Fernandina Beach is on the west side of the island along the Amelia River. Best thing: Pay a visit to Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. 9. Anna Mariais a small residential town on the north end of Anna Maria 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 (!!! Located in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is the halfway point of the keys. Dade City is located less than an hour northeast of Tampa in eastern Pasco County. The pristine, fine sand is alluring and perfect for spending a day relaxing on the beach. St. Marksis an historic fishing village about 20 miles south of Tallahassee on the St. Marks River. . If one Southern state has cornered the market on beach towns, it's Florida. The island is connected to much smallerCaptiva Islandon its north end by a short bridge over Blind Pass. The crystal clear waters of Crystal River are famous for sighting sea cows and other sea life like turtles and schools of fish. 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. 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. Silver City, New Mexico. 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. 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. If you love marine life, head to the Bahia Honda State Park which is one . 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. I have sailed the seven seas working for the rich and famous on Superyachts! Amelia Island Amelia Island is one of the best east coast Florida beach towns, and is located on the northeast coast of the Sunshine State just 30 miles north of Jacksonville. Visitors come for the sun but stay for the remarkable (and high-class) atmosphere. There are tons of quaint restaurants and cafes to explore and several breweries. Of course, once youve been to the Keys, youll be itching to go back. Located on Florida's Space Coast east of Orlando is Cocoa Beach, known as Florida's "quintessential beach town.". Flagler Beachis a small town on the ocean between St. Augustine Beach and Ormond Beach. Harborwalk Village is an excellent central area with shops, restaurants, water sport rentals, nightlife, and more right along the water. Amelia Island is as far north as you can go in Florida. Apalachicola, Florida is the county seat of Franklin County. 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). Southwest Floridas Sanibel Island is famed for its shelling, and offers biking, birding and other activities for outdoor lovers. is on the Suwannee River in Northeast Florida about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line. Florida has many well-known cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, but there are some fantastic small beach towns in Florida as well. 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. Hollywood has a thriving community nestled between larger cities, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Here youll find manatees all year long because of the waters warm temperature. 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. The Vero Beach Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the area, with pieces from state and national artists. 1. The Loxahatchee River has mangrove swamps you can kayak through and Riverbend Park even has horse trails and hiking through Indian historic sites. Saint Michaels, Maryland. Highland Parkis in Polk County in Central Florida. It is great for shelling and also has one of the largest wildlife refuges on this coast. The effect is by design. 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. It is tucked in between the town ofBal Harbouron the north and the North Beach neighborhood ofMiami Beachon the south. Some of the most popular activities in Islamorada include backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly fishing. The best way to soak up stunning Gulf of Mexico views and explore this friendly community is by foot or bicycle. Sanibelis an incorporated island city on the Gulf of Mexico in Lee County, Florida. It was established in 1927 as a golf course community. 6 Fort Walton Beach. It is located on Scenic Highway 30A in Walton County about 23 miles east of Destin. 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 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Every State (Alabama - Kansas) . For those of you who know the area, the town is at the ocean end of Commercial Boulevard. Pass-A-Grille is a small beach town located on the southernmost point of St. Pete Beach that offers a large range of dining and accommodation options despite its small size. Key West is known for stunning beaches with crystal blue water. Here's our list of the 16 most affordable beach towns in Florida. 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. 1. Established in 1565, St. Augustine is famously known as the "Nation's Oldest City.". 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. Popular Florida beach towns of Cocoa Beach, Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami Beach, and St. Petersburg all have boardwalks. It is on a rail to trail path. There are even spots listed on the National Register of Historic Places. is in Northeast Florida on U.S. Highway 90 west of Jacksonville. Its also known for its street art and pristine beaches. Over this time I have lived in Costa Rica, France and Bali just to name a few. Its got quaint and quirky shops and hosts small farmers markets every Saturday morning. Its population is about 3,400. Islamorada is one of the best places to go if youre looking to relax and enjoy the moment. 1 beach in America in 2020 by Dr. Beach. