Dreaming of travel and trying to find it domestically? I feel ya! Well if you’re seeking sunshine, here are the 50 most beautiful places in Florida to add to your list!
I’ve organized these by region so that you can check out all of the most beautiful places in Florida that are close to where you want to visit!
Whether you’re heading to the:
- Florida Panhandle (Pensacola, Panama City Beach)
- Northeast (Jacksonville, Gainesville)
- North Central (Orlando, Gainesville)
- South Central (Tampa, St. Petersburg)
- Southwest (Fort Meyers, Naples)
- Southeast (West Palm Beach, Miami)
- Keys (From Key Largo to Key West)
… this list of beautiful places in Florida covers them all!
Let’s get into it!
Map of the Most Beautiful Places in Florida
Here’s an interactive map that you can open in Google Maps. I’ve color coded the pins on the map based on region.
Alright, without further ado, here are the most beautiful places in Florida!
1. Destin
Located in northwestern Florida, Destin and Fort Walton Beach make for the perfect family-friendly spot.
Its pristine waters and powdery white sand are a great place to soak up the sun. You can enjoy the resorts, golf courses, aquariums, and museums in Destin!
2. Gulf Islands National Seashore
The sea is calling! Enjoy the clear water, nature trails, and marine wildlife at the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
The seashore has 160 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico in Mississippi and Florida you don’t want to miss.
While you’re there, stop at Fort Pickens for the stunning arches pictured above!
3. Eden Gardens State Park
This beautiful state park in northwestern Florida has 163 acres of historic land. A must-see focal point is a renovated two-story mansion from 1897.
Visitors can wander the gardens, fish at Tucker Bayou, and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
4. Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach is one of the most highly rated beaches in the U.S. Not only is the coastline amazing, but it also has a stunning forest and lake to visit.
The park has incredible sunsets, excellent campgrounds, and world-class fishing. The photo above is at Longleaf Pine Forest at Western Lake in the state park.
5. Seaside
Seaside is a charming beach community best known as the setting of Jim Carrey’s show, The Truman Show. This picturesque town has excellent biking, surfing, and waterfront dining options.
Visitors can stay in cute seaside cottages and enjoy summertime live music.
6. Alys Beach
Are you in Santorini or Florida? At Alys Beach, you won’t know the difference!
This Mediterranean-inspired village will transport you around the world. You can take a stroll down its palm-tree lined streets and indulge in the relaxing beach lifestyle.
The very first photo in this post is from Alys Beach as well!
(By the way, if you like my photos, you can see exactly what’s in my camera bag here!)
7. Rosemary Beach
Considered one of “America’s Most Romantic Small Towns,” Rosemary Beach is an exciting getaway. It is a mix of immaculate beaches and stylish architecture.
The town center has a “French Quarter” inspired theme with plenty of outdoor dining and boutiques. It’s one of my favorite places for a luxury family getaway, and one of the most beautiful towns in Florida!
You can check out the 30 best things to do in Rosemary Beach here!
8. The Pearl Hotel
The Pearl Hotel at Rosemary Beach is a stunning oceanside getaway. It offers guests a five-star luxury experience with its striking architecture and lavish amenities.
You’ll have no shortage of fine-dining, relaxing spa time, and beach entertainment at this hotel.
Also, how charming are their black-and-white beach umbrellas? This was on the cover of Southern Living Magazine one month, so naturally, I wanted to recreate the shot with our drone when we visited!
9. Panama City Beach
You can enjoy Panama City Beach at any time of the year. The sun is always shining here, with an average of 320 sunny days.
Its 27-miles of award-winning coastline are perfect for sunbathing, visiting piers and parks, and watersports.
10. Falling Waters State Park
Nature lovers will be impressed by Falling Waters State Park’s 74-foot waterfall. The falls are the highest in Florida! It’s only a short trek to see the falls from two observation platforms.
You don’t want to miss this stunning sight- definitely one of the most beautiful places in Florida!
