The Top 10 Most Instagrammable Beaches in Florida, According to a New Study
For those who believe life is better with a little sand between their toes, Florida is the beach destination for sun, sand, and stunning views.
The Sunshine State boasts 1,300 miles of coastline with palm trees gently swaying and crystalline turquoise waters meant for sun-seekers and selfie lovers alike. The best part? Its tropical climate is a year-round affair—so you can bet there’ll be no shortage of postcard-worthy shorelines, neon-pink sunsets, and hidden beach gems for the ‘gram.
Narrowing down the most Instagram-worthy spots, Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort has done the legwork by analyzing over 550 Floridian beaches to bring you the top 10 beach spots. Expect a little bit of everything—from the powdery-white sands in the Panhandle, majestic sunrises on the Atlantic coasts, to crystal blue waters in the Keys you wouldn’t even want to use an Instagram filter.
1. South Beach (Miami Beach)
With over 9.08 million hashtags racked on Instagram alone, South Beach is the crown jewel of Miami’s coastline. It’s a glamorous, sun-soaked paradise buzzing with celebrity sightings, luxury hotels, and nightlife. Its vibrant Art Deco architecture also makes for an appealing Instagram background reel if you’re done snapping photos at Lummus Park, Nikki Beach, or along Ocean Drive.
2. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is known for its laid-back coastal vibes sprinkled with a bit of luxury. Other than its gorgeous beaches and palm-lined streets, it’s also home to historic mansions and upscale shopping districts including Worth Avenue (Florida’s Rodeo Drive), ideal for those who like to shop after relaxing at the beach.
3. Clearwater Beach
An award-winning beach spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast known for its calm, pristine waters and unreal sunset views. It’s the place to be for opacarophiles (sunset lovers) trying to catch the golden-hour views. Make sure to check out Pier 60’s sunset festival filled with local artisans and street performers daily or hop on a dolphin-watching cruise if you’re feeling adventurous.
4. Daytona Beach
If an action-filled adventure by the beach is more your thing, then Daytona Beach on Florida’s Atlantic coast won’t disappoint. The wide beach, which also hosts free summer concerts, is popular due to its hard-packed sand that you can drive on along with the legendary pier and boardwalk lined with rides and arcades. Motorsports fans will also have the Daytona 500 NASCAR race to look forward to come February.
5. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is a Gulf Coast dream for beach and nature lovers alike. Its stunning emerald-green waters are always packed with exciting water-based activities; you can try snorkeling, parasailing, and even paddleboarding with dolphins.
One of the popular spots is St. Andrews Park which features 1.5 miles of white sand beach, nature trails, and dunes, while the Pier Park is everyone’s go-to for dining and shopping.
6. Pompano Beach
Known for its underrated beauty and panoramic ocean views, Pompano Beach is South Florida’s hidden gem worth visiting. It has fewer crowds than its neighboring counterparts so you’ll get to enjoy the beach all on your own (or with family) along with its golden stretch of sand and refreshing ocean breeze.
The city’s artificial reef program also created a vibrant marine life which makes the beach a prime spot for snorkeling and diving.
7. Sunny Isles Beach
If you’ve come for ocean views with a rooftop party on the side, Sunny Isles Beach is Florida’s beachfront paradise. It offers a blend of upscale resorts, pristine beaches, and world-class dining. Nicknamed the “Riviera of Florida,” Sunny Isle’s iconic Newport Fishing Pier provides an Instagram-worthy backdrop while its clear blue waters will make you want to kayak and paddleboard ‘til sunset.
8. Vero Beach
Another beach gem on the list with a laid-back coastal charm is Vero Beach—no rowdy crowds and high-rises—ideal for when you just want peaceful long walks and picnics. It’s just you, the gentle waves, the cool breeze of the Atlantic, and the long stretch of pristine beach. It’s also a prime spot for sea turtles to nest and is home to the Vero Beach Museum of Art and McKee Botanical Garden.
9. Deerfield Beach
Those looking for a crowd-free and scenic escape will find Deerfield Beach an instant Instagram favorite. It features the award-winning Blue Wave beach certified by the Clean Beach Council so you can be assured of clean waters, shorelines, and endless stretches of soft sand. For Insta-worthy ocean and sunrise views, head on to the International Fishing Pier or try some water park wakeboarding fun at Ski Rixen USA.
10. Cocoa Beach
A surfer’s paradise and home to legendary surfing pro Kelly Slater, Cocoa Beach is popular for its laid-back vibes and iconic waves for surfin’ up. The year-round mild (but short) winter and hot summer are always accompanied by a steady ocean breeze—ideal for catching waves or for oceanfront dining at Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Nearby is the Kennedy Space Center which is also a must-visit for space lovers.
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