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. 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. The lavish, small town of 8,800 inhabitants is set in the south of the state on the Atlantic coast, not far from Miami, offering perfect year-round weather. Florida Trails: Biking, Hiking and Paddling, Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes, Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods. Manatee Public Beach spans seven acres and features volleyball courts, a gift shop, and even a little cafe. Think unspoiled beaches, salt water lagoons, and protected wildlife refuges. Amelia Island will probably check off a lot of marks on your Florida bucket list. Surrounded by the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Gasparilla Island is truly an ode to Old Florida. Nearby towns include Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce. is in Polk County in Central Florida. if(ffid == 2){ You can often get around on foot or bike, and there are just as many great activities, restaurants, and shops. var ffid = 1; The town has a funky, eclectic, and lively vibe. Located on the barrier island, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. Its an awesome place to spot sea animals and enjoy the views. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. 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 Public Beach has been named Americas Number One beach multiple times because of its pure quartz sand and beautiful turquoise blue ocean views. 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. It has a fabulous downtown beside the gorgeous beaches, long coastlines, and fantastic hiking and biking trails. St. George Island State Park is an ideal place to reconnect with nature. Sunset is a nightly rite of passage as locals and visitors gather at the seawall outside of Paradise Grille to ring the sunset bell. The seven-mile long island is reached by a causeway from nearbyBradenton. 7 Big Pine Key. container.appendChild(ins); Vero Beach is also home to the Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge, which cares for brown pelicans. McIntoshis in North Central Florida about 20 miles south of Gainesville and 6 miles from Micanopy. Situated opposite the Apalachicola River, The 20 mile-long Saint George Island is a favorite destination for beach lovers, bird watchers, and anglers. Glen St. Maryis in Northeast Florida on U.S. Highway 90 west of Jacksonville. Sanibel Island. Nearly 100 residents of the small town of Tampa, Kansas were invited to visit Tampa, Florida free of charge. Cedar Key is one of those timeless, old-fashioned towns that give off an easy-going energy and simple spirit. It is one of the best places to watch sea turtles nesting. Anna Maria Island is what beach town dreams are made of. Fort Pierce 7. 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. St. George Island State Park encompasses 1962 pristine acres at the east end of the island. ins.dataset.adClient = pid; Crystal River is the ultimate place to swim and spot sea animals. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Briny Breezesis a small town of mobile homes on State Road A1A across the Intracoastal Waterway fromBoynton BeachandDelray Beach. It is a town comprised of all mobile homes across the Intracoastal Waterway from Boynton Beach. Shops and restaurants line Centre Street downtown. With its location in the middle of Florida's "Nature Coast," it's no wonder Crystal River is an outdoorsman's paradise. It is on scenicWalton County Highway 30Aalong what is known as the Emerald Coast. There are tons of species you can catch in the Gulf and there are often fishing tournaments that bring people to the beach town. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the town has some of the best seafood and some fantastic restaurants. 3 Pensacola Beach. 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. Jupiter 3. Cocoa Beach. It is on a rail to trail path. Hollywood is located on Floridas east coast and isnt to be confused with Hollywood, California, which is notorious for its star-studded streets. Whether it is just for weekend getaways or you want to make a lifestyle change. 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. You can easily get to Key Biscayne by car from Miami airport. DeFuniak Springs - The Fairytale Town. Elvis made one of his movies here. 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. It is not far north of Sebastian Inlet, which has one of the nicest state parks in Florida. It also has a playground and tennis courts. We post articles every day. 5 Anna Maria Island. is a fishing village located where the Withlacoochee River enters the Gulf of Mexico. Popular activities in the area include kayaking, sight-seeing boat tours, and deep-sea fishing excursions. Navarre Beach. 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. You can even find the oldest bar in Florida, The Palace Saloon. 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. It is an unhurried, laid-back small town in Florida to visit. On the southeastern coast of Florida, Jupiter is a town on the Loxahatchee River. It is located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River on Apalachicola Bay. 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. The Gulf Coast of Florida is home to many beautiful and iconic beach towns worthy of visiting. 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. 