11. Amelia Island
If you adore the beach but not the crowds, you’ll love Amelia Island. The island has stunning nature, including marshes, greenways, and rivers.
Outdoor sports enthusiasts can enjoy guided kayaking tours, nature trails, and fishing trips at this island paradise.
12. Boneyard Beach
For those looking for an experience devoid of resorts, condos, and bustling cities, Boneyard beach is the place for you.
The beach has a unique aesthetic. The driftwood tree trunks littering the beach give it an iconic “elephant graveyard” appearance.
13. Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach is a bit more tranquil than other beaches in Florida. It is very well-maintained and not usually too crowded, so it’s easy to relax.
You can enjoy stunning sunrises in the morning, go surfing, and enjoy beachside restaurants.
14. St. Augustine
St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, is steeped in history. Spanish explorers founded it in 1565, and its architecture and old-world charm reflect its heritage.
The city’s cobblestoned streets have numerous cafes, bars, and shops people can explore!
15. Madison Blue Spring State Park
If you love swimming and you love nature, you’ll love Madison Blue Spring State Park. The state park is home to USA Today’s #1 rated swimming hole in the United States! A lush green forest surrounds this tranquil swimming spot.
16. Ichetucknee Springs State Park
This 2,669-acre park is home to diverse wildlife, crystal-clear springs, and the six-mile Ichetucknee River.
Visitors love warm-water tubing and snorkeling in the swimming holes and lakes. Animal lovers can find wild turkeys, beavers, and softshell turtles in the park.
17. Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
The Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is a gem that will transport you back in time. It is truly a beautiful Florida spring and is a must if you’re in the Gainesville area.
To reach the spring, you descend into an underground cave filled with stunning rock formations. You can either scuba dive or snorkel in the spring.
Also of mention, just six minutes away, diving enthusiasts are in heaven at the Blue Grotto Dive Resort.
The cavern’s 100-foot deep pool is crystal clear and a perfect 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Divers can see undisturbed rock formations that are almost entirely in their natural state!
18. Three Sisters Springs
The Three Sisters Springs is the winter home of migrating manatees. Visitors can take eco-tours to see these beautiful sea creatures from mid-November to late March.
Other activities that you can do at the springs include boating, swimming, and fishing. It’s part of the Crystal River National Park Refuge, which has incredibly clear waters, hence its name. The entire refuge is truly one of the most enchanting and beautiful places in Florida!
Crystal River National Park Refuge focuses on protecting the endangered Florida Manatee. It preserves the last remaining undeveloped manatee habitat.
If you want to see these precious creatures, there are numerous boardwalks in the park.
19. Rainbow Springs State Park
With about 100 acres of wetlands to see, the Rainbow Springs State Park is a stunning natural wonder.
Its river is home to various fish, plants, and wildlife. The park has 11 different natural communities that visitors can explore.
20. Mount Dora
For laid-back country living, head to Mount Dora. Its charming downtown area has country inns, outdoor cafés, an old railway station, and wineries.
If you want to find some unique items, there are plenty of fascinating antique and collectible stores.
21. Blue Spring State Park
With 51 campsites and cabins, this state park is a recreation lover’s playground.
Visitors can go scuba diving in caves during spring and summer and have picnics. In winter, you can visit the manatees who make this park their home.
22. Disney World
Disney World is a magical place, no matter what age you are. The entertainment complex offers nearly 25,000 acres of entertainment at its four theme parks and two water parks.
Disney Springs just outside the parks offers shopping and dining.
The most Instagrammable place here is, hands down, Cinderella’s Castle!
23. Kennedy Space Center
Head to the Kennedy Space Center for an “out of this world” experience. You can visit the “Space Shuttle Atlantis” exhibit, take a simulated space ride, and “train like an astronaut.”
The most photo-worthy spot here, in my opinion, is the Rocket Garden pictured above!
Don’t forget to check out the Astronaut Hall of Fame!
24. Caladesi Island State Park
If you want somewhere with more nature than people, visit the Caladesi Island State Park.
