Anna Maria Island is what beach town dreams are made of. A laid-back beach town with a healthyand well-lovedpopulation of vintage ice cream parlors, Pass-A-Grille Beach is an island town located at the southernmost end of St. Pete Beach. Crystal Beach, Florida. Located north of Downtown St. Augustine, Vilano Beach is an artist's dream. ins.dataset.adClient = pid; "I was very surprised," said Tampa, Kansas resident Lance Diepenbrock. Some of these include Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island; Ormond Beach;New Smyrna Beach; Vero Beach; Key Biscayne; and Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. It is one of ht nicest small towns in this part of the state. Stroll through the town on your bike and check out one of the many amazing restaurants. Dade City is located less than an hour northeast of Tampa in eastern Pasco County. Atlantic Ocean at Flagler Beach SIESTA KEY, Population 5,454 Juno Beach, Floridais in Palm Beach County about 6 miles south of Jupiter Inlet. The 16 Best Beach Towns in Florida To Visit! Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. You can also partake in any water sport imaginable if that interests you. Buena Vista Inn. ins.style.display = 'block'; What makes Siesta Key so great is it completely caters to the public with parks, beaches, picnic tables, stores, playgrounds, and other things for people to enjoy. Atlantic Beach may very well be the most-quaint beach town in Florida that is equally great for surfing. A small, charming town filled with a lot of significant sights, Williston houses the world-famous prehistoric springs and diving sites, Devil's Den and Blue Grotto, which attracts visitors from all over the country. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device.We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development.An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destinations. Rehoboth . Key Biscayne is one of the best small towns to visit in Florida. It is Brevard County's oldest beach community. It is tucked in between the town ofBal Harbouron the north and the North Beach neighborhood ofMiami Beachon the south. All together, Delray has a ton to offer and would make for a great Florida vacation. It's a stellar spot to do just about everything you can imagine on the water like paddleboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. Known for the vast beaches of the big cities, Florida also has many small charming towns that offer a more secluded getaway with every comfort, still being an option. container.appendChild(ins); Palm Beach, Floridais on the east coast barrier island across from West Palm Beach. The crystal clear waters of Crystal River are famous for sighting sea cows and other sea life like turtles and schools of fish. Founded in 1565 it wasn't until Henry Flagler transformed the city into a bustling hub in the late 1800s with his railroad. The historic main street is full of little cafes, restaurants, and shops worth exploring. CENTRAL FLORIDA Courtesy of Blue Spring State Park DELAND Home of Florida's oldest college, Stetson University, DeLand is full of historic buildings and beautiful murals. But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal. Turquoise water, manicured lawns, contemporary sculptures, and bright white Mediterranean-style houses deliver photo-worthy landscapes. It is great for shelling and also has one of the largest wildlife refuges on this coast. Yet there's a Florida off the beaten path destination that is well hidden away in the north. 3) Apalachicola Florida. As you drive on the US-90, you'll find yourself cutting through a cute Victorian town. Tampa, which we named as the 2nd best city in Florida in 2022, is just a 20-30 minute drive from Oldsmar. The birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, Fernandina Beach, is a waterfront village nestled on the north end of Amelia Island. It was incorporated in 1953. White Springsis on the Suwannee River in Northeast Florida about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Dubbed the "heart of the Gold Coast," it's easy to see how this gorgeous town won its reputation. Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles, Chipley, Florida. Siesta Public Beach has been named Americas Number One beach multiple times because of its pure quartz sand and beautiful turquoise blue ocean views. Pasco County Courthouse, Dade City DADE CITY is a popular destination for antique hunters. The McIntosh Historic District includes dozens of historic homes and other buildings. Siesta Key Village is known for its excellent shopping, cafes, and restaurants. It has a small population of 17,500 friendly people. Micanopyis a historic town on U.S. Highway 441 about 14 miles south of Gainesville. Sanibel Island. It's close enough to Miami that you can easily get to and from the 24/7 action of the city, but just far enough out into the ocean that you immediately get that sense of "ahhhhh" when you drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway. It is located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River on Apalachicola Bay. 2. 5 Anna Maria Island. Cedar Key, Florida. Vero Beach 5. Located on Florida's Space Coast east of Orlando is Cocoa Beach, known as Florida's "quintessential beach town.". There are nearly 250 sites near the beaches in a shady wooded setting that's right on the Myakka River. 1. Rambler's Rest RV Campground is a 20-minute drive from town and about four miles south of Interstate 75. The beach towns we have selected here all have populations of less than 10,000. STUART, Fla. Some residents are concerned that the city of Stuart's small-town charm is diminishing after three shootings happened in less than 24 hours. | Contact Us. Visitors come for the sun but stay for the remarkable (and high-class) atmosphere. Many people know the Panama City Beach area because of Destin and the spring breakers. Madeira Beach, Floridais on the Gulf of Mexico in Pinellas County across Boca Ciega Bay from St. Petersburg. It still retains it small-town charm. Melbourne Beachis a quiet bedroom community of about 3,000 people on the barrier island across the Indian River Lagoon from the larger city ofMelbourne. Amelia Island, Florida Its easy to get around by foot or bicycle to truly enjoy beachside living, making it ideal if youre visiting and dont have a car.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'peterpantraveler_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_12',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); The most interesting thing about Seaside is the town is an example of New Urbanism. BADLY DAMAGED BY HURRICANE IAN SEPTEMBER 2022. Amelia Island will probably check off a lot of marks on your Florida bucket list. Contents hide. Its known for its coral reefs, fabulous beaches, and fine coastal living. There are even spots listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a town comprised of all mobile homes across the Intracoastal Waterway from Boynton Beach. var lo = new MutationObserver(window.ezaslEvent); Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA. There is a ton of land area in the park to explore, perfect for getting in a bit of exercise and enjoying the views. 16 Best Small Towns in Florida - Quaint Small Florida Beach Towns to Visit or Live In 1 2 55 Most Magical Christmas Towns to Visit 3 50 Best Amazon Gift Ideas 4 Cutest The Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids 5 Dad Jokes To Keep the Whole Family Laughing Country Living editors select each product featured. 1. While the large cities can be a ton of fun, small beach towns boast just as many things to do and have a great community feel. In the summer, there are also several small concerts by the beach. It is about 45 miles west of Ocala in Central West Florida. Cedar Key oozes with small-town charms and pretty seaside beauty. if(ffid == 2){ It is a town comprised of all mobile homes across the Intracoastal Waterway from Boynton Beach. 386-428-5565. A tiny village in South Walton County surrounded by towering dunes and coastal lakes, Grayton Beach has lots of credibility as one of Florida's best little beach towns. In western Florida, Crystal River is a great place to visit. A list of small beach towns includes: St. Pete Beach Sanibel Island Longboat Key Sarasota Siesta Key Pensacola Beach Cocoa Beach Holmes Beach Key West Bradenton Beach Anna Maria Island Clearwater Beach Best Affordable Beach Towns to Live in Florida St. George Island State Park is an ideal place to reconnect with nature. The Florida beach town is bordered by vast, gorgeous beaches, such as Tracking Station Beach, which is popular among residents due to its excellent surfing conditions. The golf course is now closed, but the town lives on. TAMPA, Fla. - The name might be the same, but the two places are very different. Deep-sea fishing is also prevalent and Destin has even been called the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village. The town has a clean sandy beach that is almost completely uncluttered by the high rise condos and hotels that loom over most Florida beaches. Make sure to check out Mckee Botanical Garden, which is full of tropical and native plants and streams of water with lilies. Hollywood is located on Floridas east coast and isnt to be confused with Hollywood, California, which is notorious for its star-studded streets. Highland Parkis in Polk County in Central Florida. The total population of the communities on the island is about 5,600. The village community includes 6 of the Florida Key islands. Delrays Atlantic Avenue runs from downtown to the beach and is the longest main street in Florida, perfect for strolling through town! You won't find any hotel chains or condominium towers here, just a collection of tropical-style homes and friendly neighbors who wave from golf carts. All rights reserved. You can often get around on foot or bike, and there are just as many great activities, restaurants, and shops. On Floridas southeast coast, Delray is a great beach town. With charming buildings, fantastic weather, and gorgeous sites, its no wonder its up there on peoples list of their favorite places in the world. There is plenty to do here and it hosts a huge boating community, however, you can also fish, surf and it is known for its bike-friendly community. Its beauty is undeniable, lined with mom and pop shops and fishing boats. Indialanticis a beach town immediately east of Melbourne. From the Kennedy Space Center to a deep-sea fishing tour, there is no shortage of explorations in this small town. The best way to soak up stunning Gulf of Mexico views and explore this friendly community is by foot or bicycle. Its upscale, but hardly pretentious. The first thing to know is that it is notFort Lauderdale. Just north of the buzzy beach towns of Ocean City, Maryland, and Bethany Beach, Delaware, Rehoboth Beach offers many of the same vacation amenities with the added benefit of fewer crowds. We post articles every day. There are tons of species you can catch in the Gulf and there are often fishing tournaments that bring people to the beach town. It is on the Steinhatrchee River, a river that has one of Florida's few waterfalls. Located at the halfway point in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a whimsical paradise where small-town businesses cater to the ultimate island state of mind. Miles to Downtown: 11.3. Established in 1565, St. Augustine is famously known as the "Nation's Oldest City.". If you want to know which are the beach towns near Miami that can be a perfect family destination, then Islamorada is the option to go for. followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. 2. Just 25 miles from the heart of Tampa, this easygoing locale feels worlds away. Shelling enthusiasts find an impressive assortment of treasured sea shells and sand dollars tucked between layers of pure white sand, while fishermen flock to the area for its prized tarpon fishing. Make sure to catch a toes-in-the-sand sunset in Boca Grande. The Apalachicola National Forest and Tates Hell State Forest offer tons of hiking opportunities for those that are looking for outdoor activities. With only a population of 5000 this is one of the small towns in florida on the beach. Its a sand bar where boats anchor and spend the day. Oldsmar offers friendly small town ambiance and is located on the shores of Old Tampa Bay, about a half hour west of Tampa and about the same distance north of St Petersburg Florida. This stretch of the. The small town is known for its natural beauty. 