic dessert in Florida.
• Spiny Lobster : A local seafood favorite, usually served with butter.
• Gator Tails : Yes, this is real alligator meat! It’s often fried and tastes like chicken.
• Key West Pinks : These pink shrimp live up to their name with their bright color.
• Florida Seafood : Fresh from the Gulf of Mexico, it doesn’t get any fresher than this.
• Fusion dishes from Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern cuisines : You’ll find new tastes in every part of West Coast Florida.

Where to Stay on the West Coast of Florida

The West Coast of Florida offers many accommodation options, from luxury beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals.

Dive into the details as we explore the best stays that offer stunning water views and easy access to local attractions.

More awaits on your perfect Florida vacation!

Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals

Florida’s West Coast gives you plenty of neat spots to sleep. You will love these places:

Clearwater Beach Marriott Suite s

• This hotel is located on the bay with beautiful views.
• Guests love the pool and pool bar.
• It is walkable to all the great restaurants and shops in Clearwater Beach

St. Pete Beach, The Saint Hotel

• Only a 4 minute walk to beautiful St. Pete Beach
• Free Parking
• Outdoor swimming pool
• All rooms have fridge, coffee makers and microwave

Dunedin, Sunny Side Cottages

Activities and Attractions on the West Coast of Florida

The West Coast of Florida is a treasure trove of fun-filled activities and scenic attractions, from golden beaches to parks, water sports, and cultural sites.

Cultural and historical sites

The West Coast of Florida is rich in cultural and historical sites.

These spots tell the region’s unique story.

Here are some you should add to your vacation plan:

• Spanish Colonial landmarks : With ten sites, they give a peek into Florida’s past.
• Miss Potter’s Place : A great place to learn about local plants and herbs. It is located in Fort Myers, Florida. 
• Old Florida towns: Nine charming towns  offer an authentic look at old-time Florida life.
• St Petersburg’s Central Avenue : Home to many local art galleries and museums.
• Tampa Bay’s historic district : Houses buildings that date back to the 19th century. Visit Ybor City, where you can take a trip to Cuba but leave your passport at home. 
• Nature Trails in Sarasota County : Where you can discover indigenous trees and plants.

Recommended Road Trip Itinerary for Exploring the West Coast of Florida

Begin in vibrant Tampa, then drive to St. Petersburg for stunning beaches and a world-class arts scene.

Then head to Gulfport, explore its adorable waterfront, and grab a bite downtown.

Next, head south to Sarasota, renowned for its cultural attractions and historic districts.

Continue your journey to relaxed, sunny Venice; the next stop is Fort Myers, with its beautiful nature preserves and historic sites.

Do not miss Sanibel Island’s shell-filled shores.

If you prefer to head North from Tampa, you can visit the beautiful shores of Clearwater Beach.

Then, head north to Dunedin for a delicious meal and walk through the picturesque downtown.

It is a short drive from Dunedin to see the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs.

Make sure to quickly stop in the storybook Safety Harbor located just across from Clearwater on the Old Tampa Bay. 

Top spots to visit and activities to do

Let’s talk about the top spots to visit on the West Coast of Florida. 

• Tampa has many fun theme parks. You can see great shows and take advantage of cool rides.
• St. Petersburg has an artsy vibe  and unique museums worth a look.
• Clearwater ranks high as a beach destination on the Gulf Coast .
• Sarasota boasts beautiful parks and charming art galleries.
• Fort Myers houses Thomas Edison’s winter home.
• Downtown areas offer shopping and food delights.
• Wildlife refuges bring you close to nature’s wonders.
• Mangroves in Everglades National Park give a wild adventure ride.

Estimated travel time and distance

When planning your road trip through the West Coast of Florida, it’s essential to consider the estimated travel time and distance between your chosen destinations.

Use the chart below as a guide to help you plan your itinerary.

Also, if you’d love to add national parks to your travel list, consider the ultimate one-week itinerary for the  Florida National Parks , including Everglades and Biscayne.

Both are within a few hours’ drive from most of the spots on the West Coast.

Tips for Planning a West Coast Florida Vacation

Consider visiting during the off-peak season for fewer crowds.

We stayed here from September through November, a great time to visit.

The weather is warm but not too hot.

The ocean is still warm enough so you can swim.

We are not in the high season, so restaurants and beaches are not too crowded.  

Make sure to book flights and accommodation in advance due to high demand—pack essentials like beachwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

If you plan to hit the highway, remember a road map in case GPS service fails.

Stay on top of weather updates, as Florida’s west coast can be prone to sudden rainfall or storms.

Try local cuisines for an authentic Florida experience!

Related Content: Curious if AI can help you plan a trip?

When is the Best time to visit?

The best time to visit varies depending on who you ask.

March through May is a good time to come to Florida .

The weather during these months is warm but not too hot.

Also, there are fewer people here then.

Another good time to go here is between September and November.

This is when we lived here, and it is when I recommend planning your stay! 

Avoid peak tourist times to make your trip more fun with fewer crowds. 

How to get to the Gulf Coast

First, fly into one of the following airports: 

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

From the airport, you can  rent a car for your road trip . 

You need a car to see all the sights along the Gulf Coast.

There are also  Greyhound buses  if you prefer to avoid driving.

If you’re near Florida, think about  driving from home , too.

It might  save some money and time.

As digital nomads, we drive all over Florida to live in different beach towns.

It allows us the flexibility to stay as long as we want at each place.

We can also explore the smaller cities that may not have bus services. 

Packing essentials

Packing for a trip to the West Coast of Florida requires careful thought.

Here’s a suggested packing list:

• Bathing suits for beach fun .
• Sunglasses to protect your eyes  from the bright sun.
• Proper clothes for the warm weather, like shorts and light shirts.
• Sandals for walking on hot sand .
• Sanitizing items such as hand gel and wipes to keep clean.
• Bring your passport and visa, if needed.
• Have your travel insurance info ready.
• Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Debit and credit cards for visiting shops or eating out.
• U.S. dollars in cash, just in case.
• Bug protection, like bug spray, is useful.
• Sun protection like hats or suncream are also important.
• A collapsible water bottle saves space when not in use.
• A beach bag holds all your goodies while at the beach.
• Mesh seashell bags are great for collecting shells with kids.
• Cooling towels provide relief during hot days at the beach or parks.
• A portable phone charger keeps your phone powered up on long day trips out and about.
• Portable fans can be a lifesaver on hot days.
• Portable Beach canopy to provide shade while enjoying the beach. 

Recommended Itinerary for a 1-Week Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

Let’s hit the road and set out on a one-week adventure through the magnificent landscapes of Florida’s Gulf Coast, detailing day-by-day activities at prime locations from Tampa Bay to Fort Myers.

Detailed daily itinerary

I am thrilled to share my 1-week Florida Gulf Coast road trip plan with you.

Must-see attractions and activities

You will love the things to do and see on the West Coast of Florida.

Here’s what you can’t miss:

• Go beach hopping. Explore world-class  beaches such as Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, and Fort Myers Beach.
• Visit the Tampa Bay Area. It is a dynamic city with a lot of fun places.
• Try water sports in St Petersburg. You will have fun jet-skiing  or parasailing.
• Take a boat tour on Sanibel Island or Captiva Islands to explore their natural beauty.
• Visit JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife, where you’ll see many birds and wild animals.
• Take nature trails at Honeymoon Island State Park for an up-close  view of local wildlife.
• Stop by Sarasota to enjoy its art scene and famous street art.
• If you’re into golf, hit some rounds at Port Charlotte’s world-class  golf courses.

Insider Tips and Hidden Gems on the West Coast of Florida

Uncover local favorites and hidden gems like exploring the vibrant street art scene in downtown St. Petersburg, enjoying authentic Greek cuisine at Tarpon Springs, or lounging on a private beach in Marco Island that only locals know about.

Local favorite spots and activities

I am a big fan of the West Coast of Florida.

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the area.

Here are some local spots and activities I love:

• Sunbathing on Sanibel Island : This island is known for its  beautiful beaches .
• Hiking in state parks : There are many parks here. They offer  trails through forests  full of wildlife.
• Snorkeling and swimming  along Clearwater Beach in the crystal-clear water
• Sailing around Captiva Island : You can rent a boat for the day and tour around this lovely island.
• Walking through  historic sites : Florida has a rich history that you can learn about at these places.
• Finding hidden gems : Off-the-beaten-path spots such as Safety Harbor.

Places to escape the crowds

I have a list of  quiet spots in Florida .

These places let you enjoy the beauty with fewer people around.

• Honeymoon Island  – This location is less well known but still has fantastic white sandy beaches.
• Sarasota County Barrier Islands  – There are six barrier islands along Sarasota County. Many refer to these islands as “keys.” Fewer visitors mean you can make the most of your time here in peace. I recommend Lido Key and Casey Key as they are the quietest, although all are lovely.  
• Largo Central Park Nature Preserve  – Few tourists visit this preserve, so that you won’t feel crowded here.
• Fort Myers Beach in Southwest Florida, come early or late in the day to avoid large groups of people.
• JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge –  visit during off-peak hours for the best experience with fewer folks around.

Why The West Coast of Florida is the Perfect Vacation Destination

The West Coast of Florida is a  dream spot for vacations .

There are so many different things to do and see.

Pick from  fabulous beaches ,  fun towns , or  wild nature spots .

Your  perfect trip  waits for you in  sunny Florida !

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some of the best beaches on the west coast of florida.

Some of the best Gulf Coast beaches in Florida include St Pete Beach, Anna Maria Island, and Lido Key, known for their very beautiful white sand beaches.

What cities should I visit on the West Coast of Florida?

Cities like Dunedin, Clearwater Beach, and Gulfport are my favorite places on the West Coast of Florida.

Are there unique places to stay near these beaches?

Yes, you can easily find world-class boutique hotels within walking distance from any beach along the Gulf Coast.

Dr. Shannon Barrett

Dr. Shannon Barrett is a veterinarian and digital nomad. She owned a housecall practice, Island Veterinary Care, for over a decade and now travels full time. She lives in different beach towns and then writes travel guides based on her time there. If you’re looking for resources on travel destinations or how to become a digital nomad, then you’ve come to the right place! Love to bring your pets with you? Even better!

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Florida's Suncoast

Florida's West Coast beaches are full of fun in the sun activities!

Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

This stretch of 20 barrier islands and 35 miles of white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico is commonly referred to as Florida's Beach . The semi-tropical setting makes it a year-round playground for a variety of outdoor activities.

Florida's Beach, actually just a marketing name for the west-central Florida coastal area, boasts that it enjoys more sunshine than Honolulu... and that could be true. From 1910 to 1986, the St. Petersburg Evening Independent was given away free on those rare occasions when the sun did not shine. Although the newspaper ceased publication November 8, 1986, in 76 years, the newspaper was only given away 295 times – less than four times per year. No wonder this area is called the Suncoast!

St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area

Beaches are Florida's calling card and when you are known as "Florida's Beach," you had better have the sand to back it up. The St. Petersburg/Clearwater area beaches are unmatched among U.S. Visitor destinations and have accumulated numerous awards for everything from sand quality to environmental management.

Here is an overview of St. Petersburg/Clearwater area island beaches from the south to the north:

• Egmont Key is a 440-acre island distinguished by its 1858 lighthouse. It is now a wildlife refuge that is accessible only by boat. Several operators offer snorkeling excursions to the island.
• Fort DeSoto Park consists of 900 acres, including seven miles of beaches. This area has two fishing piers, picnic areas, and a unique 2,000-foot barrier-free nature trail for guests with disabilities. Popular with visitors for camping , biking and skating, the area also includes rental facilities for canoes, kayaks and bicycles.
• Shell Key has been named one of the most important birding sites in the state by Audubon of Florida. This undeveloped barrier island is known for excellent shelling, sunbathing and bird watching opportunities.
• Long Key includes St. Pete Beach and Pass-A-Grille. This area has no high-rise buildings, keeping it a unique slice of old Florida. St. Pete Beach is one of the most popular in this area and includes some of the largest resorts including the Don CeSar, known as the "Pink Palace."
• Treasure Island is one of the widest beaches in the area and plays host to several sporting activities including an annual kite-flying contest, Beachfest Food and Music Festival, and has held the Guinness World Record for the largest sand castle.
• Sand Key is the longest of the barrier islands at 14-miles and includes several beach communities including Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Indian Shores, Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair Beach, and Sand Key. This island has been the recipient of a recent beach nourishment project adding tons of powder-white sand. Fishing is popular in this area from several public piers, and Madeira Beach features John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, a quaint shopping district which overlooks "fish famous" John's Pass. On the northern tip of the island, Clearwater's Sand Key Park has been ranked among the top beaches in the nation.
• Clearwater Beach is perhaps the most popular of all the area's many beaches, especially with families. Pier 60 Park on Clearwater Beach features a family recreation complex with covered playgrounds, fishing, and concessions. The Sunsets at Pier 60 festival features music, entertainment and a beautiful Gulf of Mexico sunset.
• Caladesi Island is one of the few remaining large undeveloped barrier islands on Florida's Gulf Coast and is only accessible by boat. The island is ideal for swimming, shelling, fishing, picnics, scuba diving and nature study. The park also has a three-mile nature trail winding through the island's interior. A ferry departs hourly from nearby Honeymoon Island and docks are available on the island for private boats.
• Honeymoon Island has a long history that includes 50 palm-thatched bungalows that were built in the 1940s for honeymooning couples, but eventually were used as R&R sites for wartime factory workers. The state park features sunbathing, shelling, swimming, fishing, picnic pavilions, bathhouses, and a park concession building. It is popular with pet owners that enjoy the pet beach with their furry friends.
• Anclote Key features a picturesque 1887 federal lighthouse that stands sentinel on the southern end of the island. It is located three miles off Tarpon Springs on the northern end of the peninsula and is accessible only by boat.
• Non-Barrier Island Beaches on the Gulf, Intracoastal Waterway and Tampa Bay are also popular with visitors and residents alike. Fred Howard Park in Tarpon Springs and Crystal Beach are both white-sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico that are attached to the mainland. Gulfport Beach and Maximo Park Beach are both on the Intracoastal's Boca Ciega Bay. Tampa Bay beaches such a North Shore Park, Spa Beach and Gandy Beach offer a beach experience from the Bay side.

