Award-Winning Beaches

• No. 2 Best U.S. Beach for 2026 - Tripadvisor (also named #1 in Florida and among the top 20 beaches in the world)
• No. 6 Best U.S. Beaches for 2025 - Tripadvisor
• No. 2 Best Beaches in Florida 2025 - USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice
• One of the Top 15 White-Sand Beaches in the World 2024 Travel + Leisure
• "No. 1 Beach in the South for 2023" USA Today
• "No. 1 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2019" – Tripadvisor
• "No. 6 on World's Top 25 Beaches for 2019" – Tripadvisor
• "No. 1 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2018" – Tripadvisor
   

"Our family loved walking along the beachfront promenade, grabbing snacks, and watching the sunset at Pier 60, which turns into a lively festival with street performers and vendors. The vibe is laid-back but lively, and everything’s within walking distance: Cafes, shops and restrooms are easy to find." - Tripadvisor reviewer

"Clearwater Beach was a highlight of our trip—clean, wide shoreline with powdery white sand and calm turquoise water that’s perfect for swimming or just relaxing."

Must do: Kick back, relax and enjoy sunset from the sand near Pier 60.
 

• No. 7 Best Beaches in Florida 2025 - USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice
• "No. 1 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2021" – Tripadvisor
• "No. 5 Beach in the World for 2021" - Tripadvisor
• "No. 2 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2020" – Tripadvisor
• "No. 4 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2019" – Tripadvisor
• "No. 7 on America's Top 25 Beaches for 2018" – Tripadvisor

"Beautiful. Wide. Powdery sand. Shellers dream. Gorgeous views. All of this was my first impression when I stepped onto St. Pete's Beach for the first time today." - Tripadvisor review

"St. Pete Beach is the most beautiful beach we have ever been to. The water is amazing and the sand is so white. We’ve already scheduled our trip for next summer. No other beach has our heart!"

Don't Miss: Be sure to venture 20 minutes east to explore St. Petersburg, with its vibrant culinary scene and unique museums.
 

• "No. 4 Beach in America" - Dr. Beach (2024)
• "No. 2 Beach in America" - Dr. Beach (2022)
• "No. 7 Beach in America" – Dr. Beach (2021)
• “No. 6 Beach in America” – Dr. Beach (2020)
  
  "Pay the ferry and take the trip!! Beautiful white sand beaches and tons of shells. We went from 11a-3p and that was plenty long to swim and find sea shells. We also saw many crabs, small sting rays, dolphins and birds. It’s worth the extra trip!" - Tripadvisor review

The beach and water were amazing. Having dolphins playing within sight the whole time made it incredible. We also saw a manatee swim by." 

Tip: You can take the ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park, or rent a kayak on the Dunedin Causeway for the short paddle over to the island.

• "No. 6 Top Dog Beach for 2025" USA Today 10Best
• Previously named "America's Best Beach" by Dr. Beach and "America's Top Beach" by Tripadvisor
   

"Beautiful state park - two perfect beaches, two piers, bike and walking trails, a fort, picnic areas and lots of nature to explore!" - Tripadvisor review

"Dog park and dog beach HEAVEN!!! The beach, it is off leash and just a fabulous place for all pups. Beauty + fun for all."

Dive deeper: This gorgeous, 1,100-acre beach playground is spread out over five islands, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beach and explore the area’s natural wonders. Favorite park features include the leash-free dog beach, historic fort, boat launch, boat docks, kayak rentals, two fishing piers, shaded picnic areas and miles of cycling and walking trails.
 

• “No. 9 on America’s Top 25 Beaches for 2021” – Tripadvisor

"My first stay at a Florida beach and Madeira didn't disappoint. White sand, warm clear water. Just the right balance of touristy/small town appeal. Can't fail to mention the incredible sunsets. Everyday is unique and beautiful." - Tripadvisor review

"It was really nice to be able to sit on the beach and watch the bridge go up as boats were coming through at John's Pass. "

Must Do: Catch a dolphin cruise or rent a jet-ski out of John's Pass Village. Or better yet, hop on a floating tiki bar.

• "No. 3 Best Beach in Florida in 2025," USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice

"Gorgeous huge beach ... white sand ... so clean ... absolutely beautiful! Enjoy walking on the beach walk or directly on the beach - a must-visit for beach lovers!" - Tripadvisor review

It's a beautiful stretch of sand meets water. The beach is wide, the sand is white and soft. Beautiful sunsets. And chairs and umbrellas available for rent."