7 Big Pine Key. is in Northeast Florida on U.S. Highway 90 west of Jacksonville. TheCity of Cape Canaveralis south of and adjacent to the major cruise destination ofPort CanaveralandnearbyKennedy Space Center. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. If you're a beer lover, Florida Keys Brewing Co. and Islamorada Beer Company both serve up an impressive selection of local craft brews. Flagler Beachis a small town on the ocean between St. Augustine Beach and Ormond Beach. 3 Pensacola Beach. var cid = '3267617009'; The most affordable Florida beach towns are: Titusville Sebastian Port Charlotte Fort Pierce Daytona Beach Venice Palm Bay Melbourne Beach Port Orange Tarpon Springs Finding an affordable beach town does not mean you have to give up the beauty and ambiance that the state of Florida is known for. Nearly 100 residents of the small town of Tampa, Kansas were invited to visit Tampa, Florida free of charge. Penney Farmsis a historic town in Northeast Florida established as a farming community by James Cash Penney in the 1920s. Jupiter 3. VISIT FLORIDA is a service mark of the Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation, d/b/a VISIT FLORIDA, registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. Think unspoiled beaches, salt water lagoons, and protected wildlife refuges. 6 Fort Walton Beach. var pid = 'ca-pub-6856479309807841'; 1. Saint George Island. Just under two miles long, Sunny Isles is one of our favorite beach towns in South Florida for one simple reason: It's home to Acqualina Resort & Spa, which was named one of the best waterfront hotels in the country for the fourth year in a row (!!! You should also check out the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, a unique museum of Japanese artifacts. Lots to do for a small town. is an historic fishing village about 20 miles south of Tallahassee on the St. Marks River. Jared/Flickr. Cocoa Beach. 9. CLICK ON PHOTO FOR MORE ABOUT BRINY BREEZES. Florida Back Roads Travel is not affiliated with or endorsed by Backroads, a California-based tour operator which arranges and conducts travel programs throughout the world. If you enjoyed this article you might want to check out. Here youll find manatees all year long because of the waters warm temperature. These idyllic locales easily earn bragging rights as Florida's best small beach towns, thanks to their. The town center and fun surf are fantastic however, what really separates this amazing town is its' architecture and small-town feel. . Grayton Beach is similar to Atlantic Beach but with bigger dunes, more space, and much . Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Floridais an example of how a town or neighborhood in a large urban area can still have a distinctive small town feeling. There are a lot of small beach towns in Florida to choose from. Soon after, hotels like the two-story Alexander House opened. It was established in 1927 as a golf course community. You won't find much bustling action in Cedar Key, in fact, police officers patrol the town in spruced-up golf carts. The island is connected to much smallerCaptiva Islandon its north end by a short bridge over Blind Pass. var ins = document.createElement('ins'); With magnificent beaches and a perfect place to relax, Sanibel Island is one of the best small beach towns in Florida for nature lovers. ins.dataset.adChannel = cid; This means that there is a community full of schools, restaurants, shops, homes, entertainment, and more within a 10-minute walk which is great for tourists and locals. With miles of biking and hiking trails, there are ample opportunities for eco-friendly adventures. Along the avenue are tons of restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes boasting great places to stop for a bit to eat or some window browsing. Some beaches have it all. is on the Suwannee River in Northeast Florida about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line. Flanked by two picturesque beach parks and home to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne is an island village with a sophisticated feel. Pompano Beach is a small-town gem located on the east coast of Florida, 35 miles north of Miami. Mount Dora. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Stretching from the bay to the gulf, Pine Avenue is the perfect place to shop funky boutiques, dine at local cafes, and get a feel for that ultimate island lifestyle. Surfside, Floridais a small town on the Atlantic Ocean in the Miami metropolitan area with a land area of only 361 acres. When you cross the tiny, narrow bridge onto the island of historic Boca Grande, nestled on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida, expect to find clear, impossibly blue waters, white sand beaches, good shelling, and incredible tarpon fishing -- as well as toes-in-the-sand sunsets. Check out these five small beach towns in Floridathat are happily lacking. This quaint town would make a great place to visit, especially if you love seafood, history, and the great outdoors. Dripping with small-town charm, Cedar Key is an Old Florida jewel located on the Nature Coast with less than 700 residents. Just a splash south of Clearwater Beach, this small town is quintessential old-time Florida, and flip-flops are the only footwear you'll need. Ponce Inletis south of Daytona Beach on the peninsula bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Ponce de Leon Inlet and the Halifax River. And, of course, there's the beach: Honeymoon Island State Park touts four miles of unspoiled white shorelines and one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests, plus it's a gateway to Caribbean-reminiscent Caladesi Island State Park. Navarre Beach. In 2004 it won an award as Florida's Outstanding Rural Community. Grayton Beach is a genuine old Florida beach town that has been welcoming tourists for generations. What makes Jupiter so great is visitors can enjoy both the river and the ocean, offering water views from almost all directions because the river runs right through town and Jupiter is on the coast. Manage SettingsContinue with Recommended Cookies. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'peterpantraveler_com-box-4','ezslot_3',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-box-4-0');Vero Beach is on the east coast of Florida on a barrier island in the Indian River Lagoon. ins.className = 'adsbygoogle ezasloaded'; Crab Island is a favorite activity of Destin. is a fishing village located where the Withlacoochee River enters the Gulf of Mexico. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'peterpantraveler_com-leader-1','ezslot_7',111,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-leader-1-0'); Florida is full of small beach towns worth exploring. Featuring intricately tiled fountains and Art Deco dcor, it's one of those quiet Florida beach towns that has a really special vibe. Siesta Key 8. For those who love historic towns, Apalachicola has over 900 historic structures dating back as early as the 19th century. Carrabelleis a working fishing village and laid back Old Florida tourist town just west of Florida's "Big Bend" Gulf coast. Going to the beach in winter? A haven for beachcombers and art lovers, you'll find more than 20 galleries and iconic public art pieces in downtown and in the Pineapple Grove Arts District, home to Artist Alley. Cruise down Atlantic Avenue, the main drag in Delray Beach, and you'll end up at one of the most beautiful beaches on Florida's east coast. A hidden gem nestled on the east coast of Florida, Vero Beach is a nature lover's paradise. Golf carts are the preferred method of transportation, and there are zero traffic lights on the island. It was established in 1927 as a golf course community. It can definitely keep you busy for a day of wandering around. Make sure to visit the Bubble Room, a restaurant where its Christmas all year long, and take your picture in the giant chair outside Jungle Drums Gallery. It isimmediately north ofCocoa Beachon State Road A1A and shares much history and culture with its neighbor. Chipley, Florida is in the panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Cedar Key (from USD 165) Cedar Key is an island town off the northwest coast of Florida and on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the best places to watch sea turtles nesting. The Best Small Towns in the U.S. for Snowbirds. 1. Islamorada is one of the best places to go if youre looking to relax and enjoy the moment. Seaside 10. Juno Beach is a beautiful small beach town in Florida that's just north of West Palm Beach. Florida is a great place to visit because it has some of the best beaches in the world that are located on both the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibelis an incorporated island city on the Gulf of Mexico in Lee County, Florida. Located only an hour north of West Palm, you will feel like you are in a completely different part of Florida, and no longer in South Florida. Fine Florida-kitschy institutions like Lazy Days Restaurant and Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar offer a quadruple threat of killer water views, fruity cocktails, live music, and fish tacos. Showcase of Small Town Old Florida. Just 45 minutes from the nearest Interstate exit, this lush, palm-fringed escape has largely remained under the radar. Its full of pastel-colored buildings and quaint shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes downtown. The town center also hosts a weekly market, outdoor concerts, and other events bringing together the community and its guests. Say so in the comments below. It's got quaint and quirky shops and hosts small farmer's markets every Saturday . This small city is nestled on the shores of Anna Maria Island, with plenty of space to lounge on the white sand or splash in the waves. var alS = 1021 % 1000; The island sparkles every year during the Captiva Luminary when residents light candles from one end of the island to the other, marking the launch of the holiday season. BRINY BREEZES, 653. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'peterpantraveler_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-medrectangle-4-0');Check out the fantastic downtown murals, relax on the beach, partake in water sports, and explore the Arts and Culture Center, which are just some of your options in Hollywood. Best Small Towns in Florida Vero Beach Vero Beach is a picturesque community near the Indian River Country in Central Florida, approximately 34 miles south of Melbourne. Destin has arguably some of the most beautiful powder white sand in all of Florida and some of the best beaches in the world. It is a separate town considered by many sources the richest town of its size in the state. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is in Kings Bay, fed by springs. The effect is by design. Steinhatcheeis a fishing village on the Gulf Coast in North Central Florida. The McIntosh Historic District includes dozens of historic homes and other buildings. Other great activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. 9 Most Charming Small Towns In Florida. Or head over to Anna Maria Island and eat a crazy (but yummy) confection at The Donut Experiment, and layout on its pristine beach. This cozy, family owned and operated Inn is a tiny bit off the beaten path, just across the drawbridge which is a fun walk high above the intracoastal. The warm, paradise state has pristine beaches, fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, and perfect weather. The city's police chief discussed the . Locals refer to their little city as"Mad Beach.". The beach also has a fantastic boardwalk and excellent facilities and parking for visitors to enjoy. Neighbors and visitors alike gather every year for the annual 30A Songwriters Festival, with live music performances at Seaside venues and other locales along scenic 30A Highway. The vibrant yet chill town is perfect for your Florida vacation if you dont want to be in too large of a city, but you still want many options of things to do. ). window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); I have sailed the seven seas working for the rich and famous on Superyachts! 