Attractions

Florida's Beach area offers more than just great beaches. Major attractions include pirate cruises, marine aquariums, dolphin encounters, unique shopping, museums, water excursions, and much more. Area restaurants offer everything from elegant to the most casual, barefoot dining and moonlight dinner cruises.

Getting There

Florida's Beach is only 30 minutes away from Tampa International Airport and is linked to the interstate system — accessible from Interstate 75, Interstate 275, Interstate 4, US Highway 19, and State Road 60.

Tampa Bay Vacation Planning Guide

The Top 10 Tampa Bay Beaches

Family Travel Guide: Clearwater Beach/St. Petersburg, Florida

Florida's Coasts: Going Coastal

Romantic Florida for Honeymoon Couples and Other Lovers

18 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the US

10 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida

The World's Most Gay-Friendly Beach Cities and Resorts

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Fort DeSoto Park: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Florida Vacation Destinations

The Top Beaches on Florida's Panhandle

Top 17 Things to Do in Tampa Bay, Florida

The 14 Best Beaches in Florida

• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 5.1 By plane
• 5.4 By train
• 9 Stay safe

The West Coast is one of the most popular tourist regions of Florida . It comprises the greater part of the Florida Gulf Coast, Florida's shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico which extends from the Everglades to the Alabama border. The West Coast is the portion of the Gulf Coast from Marco Island in the southwest to the Big Bend Coast in the northwest, at which point the Florida Peninsula meets the Panhandle .

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 27.483333 -82.583333 1 Bradenton
• 27.973611 -82.764167 2 Clearwater
• 28.900556 -82.593611 3 Crystal River
• 26.616667 -81.833333 4 Fort Myers - Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel and the exotic beaches of Captiva Islands.
• 26.15 -81.8 5 Naples - Enjoy the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, world class shopping, golf courses and the nearby untamed tropical wilderness of The Everglades.
• 27.337222 -82.535278 6 Sarasota
• 27.724722 -82.741944 7 St. Pete Beach
• 27.773056 -82.64 8 St. Petersburg across the bay from Tampa
• 27.9475 -82.458611 9 Tampa – the largest city in the region

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 27.513 -82.719 1 Anna Maria Island
• 25.858889 -81.033889 2 Big Cypress National Preserve
• 26.533333 -82.2 3 Captiva Island
• 29.145556 -83.041667 4 Cedar Key
• 25.802965 -81.330811 5 Everglades National Park
• 26.829722 -82.290833 6 Little Gasparilla Island
• 27.239444 -82.316667 7 Myakka River State Park
• 26.439722 -82.080556 8 Sanibel Island
• 27.275278 -82.5525 9 Siesta Key

Understand [ edit ]

Most of the West Coast's tourist appeal and population is concentrated in the densely populated coastline from Marco Island in the south to the Tampa Bay Area in the north. At the southern end of this region is the Everglades, a virtually uninhabited wetland region at the southern tip of the Florida Peninsula. At the northern end are wetlands extending to the beginning of the Florida Panhandle. In between is a region of beautiful shorelines and barrier islands with spectacular beaches, and overall economic prosperity and a high standard of living. There are a number of towns and cities named after European tourist destinations, such as Venice , Naples , and St. Petersburg , while the inland towns have more ordinary names and characteristics more like those of Florida's inland counties, such as Brandon and Bradenton .

As in much of Florida, tourism is at the center of the economy, precipitating the transition in Florida's economic prosperity from the agricultural interior to the tourist coastlines. While the East Coast is longer and has a more varied level of tourist appeal, towns in the West (at least on the barrier islands) have fewer other features such as government (NASA) or sports (Daytona Speedway) found on the other coast. However, the northern Big Bend Coast is far more rural than the rest of the West Coast region, with less tourism due to its lack of beaches.

Climate is varied from north to south along the coast. While all of the coast has hot, humid, and tropical summers, winters vary depending on latitude. The southern latitudes near Marco Island are semitropical or tropical year-round, with temperatures typically mild or warm during the winter, having a rainforest or savanna climate. However, even the southern latitudes are not as tropical as equatorial regions. The northern latitudes have a temperate climate with continental influences; winters are variable but particularly near the Panhandle, some winter days are cold.

The region has a smaller Hispanic/Latino population than some parts of the state, such as the Inland and Miami regions, and is mostly white. There is a larger Black and Latino community in Tampa, the region's main city, and a Greek community in Tarpon Springs , a suburb north of St. Petersburg. The Big Bend Coast and Southwest are conservative, while Tampa and St. Petersburg (and many of their suburbs) are politically moderate.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ], by car [ edit ], by bus [ edit ], by train [ edit ], get around [ edit ].

Public transportation in the Tampa Bay Area:

• Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) operates public transportation in and around Tampa and the surrounding areas of Hillsborough County.
• Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) serves the south Bay areas of Bradenton, W Bradenton, Palmetto, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key in Manatee County. They also operate inter-county, cross bay service from St Petersburg (Rt #203) and down to Sarasota via US Hwy 41 (Rt #99).
• Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates public transportation in and around St Petersburg, Largo and Clearwater. They also operate inter-county, cross bay service from St Petersburg to Tampa (Rt #100, 300) and to Bradenton via Palmetto (Rt #203).

Public Transportation in Southwest Florida:

• Charlotte County Transit , ☏ +1 941 575-4000 .   Charlotte County Transit is a shared ride curb-to-curb transit service provided to the general public throughout Charlotte County. Service area consists of all of Charlotte County and includes the Charlotte County portion of Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and the surrounding areas; including Lake Suzy area in Desoto County. Reservations required for pick-up no fixed route services.
• Collier Area Transit (CAT) .   is public transportation for Naples, Immokalee, Marco Island and Golden Gate City (Santa Barbara) in Collier County. They also offer connections to LeeTran in Coconut Mall in Lee County via their 'LINC' (R 600) route from Creekside Transfer Center.
• Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) .   - Public Transportation in Sarasota and the surrounding areas of Sarasota County. They also operate an intercounty bus service (Rt #99) up to Bradenton from downtown Sarasota (1st & Lemon Station) along US Hwy 41 via airport.
• Lee Tran .   operates local bus service between Fort Myers, Ft Myers Beach, Cape Coral, Pine Island (Rt #600) and Lehigh Acres in Lee County.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

People come to this region for the beaches, which are on the barrier islands off the coast. Most coastal cities have bridges to the beach towns on the barrier islands, where tourism, population density, and economy are concentrated. The beaches are wide due to the lack of terrain, and therefore are not crowded easily as they are plentiful along the coast, with many barrier islands having beaches that continue for several miles.

• Ride the tallest roller coasters in Florida at Busch Gardens in Tampa

Stay safe [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

Great places to visit on a west coast florida road trip itinerary.

Getting to the Florida Gulf Coast

One Week Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary Summarized

• Day 1: Arrive in Naples
• Day 2: Birdwatching at Pelican Bay in Naples
• Day 3 (day): Walk the Clam Pass Boardwalk in Pelican Bay
• Day 3 (evening): Cocktails at the Blue Martini in Naples
• Day 4: Drive from Naples to the Everglades to experience "Old Florida" and a manatee safari
• Day 5: Drive from Naples to Sanibel Island with stops at Lovers Key State Park and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates
• Day 6 (day): Drive from Sanibel Island to Sarasota with a stop at J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge
• Day 6 (afternoon/evening): Ringling Bros. Museum and Ca' d'Zan
• Day 7: Drive from Sarasota to St. Petersburg with stops at Weedon Island Preserve and Sawgrass Lake Park
• Day 8: Explore downtown St. Petersburg plus a drive to Tampa

Florida Gulf Coast Travel Destinations: Naples

Birdwatching in pelican bay.

Spiders on the Clam Pass Boardwalk

Funky Cocktails at the Blue Martini in Naples

Drive from Naples to the Everglades for a Day Trip

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary: From Naples to Sanibel Island

Gopher tortoises at lovers key state park.

Eureka Moments at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers

Sanibel Sunsets over the Gulf Coast

Seashells by the Seashore on Sanibel Island

Dolphins on the Beach Along Florida's Gulf Coast

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary: From Sanibel Island to Sarasota

Sanibel island's j.n. "ding" darling national wildlife refuge.

Sarasota: The Land of Art Deco and Whimsical Flamingos

Running Away to Join the Circus at Ringling Bros. Ca' d'Zan

St. Armands Circle

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary: From Sarasota to St. Petersburg

St. petersburg's weedon island preserve.

Sawgrass Lake Park

Cuban Food at La Teresita

Out and About in Downtown St. Pete

St. Petersburg Farmers Market

Craft Beer in Downtown St. Pete

Folkfest St. Pete

Fun Street Art

Brew D. Licious

Florida Gulf Coast Travel Destinations: Tampa

Henry b. plant museum in tampa.

Tampa's Ybor City

Best Places to Visit on the West Coast of Florida Road Trip Map

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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Florida, According to a Lifelong Resident

The Sunshine State has it all, but these are Florida's best vacation destinations, according to a fourth-generation resident.

Year-round sunshine, miles of beaches, and almost as many palm trees as people — what's not to love? Florida is where the world goes on vacation.

While the state eats, sleeps, and breathes tourism, deciding exactly where to visit in Florida can be the hardest part. Any kind of traveler can enjoy a trip to Florida because the state has it all: fabulous resorts , theme parks for families, outdoor adventures for nature lovers, and historical significance for the curious.

As for the question of the best places to visit in Florida, there's really no wrong answer, but as a fourth-generation Floridian, here's my take.

The Palm Beaches

Think of the Palm Beaches as a fast pass to the best of Florida. An umbrella term for the cities of Palm Beach County, the region includes spots like West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Wellington, Delray Beach, Jupiter, and Boca Raton.

The sheer diversity of activities available in the Palm Beaches is its strength. You can shop, surf, scuba dive, enjoy brunch with your pup , watch an international polo match, relax on 47 miles of shoreline, meet rehabilitating sea turtles , take a quick two-night cruise to the Bahamas , see a Broadway musical at the Kravis Center , and catch a foul ball at a spring training baseball game. Out west, you can book airboat tours of the Everglades or get up close and personal with rhinos, giraffes, and zebras at Lion Country Safari , a cageless, drive-thru zoo spread over 600 acres.

If you're after a ritzy resort stay, Palm Beach and Boca Raton have you covered. Nothing beats The Breakers — you'll be treated like royalty — but The Colony Hotel , Eau Palm Beach , and The Boca Raton are harbingers of a modern era in Palm Beach.

Across the bridge, West Palm Beach has a big-city feel without the headaches of traffic and congestion. Take the free trolley between Clematis Street, The Square , and the waterfront, or head out to Grandview Public Market in the up-and-coming Warehouse District.

Hilton West Palm Beach houses Galley, a restaurant with tasty cocktails, fresh seafood, and gourmet pizzas, and The Ben West Palm and Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown both have rooftops with stellar views.

St. Augustine

As the oldest city in America , St. Augustine has had a lot of time to get it right. Settlers arrived in the mid-1500s and some still-standing spots, like the Fountain of Youth and Castillo de San Marcos, date back almost that far. It's a walkable town imbued with intrigue; whispers of the past swirl through every cobblestone alley.

In St. Augustine, learning about the area's history (preferably via ghost tour once darkness envelops the city) is a given. But there are also newer arrivals built to please the modern explorer, like Ice Plant for cocktails and the Alligator Farm for a perfectly Floridian animal encounter. Visit during St. Augustine's annual Nights of Lights event around Christmas to see the city sparkle in the glow of three million lights.

For the perfect marriage of history and a cozy breed of luxury, book a stay at the adults-only Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens , where you can tour the grounds with the property historian and gather for expertly crafted cocktails at The Well Bar. For a taste of old-world elegance, St. Francis Inn — built in 1791 — is a bed-and-breakfast that captures the spirit of the city and all there is to love about homey accommodations. It's located right on St. George Street, St. Augustine's main drag.

Once you've walked up an appetite, head to dinner at Michael's Tasting Room , The Floridian , or O.C. White's , a historic restaurant in the heart of the action. Or, for something a bit more casual, stop into A1A Ale Works for perhaps the best root beer of your life, served alongside a beautiful view of the Bridge of Lions.

Florida Keys

Stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to the southernmost point of the continental United States in funky Key West, the Florida Keys is a veritable paradise; pick any Key along the way and you're guaranteed a tropical getaway with no need for a passport. Fill your itinerary with activities like boating, diving, fishing, snorkeling coral reefs, feeding 10-foot tarpon at Robbie's , and generally enjoying one of the best destinations in the world for the let-your-hair-down brand of vacationing.

