Hidden Beaches In Florida To Explore

Do prefer a vacation away from the crowds? Below is a list of hidden beaches in Florida to explore on your next vacation.

I get it. I really do. I myself prefer to hit beaches that are not literally shoulder to shoulder on the sand.

The question is where to actually FIND them? Lately, all roads leading in and out of Florida are literally bumper to bumper.

What is generally a 2.5 to 3 hour ride for me to get to Orlando, took about 4 hours the other day. If the roads are that crowded, how crowded are the beaches?

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Depends on where you go. If you go to popular beaches like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, they are usually crowded with people.

Choosing a beach less well known, such as Blowing Rocks or Ponte Vedra makes all the difference. You instantly go from wall-to-wall people, to being able to enjoy a nice quiet day on the beach.

So where do you find these beaches? I’ve got you covered. Let’s dig in.

Hidden Beaches Southeast Florida

I’m going to list hidden beaches for each portion of the state. The Sunshine State is actually VERY long. To help your planning, I’ve added links to other articles you may find helpful.

These are hidden beaches in Southeast Florida. You can fly into West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale or Miami Airports and easily drive to any of these beaches:

Bahia Honda State Park is the first one on the list, and it is located in the Florida Keys. One of the most beautiful beaches with clear water perfect for snorkeling.

Grab the map of the Florida Keys here: Exploring The Florida Keys Map

Dry Tortugas National Park. This is such an amazing island and US National Park. I took the ferry over from Key West and have plans to go back again and camp on the island overnight. Check my article from my last visit here: Dry Tortugas National Park

Blowing Rocks Preserve. Another super cool one to put on your list. When the tide is in, the waves create explosions as they hit the rocks on shore. Watching the water spray up and all over the place is something to see. Note: You will need to park on the side of the road and walk, but it’s worth it.

Hidden Beach Gems In Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida has really been growing and as a result, beaches are packed. Gone are the days when Siesta Key was a quiet beach for those that prefer to be away from the crowds.

There are still a few great options for you. Note: Depending on the time of year, beaches may be more or less busy.

Marco Island. Marco Island is part of the Ten Thousand Islands Chain and one that I recently visited. It was more crowded than my past visits, but not as packed as others. Check my article here for planning: Planning The Perfect Getaway To Marco Island

Bonita Springs Beach. I love laid back Bonita Springs Beach. The first time I visited, I thought how is this beach so much calmer than nearby Fort Meyers. Get more details here: Bonita Springs Florida Beaches

East/Atlantic Coast through Northeast Florida

From central through northeast Florida, you have some great options for less crowded beaches. My top picks are:

Canaveral National Seashore. If you are ever near Cocoa Beach or Titusville, you will want to make it a point to stop at Canaveral National Seashore. This area is the largest undeveloped part of the Atlantic Coastline. Playalinda Beach is a must-visit.

Vero Beach. This is a great destination for treasure hunters. In the 1700s, several ships sank offshore, leaving behind silver, gold and jewels. There are over 20 beautiful miles of beaches to explore. Get more details here: Vero Beach

Ponte Vedra Beach. Moving up the coastline, we hit Ponte Vedra Beach. This is a breathtakingly beautiful beach located between St. Augustine and Jacksonville. I’ll be honest. The first time I visited it, I thought to myself, how did I not know this beach was here? Get planning details here: Ponte Vedra Beach

Gulf Coast Hidden Beach Gems

On the Gulf of Mexico side of the state, you will find white sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise waters. My top picks for hidden gems are:

St. George Island and St. George Island State Park. I visit this island every single year. There is never an issue getting on or off the island, and the beach in the state park is out of this world. You can also camp in the state park, but plan ahead.

Cedar Key. Cedar Key is a step back in time to Old Florida. The beach is small, but this little beach town packs a lot of charm. Kayak or take a boat over to Atsena Otie Key. This tiny island off Cedar Key has a lot of history that you will want to make time to explore. This is the article on my kayaking adventure to Atsena Otie Key: Kayaking Cedar Key Florida

Grayton Beach State Park. Florida State Park’s beaches are some of the most beautiful you will ever find. This one, Grayton Beach, is at the top of the list. Unfortunately, many have found out about this hidden gem. Depending on when you plan to visit, it might be on the more crowded side but still worth the trip.

Hidden Gems On Florida’s Panhandle

Finishing the list, are these gems on Florida’s Panhandle. Keep in mind, this part of Florida is quite crowded during summer months. If you visit on the shoulder months before May or after August, it is much less crowded.

These are my top picks:

Santa Rosa Beach. If you want picturesque and white sugar sand, your best option is Santa Rosa Beach. One of my absolute favorite beaches in the world. Get more details to plan your trip in my article here: Santa Rosa Beach Florida

Navarre Beach. A bit west of Santa Rosa Beach, you will find beautiful Navarre Beach. This diamond is located between Pensacola Beach and Fort Walton Beach – both of which you will want to explore as well.

It is also located near Gulf Islands National Seashore, another one to put on your list. Get more information in my article here: Navarre Beach

There you go. I hope this helps you pick the beach perfect for your getaway. The links below provide even more information to help you plan: