We asked and you spoke! After months of staying at home and local and state parks being closed, you are probably feeling the itch to get some fresh air somewhere other than your own backyard. Please check with each state park or local beach authority before traveling to these sites as state guidelines are changing regularly. At the time of publishing, these beaches are open.
Here are your top 5 Florida beaches to explore:
Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas County is famous for it's natural preserved beauty. The park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys). Beyond the gorgeous beach, you can explore 7 miles of trails by foot or bicycle. There are three nature trails for all physical abilities. Campgrounds, concession stands, kayak, canoe and boat rentals and two fishing piers are available. If you plan to stay more than one day, definitely don't miss out on the opportunity to tour the fort, visit the Quartermaster Museum or take a ferry to Shell Key! The park is about a 2 hour drive southwest from Lake County.
Anna Maria Island in Manatee County is home to Coquina Beach and is known for it's quaint and natural charm. This is definitely one of the most family-friendly beaches with plenty of free parking, restrooms, changing cabanas, concessions, picnic areas and playgrounds. If you stay overnight, there is a free trolley service throughout the island so you can explore more than just the beaches. Anna Maria Island is about a 2.5 hour drive northeast from Lake County.
New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County is one we are probably ALL familiar with since it is one of the closest to Lake County. You have two options for this beach experience: drive-on or pedestrian only. Personally, I prefer the pedestrian-only stretch of NSB since I don't have to worry about my children and distracted drivers on the beach. Since the 27th Avenue Beach Access is currently under construction (and is a favorite of a lot of you!), try out the Mary Mcleod Bethune Park access. Nestled on six acres between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean, this quiet spot south of New Smyrna Beach features a boardwalk on the ocean side and a fishing pier on the river side - where visitors often catch a glimpse of manatees. Amenities include beach access, children's playground, pavilion, barbecue grills, picnic areas, basketball court, tennis/pickleball courts, volleyball and public restrooms. Parking is also free. Smyrna Dunes is great if you want to bring your dog! If you prefer driving on the beach, check out the Flagler Avenue Beach Access and enjoy the convenience of being in the heart of downtown New Smyrna Beach. You can get take-out from Breakers on the beach, walk to surf shops, rent cabanas and boogie boards and maybe even enjoy an ice cream truck visit. Beach access is $20 per car. New Smyrna is about 1.5 hours east from Lake County.
Clearwater Beach in Pinellas County is perfect if you want the water of a Caribbean island but the convenience of a day trip! Located approximately 2 hours southwest from Lake County, this beach is popular for tourists. The soft white sand and crystal-clear, wave-free water make this an ideal spot for families. Parking can be tricky and is not free, so we recommend visiting on a weekday for less crowds. Pier 60 is a wonderful location for watching the sunset, enjoying street performers and a variety of casual foods.
Cocoa Beach in Brevard County is another great option for those who enjoy great waves! World-famous for its surfing, this area has many great options for beach access. The most recommended is the Alan Shepard Park entrance. Shepard Park is a 5-acre, ocean-front park providing picnic, shower, and restroom facilities for guests. The park was named after astronaut Alan Shepard and provides an excellent view of space launches. Facilities include 10 large picnic pavilions, several smaller covered picnic tables and a bathhouse. More than 300 parking spaces are available for automobiles and recreational vehicles. Many popular tourist related retail shops are within easy walking distance. Cocoa Beach is located approximately 1.5 hours southeast of Lake County.