Key Largo boasts the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo , the first all-inclusive in the Keys, while Playa Largo is a solid choice for families or anyone who loves an action-packed trip; there are pools, water sports like sailing, parasailing, and kayaking, and even a hammock garden for reading.

For the best seafood (and Key lime pie) in the Keys, book a table at The Fish House , a family-owned Key Largo institution that's set apart by the fact that they're one of the only restaurants sourcing exclusively from local fishermen, so your fish is as fresh as it gets.

Orlando and Central Florida

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Orlando is the destination of choice for many people planning a vacation to Florida, and for good reason: There's Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom, Epcot , Universal Studios, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Animal Kingdom, Discovery Cove, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , Gatorland, and more. While those spots will always be popular among visitors and locals alike, there's more to this Florida region.

For example, head due east from Orlando and you'll land at NASA's Kennedy Space Center , where you can explore a complex dedicated to all things space travel, and even watch rocket launches. To the north, quieter Winter Park is considered the Palm Beach of central Florida. There, you can enjoy lakeside sunsets and stroll under canopies of old oak trees. Eat breakfast at Briarpatch and dinner at Hillstone Restaurant .

There are also plenty of ways to get outdoorsy and adventurous in Florida once you've escaped the tourist traps of Orlando. Some distance from the Orlando area, but still in central Florida, you've got the Blue Grotto , a 100-foot clearwater cavern that's popular with divers, and also Rainbow Springs State Park , where you can lazily float down Rainbow River in an inner tube.

Crystal River

Slower-paced, lesser-known Crystal River is a sleepy, tucked-away destination on Florida's western coast. Crystal River has little by way of culinary and nightlife offerings, but it's home to the most striking natural beauty of Florida, especially for those who love being on the water.

A clear kayak tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking is the perfect way to explore the enchanting springs of Crystal River, and wintertime visitors have a good chance of paddling alongside any of the hundreds of manatees who migrate into the springs each year. As you tour Hunter Springs, Jurassic Springs, and Three Sisters Springs, you may also spot dolphins, turtles, birds, and other wildlife. Nearby Plantation on Crystal River offers simple, no-frill waterfront accommodations spread across 232 acres on Kings Bay.

For an even more delightfully Florida vacation activity, head to one of the legendary live mermaid shows at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park , about an hour's drive south of Crystal River.

Miami and Fort Lauderdale

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

When it comes to the best places to visit in Florida, no destination packs a sizzle quite like Miami. It's a global city with everything you could hope for in terms of great eats, hotels, and party venues. In the uber-Instagrammable Art Deco District in South Beach, you'll find bubbling creativity and the sort of old-meets-new style that keeps Miami on the map, and at nearby Wynwood Walls , there's street art and sky-high murals galore.

If you're planning a trip, August is by far the best month to visit Miami, as long as you're into indulgent five-star experiences. During this month, the perfect trifecta of citywide deals converge: Miami Spa Months , Miami Spice Restaurant Months , and Miami Hotel Months . The promotions give visitors a chance to stay at places like Mandarin Oriental, Miami , book ultra-luxe spa treatments, and dine at the city's best restaurants for a fraction of the usual price.

A bit further north of Miami, bustling Fort Lauderdale is another seaside metropolis where you can spend action-packed days and nights. Work your way down the Ale Trail for craft brews and bites, or board the Water Taxi for a different perspective on the city — it's like a trolley system on water, fitting for what some call the "Venice of America" due to Fort Lauderdale's plentiful waterways. Hop off the Water Taxi at Las Olas Boulevard for the city's best shopping and dining.

Best of all, the new and modern Brightline connects Miami to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach in an hour or less.

Tampa Bay Area (Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater)

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Tampa and its surrounding neighborhoods make up a tri-city haven on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Ride roller coasters at Busch Gardens , or head over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for an encounter with the slippery stars of the Dolphin Tale movies.

Clearwater Beach is a laid-back town that consistently ranks among the best beaches in Florida. Visit during the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival to see monstrous sand carvings at the kind of beachfront art event only Florida can host. Stay at Opal Sands — it's a half-mile beach walk from the festival, and each one of its 230 guest rooms is waterfront. Together with St. Petersburg, the area is also an under-the-radar art and culture mecca of sorts, with murals and museums such as the visually stunning Dalí museum.

The Florida Panhandle consists of Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Destin, and Tallahassee, the capital of Florida. A popular spring break spot, the Panhandle relies heavily on tourism.

The Panhandle's calm Gulf waters and white-sand beaches are a major draw, but beach day alternatives abound: Visitors can hike, bike, or canoe in St. Andrews State Park or start happy hour early at Panama City Beach institutions like the delightfully over-the-top Pineapple Willy's (don't leave without ordering a po' boy with your frozen drink). In Destin, Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park will keep the whole family busy.

Amelia Island

Quiet little Amelia Island is popular with visitors who can appreciate a charming seaside destination with no crowds in sight. Plus, with rolling dunes and marshes instead of just flat, sandy beaches, the geography of the area packs added interest. There are beaches, of course, but nature lovers will also want to check out Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and Fort Clinch State Park , home to the 19th-century Fort Clinch plus nature trails, camping grounds, and wildlife.

Another Amelia Island attraction is the oldest lighthouse in Florida, proudly standing 67 feet tall. Charming beachfront lodges and inns line Amelia Island, so visitors have their pick of endearing accommodations. Head to historic downtown Fernandina Beach on the island to shop or chow down at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival , an annual tradition dedicated to a shared love of shrimp.

A rural little island city with pastel homes, Cedar Key is a charmer. Visitors can expect secluded beaches and botanical gardens to wander, plus nearby natural springs to swim and paddle around in. Cedar Key is a simple spot, so it flies under the Florida tourism radar, but it's a nice place for anyone seeking a vacation that's a bit quieter than the state's more happening hot spots.

Some fun activities in and around Cedar Key include a day trip to nearby Manatee Springs State Park for an up-close animal encounter, especially during the cooler months, or biking, kayaking, and hiking. There's also Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge , Cedar Key Museum State Park , and the Cedar Key Historical Society & Museum if you want to learn more about the area. End your relaxing days with a sunset at Cedar Key Airport Beach.

Naples is another gem on Florida's western coast — the area is called the Paradise Coast for a reason. Romantic and ritzy, Naples is known for beautiful white-sand beaches, sprawling golf courses, high-end restaurants, and upscale shopping — a "sister city" of sorts to Palm Beach, located directly across the state on Florida's eastern coast.

If retail therapy is on the agenda (and it should be in Naples), head to Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South to put a dent in your credit limit. Or, if natural attractions are more your speed, head to the Naples Botanical Garden , Clam Pass Park , or the Naples Zoo . Art lovers will also find a lot to enjoy at Artis — Naples , a multidisciplinary organization home to The Baker Museum and the Naples Philharmonic, or any of the impressive art galleries dotting the city.

Everglades National Park

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

A national park trip may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Florida, but the state is ripe with one-of-a-kind spots (expect alligators and palm trees instead of bison and geysers) and Everglades National Park is its crown jewel.

Encompassing 1.5 million acres of preserved wetlands on the southern tip of the Floridian peninsula, the Everglades is actually a slow-moving "river of grass," comprising unique habitats such as coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes, pine flatwoods, and more. It's a wildlife lover's paradise, teeming with alligators, snakes, fish, more than 360 species of birds, and even endangered animals like the Florida panther, American crocodile, and West Indian manatee.

For those eager to explore, there are trails and guided tours available; the main entrances are at Shark Valley, Florida City near Homestead, and Everglades City on the Gulf Coast. Visit during the park's dry season (November to April) for lower temperatures, more active wildlife, and fewer mosquitoes.

Related Articles

Exploring the Gulf

27 Amazing Florida Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit in 2024

If you’re dreaming of the perfect beach getaway, look no further than Florida’s Gulf Coast, home to some of the most captivating and enchanting beaches in the world. We love visiting the Florida Gulf Coast Beaches because of the amazing sandy beaches and great amenities in the coastal towns.

In this ultimate guide, we’ve curated a list of 27 must-visit beaches along the Florida Gulf Coast, each offering its own unique charm and allure. From family-friendly shores with safe waters for little ones to explore to secluded havens where you can unwind and rejuvenate to fur-friendly beach havens, there’s a beach for everyone.

So pack your sunblock, grab your beach towel, and let’s dive into the wonders of the Florida Gulf Coast. These are some of our family’s favorite beaches in the United States.

Best Family Florida Gulf Coast Beaches

1. clearwater beach.

Where to Stay : Clearwater Beach Hotel Where to Eat : Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill Recommended Tour : Little Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach was ranked number one in USA Today’s rankings of Best Beach in the South this year! This is one of the best West Coast Florida Beaches, considered a resort beach located on the West Coast of Florida, and one of the best beaches near Orlando . Clearwater Beach is a top family destination known for its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and lively atmosphere, and one of our personal favorites.

Clearwater Beach is popular for its stunning sunsets, water activities like parasailing and jet skiing, dolphin watching, kayak tours , sunset cruises , and nearby attractions like Pier 60, where you can enjoy nightly sunset celebrations, street performers, and a vibrant beachfront atmosphere.

The beach is close to downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions. It offers a variety of parking options, including public parking lots and street parking, though availability may vary during peak times. The beach provides accessible restrooms and wheelchair accessibility, and as an added bonus, the city offers beach wheelchairs for use by citizens at no charge.

We love grabbing breakfast in Clearwater and enjoying a nice walk on the beach!

2. Siesta Key Beach

Where to Stay : The Inn on Siesta Key Where to Eat : Siesta Key Oyster Bar Recommended Tour : Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour

Ranked at number two among the top 10 beaches in the U.S. by Tripadvisor, Siesta Key is a barrier island off the southwest coast of Florida, located between Roberts Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, that offers its visitors a truly remarkable coastal retreat and a beach our family loves.

One of the best family vacation spots on the Gulf , this beach is known for its white quartz sand. The sand remains cool to the touch even on hot days, making it one of the best Florida West Coast beaches to visit. Some popular activities here are sunbathing, picnicking, building sandcastles, boogie boarding , and playing beach volleyball.

Its crystal-clear Gulf waters also provide excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. We always have an amazing time when we visit the beach on Siesta Key.

For a more romantic getaway, this beach is also renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, and its proximity to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options makes it an ideal couples retreat, so grab a beach chair (or an even more transportable backpack beach chair ) to enjoy the beautiful views.

Some of the busiest months at Siesta Key are February through April, peaking in March. If you are looking for a low-key, quiet, and less populated visit, September is your best bet, as long as you don’t mind the increased chance of rain.

3. St. Pete Beach

Where to Stay : Plaza Beach Hotel Where to Eat : Crabby Bill’s Recommended Tour : Island Sunset Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Beach is a popular choice for families seeking Florida Gulf Coast beaches with boardwalks for a beautiful getaway. This location is known for its wide sandy shores, warm Gulf waters, family-friendly activities, soft white sands, and laid-back vibe. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and building sandcastles.

The nearby Corey Avenue district offers shops, restaurants , and boutiques, perfect for exploring and grabbing a bite to eat with the family. Also nearby, located just a 10-minute drive away from St. Pete, is John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, a top attraction with over 100 shops, restaurants, and water-related businesses.

The beach itself offers convenient parking facilities, including public parking lots and street parking, along with accessible restrooms and wheelchair accessibility on the beach. Our kids love visiting the playground on the pier in this area as well.

4. Lido Key Beach

Where to Stay : Lido Beach Resort Where to Eat : Cha Cha Coconuts Recommended Tour : Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour

Lido Beach, located in Sarasota, is a family-friendly beach renowned for its natural beauty, calm waters, and inviting atmosphere. Its gentle surf makes it an ideal spot for families and water enthusiasts to enjoy a day by the sea.

Children can enjoy building swimming, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells or beachcombing. Lido Key is known for its eco-tourism and sunset cruises. It’s also a place to go for deep-sea fishing, dolphin watching, and sailing.

Lido Beach’s proximity to South Lido Park and Ted Sperling Park, nature reserves and parks, allows for additional recreational opportunities, including hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. Moreover, nearby St. Armands Circle offers a charming shopping and dining district where visitors can explore boutique stores, galleries, and diverse cuisines.

Whether you seek relaxation, shopping, or nature experiences, Lido Beach offers a memorable destination, making it one of the Best Florida Gulf Coast beaches for families.

5. Caladesi Island State Park Beach

Where to Stay : Beso Del Sol Resort Where to Eat : Cafe Caladesi Recommended Tour : Private Pontoon Boat Tours on the Island Runner

Caladesi Island State Park Beach is a tranquil and pristine destination accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. Caladesi Island State Park is a three-mile-long, undisturbed beach located off the Florida Gulf Coast near Clearwater Beach. This is also one of the few undeveloped barrier islands left in the United States.

Caladesi is a serene haven for nature enthusiasts and families, offering untouched beauty, nature trails, birdwatching, kite-flying , and shelling opportunities. During our last visit to Clearwater, we went out to the island and enjoyed swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

The park also provides a variety of activities, such as hiking the three-mile nature trail or paddling a three-mile kayak trail. For refreshments, there’s a small cafe serving fish and chips, hamburgers, sandwiches, cold drinks, and snacks, making it a perfect destination for a peaceful and enjoyable beach experience.

Outside of the small cafe, there are not any dining options on the island, so you may want to bring some take-out from the nearby Clearwater restaurants or pack a lunch.

If you are looking for some culture in your trip, you can make the short drive north to Tarpon Springs , an area with heavy Greek influence.