This pristine island is home to sea turtles, gopher tortoises, shorebirds, scallops, and sand dollars. It’s the perfect place to picnic and enjoy kayaking trails.
25. Clearwater Beach
As its name implies, Clearwater Beach is a remarkable place with pure water. You can enjoy the small-town next to it and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Its family-friendly accommodations, exciting beach life, and delicious restaurants make this an ideal destination.
26. The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)
You are in for a treat at The Dalí if you are a fan of the artist. The museum houses the most extensive collection of his art outside of Europe.
Its exterior is as whimsical and vibrant as Dalí himself!
27. The Don CeSar
The Don CeSar Hotel is a legendary beach getaway that has hosted famous and notorious figures. Its iconic pink building sits on top of sand dunes next to the beautiful Gulf Coast, and is one of the most beautiful hotels in Florida!
Visitors can enjoy world-class dining, retail, and spas.
28. Pass-a-Grille Beach
Home to the aforementioned Don CeSar, Pass-a-Grille Beach is a town and a shoreline at the southern end of St. Pete Beach. Pictured above you have The Hurricane, an adorably colorful seafood restaurant.
The town is charming and relaxed. You can take a pleasant stroll through its outdoor art market, play tennis, or unwind at the beach.
29. Fort De Soto Park
This beautiful park in the Pinellas County Park system has five interconnected islands.
Fort De Soto has a unique ecology in its mangroves and wetlands. You can kayak or explore the beach and see its birds, sea creatures, and wildlife.
But some might argue that the most beautiful part of Fort De Soto is its beautiful palm-tree lined road!
30. Anna Maria Island
If you want to get away, Anna Maria Island is an outstanding tranquil destination for you. Strict regulations preserve its charming historic buildings and businesses.
Let go of all your stress on the pristine beaches and explore this quaint island.
31. Ca’ d’Zan
If you visit Ca’ d’Zan, you might forget that you’re in Florida. This former winter residence of developer and art collector John Ringling has an exquisite Venitian Gothic revival design.
Explore the incredible grounds or check out the Ringling Museum.
32. Siesta Key
With 100 golf courses to choose from, golf lovers are in heaven at the Siesta Key. If you’re not a golfer, there are plenty of family and cultural activities.
Its powdery quartz sand beaches and serene waters offer unlimited excitement.
33. Boca Grande
Boca Grande is a fabulous small town with exciting things to do. Its landscape is a stunning mix of beaches and pine forests.
Visitors can go to the Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum, Paradise Island Gallery, and Coyo Costa State Park.
34. Fort Myers
Rated the 2nd “best place to retire” in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, Fort Myers is also an excellent vacation destination. The city has an exciting selection of attractions and accommodations with some terrific deep-sea fishing opportunities!
And while you’re in Fort Meyers, don’t miss out on the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Boardwalk.
This unique sanctuary has wet prairies, marsh wetlands, pine forests, and North America’s largest stand of bald cypress trees. People of all ages can learn about the park and participate in its guided program!
35. Naples
I’ll never forget my first tropical Christmas when my parents decided we’d head to Naples one year instead of our usual trip to Wisconsin. I have so many fond memories of Naples from that trip!
Come to Naples if you want a luxurious getaway with high-end dining and shopping. You can find a number of home décor shops and boutiques.
You will also love this destination because of its beautiful beaches and excellent water views!
36. Big Cypress National Preserve
This preserve protects over 729,000 acres of rich swampland and supports the neighboring Everglades.
There is a mix of waterways, swamps, and campsites here. Guests can enjoy both boat rides and guided tours.
37. Everglades National Park
This renowned national park is home to the United States’ largest tropical wilderness. It is a mix of wetlands and forests and is home to numerous wildlife species.
Visitors can go hiking or take guided tours on land, or an airboat tour or kayak eco tour to see the park from the water!
38. Blowing Rocks Preserve, Jupiter Island
The blowing rocks at this preserve are a sight to see. Waves break against the Anastasia limestone rocks and create impressive 50-foot plumes of saltwater!
