If you're yearning for glittering white beaches that tempt you to ditch your shoes, these three beauties are bound to please.
Siesta Key
Located in Sarasota, Siesta Key's public beach is among the most acclaimed in the world.
Its accolades include being named as America’s Best Beach in 2011 by Dr. Beach and again in 2017 when the criteria was changed. It was also declared the Number Two Beach in America and the Number 16 Beach in the World in 2013 by TripAdvisor.
And it’s no wonder. Its pure quartz sand is easy on the eyes as well as the feet, and its crystal clear waters are ideal for swimming. Plus, it boasts spectacular sunsets over the Gulf.
Nearby Siesta Key Village is brimming with one-of-a-kind restaurants, tropical-feeling bars and mom-and-pop stores, all easily accessible via the trolley.
Perdido Key
‘Perdido Key’ means ‘lost island’ in Spanish, and there’s no better place to go astray. Tucked in the northwest corner of Florida, this sliver of paradise is so narrow you can often see the Gulf of Mexico and the bay at the same time. It boasts an average temperature of 75 degrees and 343 days of sunshine – never mind snow-white beaches that beg you to ditch your sandals.
The vibe is laid back, and flip-flops are the only footwear you’ll need. The island encompasses Perdido Key State Park, Big Lagoon State Park and Johnson Beach at Gulf Islands National Seashore, all heaped with gloriously soft sand. Lodging options run the gamut from hotels, condos, rental houses, and bed and breakfasts to camping.
These beaches are laden with pure white sand, great fishing, and mom-and-pop stores and restaurants.
- Paul Tjaden