6. Naples Beach

Where to Stay : Inn at Pelican Bay Where to Eat : The Boathouse on Naples Bay Recommended Tour : Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour

Located on Florida’s Paradise Coast, Naples Beach offers miles of sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, making it a family-friendly destination with a safe and inviting environment for visitors of all ages. With gentle surf and lifeguard presence, parents can relax while their children enjoy the water.

The surrounding area offers family-oriented amenities, including nearby attractions, parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly dining options, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable beach vacation experience for everyone.

Naples Pier, an iconic landmark and popular attraction, offers stunning views, fishing opportunities, and unforgettable Gulf of Mexico sunsets. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Naples Botanical Garden adds a touch of natural beauty and tranquility to their South Florida Gulf Coast beach vacations.

7. Marco Island Beaches

Where to Stay : Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa Where to Eat : CJ’s on the Bay Recommended Tour : Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling Tour

Marco Island, located on the Southwest Florida Gulf Coast, is home to several beautiful and pristine beaches that attract visitors seeking a tropical paradise. The main public beaches on Marco Island include Tigertail Beach and South Marco Beach.

Tigertail Beach offers a wide expanse of white sandy shores, a lagoon, and mangrove trails, making it an ideal spot for beachcombing and birdwatching. South Marco Beach provides a serene setting with calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Families can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and picnicking on the beaches. Exploring the charming shops and restaurants on Marco Island is also a delightful family activity.

During our last visit to Florida, we found the beaches on Marco Island to be perfect for our kids. The water was beautiful, and we found lots of great amenities at Tigertail Beach.

8. St. Andrews State Park

Where to Stay : Bluegreen’s Bayside Resort & Spa Where to Eat : Shore Shack Pizza Recommended Tour : Small Group Guided Shore Dives in St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park is a total gem on Panama City Beach’s Gulf Coast. This place is a nature lover’s dream, with over 1,200 acres of pure beauty to explore. It’s got some pristine sandy beaches, perfect for lounging, swimming, and snorkeling.

This is one of our favorite beaches for shelling, and there is a great campground there as well. We camped in this state park for about ten days and absolutely loved the beach there. Plus, it is really close to all of the fun things to do in Panama City.

St. Andrews State Park isn’t just about beaches – it also has some stunning hiking trails through lush coastal dunes, where you can spot all kinds of birds and critters. And fishing fanatics will love the jetties here, teeming with all sorts of fish just waiting to be reeled in.

This park’s a nature-lovers escape, where you can find hidden spots away from the crowds and perfect for soaking in its serene coastal vibe. Families will also love it here – picnicking, playgrounds, and cool nature programs are all on the books for a fantastic beach day at St. Andrews, a gem among the Best Florida Gulf Coast Beaches.

Nearby, you can enjoy great dolphin tours as well as all of the fun activities in Panama City.

9. Henderson Beach State Park

Where to Stay : Henderson Beach Resort Where to Eat : Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill Recommended Tour : Original Cruisin’ Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure

Henderson Beach State Park is a stunning destination in Destin, Florida, where beach life and nature blend harmoniously. This beautiful park is all about pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, offering a picture-perfect setting for relaxation and fun.

Beyond the beaches, Henderson Beach State Park boasts fantastic nature trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of the area. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other wildlife. Its jetties are perfect for angling adventures, promising a rewarding experience for those seeking to reel in some fish.

Families will find joy in the park’s picnic spots and playgrounds, making it an ideal destination for a delightful beach day with loved ones. Henderson tops the list of must-not-miss beaches in Destin .

If you are looking for places to camp, this is a great place. We camped here for about 10 days and loved being so close to the beach as well as all of the fun things to do in Destin.

10. Pensacola Beach

Where to Stay : Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach Gulf Front Where to Eat : Shaggy’s Pensacola Beach Recommended Tour : Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour

Pensacola Beach is a vibrant and captivating destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast. With its stunning white sands, emerald-green waters, and lively atmosphere, this beach is a paradise for beachgoers and water enthusiasts.

Pensacola Beach offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or build sandcastles with the family, there’s something for everyone here.

For those seeking adventure, you can try your hand at surfing, paddleboarding, or even take a dolphin-watching cruise. The Gulf Islands National Seashore, adjacent to Pensacola Beach, offers nature trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to explore the preserved natural beauty of the area.

The beach is also home to vibrant beach bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a lively and exciting destination day and night. Enjoy fresh seafood, indulge in delicious treats, and experience the lively beach atmosphere that Pensacola Beach is renowned for. This is truly one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

If you decide to visit Pensacola, be sure to check to see if the Blue Angels are performing or are having a practice. We got to watch practice during our last visit to Pensacola, and it was a really fun experience. We watched the practice from Fort Pickens in the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Least Crowded Beaches on Florida Gulf Coast

11. bowman’s beach (sanibel island).

Where to Stay : Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa Where to Eat : The Shipyard at Tween Waters

Bowman’s Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located on Sanibel Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Bowman’s Beach is a favorite destination for those seeking a tranquil beach experience.

The beach offers pristine sandy shores, clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of seashells, making it an ideal spot for beachcombing and shelling enthusiasts. It also provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying scenic nature walks along its nature trails.

With limited development and no nearby commercial establishments, Bowman’s Beach offers a serene and unspoiled coastal getaway, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. This is truly one of the best-secluded beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

The drive from Clearwater to Fort Myers and Sanibel is about 2.5 hours.

12. Grayton Beach State Park

Where to Stay : Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse Where to Eat : Great Southern Cafe

Grayton Beach State Park, located along the Scenic Highway 30A, is a hidden gem renowned for its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Grayton Beach State Park features sugar-white sands, pristine dunes, and the unique coastal dune lake, Western Lake.

The state park is a haven for nature lovers, providing opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the unique coastal dune ecosystem. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing in this unspoiled paradise.

Grayton Beach State Park is one of the most pristine and least developed beaches in the area, offering a sense of seclusion and privacy. Its natural beauty and untouched landscape make it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it a great option for secluded Gulf Beaches in Florida.

13. Indian Rocks Beach

Where to Stay : Holiday Inn & Suites Clearwater Beach S-Harbourside Where to Eat : Keegan’s Seafood Grille

Indian Rocks Beach, nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a charming and laid-back beach town with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The beach is renowned for its soft sandy shores, warm Gulf waters, and stunning sunsets, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and leisure.

Indian Rocks Beach is an excellent destination for families and beachgoers of all ages, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for swimming and beach activities. Visitors can explore the picturesque shoreline, search for seashells, or simply unwind on the beach while enjoying the gentle Gulf breeze.

The town’s intimate and local feel makes it a popular choice for those seeking a more authentic and less crowded beach experience. With a variety of restaurants, shops, and beachfront accommodations, Indian Rocks Beach offers everything needed for a delightful and memorable beach vacation on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

If you are visiting Indian Rocks Beach with kids, you will also be a short drive from all of the kid-friendly activities in nearby Clearwater and Tampa.

14. Longboat Key Beaches

Where to Stay : The Resort at Longboat Key Club Where to Eat : Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

Longboat Key Beaches, located on the barrier island of Longboat Key, Florida, offer a serene and secluded coastal getaway. The beaches are known for their soft, white sands and clear turquoise waters, making them ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Longboat Key’s laid-back and peaceful atmosphere offers a tranquil retreat from the daily grind.

The island’s pristine shoreline stretches for miles, offering ample space for beachgoers to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Longboat Key Beaches are less crowded than some of the more popular tourist destinations, providing a tranquil and intimate setting for visitors to bask in the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.

In addition to beach activities, visitors can explore the island’s coastal mangrove trails, enjoy watersports, or simply unwind while watching stunning sunsets over the water.

With a mix of upscale resorts, restaurants, and natural beauty, Longboat Key Beaches offer a serene and laid-back beach experience, making it a hidden gem among the Beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

15. Englewood Beach

Where to Stay : Manasota Key Resort Where to Eat : Farlows on the Water

Tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Englewood Beach offers a serene and unspoiled escape from the demands of everyday life.

With soft sandy shores and calm Gulf waters, this hidden gem invites visitors to unwind, swim, and explore its shores at their own leisure. Englewood Beach exudes a sense of intimacy and relaxation, unlike bustling tourist hotspots.

The surrounding area boasts scenic parks and nature preserves, offering opportunities to hike, observe wildlife, and savor the region’s natural wonders. Whether seeking solitude or adventure, this coastal haven promises a unique and rejuvenating beach vacation on Florida’s tranquil Gulf Coast.

16. Pass-A-Grille Beach

Where to Stay : The Don CeSar Where to Eat : Hurricane Seafood Restaurant Recommended Tour : Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining

Pass-a-Grille Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a charming and picturesque beach town with a timeless coastal charm. With its soft sandy shores, gentle Gulf waters, and historic landmarks, Pass-a-Grille Beach offers a serene and nostalgic beach experience.

Pass-a-Grille Beach boasts a vibrant and colorful beach community featuring unique shops, art galleries, and locally-owned eateries. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint streets and stroll along the historic boardwalk. The beach’s proximity to the famous Don CeSar hotel adds a touch of luxury and grandeur to the area’s coastal charm.

With stunning sunsets, sea turtle nesting sites, and opportunities for watersports and fishing, Pass-a-Grille Beach offers a memorable and authentic beach vacation experience along the Florida Gulf Coast.

17. Sanibel Island Beach

Where to Stay : Tarpon Tale Inn Where to Eat : Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Recommended Tour : Copacetic Day Sail

Sanibel Island Beach, situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a paradise for nature lovers and shell enthusiasts. Known for its unique and diverse seashells that wash ashore, Sanibel Island Beach offers excellent shelling opportunities for beachcombers of all ages. The island’s beautiful sandy shores stretch for miles, providing a peaceful and unspoiled coastal retreat.

Sanibel Island is famous for its commitment to conservation and maintaining the natural environment. With no high-rise buildings and limited commercial development, the beach exudes a sense of serenity and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and unwinding.

Beyond beachcombing, visitors can explore the island’s numerous wildlife refuges, nature reserves, and biking trails, immersing themselves in the island’s abundant flora and fauna.

18. Captiva Island Beach

Where to Stay : Tween Waters Island Resort and Spa Where to Eat : Cantina Captiva

Captiva Island Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a tropical oasis known for its stunning natural beauty and secluded charm. With its soft sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation, Captiva Island Beach offers a tranquil and picturesque escape from the ordinary.

The beach’s laid-back atmosphere and pristine surroundings make it a favorite spot for relaxation, beachcombing, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. As a barrier island, Captiva boasts a diverse range of shells, attracting shell collectors from around the world.

Visitors can explore the island’s unique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants, experiencing the island’s distinct and inviting coastal culture. Captiva Island Beach promises an idyllic and unforgettable beach vacation experience on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

19. Cape San Blas

Where to Stay : Turtle Beach Resort & Inn Where to Eat : Skully’s Low Country Boil

Cape San Blas offers miles of untouched sandy shores, where you can enjoy a peaceful and secluded beach experience. The breathtaking natural beauty and calm waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, beachcombing, and soaking in the sun.

Cape San Blas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, which encompasses the cape, and hike along scenic trails, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of bird species that call this area home.

For those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature, Cape San Blas is an idyllic destination. The lack of commercial development ensures a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation in one of the best Gulf Coast beaches in Florida.

Dog-Friendly Florida Gulf Coast Beaches

20. fort de soto park beach.

Where to Stay : Residence Inn by Marriott St. Petersburg Tierra Verde Where to Eat : Billy’s Stone Crab Recommended Tour : Electric Bike Wildlife & History Tour along Fort De Soto’s Beaches

Fort De Soto Park Beach provides designated dog-friendly areas, making it an ideal beach for families with furry friends.

Fort De Soto Park Beach offers a spacious and scenic environment for dogs to roam, play, and swim. The park also provides dog showers, waste stations, and separate areas for large and small dogs.

The park isn’t just about beaches – you can also explore a Spanish-American War-era fort, adding a touch of history to your coastal escape. For those seeking active adventures, you can ride bikes along a seven-mile paved path, kayak in protected waters, and go hiking to explore the diverse ecosystems of the area.

Families can enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and concessions while lifeguards ensure a safe environment. With its tranquil and picturesque coastal escape, the beach provides a memorable and diverse beach experience for all.

21. Honeymoon Island State Park Pet Beach

Where to Stay : Hampton Inn Dunedin Where to Eat : Frenchy’s Outpost Bar and Grill

Honeymoon Island State Park Pet Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a delightful and pet-friendly destination for beach lovers. With its soft sandy shores, clear turquoise waters, and an area designated for furry friends, Honeymoon Island State Park Pet Beach offers a fun and memorable experience for both pets and their owners.

The beach is part of Honeymoon Island State Park, covering 2,785 acres of natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here, visitors can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach while their pets frolic in the designated pet-friendly area, enjoying the sand and surf.

This is a fantastic place to bond with your furry companions, providing a serene and enjoyable beach experience for both humans and pets among one of the best Florida Gulf Coast beaches that allow dogs.

22. Palma Sola Causeway

Where to Stay : Compass Hotel Where to Eat : Beach House Waterfront Restaurant Recommended Tour : 75-Minute Parasailing Adventure above Bradenton Beach & Anna Maria Island

Located on State Road 64, just minutes from Anna Maria Island, Palma Sola Causeway is a top destination for dog owners seeking a beach adventure with their furry friends. Although not directly on the Gulf, the causeway provides access to the tranquil waters of Palma Sola Bay, along with ample sandy shores for play and relaxation.

This pet-friendly beach not only welcomes dogs but also allows horses, making it a unique and diverse destination for animal lovers. Whether it’s a leisurely swim, a sandy stroll, or a horseback ride by the bay, Palma Sola Causeway offers a picturesque and enjoyable experience for everyone in the family, including our beloved four-legged companions.

23. St. George Island

Where to Stay : St. George Inn Where to Eat : Blue Parrot Ocean Front Cafe

St. George Island, nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a hidden paradise that welcomes leashed dogs on select beach areas, offering ample space for families and their furry companions to enjoy the sand and surf together.

St. George Island is part of the larger St. George Island State Park, offering nine miles of pristine beaches for swimming, beachcombing, and breathtaking Gulf of Mexico sunsets.

The island’s diverse ecosystems, including marshes, dunes, and maritime forests, create a perfect haven for nature enthusiasts, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. It offers a pristine and peaceful coastal setting, allowing families and their dogs to explore the island’s natural beauty.

24. Brohard Paw Park Beach

Where to Stay : Kon Tiki Inn Where to Eat : The Old Salty Dog

Brohard Paw Park in Venice, Florida, is a unique and delightful destination dedicated to furry friends and their owners. This dog-friendly beach and park combo allows dogs to play and swim freely in the designated dog beach area while their owners can relax and socialize in the beautiful beachside setting.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Brohard Paw Park offers a safe and inviting environment for dogs to roam off-leash and enjoy the sand and surf. The park features amenities like water fountains, dog showers, and waste stations, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for both pets and their owners.

For dog lovers visiting Venice, Brohard Paw Park is a must-visit destination, where they can create cherished memories with their canine companions and experience the joy of seeing their pets having a blast on the beach. This place sets the highest standard for Pet-friendly beaches in the Florida Gulf Coast.

25. Bonita Beach Dog Park

Where to Stay : Hampton Inn Bonita Springs/Naples-North Where to Eat : Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille

Bonita Beach Dog Park in Bonita Springs, Florida, is a designated dog-friendly beach area where furry friends can enjoy the sand and water while socializing and playing with other dogs.

The park provides limited parking nearby and offers accessible restrooms with wheelchair accessibility, making it convenient for all visitors.

This off-leash Florida Beach on the Gulf Coast is a fantastic spot for families with dogs to spend quality time together, allowing up to two dogs per human. Visitors are reminded to supervise their dogs at all times while enjoying the beach’s serene and shallow waters.

26. Dog Beach at Pier Park Panama City Beach

Where to Stay : Grand Panama Beach Resort Where to Eat : Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant Recommended Tour : Sunset Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time

This beach in Panama City Beach is a dedicated and inviting space for furry friends and their owners to enjoy the Gulf Coast together. This dog-friendly beach area offers a fun environment where dogs can run, play, and socialize and where owners can relax and bond with their pets.

Dogs must be on a leash and under the command of the owner. With amenities such as showers and waste stations, this space ensures convenience and cleanliness for all visitors.

27. Perdido Key State Park Beach

Where to Stay : Perdido Beach Resort Where to Eat : Flora-Bama Ole River Grill

Perdido Key State Park Beach offers a serene and unspoiled environment, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and beachgoers seeking tranquility. With its sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, it invites you to relax under the warm sun and enjoy the gentle surf.

The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is a protected home for many endangered species. Nature trails wind through dunes and maritime forests, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the coastal ecosystems.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, you can kayak in the protected waters, go fishing, or simply take leisurely strolls along the shore. And with its pet-friendly atmosphere, your furry friends can join in on the fun, too!

Florida Gulf Coast Beaches You Can Drive On

Unfortunately, there are only a few beaches in Florida where one can drive on the beach. All these beaches are limited to the Atlantic side of the Floridian Coasts.

Please make sure that you look up local ordinances and attain your permits before attempting to drive on these beaches.

• Huguenot Memorial Park
• Daytona Beach
• New Smyrna Beach
• Amelia Island (Burney Beach Park, Scott Road, and Peter’s Point only)
• St. Augustine Beach
• Vilano Beach
• Crescent Beach (Summer only)

Best Florida Beach Towns

Destin, located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is a picturesque beach town known for its stunning natural beauty. Its pristine white sand beaches and emerald-green waters create a postcard-worthy setting.

Another fun part of this area is there are lots of great hotels on the beach in Destin and nearby Fort Walton Beach. The FWB hotels on Okaloosa Island are really nice and in an area where we really enjoy spending time at the beach.

Destin offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing charters, snorkeling, and boating excursions. It’s a popular destination for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts. The town is also home to numerous championship golf courses and scenic hiking trails.

In terms of cultural attractions, Destin showcases a vibrant arts scene with local galleries, theaters, and annual festivals. Visitors can explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants , and entertainment venues. The town’s culinary scene is renowned for its fresh seafood, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale dining establishments.

With its beautiful beaches, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a lively atmosphere, Destin offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. This is one town that offers some of the most iconic Florida Beaches on the Gulf and unique places to visit, like Crab Island .

If you are looking for less-crowded beaches with more restricted access, you can look into the nearby 30A beaches . This stretch of the Florida Gulf Coast is beautiful, but a lot of the beaches in the area are private.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, boasts a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and captivating cultural attractions. The town’s beaches, including Anastasia State Park, offer a tranquil escape with pristine sands and gentle surf.

Visitors can also explore the historic charm of St. Augustine’s Old Town, characterized by Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming boutiques.

St. Augustine is home to several must-see attractions, such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a historical fortress, and the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel.

The town hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diverse heritage and vibrant arts community. They even host some amazing haunted history tours that provide one of the best ways to celebrate Halloween in Florida .

With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and a myriad of cultural offerings, St. Augustine provides a unique and captivating experience for visitors.

Key West, located at the southernmost point of the Florida Keys, is a tropical paradise that exudes a laid-back and vibrant atmosphere. Its natural beauty is showcased through its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of water activities, including snorkeling, diving, and fishing in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island.

Beyond its beaches, Key West is renowned for its colorful architecture, lively entertainment scene, and vibrant street life. Duval Street is the heart of the town, offering a lively mix of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries.

The nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is a must-see, where street performers, local artisans, and breathtaking sunsets create a festive atmosphere.

Key West is also rich in cultural heritage, with attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. The town’s diverse culinary scene serves up fresh seafood, Caribbean flavors, and iconic Key Lime pie.

With its tropical charm, cultural offerings, and vibrant ambiance, Key West is a destination that embraces the spirit of relaxation and enjoyment. This is also a great place to stay when exploring Dry Tortugas, one of the national parks in Florida .

Sarasota, situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, combines natural beauty with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Its beaches, most notably Siesta Key Beach, are renowned for their soft, powdery white sands and turquoise waters. Visitors can unwind on the beaches, swim in the Gulf, or engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Apart from its natural beauty, Sarasota is a hub for the arts. The Ringling Museum of Art, featuring an extensive collection of European masters, is a cultural gem. The Sarasota Opera House and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall offer world-class performances throughout the year.

The town is also home to a vibrant downtown area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sarasota offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife spotting at places like the Celery Fields and Myakka River State Park.

With its stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and artistic flair, Sarasota is a beach town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and cultural immersion.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, often called the “Venice of America,” is a vibrant beach town known for its natural beauty, extensive canal system, and lively atmosphere. The town boasts seven miles of pristine beaches, where visitors can soak up the sun, swim, or engage in water sports such as paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Fort Lauderdale’s cultural scene is enriched by attractions such as the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, and the NSU Art Museum.

Las Olas Boulevard, a vibrant shopping and dining district, is a hotspot for art galleries, upscale boutiques, and al fresco dining options.

The town is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene is diverse, with a wide range of international cuisines and waterfront dining options, where visitors can savor fresh seafood while enjoying scenic views.

For nature lovers, the Everglades are within easy reach, offering the chance to explore the unique ecosystem through airboat tours and nature trails. With its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere, Fort Lauderdale offers a dynamic beach town experience that caters to a wide range of interests and tastes.

FAQ: Florida Gulf Coast Beaches

What is the Prettiest Beach in Florida on the Gulf Coast?

Clearwater Beach is often considered one of the prettiest beaches in Florida on the Gulf Coast, with its stunning white sand, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Pack a beach tote with snacks, beach toys, and games for a day at Clearwater Beach, and you’ll never want to leave.

What are the Best Beaches in Florida on the Gulf Side?

Some of the best beaches in Florida on the Gulf side include Siesta Key Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Naples Beach. These beaches offer beautiful sands, clear waters, and a range of amenities and activities.

These are great spots to bust out the beach toys and games and enjoy a sunny day on the shore with your family.

What is the Cleanest Beach in the Gulf of Florida?

Caladesi Island State Park Beach is often regarded as one of the cleanest beaches in the Gulf of Florida. Its pristine shores and untouched natural beauty make it a remarkable destination.

Which Florida Beaches are Better, the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic?

The choice between the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic Coast beaches depends on personal preferences. The Gulf Coast beaches offer calmer waters, warmer temperatures, and stunning sunsets, while the Atlantic Coast beaches are known for their waves, cooler waters, and vibrant coastal cities.

Why Do Florida Gulf Coast Beaches Have White Sand?

The white sand on Florida Gulf Coast beaches is primarily composed of quartz crystals, which have been eroded over time from the Appalachian Mountains. The crystals wash down rivers and eventually make their way to the Gulf Coast, creating the iconic white sand beaches.

Destin’s sand is nearly 100% quartz, resulting in an exceptionally white appearance, which is even more enhanced by the natural “bleaching” process from the sun and water. Siesta Key is famous for having the whitest and softest sand in Florida, making it a must-visit destination as well.

What Beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida are Good for Finding Shells?

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are renowned for being excellent beaches for finding shells. Due to the unique currents and location, these beaches have a high concentration of seashells, attracting shell collectors from around the world.

Our family has also found amazing shells in St Andrews State Park in Panama City. We stayed at this state park for a week and found an amazing collection of shells from the sand cliff in the park.

RED TIDE WARNING

Red tide can be present in Florida beaches in the central Gulf Coast and southwest Gulf Coast regions due to the spread of severe algal blooms caused by Karenia brevis. It’s most common off the central and southwestern coasts of Florida between Clearwater and Sanibel Island but may occur anywhere in the Gulf.

Signs of red tide include discolored water, accumulations of algae on the surface, or foam or scum. The Florida Department of Health advises against wading, swimming, or consuming water in affected areas to avoid potential skin irritation and eye discomfort. Red tide conditions can change quickly due to winds, waves, and currents.

Red tide blooms in Florida can last from days to months and can change daily due to wind conditions and ocean currents. Blooms typically occur in the late summer or early fall and can last several months. These blooms originate offshore and can be carried to coastal beaches.

Red tide can harm wildlife and humans, especially those with respiratory conditions. Also, shellfish consumption should be avoided due to toxin accumulation. There is ongoing monitoring and sample collection that tracks the presence of red tide organisms, but make sure to stay updated on local advisories for the safety of visitors and the environment.

Conclusion: Florida Gulf Coast Beaches

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, secluded escapes, or pet-friendly paradises, these coastal gems promise unforgettable moments. Embrace the tranquility, immerse yourself in nature’s embrace, and savor the laid-back ambiance that characterizes these extraordinary destinations.

Let the allure of Florida’s Gulf Coast beckon you with its pristine sands, turquoise waters, and captivating sunsets. Whether you’re a seasoned beach lover or a first-time explorer, these coastal treasures await, ready to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

May your vacation be filled with the magic of these idyllic beaches as you embark on a beach adventure of a lifetime. Happy travels, and here’s to a year of sun, sea, and serenity!

Candice Steele is the owner of Exploring the Gulf, a blog that helps travelers explore the Gulf Coast Region in the United States. Since 2015, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families traveling to the Gulf Coast. They love exploring the beaches and small coastal towns in this area.

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The crystal clear seas and white sand beaches of Florida’s West Coast are calling you, but when it comes to booking your stay, the plethora of choices can be overwhelming. Does your dream vacation include a private beach, or do you prefer a luxury hotel with an outdoor pool and full service spa? 

In this guide, we’ll simplify your quest for the right home base for your vacation by exploring the top ten best resorts on the Florida Gulf Coast. Our top pick, Edgewater Beach Hotel in Naples , offers incomparable service, outdoor pools, and a quiet, peaceful getaway.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to book the best West Coast Florida resort—so start planning your next summer adventure!

Top 10 West Coast Florida Resorts

• Waterline Villas and Marina, Anna Maria Island ( Best Overall )
• Edison Beach House, Ft. Myers ( Best Home Away From Home )
• Henderson Beach Resort, Destin ( Best Family-Friendly Retreat )
• Ritz Carlton, Naples ( Best Luxury Hotel )
• Portofino Island Resort and Spa, Pensacola Beach ( Best for Adventurers )
• The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key ( Best Golf Resort )
• The Pearl Hotel, Rosemary Beach ( Best Upscale Adult Space )
• Edgewater Beach Hotel, Naples ( Best Beachfront Resort )
• Marco Beach Ocean Resort, Marco Island ( Best Budget Beach Resort )
• Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater ( Best for Outdoor Fun )

Best Resorts on the West Coast of Florida

1. best overall – waterline villas and marina, anna maria island.