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. Here are the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida. A small fishing town on the panhandle of Florida, Apalachicola is a quaint beach town to consider visiting. Nearby Camping: Rambler's Rest RV Campground. All rights reserved. It can definitely keep you busy for a day of wandering around. John's Pass Village and Boardwalk, modeled after a fishing village, is a hub for area fun: it's perfect for grabbing a bite, browsing for treasures in the quaint shops, or enjoying live local entertainment. New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169. That's why it's one of the best small beach towns in Florida. There are nearly 250 sites near the beaches in a shady wooded setting that's right on the Myakka River. . 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. By Mike Miller, Copyright 2009-2022 Florida-Back-Roads-Travel.com. The town today is mostly populated by retirees. New 2023 Winnebago Vista 32M Class A #21092558 with 1 photos and 1 videos for sale in Seffner, Florida 33584. Enjoy the many parks and beaches and get in some exercise at the Jupiter Waterway Trail, which is almost 40 miles and includes rivers, beaches, and inlets. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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. Briny Breezesis in Southeast Florida on State Road A1A. 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. Surfside, Floridais a small town on the Atlantic Ocean in the Miami metropolitan area with a land area of only 361 acres. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is in Kings Bay, fed by springs. Some of the best beach towns have remained small and not quite so covered with high rises. Miramar Beach is also close to other beautiful beach towns like Rosemary Beach, Sandestin, and Inlet Beach. It's an imaginative and creative name: this small town of less than 3,000 is on the barrier island separating the Indian River Lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean. 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. Oldsmar is a small town that is located just outside of Tampa and is one of the best small towns in Florida to retire in for those who also want to be close to a big city. Pasco County Courthouse, Dade City DADE CITY is a popular destination for antique hunters. Miles to Downtown: 11.3. Showcase of Small Town Old Florida. Seasideis on the Gulf of Mexico about halfway betweenPanama Cityand Fort Walton Beach in the Florida Panhandle. There are endless opportunities to explore the area's heritage and unique architecture. 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. 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. 1. Related: Best Small Towns for Summer Vacation l America's Best Beaches. 2 Clearwater Beach. A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destinations. ins.style.height = container.attributes.ezah.value + 'px'; It was incorporated in 1953. With miles of biking and hiking trails, there are ample opportunities for eco-friendly adventures. 1 New Smyrna Beach. 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. Destin is the perfect Florida vacation spot if youre hoping to hang out by the beach and enjoy the views. | Contact Us. You can also partake in any water sport imaginable if that interests you. Yankeetownis a fishing village located where the Withlacoochee River enters the Gulf of Mexico. The average house in this captivating costs about $260,000. It has a small population of 17,500 friendly people. Captiva Island, tiny sister island of Sanibel, offers a laid-back, off-beat vibe, and a visit there feels almost magical. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 . Flagler Beach is a small town on the ocean between St. Augustine Beach and Ormond Beach. On Floridas southeast coast, Delray is a great beach town. But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal. Its the ideal place for families and people traveling to Florida and would make a great stop on your Florida vacation. The Keys are known for their beauty, and Islamorada is no outlier to that fact. It is located about 30 miles north of Key West and is often overlooked as travelers head south through the Keys. In historic times, the inlet was known as Mosquito Inlet. 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. ins.style.width = '100%'; The first thing to know is that it is notFort Lauderdale. Yet there's a Florida off the beaten path destination that is well hidden away in the north. is in Southeast Florida on State Road A1A. Crystal Beach is a small town on the west coast of Florida and it's known for its stunning white-sand beaches. Palm Beach, Floridais on the east coast barrier island across from West Palm Beach. Very low violent crime rate. Located north of Downtown St. Augustine, Vilano Beach is an artist's dream. Siesta Key is a small 8-mile barrier island off the coast of Sarasota in the Gulf of Mexico. Cedar Key, Florida. Golf carts are the preferred method of transportation, and there are zero traffic lights on the island. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. An overlooked beach town in Florida, Mexico Beach is 20 miles east of Panama City and a blend of preserved natural beauty and small-town charm. Dont forget to explore its small town; it features a lighthouse and several down-home eateries. ins.className = 'adsbygoogle ezasloaded'; Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. ins.id = slotId + '-asloaded'; Im here to encourage you to pursue your dreams of travel and show you how it is possible. 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). 