1 beach in America in 2020 by Dr. Beach. The seven-mile long island is reached by a causeway from nearbyBradenton. The Cutest Beach Towns in Florida Neil Gladstone May 7, 2021 Miami and Orlando may be Florida favorites, but that doesn't mean they're the most scenic destinations in the Sunshine State. Harborwalk Village is an excellent central area with shops, restaurants, water sport rentals, nightlife, and more right along the water. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Cond Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Destin is located in northwest Florida on the panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico. Visit during the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, when the historic district bustles with parades, live music, lots of shrimp, andyou guessed itpirates. Big Pine Key is known as one of the most affordable beach towns in Florida we recommend visiting if it comes to a budget family trip to the Keys. } By Chelsea Bengier February 1, 2017. Arguably the best thing to do in Hollywood is to stroll along the extensive boardwalk that lines the beach. Very low violent crime rate. St. George Island State Park encompasses 1962 pristine acres at the east end of the island. Glen St. Maryis in Northeast Florida on U.S. Highway 90 west of Jacksonville. 2 Clearwater Beach. But, the town itself offers residents everything they could want. It's most famous feature is the Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station, built in 1887. Showcase of Small Town Old Florida. It has a population of 7,400. It has beaches that are just as nice as the towns larger, nearby neighbors, but with the added benefit of not being too busy or congested. For those of you who know the area, the town is at the ocean end of Commercial Boulevard. Destin 6. Here's our list of the 16 most affordable beach towns in Florida. Fort Pierce is an up-and-coming city but still rocks the small Florida beach scene vibes. Snowbirding Central, a blog and resource for those who winter away, credits Silver City's low cost of living and 300 . It is on a rail to trail path. Sitting squarely between Destin and Pensacola, Navarre Beach is a laid-back barrier island with more than 12 miles of white-sand beaches. ins.style.height = container.attributes.ezah.value + 'px'; Cedar Key is one of those timeless, old-fashioned towns that give off an easy-going energy and simple spirit. Perfect for those looking for a weekend escape or day trip from Orlando or Tampa. But don't expect a sleepy little spot. And if you do recognize a face, everyone would prefer you keep it to yourself. Our Facebook page has more than 124,095followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. ins.style.minWidth = container.attributes.ezaw.value + 'px'; Vero Beach is also home to the Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge, which cares for brown pelicans. It is about 45 miles west of Ocala in Central West Florida. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. Popular Florida beach towns of Cocoa Beach, Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami Beach, and St. Petersburg all have boardwalks. Hollywood, Florida, has a 2.5-mile beach boardwalk lined with palm trees which is iconic to the beach town. Located on the barrier island, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. 14/14 Miramar Beach abbymaceldowney Miramar Beach, Florida View profile With its location in the middle of Florida's "Nature Coast," it's no wonder Crystal River is an outdoorsman's paradise. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. It's one of Coastal Living's "Happiest Seaside Towns." The mile of Atlantic Avenue stretching inland from the ocean is pedestrian friendly and bustling with local cafes and boutiques. This beach town in Florida is on the Gulf Coast, north of Fort Myers. Seaside is also a great place for families because the gentle waves allow people to swim at ease. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Jupiter is a historical place, but its also tropical and lively. No matter where you go while traveling in the Sunshine State, make sure to plan a stop at one of these sunny and small coastal towns. Relax on the Beach - Check out Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, Blind Pass Beach, and Bowman's Beach. First established in the mid-1800s by a homesteader, the central Florida destination grew into a winter getaway for hunters and fishermen. Enjoy the crystal clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and perfect weather. While crowds of sun-seekers and spring breakers descend on popular Florida beach towns from Pensacola to Panama City Beach, there are plenty of secluded shores worth the visit. . Grayton Beach State Park, which wraps around this beachside jewel, was named No. That's why it's one of the best small beach towns in Florida. However, this town is small and our experience has been that not long after we name a place that's "cheap" many of the almost . "At first, I thought it was too good to be true, but this is the real deal." You can easily get to Key Biscayne by car from Miami airport. Unfortunately, many of them have beautiful beaches that are almost invisible from the highway because of the high rise condominiums and hotels that line the beach. If youre visiting Florida, you should consider checking out a small beach town during your trip because theyre much easier to get around and offer almost as many things to do. This small Florida Gulf town of about 3,100 people is situated about an hour and a half north of Tampa. 