Perched on Holmes Beach on the Florida Gulf Coast , you’ll find Waterline Villas and Marina, your very own island paradise. Surrounded by the gulf, this pet-friendly establishment is best for those seeking a quiet escape to the salty air of the West Coast.

Anna Maria Island is a beachside community on the Florida Gulf Coast known for its welcoming vibe, and that’s exactly what you’ll find during your stay at the Waterline.

Dip into the seat at Holmes Beach, unwind in the waterfront outdoor swimming pool, test out the fitness center, or rent bikes to explore everything the island has to offer.

The luxury resort maintains a laid-back vibe with upscale amenities. Each room even offers gourmet kitchens for in-room dining. You’ll find yourself unpacking as if you’ve arrived home.

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2. Best Home Away From Home – Edison Beach House, Ft. Myers

If you’re seeking a beach getaway with a piece of history, then the Edison Beach House is the spot for you. Located in Fort Myers Beach on the Gulf of Mexico, this luxury hotel offers a home away from home vibe.

Sitting on the north end of Estero Island on the Florida Gulf Coast, you’re only a short drive from the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, Bonita Beach Dog Park, and Sanibel Island.

With 24 luxury suites, in-suite kitchenettes, beachfront views, and a heated Gulf front freshwater pool, you’ll be hard-pressed to convince yourself to leave. The charming Edison Beach House is ideal for families and couples who are craving a home-like stay by the beach.

3. Best Family-Friendly Retreat – Henderson Beach Resort, Destin

Located in Destin , Florida, at the Henderson Beach State Park, is this piece of Florida panhandle paradise. This high-end retreat is ideal for those seeking an upscale getaway that won’t require you to leave the resort. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the nearby Santa Rosa Beach.

However, if the sugary white sand and calm seas aren’t entertaining enough, you can relax in the ocean-front rooms or treat yourself to Henderson’s well-equipped spa and fitness center. Rent a bike, take a few yoga classes, or unwind in the resort’s lazy river.

During Spring and Summer, you can even enroll your kids in the Poppy’s Kids Club for some creative fun. If you’re rolling single, you might have fun checking out Panama city beach, only a short drive away.

Overall, Henderson Beach Resort on the Florida Gulf Coast is the kind that will help craft a family vacation you won’t soon forget.

4. Best Luxury Hotel – Ritz Carlton, Naples

Of all the Florida Gulf Coast resorts, the Ritz Carlton Naples hits the mark for elegance, making it one of the best luxury hotels on the West Coast. Ignite your taste buds at the on-site restaurants before hitting the sea for some fun in the sun.

The luxury beach resort features a full-scale fitness center, outdoor pool, valet parking, and a world of comfort. Enjoy multiple swimming pools, including an adults-only pool and a kids’ splash area.

Located adjacent to the Ritz Carlton golf resort, the Ritz’s prime location makes it one of those resorts in Florida for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The resort offers a unique upscale club experience, ensuring a beach vacation you’ll remember for years to come.

5. Best for Adventurers – Portofino Island Resort and Spa, Pensacola Beach

In Pensacola Beach on the Florida Gulf Coast, you’ll find the Portofino Island Resort, one of those luxury hotels that offers more than just opportunities to relax.

With direct beach access to a variety of fun resort activities, guests can sign up for an adventure package that includes everything from jet skiing, an inflatable bounce house and water slides on the sea, and an adventure cove.

An off-site adventure park also offers even more thrills to entertain the kids in the family (or the inner child in the adults). There, you can find the longest zip rail in Northwest Florida, go-carts, and rope courses.

The beach resort spans 28 acres, meaning you’re within walking distance of anything your heart can desire. Nestled between the gulf coast and the Santa Rosa sound, the prime location offers plenty of private beach area for those who want that island vibe with a little extra fun included.

6. Best Golf Resort – The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key

The Longboat Key Club is an upscale beach resort located near Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. Sitting on 410 acres of a secluded barrier island, the resort offers private beach access with unparalleled access to the gulf.

Tea off at one of the resort’s golf courses or practice your hand at tennis. Either way, you might find yourself choosing the green over the sea. The Resort at Longboat Key Club has earned Golf Digest’s title of “Best Places to Play” and offers 45 holes alongside the Sarasota Bay.

When you are ready to dip into the ocean, though, you’ll have your choice of beaches. With Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key nearby, you won’t have to worry about trying to find a place to lay out in the sun.

7. Best Upscale Adult Space – The Pearl Hotel, Rosemary Beach

The Pearl Hotel might be located on the Florida Gulf Coast, but at first glance, you might wonder if you’ve stepped off a cruise in Europe. The castle-style exterior screams old-school cool with a mix of modern glam.

Of all the luxury hotels in Rosemary Beach , Florida, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one nicer than this.

If you’re interested in exploring the Panhandle, you’re only a half hour away. You’ll find Panama City Beach and St. Andrews State Park, but it’s likely you might not want to leave.

With free private parking, complimentary wine at check-in, and free bike rentals, you’ll arrive feeling like royalty. Considering you have to be 25 to check in and the resort boasts an adults-only pool, this is one of those resorts that might be better suited for those parents who need a break from their children.

8. Best Beachfront Resort – Edgewater Beach Hotel, Naples

On the edge of the serene waters of the Florida Gulf Coast, you’ll find the Edgewater Beach Hotel, our best overall pick for your West Coast stay. If you’re seeking an upscale but peaceful retreat, then this is the spot for you.

With private beach access and two heated swimming pools, this dog-friendly hotel offers accommodations for the whole family.

Sign up for annual membership to enjoy yearly social engagements or book a one-time stay to explore downtown Naples, nearby golf courses, and all Florida’s Gulf Coast has to offer.

If there are any golfers in the family, then this is the place for them. Naples is home to dozens of golf courses, making this resort ideal for those eager to swing their shot on the green.

Including the private balconies, on-site dining, outdoor pool, and kayak and paddle board rentals, there’s something for everyone at this Florida Gulf Coast gem. Oh, and there’s even free private parking for one vehicle included in your resort stay.

9. Best Budget Beach Resort – Marco Beach Ocean Resort, Marco Island

Talk about the island life. If Panama City Beach marks the north side of our resorts on the Florida Gulf Coast, then Marco Island is the opposite. This quaint piece of paradise is a lesser-known Florida gem.

Located adjacent to local attractions like Big Cypress National Preserve, Marco Island offers a peek into the nature of outdoor activities in Florida life. This beach resort offers free wifi and a fitness center and is within walking distance of gourmet restaurants with continental breakfast.

But best of all? Marco Island is the kind of place where strangers will treat you like friends. Because it’s a less popular location than where the other resorts in Florida are located, you’ll find a quiet atmosphere and untouched beauty, all for an affordable price.

10. Best for Outdoor Fun – Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater

Located on the lively Clearwater Beach, Sandpearl Resort is ideal for those seeking a beach resort that combines elegance with adventure and relaxation. The luxury beach resort features upscale guest rooms, a full-scale spa, and a lagoon-style spa.

If you’re craving more than just Clearwater beach, check out the aquarium , home a handful of rescued bottlenose dolphins. Afterward, unwind on your private balcony, take a refreshing plunge in the climate-controlled outdoor swimming pool, or treat yourself to the full-service spa and fitness center.

One thing is for sure: you won’t want to leave.

Bonus Recommendations

11. best location – pink shell beach resort & marina, fort myers beach.

The star attraction of Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina is its location. Spread across 12 acres in Fort Myers Beach, the resort boasts 1,500 feet of pristine white sand beach, with the Gulf of Mexico on one side and Matanzas Pass on the other. 

On its 12-acre property, you’ll find endless opportunities to relax and unwind. Enjoy tropical cocktails at Bongo’s Bar & Grill, take a dip in one of three swimming pools, rent a boat from the full-service marina, or get pampered at Aquagene Spa.

12. Best Spa – JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, Marco Island

On the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands, JW Marriott Marco Island is a Balinese-style beach resort that boasts twelve restaurants, two championship golf courses, a private beach, and so much more. The resort got a $320 million makeover in 2019 and was upgraded to a JW Marriott in early 2017. 

Relax at Spa by JW offers everything from body scrubs, wraps, and massages, to beauty services and is one of only three SPA by JW branches in the U.S. When not getting pampered guests can explore fossils and cultural items from Florida’s past 2 miles away at Marco Island Historical Museum . 

13. Best Contemporary Feel – Opal Sands Resort, Clearwater Beach

Situated in a prime location at the feet of Clearwater Beach, Opal Sands is a new, picturesque oceanfront resort. In an area renowned as one of the USA’s best beaches, the palm-studded shores play a perfect host to this modern, contemporary beachfront property.

While families can enjoy an infinite list of leisure activities, the hotel’s Gulf Front Pool is a great place to make a splash, or just soak the Floridian sun on one of the bespoke sun loungers or poolside Cabanas, complete with lounge chairs and flat-screen TV. 

As for the lively ambiance of Clearwater Beach, you can walk miles on the white sand on the promenade to island-style shopping and dining just down the beach from the resort.

West Coast Florida Resorts Shopping Guide

Now that you have an idea of the different types of resorts along Florida’s west coast let’s narrow down your options. What exactly are you looking for in your gulf coast vacation? This guide covers important things to consider before booking your resort!

1. Location Is Key

Are you traveling with family or venturing on your honeymoon? Do you want to explore the surrounding town, or are you staying put at the resort?

Those two factors could be the difference between a quiet escape like a stay at the Waterline Villas or a more fun-filled adventure at Portofino Island resort.

Definitely consider the time of year. Although Florida is typically hot year-round, if you’re venturing in winter, panhandle water is colder than the sea by Marco Island.

2. Amenities Can Matter

Half the part of picking your resort is the amenities it comes with. There’s the obvious: private bathrooms, laundry facilities, and free wifi are included in most resorts in Florida, but are you seeking that extra spark?

Do you need a video game room for your youngsters? A hot tub to unwind in? Wet bars by the pool? Make a list of what’s important in your stay and double-check that your resort comes with the basics, like a spa or fitness center, ideally with no extra cost.

3. Luxury or Budget-Friendly?

Keeping those amenities in mind, what you’re searching for among the resorts in Florida may depend on how much you can afford. There’s nothing wrong with making this the trip of a lifetime, but it’s also okay to have a more low-key budget friendly trip, too.

Resorts in Florida, like the Watercolor Inn, border somewhere in between.

4. Value for Money

And speaking of that dolla dolla bill, it’s definitely in your best interest to compare the resorts you’re searching for to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

If the resort is ranking in the hundreds a night and the only thing they’re advertising is their free wifi and fitness center, you might not be getting the best value for your money. By comparing different resorts, you’ll be able to figure if you’re balancing cost and quality effectively.

What amenities are a must-have?

While the answer to this question is subjective on your budget and the type of trip you’re searching for, the majority of Florida resorts should include a complimentary fitness centre, outdoor pools, and free wifi.

Some resorts will include spas, maybe a hot tub, a virtual concierge service, on-site dining options, extra guest rooms, and private beach access in the cost, but keep in mind those tend to be more on the luxury side.

What are the best Florida beaches on the west coast?

The great thing about Florida’s west coast is that you’re going to find similar white sand beaches regardless of where you end up—that’s the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Instead of beaches, first start by looking at the different Florida towns.

If you’re seeking a golf resort, then a resort in Naples and the nearby La Playa Beach might be up your alley. If you want more of an island vibe, then check out Bonita Springs or Marco Island. And, of course, for those looking for more of a nightlife scene, Panama City Beach.

Are there family-friendly resorts on the Gulf Coast?

Absolutely! You’re not far from Disney World, after all. Most resorts in Florida cater to families and offer kid-friendly amenities while still keeping a private space for the adults. If this is important to you, check for adult-only pools or for activities geared towards the little ones.

Where Is the Best Place to Vacation on the Florida Gulf Coast?

Orlando has enough attractions to entertain you for a month, St. Augustine boasts a rich historical heritage, and Amelia Island perfectly blends Florida with warm southern hospitality. If you prefer luxury getaways, pick one of many Florida Gulf Coast resorts with an outdoor pool, private parking, and a full-service spa.

What Makes the Florida Gulf Coast So Special?

The Florida Gulf Coast has stunningly gorgeous sunsets, the softest sand, the clearest waters, fun nature trails, and the best fishing. Plus, Florida Gulf Coast beaches have some of the most comfortable year-round water temperatures.

There you have it, folks! Now, you’re better prepared to book your resort for your Gulf Coast Florida vacation. Remember to start by comparing towns, listing required amenities and double-checking your budget.

Our top pick, Waterline Villas in Anna Maria Island , stands out for its upscale island charm. But if you’d like to keep that vibe at a more alternative cost, then check out Marco Beach Ocean Resort . Wherever you pick, you’re guaranteed to have some fun in the sun on those sugary sandy beaches.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Images courtesy of KAYAK

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The 14 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast

By Alex Erdekian and Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

From Maine to Florida , the East Coast is home to some beautiful stretches of coastline, amazing views, and of course, remarkable beach towns. Whether you're looking for a summer hotspot full of excitement and entertainment and brimming with crowds, or want to escape to a quieter small town this season, the shores on the East Coast have a little something for everyone. From charming, historic New England towns to tropical Southern getaways, there is so much to explore this summer.

