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Florida is at all times probably the most dependable U.S. escape for winter solar, so why not trip in locations which might be a spitting picture of the Caribbean?
Miami will at all times be the mecca of Florida for an unimaginable coastal trip, however it’s not for everybody.
A few of us get pleasure from a extra idyllic setting with out the flashy vehicles, buzzing nightlife, and highfalutin life-style.
Plus, a majority of Florida provides far more paradisal seashores than Miami’s murky waters.
Southern Living is right here to help, just lately unveiling the perfect Florida seashores as simply satisfactory because the Caribbean.
Narrowing down to a couple lesser-known gems, you may go away seaside crowds behind on the family names in favor of those 3 Florida seaside cities with gleaming white sand and vibrant blue waters:
Honeymoon Island: Tampa’s Untouched Sliver Of Paradise
Once you fly into Tampa, you’ve an array of white sand seashores at your fingertips within the surrounding cluster of award-winning seaside cities like Siesta Key and Clearwater, two cities in a yearly twin for Southwest Florida supremacy.
Whereas many vacationers go for these white sand havens, there is a hidden stretch of uncrowded shores providing practically similar surroundings minus towering condos and motels.
Honeymoon Island is ready away from the motion of Siesta Key, Clearwater, and Venice as its personal quiet retreat.
You possibly can attain this island by crossing the Dunedin Causeway over neighboring Ward Island right into a sprawling State Park you probably did not know existed.
There’s a $8 entry payment, however do not child your self; these days, a espresso run prices extra for the drive over.
Upon arriving, you will uncover pristine white sand and brilliant blue waters crashing ashore. Bean Bag Cross holds an ideal 5.0 Google Ranking, the place current beachgoers declare, ‘Had an incredible time in bean bag move. Nice locals that make you are feeling proper at residence.’
A preferred spot for boaters is congregating on the sand bar, or you may go to the northernmost tip to discover a 4-mile lengthy seaside claimed by current guests to be ‘good and clear’ with ‘lovely sunsets’.
Journey Tip: Verify the State Park’s official website for numerous closure updates resulting from earlier storm harm.
Islamorada: The Keys’ Hidden Gem
We’re all conscious of Key West, whether or not or not it’s a favourite trip spot or dwelling vicariously by means of a Jimmy Buffett tune.
However, are you aware Islamorada, a secret village you will move within the blink of a watch alongside the well-known Abroad Freeway?
Islamorada serves as greater than a stopping level on the best way to Key West. You possibly can simply make your base right here for a tranquil hideaway famend by fishermen for deep sea thrills.
Past daylong fishing excursions, there are ample paradisal seashores dotting the world. Southern Residing singles out Anne’s Seashore as the perfect for household journeys, because the waters are clear and shallow for swimming.
For slightly extra peace and leisure, there’s additionally Library Seashore Park overlooking lush mangroves, however you do have to be on alert for crocs.
The tiny city is vibrant and welcoming, providing nice native eats and a choose few luxe motels:
- Chesapeake Seashore Resort
- Cheeca Lodge & Spa
- The Islands of Islamorada
- Hadley Resort + Marina
- Islander Bayside Villas
Englewood: A Scenic Gulf Coast Hideaway
Ever heard of Englewood? It is probably not, and that is as a result of it is overshadowed by the aforementioned seaside cities surrounding Tampa and Sarasota.
Englewood is definitely reachable from three airports (Tampa, Sarasota, and Punta Gorda), making this hidden gem alongside Florida’s Gulf facet much more engaging.
Southern Residing highlights Blind Cross Seashore as Englewood’s go-to seaside, however it’s present process a glow-up on account of 2024’s hurricane season.
The identical goes for my private favourite, Stump Cross, in addition to Manasota Key. Nonetheless, there is a brilliant facet.
Englewood is a go-to vacation spot in its personal proper as close by seaside cities make an epic comeback; To not point out some superior hole-in-the-wall seafood spots like Wink’s Previous City Grill.
Providing bayside bliss, down-home appeal, and comfy waterfront stays, Englewood is Southwest Florida’s most underrated base with entry to extra seashores that are open, resembling Don Pedro Island.
You can additionally choose to enterprise to Englewood’s hidden riverside gems like Sandy Seashore Myakka Park, good for peaceable hikes and kayaking tranquil waters.
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Opinions expressed listed here are the creator’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, lodge, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, authorised or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the put up.