9 Florida beaches voted among America’s 100 Top Secret Beaches
One of the most enchanting aspects of secret or secluded beaches is the sense of discovery that comes with finding them. Unlike popular beaches that are often crowded and overdeveloped, hidden beaches offer a sense of exclusivity and intimacy that is hard to come by elsewhere. For those willing to put in the effort to find them, secret beaches offer a chance to escape the crowds and immerse oneself in nature. With over 95,000 miles of coastline, the US boasts some of the most breathtaking and unspoiled beaches in the world. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Northwest to the sugar-white sands of the Gulf Coast, the diversity of the American coastline provides endless opportunities for beachgoers to find their own secluded paradise.
A poll of 3,000 families by FamilyDestinationsGuide.com has revealed the top 100 secret beaches they would most like to visit this summer. Unsurprisingly, Hawaii and Florida’s secluded gems dominated the rankings (7 out of the top 10), although two California beaches and one from New Jersey also made it.
#1 Hawaii’s Awahua Beach came in the top position of American families’ bucket list destination for the summer of 2023. The beach boasts crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while its soft white sand offers a comfortable spot for sunbathing and relaxing. The surrounding landscape is equally breathtaking, with lush tropical vegetation, towering cliffs, and dramatic rock formations creating a stunning backdrop for any beachgoer.
#2 In second place came the beaches of Florida’s Shell Key Preserve. The island is located just south of St. Petersburg and is only accessible by boat, which helps to preserve the untouched landscape. The beaches are covered in a variety of seashells, including sand dollars and starfish, making it a unique destination for beachcombing. The crystal-clear waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.
#3 And rounding up the top 3 came Hawaii’s Lanikai Beach. Located on the eastern shore of Oahu, the beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and backed by towering palm trees, offering visitors a stunning tropical paradise. One of the factors that contribute to Lanikai’s seclusion is its location, which is situated away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki’s more crowded beaches. Additionally, the beach is only accessible by walking through a residential area, which helps to limit the number of visitors. The clear waters and soft sand also make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, while the scenic views of the Mokulua Islands make it a popular spot for photography.
#4 Hawaii’s Kauapea Beach, in 4th place, is nestled between towering cliffs and dense tropical vegetation, providing visitors with a stunning natural setting that feels truly secluded. Access to the beach requires a short hike down a steep path, which helps to keep the crowds at bay and maintain the beach’s peaceful atmosphere. Once visitors arrive, they are greeted by a stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
#5 Interestingly, a notable entrant in the top 5 came New Jersey’s Sedge Island. The island is located in Barnegat Bay, and its pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and salt marshes provide a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Access to the island is limited to guided tours, which help to preserve its unspoiled environment and maintain its peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can explore the island’s natural wonders, such as the diverse bird population, sea turtles, and marine life, while also taking advantage of its recreational opportunities, such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
Florida has 8 other secret beaches (after 2nd place Shell Key Preserve) which made it into the top 100:
#6 Lovers Key State Park is a stunning and secluded destination located on the southwestern coast of Florida. The park is situated on a barrier island that is accessible only by boat, adding to its sense of seclusion and tranquility. The park’s pristine beaches and crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, which wind through mangrove forests and offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
#9 Dry Tortugas National Park located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, is home to seven small islands and the historic Fort Jefferson, which was built in the 19th century. The clear turquoise waters that surround the islands are teeming with marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks. The coral reefs in the area are some of the healthiest in the world and are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The park is accessible only by boat or seaplane, and with limited facilities and amenities, the park remains relatively unspoiled and tranquil, offering visitors a sense of solitude and serenity. The seclusion of Dry Tortugas National Park makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the crowds and enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience in a stunning natural environment.
#10 Boneyard Beach on the southern end of Big Talbot Island State Park in Florida, gets its name from the weathered and bleached tree skeletons that line the shore, creating a stunning and eerie landscape. The beach is accessible only by a short hike through the maritime forest, which adds to the feeling of seclusion and adventure. The calm and clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean provide a perfect opportunity for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. With limited commercial developments and amenities, the beach remains relatively unspoiled and tranquil, offering visitors a sense of solitude and serenity.
#13 Navarre Beach, located in Florida’s panhandle, is known for its pristine white sand beaches and emerald green waters. Unlike some of the more popular beaches in Florida, Navarre Beach has managed to maintain its natural beauty and seclusion, making it a popular spot for those seeking a quieter beach experience. The beach is surrounded by protected lands, including the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which helps to preserve the area’s natural beauty. The beach is also known for its excellent fishing, with a pier that extends out into the Gulf of Mexico where visitors can fish for a variety of species.
#17 Crescent Beach, just south of St. Augustine, is a stunning and secluded destination that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the crowds. This pristine beach stretches for miles and is characterized by its soft, white sand and clear blue waters. The absence of high-rise buildings and large crowds makes it a serene and tranquil location to unwind and soak up the sun. Crescent Beach is surrounded by natural dunes and vegetation, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The beach also offers excellent opportunities for shelling, birdwatching, and fishing.
#23 Caladesi Beach features three miles of white sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and shell collecting. The clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide a perfect opportunity for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The island is accessible only by boat, which adds to the feeling of seclusion and adventure. With limited commercial developments and amenities, the island remains relatively unspoiled and tranquil, offering visitors a sense of solitude and serenity. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a diverse array of bird species.
#56 Cayo Costa State Park, accessible only by boat, features 9 miles of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including shelling, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The island’s untouched natural beauty, with its towering pines, mangrove swamps, and sand dunes, provides a peaceful and secluded environment for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
#64 Camp Helen State Park, located on the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, is a beautiful and secluded destination that offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and history. The park features a diverse array of ecosystems, including dunes, marshes, and rare coastal habitats that support a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, swim in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or simply relax on the park’s secluded beaches. The park is also home to historic buildings, including the Lodge at Camp Helen, which was once used as a retreat for employees of the Avondale Textile Mill. Today, visitors can tour the Lodge and learn about the rich history of the area.
“As families plan their summer vacations, it’s worth considering the benefits of visiting secluded beaches off the beaten track. Not only do these hidden gems offer a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, but they also provide a unique opportunity to discover a world of natural beauty that is often overlooked by the usual well-known crowded beaches. Whether it’s exploring a secluded cove or relaxing on a stretch of sand with only the sound of waves crashing against the shore, these hidden beaches offer a chance to create unforgettable memories with loved ones while experiencing the true beauty of the natural world” says Rose Ackermann of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com.