Blowing Rocks is also home to many rare plants and animals, including loggerhead sea turtles.
39. The Colony Hotel
Located in “America’s Most Fun Small Town,” the Colony Hotel makes for a relaxing beach getaway.
This eco-friendly hotel in Palm Beach also offers guests private beach access at the Colony Cabaña Club. Perks include a saltwater pool, cabañas, showers, umbrellas, towels, and complimentary parking.
40. St. Bernard De Clairvaux
St. Bernard De Clairvaux is a stunning Spanish export, literally. This 12th-century monastery cloister was built in Segovia, Spain but dismantled and shipped to Florida in the 20th century. Today you can visit this sacred building in North Miami Beach.
41. Miami Beach
From the read and white umbrellas at the Faena Hotel to the colorful lifeguard towers that dot the white sand, Miami Beach definitely deserves a spot on this list! You can see my full list of the 53 most Instagrammable places in Miami Beach and Miami here!
42. Frost Museum of Science
She put a science museum on her list? Yes! The three-story aquarium at the Frost Museum of Science is one of the most beautiful places in Florida, hands down. I could’ve stood there and watched the marine life for hours! Sharks, sea turtles, rays, and more fly over you as you immerse yourself in this magical experience.
43. Venetian Pool
This epic pool, built in 1923, has 820,000 gallons of spring water from an underground aquifer. Onsite, there are two waterfalls and grottos for swimmers to enjoy.
Two lookout towers with excellent city views accentuate the pools with attractive architecture.
44. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is businessman James Deering’s former estate and villa. It is a stunning architectural wonder designed in the Mediterranean Revival style.
Visitors can explore its lovely 50-acre grounds that include a villa, gardens, and native forest. And let me tell you, these beautiful Florida gardens are worth the entrance fee. You can get your tickets online here!
45. Cape Florida Light
This striking lighthouse has been around since 1825. Located in Biscayne, it has survived erosion, dozens of hurricanes, an attack by Native Americans, and even an explosion!
Whether you have a drone or are take a photo from the ground, this lighthouse is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Florida!
46. Christ of the Abyss
You can find this statue in the water off the coast of Key Largo. It’s a memorial for anyone who lost their lives at sea.
Ways to see this statue are by snorkeling, scuba diving, or on a glass-bottom boat. But in order to capture it in all of its beauty on camera, you’ll need an underwater camera, and this one is less than $50!
47. Molasses Reef
This vibrant coral reef lies in the waters off the southeastern shores of Key Largo. It is a diver’s wonderland that’s considered one of the world’s best diving spots! This site has excellent visibility and is teeming with marine life.
48. Overseas Highway & The Seven-Mile Bridge
The “journey is the destination” on the iconic Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys!
Drivers enjoy a 113 mile stretch of highway that seemingly disappears into the horizon. It connects Miami to Key West and has 42 bridges that hop from key to key. Most notably, you’ll find the seven-mile bridge. While there’s a lookout on Marathon Key, we found that our drone was able to capture the seven-mile bridge the best!
49. Key West
This tropical island destination will give you a taste of Caribbean culture. Its clear waters, incredible sunsets, and top-notch fishing draw in millions of visitors each year.
You won’t want to miss Florida’s oldest bar, mouthwatering seafood, and magnificent beaches.
Check here for a list of the 31 most Instagrammable places in Key West!
50. Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas is a 100-square mile national park consisting of seven islands. You can visit by boat or seaplane. The park has Fort Jefferson, clear blue waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It is a popular destination for both boating and camping!
In conclusion…
There you have it! The 50 most beautiful places in Florida! Which do you want to visit the most?
Do you know of any more stunning Florida photo spots to add to this list? Let me know in the comments!
And if you’re searching for photos to post on Instagram, check out this post on 15 tips to take better Instagram photos!
Safe travels,
Jasmine
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2 Responses
Ahh! Thank you once again Jasmine!
I always check out your website first when making travel plans! I know I will always find very beautiful and very informative content! <3
This makes me SO happy to hear! Thank you Sihinta!!