6. You can see as far down as 200 feet, making it the perfect snorkeling location! If you're a beer lover, Florida Keys Brewing Co. and Islamorada Beer Company both serve up an impressive selection of local craft brews. Updated Daily. Some of these include Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island; Ormond Beach;New Smyrna Beach; Vero Beach; Key Biscayne; and Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. Enjoy the crystal clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and perfect weather. ins.dataset.fullWidthResponsive = 'true'; And some dont -- which is a joyous thing when youre talking about highrises, traffic lights and chain stores. Madeira Beach, Floridais on the Gulf of Mexico in Pinellas County across Boca Ciega Bay from St. Petersburg. 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. Mount Dora has a lively restored downtown and historic district that have been landscaped and beautified to maximize the inherent charm of this small town 40 minutes northwest of Orlando. Grayton Beach State Park, which wraps around this beachside jewel, was named No. It was established in 1927 as a golf course community. The small town is known for its natural beauty. 2. Alys Beach is one of several New Urbanist planned communities off Scenic Highway 30A on the Gulf Coast. Founded in 1565 it wasn't until Henry Flagler transformed the city into a bustling hub in the late 1800s with his railroad. 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. Locals refer to their little city as"Mad Beach.". A cute downtown in Ferna. Key Biscayne is one of the best small towns to visit in Florida. Visit the famous Stetson Mansion, or the Museum of Art - DeLand. It is home to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. The population of this little town is about 2,500, and it is 80 miles southwest of Tallahassee on the Gulf of Mexico. See the lights on Captiva Island during the Sanibel/Captiva Luminary Festival in December, where miles of glowing candle lanterns are lit to kick off the holiday season. Penney Farmsis a historic town in Northeast Florida established as a farming community by James Cash Penney in the 1920s. 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 9. 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. From the Kennedy Space Center to a deep-sea fishing tour, there is no shortage of explorations in this small town. Cedar Key oozes with small-town charms and pretty seaside beauty. 1. Population data is fromFlorida Demographics, which has a list of Florida towns and places ranked by population. This small Florida Gulf town of about 3,100 people is situated about an hour and a half north of Tampa. It still retains it small-town charm. 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. 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. CLICK ON PHOTO FOR MORE ABOUT BRINY BREEZES. Each of these towns has a population of less than 1,000 people. Each of these towns has a population of less than 1,000 people. The rooftop deck of the Hurricane Seafood Restaurant also offers spectacular views of the sun's descent into the Gulf of Mexico. WAUCHULA is a pretty little country town on the Peace River in Hardee County about 50 miles east of the Bradenton-Sarasota area. 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. It's got quaint and quirky shops and hosts small farmer's markets every Saturday . Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles, Chipley, Florida. The historic main street is full of little cafes, restaurants, and shops worth exploring. ins.dataset.adChannel = cid; The village is a great scalloping location. BRINY BREEZES, 653. 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. Atlantic Beach may very well be the most-quaint beach town in Florida that is equally great for surfing. Jupiter is a historical place, but its also tropical and lively. 2. Jupiter has it all and would be an excellent place to visit. 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. Mount Dora takes great pride in its small-town status. var ins = document.createElement('ins'); Grayton Beach is a genuine old Florida beach town that has been welcoming tourists for generations. Make sure to check out Mckee Botanical Garden, which is full of tropical and native plants and streams of water with lilies. White Springsis on the Suwannee River in Northeast Florida about 25 miles south of the Georgia state line. It has a scenic lighthouse and two small restaurants. 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. 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. Read More. 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. Juno Beach, Floridais in Palm Beach County about 6 miles south of Jupiter Inlet. 386-428-5565. The Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a fantastic place to observe and explore. 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. 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. Deep-sea fishing is also prevalent and Destin has even been called the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village. Alys Beach is just such a place. Here is a selection of 10 towns from various regions of the state. The total population of the communities on the island is about 5,600. Delray 4. The McIntosh Historic District includes dozens of historic homes and other buildings. You may spot tons of different animals and you can also enjoy the lush flora and fauna all over the park. By Mike Miller, Copyright 2009-2022 Florida-Back-Roads-Travel.com. var cid = '3267617009'; The village community includes 6 of the Florida Key islands. It is about 53 miles southwest of Tallahassee and has a population of about 2,600. Check out these five small beach towns in Floridathat are happily lacking. On the Gulf of Mexico, Seaside is a small community in northwest Florida. Dubbed the "heart of the Gold Coast," it's easy to see how this gorgeous town won its reputation. 