A Local’s Guide to Florida’s Best East Coast Beaches

With over 800 miles of beaches in Florida, there’s a lot of diversity, and you’ll find some distinct differences between the two coasts. I’ve found that the gulf side on the state’s west coast generally has calmer water. When you travel to the east coast, you’ll be greeted with stronger waters and scenic views of the Atlantic. 

More waves makes this side of the state popular with surfers, but these beaches are also great for families, couples and solo travel. The best beaches on Florida’s Atlantic Coast range from laid-back natural settings to some of the world’s best party scenes. No matter what beach vibes you’re seeking, you can find it on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. This list starts with my northernmost favorite beach on the east coast of Florida and works its way down the coastline.   

Amelia Island

Sea Oats at Fernandina Beach. Amelia Island pier in Fernandina Beach, Florida.
Photo by © Brian Welker | Dreamstime.com

If you’re heading into Florida on I-95 and looking for the closest place to stop and have a great Florida getaway, this is it. The most popular beachfront park is Main Beach Park, but if you’re looking for unspoiled coastline, check out Amelia Island State Park.  

Must Do: Book a tour to go horseback riding on the beach. I love experiencing the beach in this way (and this is one of the few places you can do it on Florida’s Atlantic coast).  

Jacksonville Beach

Aerial photo Jacksonville Beach FL.
Photo by © Felix Mizioznikov | Dreamstime.com

Jacksonville is Florida’s most populated city, and you’ll find all you need at Jacksonville Beach (often called Jax Beach by the locals). There’s no shortage of great dining spots and things to do. You may also want to check out Atlantic and Neptune beaches when you’re in the area too—you’ll find them just north of Jax Beach. 

Must Do: Visit Boneyard Beach located within Big Talbot Island State Park to see the giant driftwood. You’ll experience a totally different, rugged beach setting and some people say the massive trees resemble an elephant graveyard. 

Ponte Vedra

Beautiful Ponte Vedra Beach on the east coast of North Florida.
Photo by © Fotoluminate | Dreamstime.com

This laid-back beach holds a special place in history, as it marks the spot where Ponce de Leon first made landfall in Florida. I recommend going to the North Beach Access. That’s where you’ll find the statue that commemorates the Spanish explorer and you’ll be able to learn more about this spot’s historical significance. 

Must Do: Look for shark teeth! This is one of the most well-known beaches on Florida’s Atlantic coast where you can find both modern day and fossilized shark teeth. North Beach and Mickler’s Landing Beachfront Park are the most popular spots to find these unique souvenirs. 

St. Augustine Beach 

Ship in the harbor at St. Augustine, Florida.
Photo by © Jon Bilous | Dreamstime.com

History buffs will love this one, as St. Augustine is recognized as America’s oldest city. Definitely explore all of the city’s unique historical offerings, but plan sufficient time to enjoy the stunning beach as well. There are multiple access points and you can even drive on the beach here. 

Must Do: For the best views of the area, visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and climb the lighthouse tower that was built in the 1800’s. The kiddos will enjoy the pirate ship playground as well. 

Flagler

The Flagler Beach municipal pier.
Photo by © Tony Bosse | Dreamstime.com

You’ll find a relaxed vibe here with local shops and restaurants. Flagler Beach has multiple places where you can park and easily access the beach. You’ll also like the undeveloped, natural beach at the Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area. 

Must Do: Go golfing alongside the beach. The 18-hole Ocean Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and includes six holes that overlook the Atlantic Ocean. 

Daytona 

Pier and Beach Chairs With Umbrellas in Daytona Beach, FL
Photo Courtesy of Brandy Hastings

Daytona Beach carries the title of “The World’s Most Famous Beach.” Even though it’s really popular, you’ll find a wide shoreline here and have plenty of room to spread out. There are multiple places to park and you can even drive on the beach. I really like the area by the Daytona Beach Pier (also known as the Main Street Pier) that is near the boardwalk. 

Must Do: Take a tour of Daytona International Speedway. Even if you’re not a NASCAR fan, this is a really cool experience to go behind the scenes. 

New Smyrna

Person riding bike on beach at sunrise in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
Photo Courtesy of Brandy Hastings

This is one of Florida’s best beaches for surfing, and I think it’s one of the best places to see an Atlantic Coast sunrise, too. You’ll find multiple places to park, but you can also drive on the beach. Take a drive down popular Flagler Avenue and you’ll see where the road ends and the beach begins. Make time for a stroll down Flagler too—there are great shops and restaurants. 

Must Do: Visit Sugar Works Distillery and try the locally-made bourbon, vodka, cinnamon flavored whiskey, rum, agave spirit and moonshine. They make their own bitters also and I could easily taste the freshness in my Old Fashioned. 