There are 14 states that make up this stretch of the US, and each one has its own atmosphere, climate, and culture. From Cape Cod to the Florida Keys , the Atlantic Seaboard is home to a wide variety of vacation destinations. Here are 14 of the best East Coast beach towns in the US.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, Maine

Much of Maine's Mt. Desert Island is covered by Acadia National Park —home to climbs like Cadillac Mountain and a sophisticated system of carriage roads financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. But on the island's northeast corner, charming Bar Harbor is a destination in its own right. Skirting Frenchmen Bay, Bar Harbor began drawing visitors as far back as the mid-19th century when some of the Hudson River School, a group of artists that included the likes of Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, were taken with Maine's Down East landscapes. Still picturesque, Bar Harbor is now a full-fledged tourist town with a bustling main street, whale-watching tours, and of course, easy access to Acadia.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor:

• For a quirky stay: Queen Anne's Revenge Inn and Suites
• For romance: West Street Hotel
• For a private cottage: Beachy three-bedroom rental

Rockport, MA

Rockport, Massachusetts

The North Shore, a group of towns in Greater Boston, is a culturally important swath of Massachusetts. The coastal region is known for its excellent seafood, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Many a good film has been filmed here as well, such as Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester-by-the-Sea . There are many towns worth visiting, but Rockport is a favorite among travelers. Forty miles north of Boston, the town has a can't-miss natural gem in Halibut Point State Park, from which visitors can spot Maine in the distance 80 miles away. Rockport is also beloved by art history buffs: it is home to Motif Number 1, a fishing shack with the superlative “the most-often painted building in America.” It was built in 1840, and was a popular subject because it represented New England’s nautical character. (And it didn’t hurt that the light hit it just so.) A replica was built promptly following the historic Blizzard of 1978, which destroyed the original. Gray Malin photographed it for his recent project on Boston .

Where to stay in Rockport:

• For cozy vibes: Coastal studio loft
• For a seaside view: Waterfront apartment overlooking a private beach

Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts

Ferries deliver day trippers to this little Martha’s Vineyard town daily and the colorful gingerbread houses for which Oak Bluffs is known are straight out of a storybook. Visitors walk straight off their boats into Ocean Park, a circular green overlooking the sea, encircled by said houses, with a frothy, delicate gazebo sitting in the center. Oak Bluffs has a long history of welcoming Black visitors, and today it is home to the annual African-American Film Festival .

Steph Koyfman

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

Ryan M. Moser

Where to stay in Oak Bluffs and Martha's Vineyard:

• For a historic stay: Faraway Martha's Vineyard
• For an eclectic experience: Four-bedroom Victorian beach house
• For a camp-inspired spot: Summercamp

Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

While technically not a beach town itself, this popular peninsula in Massachusetts is home to over a dozen towns worth checking out, and is a vacation hotspot for good reason. While it really heats up during the summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round, and is brimming with history (head to nearby Plymouth to see where the Mayflower docked). Not only does it offer the best New England summer atmosphere, it's also home to exciting activities and small town summer charm. Here, you can spot wildlife, like whales ( Cape Cod is near their migration path) and seals, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy miles upon miles of sandy coastline. The Upper Cape is best for families, the Mid-Cape is perfect for escaping the crowds, and the Lower Cape is home to great luxury hotels .

Where to stay in Cape Cod:

• For New England luxury: Chatham Bars Inn
• For a historic stay: The Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
• For seaside access: Cozy one-bedroom cottage

Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Oak Bluffs, Newport is a beach town known for its houses, though a very different sort. Ten enormous, historic mansions—once the summer homes of the Vanderbilts, Nevada silver heiresses, and other Westerners of unimaginable wealth—remain standing along the famous cliff walk. Today however, they are museums. The most famous two are The Breakers and Rosecliff. The Newport mansions famously earned the ire of writer Joan Didion, who wrote in her essay The Seacoast of Despair, “To stand in the dining room of ‘The Breakers’ is to imagine fleeing it, pleading migraine.” Today, in lieu of the Great Gatsby -esque lawn parties of yore where swans roamed the grounds, Newport attracts visitors of all stripes for events such as the Newport Folk Festival.

Where to stay in Newport:

• For Gilded Age fans: Gardiner House Newport
• For grandeur: The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Montauk, NY

Montauk, New York

The final stop on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is appropriately known as the End. Due to strong winds, rough surf, and ample preserved land, it really does feel like the edge of the world, here. (Although some residents of Long Island’s furthest out town argue that if you really think about it, it’s actually the Beginning.) Montauk feels more remote and low-key than its luxurious, sceney Hamptons counterparts. Every visit to Montauk should include a stop at the Montauk Point Light House, which was commissioned by President George Washington in 1796. It is still operating, and the panoramic views from the top are out of this world.

Where to stay in Montauk:

• For barefoot luxury: Marram Montauk
• For a private beach: Gurney's Montauk
• For St. Tropez vibes: Solé East Resort

Cape May, NJ

Cape May, New Jersey

The site of pink triple-decker Victorian homes and a lively, festive promenade that exists as a beach town ideal in America's collective imagination, Cape May is the sort of dreamy summer destination one associates with trails of melted ice cream dotting the hot pavement and Fourth of July picnics. National Geographic also labeled Cape May as the World's Best Destination for Birding , writing, “The narrow peninsula at Cape May acts as a bird funnel, bringing in songbirds during their spring and fall migrations. At dawn on a good day, legendary Higbee Beach offers front-row seats to a feathered fashion show… With a little luck, you can see 20 species of warblers, each in its own colorful costume.” Sign us up.

Where to stay in Cape May:

• For picturesque looks: One-bedroom cottage with a hot tub
• For classic luxury: The Virginia Hotel

Chincoteague, VA

Chincoteague, Virginia

You won't find bustling boardwalks, sleek hotels, or grids of cars with clunky bike racks trapped in traffic in Chincoteague. This coastal town is all about the wildlife—specifically its wild horses . Visitors flock to the island annually for the Pony Penning that has been held since 1925. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department holds the event, and it consists of a pony swim—in which the animals cross the Assateague Channel—and a pony auction. No one really knows how this population of horses came to be, though there are competing theories. Some say they are descendants of Spanish horses shipwrecked en route to Peru in the 17th century. Others claim they were left long ago by pirates. Still others say they are runaways from mainland farmers. The quaint beauty of Chincoteague includes trails for hiking, beaches, and a red and white lighthouse. For the best pony views, cross over on a bike to the Maryland side of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Where to stay in Chincoteague:

• For beachy decor: Three-bedroom with a balcony
• For sunset views: Bay-facing cottage on the water

Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland

There is no place quite like the Chesapeake Bay . Step foot here and breathe in the saltwater air, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. The seaside resort town of Ocean City offers fun for the whole family—stroll down the boardwalk and taste the saltwater taffy to start, then take your pick of activities for all ages: surfing, fishing, and kayaking included. If you're looking for something a little less busy, the nearby small town of Berlin (just a 15-minute drive away) is great for a quick trip or overnight stay to avoid the crowds, but will take you away from the gorgeous shoreline. A little farther away is the historic small town of St. Michaels , worth a visit just to explore the history and see the picturesque neighborhood on the water.

Where to stay in Ocean City:

• For a view: Condo with bayside access
• For a midtown stay: Condo near restaurants, bars, and entertainment

Nags Head, NC

Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head is a beach town on the Outer Banks , a group of barrier islands and spits sandwiched between mainland North Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for its sand dunes in Jockey Ridge State Park, which comprise the tallest true sand dune system on the East Coast. Hundreds of shipwrecks nearby—caused by the region's shifting sands and heavily trafficked waters—have given the surrounding waters the moniker “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” and the nearby USS Huron is a popular scuba dive site.

Where to stay in Nags Head and the Outer Banks:

• For a beachfront retreat: Sanderling Resort
• For a five-minute walk to the water: Coastal boho home
• For panoramic ocean views: Triple-tiered vacation home

Pawley's Island, SC

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is so small that its year-round population hovers around 100 people. It was first settled in the 1500s, making it one of the oldest beach towns in the US. With that amount of history, there is, of course, a ghost story to go with it: There have been sightings of the Gray Man, a ghost whose appearance is said to warn of hurricanes as he paces up and down the beach, dating to a 19th-century storm. Summer options on Pawleys Island that are not at all spooky—besides flopping around on the beach—include golf, fishing, walking sculpture-filled gardens, and feasting on Lowcountry cuisine like She Crab soup.

Where to stay in Pawleys Island:

• For a beachy condo: Two-bedroom townhouse
• For a breathtaking view: Marshfront property near the beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

While it's not too far from the aforementioned Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach will feel worlds away from the slow, small-town atmosphere of the other quaint town. This popular summer destination boasts bigger crowds than its neighbor, and has a wide assortment of entertainment, dining, nightlife, and activities available. Aside from the deliciously warm weather and miles of beaches to traverse, Myrtle Beach is also home to a great many golf courses, amusement parks, water parks, and an iconic boardwalk with a massive 187-foot-tall Ferris Wheel.

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
• For seclusion: Island Vista Resort

Tybee Island, GA

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a short drive from Savannah , Georgia, this coastal community is in the perfect spot for a day trip . Even during the summer, some parts of it manage to maintain that small-town vibe and don't get unbearably crowded, boasting an assortment of adorable ice cream and coffee shops, long stretches of sandy beaches, and great waterfront access. There's a little something for everyone from families to couples— South Beach is better for those who want a little excitement in their atmosphere, whereas North Beach is a bit more quiet and contained. I've found it particularly great for families (having traveled here with a multigenerational group ages 1-68), and recommend the kitschy Original Crab Shack for a memorable meal.

Where to stay in Tybee Island:

• For a private pool and hot tub: Three-bedroom bungalow
• For couples: Historic cottage with complimentary golf cart, bikes, and kayaks

Siesta Key, FL

Siesta Key, Florida

While we love the beach towns listed above, the only part of the East Coast that has a true tropical climate is the lower half of Florida. Naturally, the beaches in this area are very beautiful. We want to laud Siesta Key in particular for its fine sand, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains and is made up almost entirely of cool and reflective quartz, its waterfront dining and drinking, and its excellence for water sports like parasailing. The three beaches to visit on Siesta Key are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Where to stay in Siesta Key:

• For a lush condo: Beachfront stay on Siesta Beach
• For a private pool: Tropical three-bedroom home

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Exploring 18 West Coast Florida Hotels for Every Traveler’s Style

Welcome to the picturesque paradise of the West Coast of Florida! Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this article is your guide to finding the perfect hotel that suits your travel style. From laid-back beachfront resorts to vibrant city hotels, the West Coast of Florida offers a wide range of options to cater to every traveler’s unique preferences.

Are you dreaming of a tropical escape? Look no further than the stunning West Coast Florida hotels dotting the Gulf Coast, where white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters await. If you prefer a more urban experience, the vibrant city hotels in destinations like Tampa and St. Petersburg are perfect for you, where you can immerse yourself in the local arts and cultural scene.

This article will take you on an adventure, allowing you to choose your own path and discover the best West Coast Florida hotels based on your personal travel style. So, get ready to pack your bags and embark on a journey that is bound to leave you with unforgettable memories of the Sunshine State.

Types of Travelers and Their Preferences

When it comes to choosing the right hotel, understanding your travel style is essential. Different types of travelers have different preferences and requirements. Let’s explore the various types of travelers and the hotels that suit them best.

Hotel Options for Luxury Travelers

When it comes to luxury accommodations, the West Coast of Florida pulls out all the stops. From opulent beachfront resorts to elegant city hotels, there’s no shortage of options for travelers seeking a lavish experience.

Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

One of the top hotels on Florida’s Gulf Coast is the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota , a five-star luxury resort that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and an array of world-class amenities. With its impeccable service and sophisticated ambiance, this hotel is a haven for luxury travelers seeking the ultimate pampering experience.

Location : The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is situated at 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota, Florida, in the heart of downtown Sarasota .

Check Prices and Availability.

Get Your Guide to Sarasota.

Don Cesar Hotel St. Pete Beach

Another option is the Don CeSar , a historic pink palace located on St. Pete Beach. This iconic hotel boasts luxurious rooms, a lavish spa, and multiple dining options, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Its beachside location will suit the needs of the couple looking for a beach retreat or the family looking for an upscale Florida vacation.

Location : The hotel is located at 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

Get Your Guide to St. Pete Beach .

Gasparilla Inn & Club – Boca Grande

For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande is a hidden gem. Nestled on a barrier island, this historic hotel offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens, private beach, and championship golf course. Its luxurious accommodations and personalized service make it a favorite among discerning travelers.

Don’t forget to visit their award-winning restaurant The Pink Elephant . The quaint shops of downtown Boca Grande will be treat for shoppers. Fishermen will love the world-class Tarpon Fishing.

Location : The Gasparilla Inn is situated at 500 Palm Avenue, Boca Grande, Florida, 33921.

Epicurean Hotel – Tampa

If you prefer an urban luxury experience, the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa is a perfect choice. This boutique hotel caters to food and wine enthusiasts, offering gourmet dining experiences, a rooftop bar, and a culinary classroom where guests can learn from renowned chefs.

Its stylish rooms and contemporary design make it a top pick for luxury travelers looking for a unique and indulgent stay. The Epicurean is part of the Autograph Collection of Hotels of Marriott. Nearby is historic Ybor City .

Location : The Epicurean Hotel is located at 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, Florida, 33606.

Get Your Guide to Tampa

Ritz-Carlton Hotel Naples Florida

The Naples Ritz-Carlton Hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and refinement. Boasting a serene and elegant atmosphere, this exquisite resort offers unparalleled service and world-class amenities. From the moment guests step into the grand lobby adorned with stunning chandeliers and lush floral arrangements, they are enveloped in a sense of opulence and sophistication.