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.". var pid = 'ca-pub-6856479309807841'; The town today is mostly populated by retirees. 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. Showcase of Small Town Old Florida. Destin is located in northwest Florida on the panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico. It is a town comprised of all mobile homes across the Intracoastal Waterway from Boynton Beach. But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. . St. Augustine, nestled along the northeast coast of Florida, is brimming with rich history, beautiful architecture, and fantastic cuisine. 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. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. 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. var alS = 1021 % 1000; Crab Island is a favorite activity of Destin. Chipley, Florida is in the panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Perhaps one of the quirkiest beach towns in Florida, Captiva Island is full of character. By Chelsea Bengier February 1, 2017. 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. The warm, paradise state has pristine beaches, fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, and perfect weather. Soon after, hotels like the two-story Alexander House opened. There aren't many Florida small towns that combine historic importance with clever shops and antiques. Its a great way to get in some exercise and enjoy the top-notch views. We post articles every day. Vilano Beach. The boardwalks located in Florida Beach towns offer visitors a chance to relax on the sand, take in the sun, and even grab a . Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA. Beaches here are second to none and offer some of the best shelling you can find. It is an upscale community with an interesting history. It has a population of 7,400. is an historic fishing village about 20 miles south of Tallahassee on the St. Marks River. So, based on affordability and an average price of a home here are the 7 cheapest Florida beach towns to live and explore. In 2004 it won an award as Florida's Outstanding Rural Community. Pompano Beach is a small-town gem located on the east coast of Florida, 35 miles north of Miami. 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. Hollywood if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'peterpantraveler_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-banner-1-0'); Fort Pierce is an up-and-coming city but still rocks the small Florida beach scene vibes. A colorful coastal town full of pastel houses and funky local eateries, Seaside is a breathtaking nod to life on the beach. ins.style.minWidth = container.attributes.ezaw.value + 'px'; 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. In fact, Florida is home to numerous charming beach towns where you won't find waves of tourists. Turquoise water, manicured lawns, contemporary sculptures, and bright white Mediterranean-style houses deliver photo-worthy landscapes. The birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, Fernandina Beach, is a waterfront village nestled on the north end of Amelia Island. Siesta Key Village is known for its excellent shopping, cafes, and restaurants. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. There are a lot of small beach towns in Florida to choose from. It is Brevard County's oldest beach community. Vero Beach is a truly un-crowded getaway with no building taller than four floors, the small-town vibe, and the white-sand beaches with more birds than people. Destin 6. If you enjoyed this article you might want to check out. 6 Beach & Waterfront Campgrounds for Amazing Summer Getaways . Updated: Sep. 27, 2022 at 8:33 AM PDT. Looking for the best place to vacation in Florida? In western Florida, Crystal River is a great place to visit. As you drive on the US-90, you'll find yourself cutting through a cute Victorian town. Chipley, Florida is in the panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee. There are pros and cons to large and small cities, so consider checking them both out during your stay! 1. 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. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'adsensetype', 1); var lo = new MutationObserver(window.ezaslEvent); It is a separate town considered by many sources the richest town of its size in the state. With only a population of 5000 this is one of the small towns in florida on the 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. 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. So slip into that teeny bikini and head to the Panhandle's under-the-radar spots (you won't regret it!). is a historic town in Northeast Florida established as a farming community by James Cash Penney in the 1920s. 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. It is home to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. Delrays Atlantic Avenue runs from downtown to the beach and is the longest main street in Florida, perfect for strolling through town! The 16 Best Beach Towns in Florida To Visit! Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. The golf course is now closed, but the town lives on. 14/14 Miramar Beach abbymaceldowney Miramar Beach, Florida View profile "I was very surprised," said Tampa, Kansas resident Lance Diepenbrock. The Gulfs waters are calm, which is perfect for water sports and swimming and the beaches are ideal for relaxing. Lots to do for a small town. Fort Pierce is an up-and-coming city but still rocks the small Florida beach scene vibes. Dripping with small-town charm, Cedar Key is an Old Florida jewel located on the Nature Coast with less than 700 residents. It still retains it small-town charm. 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. Some small towns seem made for Instagram. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); A hidden gem nestled on the east coast of Florida, Vero Beach is a nature lover's paradise. Some secrets are meant to be shared. We post articles every day. This beach town in Florida is on the Gulf Coast, north of Fort Myers. Perfect for those looking for a weekend escape or day trip from Orlando or Tampa. var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-peterpantraveler_com-medrectangle-3-0'; You should also check out the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, a unique museum of Japanese artifacts. There is a ton of land area in the park to explore, perfect for getting in a bit of exercise and enjoying the views. is a fishing village on the Gulf Coast in North Central Florida. The village is a great scalloping location. Crystal Beach, Florida. Siesta Key, Floridais an eight mile long sandy barrier island off the shore of Sarasota on theGulf of Mexico. ins.style.display = 'block'; Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Buena Vista Inn. Surrounded by rolling hills, citrus groves, orchards, working ranches, and farms, Dade City offers a huge dose of "real Florida" charm. Islamorada, the " Sport Fishing capital of the world ", is popular for its splendid sea views, sunny weather, and small-town vibe. Its truly the perfect little place to visit. When you're done sunbathing, Key West has one of the best nightlife scenes in Florida, so grab a cocktail and hit the clubs! 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. 9 Most Charming Small Towns In Florida. One of the most romantic cities in Florida, St. Augustine offers something for everyone. } With magnificent beaches and a perfect place to relax, Sanibel Island is one of the best small beach towns in Florida for nature lovers. Visit during the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, when the historic district bustles with parades, live music, lots of shrimp, andyou guessed itpirates. This is why its considered one of the best small beach towns in Florida. It's a stellar spot to do just about everything you can imagine on the water like paddleboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. 1) Oldsmar, Florida- Population 16,000 Highlights: Offers some diversity. This stretch of the. 1. is in North Central Florida about 20 miles south of Gainesville and 6 miles from Micanopy. Going to the beach in winter? 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. This quaint town would make a great place to visit, especially if you love seafood, history, and the great outdoors. Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles, Chipley, Florida. Rambler's Rest RV Campground is a 20-minute drive from town and about four miles south of Interstate 75. 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. Islamorada. The small towns on this list are some of the greatest beach towns on the East Coast. 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. Here are the Best Small Beach Towns in Florida 1. Its beauty is undeniable, lined with mom and pop shops and fishing boats. Today, you can view the ruins, burial grounds, and the remains of structures from 2,500 years ago. It is one of ht nicest small towns in this part of the state. It is one of ht nicest small towns in this part of the state. 4 Cocoa Beach. Flickr/Darryl Kenyon. 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. Do you have a favorite small beach town in Florida that wasnt mentioned on this list? Juno Beach is a beautiful small beach town in Florida that's just north of West Palm Beach. Its a sand bar where boats anchor and spend the day. The town center also hosts a weekly market, outdoor concerts, and other events bringing together the community and its guests. Siesta Key 8. See this unit and thousands more at RVUSA.com. Its known for its coral reefs, fabulous beaches, and fine coastal living. 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. GRAYTON BEACH. 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. 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. Year-round, the water is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, so its warm enough to swim anytime during the year. Port St. Joeis on Florida's"Forgotten Coast"at the intersection of US-98 and State Road 71 about 23 miles west ofApalachicola. The beach also has a fantastic boardwalk and excellent facilities and parking for visitors to enjoy. Elvis made one of his movies here. 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. The town center and fun surf are fantastic however, what really separates this amazing town is its' architecture and small-town feel. Atlantic Ocean at Flagler Beach SIESTA KEY, Population 5,454 Steinhatcheeis a fishing village on the Gulf Coast in North Central Florida. Islamorada 9. 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. Located on Florida's East Coast roughly 200 miles south of Jacksonville, Vero Beach is the county seat of Indian River County. 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