Canaveral National Seashore

Canaveral National Seashore, Playalinda Beach Boardwalk going down to beach.
Photo Courtesy of Brandy Hastings

This is the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline on Florida’s Atlantic Coast and has two different entrance points: Apollo Beach in New Smyrna Beach and Playalinda Beach in Titusville. These are pristine, natural beaches and you won’t find beachside hotels and surf shops here. Make sure to pack all you need for a great day at the beach. 

Must Do: This is the best place to see a rocket launch from the beach, so keep an eye on the rocket launch schedule and try to plan a visit when that is happening. You can see a launch from both ends of the seashore, but go to Playalinda Beach if you want to be closest to the action. 

Cocoa Beach 

Cocoa Beach pier in Cape Canaveral of Florida near Orlando.
Photo by © Lunamarina | Dreamstime.com

There are several great beaches near Orlando, but this one is the closest to the airport. If you’re flying into Orlando, it’s less than an hour away. Port Canaveral is just a few minutes down the road too, so if you’re headed there to depart on a cruise, you have to add in a day or two at Cocoa Beach. 

Must Do: Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier that stretches out 800 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. There are multiple places there to grab a drink and food, as well as beach volleyball courts. If you want to give surfing a try, you can also book a lesson there. 

Vero Beach

Man metal detecting on beach in Vero Beach, FL
Photo Courtesy of Brandy Hastings

Vero Beach is part of a region known as the Treasure Coast. Yes, the beach is quite beautiful and is a treasure on its own, but it’s not uncommon to find actual treasure there, too. It’s documented that several ships sank in the area and treasure still washes ashore to this day. I personally think this is the best place for metal detecting in Florida. 

Must Do: Visit the McLarty Treasure Museum located inside Sebastian Inlet State Park to see artifacts from the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet that sank in the area. 

Hutchinson Island

Hutchinson Island, Florida, United States.
Photo by © Joni Hanebutt | Dreamstime.com

This pristine area spans two counties and has 23 miles of beaches where you won’t find too many crowds. Stuart Beach is the most popular, but Jensen Beach is also a great option. Normandy and Gulfstream Beaches are other hidden gems for those seeking a super-relaxed vibe, while anglers really love dropping a line at Tiger Shores Beach. 

Must Do: Visit the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center to learn about local marine life such as sharks and sea turtles. You can even have an opportunity to interact with a stingray while you’re there. 

Palm Beach 

Aerial shot of downtown west palm beach.
Photo by © Ryan Jones | Dreamstime.com

Palm Beach Municipal Beach is a great spot to access the beach right within the city. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach is a nice alternative for a more secluded, natural option. Palm Beach County has 27 beaches within its boundaries though, so this is a fabulous spot to do some beach hopping to other cool beaches like Riviera Beach and Juno Beach. 

Must Do: Enjoy some retail therapy at the high-end shops on Worth Avenue. This is also where you’ll find the famous clock tower. WIth the sparkling Atlantic Ocean serving as a backdrop, this is one of the best selfie spots in Palm Beach. 

Fort Lauderdale

Aerial view of Fort Lauderdale Beach in Fort Lauderdale
Photo by © Jessica Kirsh | Dreamstime.com

If being near the impressive cityscape and in close proximity to hotels and dining is important to you, this is your spot. The Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is a popular place to access the beach and has a playground, volleyball court, restrooms, outdoor showers and more. 

Must Do: See the city from another viewpoint by taking a Venice of America boat tour. You’ll get to cruise by the massive yachts and mansions along Millionaire’s Row. 

Hollywood Beach 

Hollywood Beach Broad Walk, Florida.
Photo by © Typhoonski | Dreamstime.com

Hollywood Beach is famous for their amazing two and a half mile boardwalk that runs alongside Florida’s Atlantic Coast. You’ll see people walking, skating and cycling along the pathway to take in the best views of the ocean. There are plenty of places to eat and stay along the boardwalk and everything is easily accessible. 

Must Do: Visit the Anne Kolb Nature Center. Even though it’s less than three miles away from the boardwalk, you’ll feel as if you’re in a completely different place as you’re walking through the nature trail among the mangrove wetlands. 

Miami Beach 

South Beach, Miami, Florida, USA over South Pointe Park.
Photo by © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com

Miami is one of Florida’s most popular spots, and you can expect a vibrant party scene here—especially in the trendy South Beach area. Miami is a place known for fashion, art and architecture. This even shows up on its colorful and unique lifeguard towers that were designed by an award-winning architect and have become iconic pieces of art. 

Must Do: Dance the night away! Miami has a thriving nightlife scene and you’ll find impressive cocktails and funky beats everywhere you turn.