Each spacious guest room and suite is meticulously appointed with plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and breathtaking views of the azure waters or lush tropical gardens. The Ritz-Carlton Naples is renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, including fine dining experiences that showcase the freshest seafood and innovative cuisine inspired by the region’s rich culinary heritage. This is truly one of the best hotels on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Location : The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, Florida, 34108.

Get Your Guide to Naples

JW Marriot Beach Resort – Marco Island

Nestled along the pristine shores of Marco Island in Southwest Florida, the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort stands as an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and relaxation. Boasting stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and miles of white sand beaches, this resort offers guests a truly unparalleled tropical paradise experience.

From the moment you arrive, you are enveloped in the warm hospitality and impeccable service that the JW Marriott brand is renowned for. The resort features elegant and spacious accommodations, ranging from luxurious guest rooms to lavish suites, all thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and stylish decor.

Indulge in world-class dining at the resort’s diverse restaurants, serving up delectable cuisine ranging from fresh seafood to authentic Italian fare. Whether you’re lounging by the sparkling pools, rejuvenating at the spa, or partaking in the array of water sports and recreational activities available, every moment at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is a blissful escape into luxury and tranquility. This is one of our favorite upscale places to stay on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Location : JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, 400 South Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, Florida, USA, 34145

Check Prices and Availability .

Get Your Guide to Marco Island

Budget West Coast Florida Hotels

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on comfort and quality. The West Coast of Florida offers a variety of affordable hotel options that cater to budget-conscious travelers.

Traveling on a budget also may mean you are merely spending a night on your way to another destination. Yet, you want to stay at a place on the west coast of Florida.

Bayfront Inn – Naples

We have stayed at the Bayfront Inn near downtown Naples many times on our way to the Florida Keys . The Bayfront is on the Gordon River . There is a direct walkway to Tin City and the restaurants there.

It is also just blocks away from the famous 5 th Avenue shopping district of Naples. The rates are seasonably reasonable.

Location : Bayfront Inn of Naples, 1221 5th Ave South, Naples, Florida 34102

Beachcomber Beach Resort – St. Pete Beach

One such option is the Beachcomber Beach Resort & Hotel in St. Pete Beach. Situated just steps away from the beach, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, beach volleyball courts, and a beachfront bar.

Location : Beachcomber Beach Resort, 6200 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach, FL, 33706.

Sandpiper Beach Club – Sarasota

For those seeking a more laid-back atmosphere, the Sandpiper Beach Resort in Sarasota is worth considering. This charming beachfront hotel offers cozy rooms and a private beach where guests can relax and soak up the sun. With its affordable rates and friendly staff, it’s the perfect choice for budget travelers looking for a beach getaway without breaking the bank.

Location : The Sandpiper Resort, 6414 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota, FL 34242.

Family-Friendly Hotels on the West Coast of Florida

Traveling with the whole family? The West Coast of Florida has plenty of family-friendly hotels that cater to the needs of both parents and children. Most have programs for children that keep the kids busy during their stay.

TradeWinds Island Grand Resort – St. Pete Beach

One of the top family-friendly hotels on the Gulf side of Florida is the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort in St. Pete Beach. This expansive beachfront resort offers a wide range of activities for kids, including a water park, mini-golf course, and a kids’ club. Parents can relax by the pool or enjoy a spa treatment while the little ones are kept entertained.

St. Pete Beach is also known for its shops, restaurants and entertainment venues along the beach. This is also a perfect place for family reunions, weddings and large events.

Location : The TradeWinds Hotel, 5500 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach, Florida 33706

Check Price and Availability .

Trip Advisor Things To Do St. Pete Beach

Hyatt Regency Beach Resort – Clearwater Beach

One of the best-known hotels on the West Coast of Florida that caters to adventure travelers is the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. Situated on Clearwater Beach , this hotel offers easy access to a variety of water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. After a day of adventure, guests can unwind at the hotel’s spa or enjoy a delicious meal at one of its waterfront restaurants.

The central location of the Hyatt on Clearwater Beach gives guests access to both north and south beach activities, restaurants and attractions . Children love to ride the Jolley Trolley that foes up and down the beach. One block east of the Hyatt is the Clearwater Marina which hosts all sorts of water tours for dolphin sightings, sunset cruises and charter fishing boats. One of the most popular excursions from Clearwater Marina is Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise .

Location : Hyatt Regency Beach Resort, 301 South Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, Florida, United States, 33767.

Get Your Guide to Clearwater Beach

Hotels for Adventure and Outdoor Enthusiasts

If you’re an adventure seeker or an outdoor enthusiast, the West Coast of Florida has plenty to offer. From thrilling water sports to nature trails and wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone.

Naples Grande Beach Resort – Naples

For those looking to explore the Everglades, the Naples Grande Beach Resort is an ideal choice. Located near the Everglades National Park, this resort offers guided tours and excursions to explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s amenities, including a championship golf course, multiple swimming pools, and a full-service spa.

We highly recommend one of the various airboat tours through the Everglades that can be arranged by the hotel staff. These tours give you an exciting way to learn about the Everglades and the alligators that inhabit the swamps.

Location : The Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive Naples, Florida 34103

Everglades Airboat Tours

Plantation Inn – Crystal River

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Plantation Inn on Crystal River is worth considering. Located on the banks of the Crystal River, this hotel offers easy access to snorkeling, diving, and swimming with manatees. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the nearby state parks and nature reserves, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an immersive nature experience.

The Plantation Inn offers tours to swim with manatees less than a mile or two from the hotel. They also offer charter boats for fishing, scalloping, and sightseeing the wonders of this spring-fed river basin.

Location : The Plantation Inn, 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, Florida, 34429.

Get Your Guide to Crystal River

Hotels for Beach Lovers

The West Coast of Florida is famous for its pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers.

Sandpearl Resort – Clearwater Beach

If you’re looking for the ultimate beachfront experience, the Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater Beach is a top pick for hotels on Florida’s west coast. This luxurious resort offers direct access to the beach and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can relax by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or take part in beach activities such as kayaking and beach volleyball.

Well-appointed rooms are on the Gulf of Mexico and literally just steps from the huge beach. The Sandpearl is the location of one of the best restaurants on Clearwater Beach called Caretta’s. If you prefer an afternoon margarita, the beachside bar at the Sandpearl can accommodate you.

Location : The Sandpearl Resort, 500 Mandalay Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

Check Prices and Availability

Island Inn Beach Resort – Sanibel Island

For a more secluded beach getaway, the Island Inn Beach Resort on Sanibel Island is a hidden gem. This charming beachfront hotel offers cozy accommodations and a private stretch of beach where guests can enjoy peace and tranquility. The hotel also provides complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the island and its beautiful beaches.

Shelling is one of the pastimes beachgoers partake in. The island of Sanibel is known for its shells. The JN Darling Preserve is another attraction on Sanibel but the beach is the star attraction.

Location : Island Inn, 3111 W. Gulf Drive Sanibel Island, FL 33957

Get Your Guide to Sanibel Island

Lido Beach Resort – Lido Key Sarasota

For those looking for a lively beach scene, the Lido Beach Resort in Sarasota is a great choice. Located on Lido Key , this resort offers direct access to a beautiful white sand beach and is within walking distance to popular restaurants and shops. Guests can enjoy beachfront dining, beach volleyball, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

One of the features of Lido Beach Resort is the Gulf of Mexico is just steps away from the hotel. You can walk for miles along the beaches. St. Armand Circle is within walking distance and offers over 140 shops, restaurants and boutiques. Great beach hotel on the west coast of Florida.

Location : Lido Beach Resort, 700 Benjamin Franklin Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236.

Unique and Boutique Hotels in West Coast Florida

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable hotel on the West Coast of Florida, you have plenty of boutique options to choose from.

Hotel Zamora – St. Pete Beach

One such hotel is the Hotel Zamora in St. Pete Beach. This Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can relax by the pool, dine at the hotel’s waterfront restaurant, or take a short walk to the beach.

The Zamora is known for its luxury accommodation and superb service.

Location : The Zamora Hotel 3701 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, Florida, 33706.

Check Availability and Prices .

Waterline Hotel & Marina – Anna Maria Island (Holmes Beach)

For a taste of Old Florida charm, the Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club in Holmes Beach is a perfect choice. This is part of the Mariott Autograph Collection.

This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with a coastal-inspired design and a private marina where guests can rent boats and explore the surrounding waterways. The hotel also features a beach club with a pool, cabanas, and a beach bar.

Very private hotel on the very busy Anna Maria Island .

Location : Waterline Villas, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida, USA, 34217

Check Availability and Rates .

Get Your Guide to Anna Maria Island

Tips For Choosing the Right West Coast Florida Hotels

When choosing the right hotel on the West Coast of Florida, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about your travel style and preferences. Are you looking for a beachfront resort, a vibrant city hotel, or a boutique experience? Consider the location and amenities that are important to you.

Next, set a budget and look for hotels that fit within your price range. Keep in mind that rates may vary depending on the time of year and demand, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices and book in advance.

Read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the hotel’s quality and service. Websites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com provide valuable insights from real guests. Pay attention to factors such as cleanliness, customer service, and overall guest satisfaction.

Lastly, consider the hotel’s cancellation policy and any additional fees or charges. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions before making a reservation.

Final Thoughts on the Hotels on Florida’s West Coast

The West Coast of Florida offers a diverse range of hotel options to suit every traveler’s style. Whether you’re seeking luxury, budget-friendly accommodations, family-friendly resorts, outdoor adventures, beachfront bliss, or unique boutique experiences, you’ll find it all when exploring the West Coast Florida hotels. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along the Sunshine State’s stunning coastline.

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Planning to take prom or graduation photos? Try these picture-perfect spots around Brevard

It's prom and graduation season. here are some places to visit if you want unique photos..

Not only is spring on the Space Coast prom and graduation season, but it's also a great time to get outdoors — especially for the ever-traditional big-day photos.

While in years past, prom and graduation photos were often taken at the event, many high schoolers now enjoy posing for pictures in their formal attire at a location of their choosing.

Take someplace unique to the Space Coast, for example.

For Ty Pope, Viera Wetlands was the perfect place to snap some photos before heading to prom. He's co-captain of Edgewood Jr./Sr. High's cross country and track team, and they often train along the marshy paths. The area holds a special place in his heart.

Pope and his date, Ella Hovan, along with brother Trey Pope and friend Jackson Reyier, stopped at the wetlands Friday afternoon before heading to prom, where they enjoyed dancing and spending time with friends.

"I thought the photo machine was cool, and I loved hanging out and dancing with all my friends," Ty said.

For Trey, a senior, prom was particularly special, and the photos of the friends in a much-loved place reflect that.

"I enjoyed hanging out with my friends, especially knowing it was the last time we would all get together like this," he said.

Whether you're looking for somewhere meaningful, artsy or just plain fun to snap a few pics before prom or next month's graduations, here are some ideas to get you started.

Opt for a pier instead of the beach to avoid the sand

The beach might give your photos a quintessential Florida feel, but it could come with the risk of getting your prom attire sandy or wet. Instead of traipsing down to the shore, try visiting a pier.

There are numerous piers across the county, with some attracting large numbers of tourists, while others are more low-key.

If you're looking for a quieter location, piers like Melbourne Beach pier and Riverside Park in Indialantic may be what you're in search of. While you might run into a few people fishing, as the docks are located along the Indian River Lagoon, these piers are small and less crowded than other locations.

There are also piers with more activity. Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular tourist spot on the beach, as it has lots of activity and is a good place to watch rocket launches. The pier extends 800 feet into the ocean and has a restaurant, bar, gift shops and live performances.

Jetty Park Pier in Port Canaveral is 1,200 feet long and mostly used by fishermen, but if you can't snap a good photo on the pier, the surrounding campground provides a lush backdrop for pictures.

Look for paved areas for nature photos

Brevard blooms with places to take photos with a nice nature backdrop. While places like Viera Wetlands can be fun to visit, you'll need to exercise caution and likely want to avoid anywhere that doesn't have a paved path, unless you have the proper footwear.

The Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden at Florida Tech boasts tropical plants and water features along a paved trail. You'll find colorful flowers and plants, a turtle pond and a butterfly garden along the path.

If you're looking for something with a little more of a natural backdrop, try visiting one of Brevard's parks or sanctuaries like Turkey Creek Sanctuary in Malabar or Erna Nixon Park in West Melbourne. Both have boardwalks that take visitors over landscapes of native plants and marshes.

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Try one of Brevard's downtown areas for an artsy vibe

If you want your photos to have a more artistic backdrop, there are multiple unique downtown locations around the county.

Historic Cocoa Village offers an eclectic mix of old and new architecture, with historic buildings built more than a decade ago scattered among the colorful new shops and restaurants. You'll find some of these older sites near Cocoa Riverfront Park, like the Porcher House and St. Mark's Episcopal Church.

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If you're looking for a more artistic vibe, consider visiting the Eau Gallie Arts District. Located along the Indian River Lagoon, EGAD is a Florida Main Street project, making it part of a national movement of local volunteers working to renew neighborhood business districts.

Among the numerous businesses in the area is an "outdoor museum," or murals and other pieces of art spread throughout the community. A map of these 29 pieces created by local artists be viewed on EGAD's website.

Other locations around the county with murals, colorful backdrops and unique architecture include Downtown Melbourne and Downtown Cocoa Beach.

Finch Walker is the education reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at  [email protected] . X:  @_ finchwalker .

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