1. This town is much more laid back than some of the larger . Only an hour's drive southwest from Gainesville, here you'll be greeted with a rustic ambiance and slower pace of life. Hollywood Miramar Beach is also close to other beautiful beach towns like Rosemary Beach, Sandestin, and Inlet Beach. For such a small beach town in Florida, Seaside provides the perfect destination for an enjoyable and relaxing family vacation. In fact, Florida is home to numerous charming beach towns where you won't find waves of tourists. Where to stay: George Brooks House B&B. . St. Augustine, nestled along the northeast coast of Florida, is brimming with rich history, beautiful architecture, and fantastic cuisine. Fort Pierce 7. There aren't many Florida small towns that combine historic importance with clever shops and antiques. It is a town comprised of all mobile homes across the Intracoastal Waterway from Boynton Beach. It is located about 30 miles north of Key West and is often overlooked as travelers head south through the Keys. Some small towns seem made for Instagram. The town has a clean sandy beach that is almost completely uncluttered by the high rise condos and hotels that loom over most Florida beaches. De-stress at a Holmes Beach vacation rental. Each of these towns has a population of less than 1,000 people. But the island really does have it all: amid the beaches and mangroves, youll find a surprising array of shopping and dining options, as well as resorts intent on spoiling you. The small towns on this list are some of the greatest beach towns on the East Coast. It is a quiet town where visitors enjoy browsing in the antique shops or having lunch in a small cafe. It is very different from its larger neighbor, West Palm Beach. Elvis made one of his movies here. These idyllic locales easily earn bragging rights as Florida's best small beach towns, thanks to their beautiful shorelines, fun food scenes, and win-you-over-for-a-lifetime character. Captiva Island, tiny sister island of Sanibel, offers a laid-back, off-beat vibe, and a visit there feels almost magical. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. is in North Central Florida about 20 miles south of Gainesville and 6 miles from Micanopy. Each of these towns has a population of less than 1,000 people. is in Polk County in Central Florida. The village is a great scalloping location. It is home to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. Beaches here are second to none and offer some of the best shelling you can find. The best small towns to raise a family in Florida are: Mary Esther Melbourne Beach Belle Isle Nokomis Celebration Nocatee Tildenville Keystone Heights These are all great places for young families to settle into and are located all across the state so that you have many varied options to choose from. A colorful coastal town full of pastel houses and funky local eateries, Seaside is a breathtaking nod to life on the beach. It is on the Steinhatrchee River, a river that has one of Florida's few waterfalls. Its an awesome place to spot sea animals and enjoy the views. The town has a funky, eclectic, and lively vibe. Of course, once youve been to the Keys, youll be itching to go back. It is on a rail to trail path. followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. Vero Beach has a weekly gallery and vintage market and is a cultural and creative hub of Florida. Celebrating pirate culture is a way of life, so it's not uncommon to see people dressed as swashbucklers just for the heck of it. Captiva Islandis immediately north of Sanibel Island just west of Fort Myers. The Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a fantastic place to observe and explore. 1) Oldsmar, Florida- Population 16,000 Highlights: Offers some diversity. Chipley, Florida is in the panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Here is a selection of 10 towns from various regions of the state. If you love marine life, head to the Bahia Honda State Park which is one . Mount Dora overlooks Lake Dora and spreads out over rolling hills under a canopy of live oak trees that have been loved and cherished by residents for years. Hollywood, Florida, has a 2.5-mile beach boardwalk lined with palm trees which is iconic to the beach town. It is not far north of Sebastian Inlet, which has one of the nicest state parks in Florida. Southwest Floridas Sanibel Island is famed for its shelling, and offers biking, birding and other activities for outdoor lovers. Our Facebook page has more than 124,095followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. VIBE: Quiet and homey, super clean. Amelia Island is as far north as you can go in Florida. 21 Cutest Small Towns In Florida St. Augustine A visit to the nation's oldest city has lots to offer! Sunset is a nightly rite of passage as locals and visitors gather at the seawall outside of Paradise Grille to ring the sunset bell. Its got quaint and quirky shops and hosts small farmers markets every Saturday morning. Wander through the downtown area and pop into the souvenir shops and art stores and get a feel for what this small town has to offer. Flickr/Darryl Kenyon. We post articles every day. One of the most romantic cities in Florida, St. Augustine offers something for everyone. From Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse built-in 1860, you can enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views and marvel at the historic structure. It is home to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. A cute downtown in Ferna. The town today is mostly populated by retirees. Crystal River is the ultimate place to swim and spot sea animals. Apalachicola, Florida is the county seat of Franklin County. About 22 miles (35 kilometers) from the popular city of Gainesville is the pretty town of Williston. You can even find the oldest bar in Florida, The Palace Saloon. Dont forget to explore its small town; it features a lighthouse and several down-home eateries. Elvis made one of his movies here. Visit one of the two stately lighthouses on the island, where you'll find postcard-perfect views, especially at sunset. ins.dataset.fullWidthResponsive = 'true'; Best thing: Pay a visit to Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Pet-friendly St. George Island, located far out into the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, features empty sweeps of sand and undeveloped beaches where you can reconnect with nature, and discover world class fishing and shelling. Although Florida is one of the fast growing states in America, there are still quite a few tiny towns that time has passed by - at least for the time being. Its the ideal place for families and people traveling to Florida and would make a great stop on your Florida vacation. Perfect for one of Florida's famed sunny days, spend your afternoons here swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, shelling for treasures, and watching the dolphins playing at sunset. 4 Cocoa Beach. Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'adsensetype', 1); Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. Briny Breezesis in Southeast Florida on State Road A1A. It is an unhurried, laid-back small town in Florida to visit. var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-medrectangle-3-0'; 6. container.style.width = '100%'; The Loxahatchee River has mangrove swamps you can kayak through and Riverbend Park even has horse trails and hiking through Indian historic sites. St. Marksis an historic fishing village about 20 miles south of Tallahassee on the St. Marks River. Its a great way to get in some exercise and enjoy the top-notch views. USA Today once even named it the Most Fun Small Town in the USA.. The village is a great scalloping location. There are endless opportunities to explore the area's heritage and unique architecture. Less-touched by human hands, nature thrives there, while the atmospheric centers with winding streets lead one to the beaches for the laid-back lifestyle everyone is worthy of experiencing. But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal. Fernandina Beach is on the west side of the island along the Amelia River. It still retains it small-town charm. It fronts the Gulf of Mexico on the west and Pine Island Sound on the east. It's also one of the very few places in the world where you can legally swim with manatees. Do you have a favorite small beach town in Florida that wasnt mentioned on this list? Mount Dora takes great pride in its small-town status. The population of this little town is about 2,500, and it is 80 miles southwest of Tallahassee on the Gulf of Mexico. Located within roughly two hours of both Orlando and Miami, Vero Beach, another of the very best small beach towns in Florida, sits along Florida's Treasure Coast. Photo: Crawford A. Wilson III / Getty Images, Tommy Crow Photography/Visit South Walton, Affordable Florida Beach Towns Perfect For Your Next Vacation, The Best Girlfriend Getaways in Florida To Plan Now, 20 Florida Beaches That Could Pass for the Caribbean, Florida Bars and Restaurants With the Best Water Views, 12 Florida Islands You've Probably Never Heard Of, The Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in Florida, The 10 Beaches in Texas You Don't Want to Miss, 20 Southern Beaches and Islands for Dreams of a Tropical Getaway, find an impressive assortment of treasured sea shells and sand dollars. Siesta Key is a small 8-mile barrier island off the coast of Sarasota in the Gulf of Mexico. Okeechobee County is under a hurricane watch. Yankeetownis a fishing village located where the Withlacoochee River enters the Gulf of Mexico. Whether it is just for weekend getaways or you want to make a lifestyle change. Hollywood has a thriving community nestled between larger cities, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Small beach towns don't get any better than this. Siesta Key, Floridais an eight mile long sandy barrier island off the shore of Sarasota on theGulf of Mexico. ins.id = slotId + '-asloaded'; This list was updated to include additional beach towns along Florida's Gulf Coast that people will enjoy witnessing, such as Henderson Beach State Park in Destin and Venice Beach. Crystal Beach is a small town on the west coast of Florida and it's known for its stunning white-sand beaches. DeFuniak Springs - The Fairytale Town. To top it off, some quarter of the world's sea turtle population lay eggs on Florida's East Coast, with Vero at the epicenter of the wonderful wildlife sighting. There are pros and cons to large and small cities, so consider checking them both out during your stay! The rooftop deck of the Hurricane Seafood Restaurant also offers spectacular views of the sun's descent into the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Palm Beach, Aspen and Miami markets for the award-winning Modern Luxury network of publications. Its a place where the famous go to not be famous. Islamorada, the " Sport Fishing capital of the world ", is popular for its splendid sea views, sunny weather, and small-town vibe. Port St. Joeis on Florida's"Forgotten Coast"at the intersection of US-98 and State Road 71 about 23 miles west ofApalachicola. 1. Crystal River Archaeological State Park is another great place to check out and its a National Historic Landmark that was once a pre-Columbian site. A small fishing town on the panhandle of Florida, Apalachicola is a quaint beach town to consider visiting. New 2023 Winnebago Vista 32M Class A #21092558 with 1 photos and 1 videos for sale in Seffner, Florida 33584. It has excellent beaches, a lively art culture, and many things to do. Situated opposite the Apalachicola River, The 20 mile-long Saint George Island is a favorite destination for beach lovers, bird watchers, and anglers. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE SMALL BEACH TOWNS, CLICK ON THE PHOTO, Atlantic Ocean and Walking Trails at Surfside, Atlantic Ocean Beach at Lauderdale By The Sea, Kennedy Compound in Palm Beach on Atlantic Ocean, Cherie Down Park on Atlantic Ocean at Cape Canaveral, Vintage Postcard Driftwood Inn, Vero Beach. Its one of the best small beach towns in Florida and a perfect place to enjoy a grouper sandwich outside under a beach umbrella, hunt for seashells, or just kick back on the shore. Nearby Camping: Rambler's Rest RV Campground. New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169. Jupiter has it all and would be an excellent place to visit. Other didn't make the list because we limited the number to 21. Travel down to Seaside on Highway 30A, where the 1998 cult-classic movie The Truman Show was filmed, to watch a show at the local-favorite amphitheater or grab a beach read at Sundog Books. Some secrets are meant to be shared. Here are the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida. 9. Florida has many well-known cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, but there are some fantastic small beach towns in Florida as well. You can see as far down as 200 feet, making it the perfect snorkeling location! Then enjoy the small-town charm in the "main street" area of Vero Beach, where you'll find weekly gallery strolls, a vintage market, and plenty of quaint cafes. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. It is located on Scenic Highway 30A in Walton County about 23 miles east of Destin. By Mike Miller, Copyright 2009-2022 Florida-Back-Roads-Travel.com. In 2004 it won an award as Florida's Outstanding Rural Community. And some dont -- which is a joyous thing when youre talking about highrises, traffic lights and chain stores. It has a scenic lighthouse and two small restaurants. Alys Beach is one of several New Urbanist planned communities off Scenic Highway 30A on the Gulf Coast. Population data is fromFlorida Demographics, which has a list of Florida towns and places ranked by population. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the town has some of the best seafood and some fantastic restaurants. The beaches in these towns offer an excellent view of the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico . This is why its considered one of the best small beach towns in Florida. lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId + '-asloaded'), { attributes: true }); Consider visiting a small beach town on your next trip to Florida and find out what all the hype is about. Crystal River Here are the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida 1. Watermelons, cattle and citrus are important to the local economy. Anna Mariais a small residential town on the north end of Anna Maria Island. Indian Harbour Beach, Floridais on the barrier island in Brevard County across the Banana River from the southern tip of Merritt Island known locally as Dragon Point. Located in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is the halfway point of the keys. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); About Me Over 12 years ago I decided to leave my high-paying job behind to pursue a different kind of life, one full of adventure and travel. Boca Grande When you cross the tiny, narrow bridge onto the island of historic Boca Grande, nestled on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida, expect to find clear, impossibly blue waters, white sand beaches, good shelling, and incredible tarpon fishing -- as well as toes-in-the-sand sunsets. Visit the famous Stetson Mansion, or the Museum of Art - DeLand. Silver City, New Mexico. Updated: Sep. 27, 2022 at 8:33 AM PDT. var container = document.getElementById(slotId); Downtown Dunedin is home to ample good eats, locally-owned shops, and an unexpected beer scene (there are seven breweries within a five minute walking radius). It's one of the most underrated beach destinations on the Gulf Islands National Seashore, perfect for summer getaways with pier fishing, scenic bike rides and kayak eco-tours. is a fishing village on the Gulf Coast in North Central Florida. Located at the halfway point in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a whimsical paradise where small-town businesses cater to the ultimate island state of mind. Manatee Public Beach spans seven acres and features volleyball courts, a gift shop, and even a little cafe. Islamorada 9. St. Augustine. Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles, Chipley, Florida. Hollywood 2. When you're done sunbathing, Key West has one of the best nightlife scenes in Florida, so grab a cocktail and hit the clubs! Perhaps one of the quirkiest beach towns in Florida, Captiva Island is full of character. McIntoshis in North Central Florida about 20 miles south of Gainesville and 6 miles from Micanopy. The Most Beautiful Small Towns In Every State (Alabama - Kansas) . It has the Atlantic Ocean beach on its east side and the Banana and Indian Rivers on the west side. Briny Breezesis a small town of mobile homes on State Road A1A across the Intracoastal Waterway fromBoynton BeachandDelray Beach. Located on Florida's East Coast roughly 200 miles south of Jacksonville, Vero Beach is the county seat of Indian River County. Shops and restaurants line Centre Street downtown. It is an upscale community with an interesting history. Originally established by Henry Flagler as a desirable luxury destination community to attract travelers for his railroad through Florida, it is now a popular choice to retire. The Vero Beach Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the area, with pieces from state and national artists. Surrounded by rolling hills, citrus groves, orchards, working ranches, and farms, Dade City offers a huge dose of "real Florida" charm. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. var ffid = 1; Located on an island right by Miami, Key Biscayne is ideal for people who want to stay in a quiet town while still being very close to the main attractions. Cocoa's grand marketing campaign flaunts this beach's "culture and coolness.". Each town has fewer than 20,000 full-time residents (according to the 2010 census), direct access to beaches and water, and notable family-friendly attractions. On the Gulf of Mexico, Seaside is a small community in northwest Florida. Briny Breezes is in Southeast Florida on State Road A1A. Year-round, the water is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, so its warm enough to swim anytime during the year. Go for one of the popular Friday gallery nights and browse local art, listen to live music, and dine at one of the eclectic eateries on the "Ave.". Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Best More Affordable Beach Town in Florida- This is one of the few places in Florida with high quality of life scores near beautiful beaches that also has housing costs lower than Florida's average (as of this writing in August 2018). There are tons of quaint restaurants and cafes to explore and several breweries. Seasideis on the Gulf of Mexico about halfway betweenPanama Cityand Fort Walton Beach in the Florida Panhandle. Popular activities in the area include kayaking, sight-seeing boat tours, and deep-sea fishing excursions. is a historic town in Northeast Florida established as a farming community by James Cash Penney in the 1920s. On the southeastern coast of Florida, Jupiter is a town on the Loxahatchee River. The pristine, fine sand is alluring and perfect for spending a day relaxing on the beach. It is one of ht nicest small towns in this part of the state. We post articles every day. 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