Where to Find Clear Water Beaches in Florida

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View of Dry Tortugas, one of the clear water beaches in florida

Summer is in full swing, and the clear water beaches in Florida are calling.

People often describe paradise as a beach with white sand and clear blue water, and Florida certainly has some places that fit the bill. 

If you and the family are looking for an excellent beach vacation, look no further than the sunshine state.

Here is a brief look at what the state offers. Explore now, and enjoy later! 

Do Beaches in Florida Have Clear Water?

There are many types of beaches along the U.S. coast. You can find rocky shores on the northeast and west coasts of the nation.

You can find murky waters along the east coast to about central Florida, and then the waters start clearing up. The Gulf Coast is the exception.

There are some areas in the panhandle of Florida on the Gulf Coast that have gorgeous waters. Panama City and Destin are a couple of the Gulf beaches that offer a piece of paradise to visitors.

The COVID pandemic also helped clear up the water and air in those places. 

What Beach in Florida Has the Clearest Water?

It’s hard to say which beach in Florida has the most transparent waters.

In general, the Gulf Coast is best for clear water beaches, and people often mention Destin due to its proximity to Choctawhatchee Bay.

The area between Panama City and Destin has won the Blue Wave Beach Award for clarity, water quality, and beauty. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJ3fpwQw6jI

When Is the Best Time to Visit Clear Water Beaches in Florida? 

Florida gets excellent weather pretty much year-round.

Of course, it gets a little too cold to swim in the winter months, but you can have a good beach experience from March/April until late September.

The best time for a sunny, busy beach experience would be in June or July.

If you want a less crowded beach, plan your visit in one of the transition months, like August or April. 

10 Best Beaches With the Clearest Water in Florida

A guide will help you plan the perfect beach trip for yourself and your friends/family. Take a hint from this list, and check out what these beach locations offer. 

1. Key West

Key West is a bucket list location in Florida. The island sits in the middle of an ocean of stunning crystal clear waters with beautiful coral at the bottom.

The coral is also a downside of Key West. The beaches don’t have the softest sand due to the coarse coral and rocks, making it a bit tough on the feet.

Smathers Beach, which is close to Key West, imports sand to create a more pleasant experience for visitors.

2. Dry Tortugas

If you thought Key West was southern, think again! Dry Tortugas is about 70 miles west of Key West. On Google Maps, it hardly looks like a place at all.

You can’t even drive to the island. You have to take a boat or a plane to get there, but it’s worth the trip. It’s an island paradise and home to the nation’s only tropical reef.

You can spend the day there or camp overnight, and don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear. 

View of Dry Tortugas, one of the clear water beaches in florida

3. Navarre Beach

At the east end of the Pensacola barrier island, you’ll find Navarre Beach.

Navarre is an ideal place to enjoy the clear waters on the Florida coast without the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular spots like Pensacola.

This beach has unobstructed views, a laid-back atmosphere, and the longest pier in the state at 1,500 feet long. You can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the ocean. 

4.Siesta Key

Siesta Key is a unique spot. The water is clear, but the sand is even more interesting and exciting. The sands on Siesta Key are quartz rather than coral, and they never get hot.

You could walk along the beach midday, and you won’t burn your feet on the sand. There are also free yoga classes on the beach, parasailing, and snorkeling activities. 

Pro Tip: So what’s so Special About Siesta Key Beach? Let’s find out Siesta Key Beach has to offer!

View of Siesta Key clear water beach in florida at sunset

5. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a remarkable place to experience Florida’s clear blue waters and pick up a few shells while you’re at it.

It is the shelling capital of the world, so you’ll find some unique specimens on this beach. The island is off the coast of Fort Myers. 

6. Anna Maria Island

The waters around Anna Maria Island are some of the most beautiful in the world. The clear emerald-shaded ocean and the silky white sands will leave nothing to be desired.

Anna Maria Island lies just south of Sarasota, and you won’t find huge crowds if you choose to vacation on this beach. 

7. Rosemary Beach

Rosemary Beach isn’t a very well-known beach in Florida, but it is quickly gaining popularity. The most crucial thing to note about Rosemary Beach is that it is not a public beach.

You have to be either a resident or staying in the area to have access.

Due to the strict standard, this beach is always clean, it never gets very crowded, and there are plenty of beach chairs available.

8. Miami Beach

You probably already know about the beaches in Miami from television and the movies, and you’re likely to get the same experience you expect from visiting the place.

Miami is a party town, and the nightlife is vibrant! If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and excitement, you’ll find it in Miami.

9. Jupiter

If you don’t know about Jupiter, here’s your chance to discover a new and breathtaking spot. The waters of Jupiter’s beaches are blue, clear, and calm.

It’s a perfect area for paddle boarding and snorkeling, and the water stays at a good temp due to the gulf stream all year round.

10. Destin Beach

Destin Beach is always on the top beaches list for clear waters and gorgeous sands.

It is in the panhandle of Florida. Destin is a true tropical paradise. Enjoy activities like snorkeling and surfing. You can even swim with dolphins! 

Keep in Mind: Bring your motorhome to Destin for some beach camping at one of these 10 Best RV Parks in Destin!

A couple snorkeling in Destin Beach, one of the clear water beaches in florida

Enjoy the Clear Water Beaches in Florida

Now that you know some of what Florida beaches offer, you can start planning your next beach excursion.

Remember to take the time to soak in the sights, smells, and feelings you get during your visit, as Florida is such a special place.

When is your next adventure? 

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