6 Beautiful Beaches I Feel Deserve to Be Ranked Higher Than What Was Just Named Best in the U.S.

Each year, travel publications and beach-ranking authorities unveil their list of the best shorelines in America. And every year, Siesta Key seems to land at or near the top of the list for the best beaches in Florida. While there’s no denying its appeal—sugar-soft quartz sand, the ease of the Gulf waters, and ample amenities in the surrounding area—it’s worth asking whether the accolades come at the expense of other stunning beaches that often go overlooked. 

Florida alone has so many shorelines that deliver just as much, if not more, scenery, charm, and ambiance. In my ranking of Florida beaches, I believe six spots deserve more recognition than they often receive and maybe should be contenders for the most beautiful beaches in Florida.

My Ranking of the Best Beaches in Florida

Siesta Key Beach in Florida is no doubt one of our top beach spots that everyone should experience for themselves. However, I can think of many other beautiful oceanfront destinations loved by locals and visitors alike. Some include Hollywood Beach, Jupiter Beach, and Miramar Beach, just to name a few. Ranking these beaches in order can be tricky because each has its own character and provides unique experiences for everyone to enjoy. Check out my list of these must-visit beaches in the Sunshine State.

#1 Hollywood Beach, FL

If you’re looking for a beach with a lot of personality, Hollywood Beach delivers in spades. Its old-school, laid-back vibe is complemented by the famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a brick-paved path that stretches for three miles along the coast, lined with beachfront cafes, bike rentals, and live entertainment. Unlike Siesta Key, which is more about relaxation, Hollywood Beach thrives on movement and interaction, offering an experience reminiscent of a classic beach town with a modern twist.

It receives high rankings for being an under-the-radar alternative for those who want a lively yet scenic escape, and one of my favorite alternatives to the bustle of Miami Beach. I like that you don't need a car here; it's very walkable, and although it can get crowded in the summer and during holidays, you can still find quieter sections to soak up the sun. Hollywood Beach earned its top spot on this list.

#2 New Smyrna Beach, FL

At number two is one of my all-time favorites in Florida and a true gem of Florida's Atlantic Coast. I might be a bit biased, but I have my reasons. I visited with my mom here last year, and we had an absolute blast. New Smyrna Beach offers a laid-back vibe, excellent surf, and an artsy downtown area. Unlike Siesta Key, which can feel overwhelmingly touristy, New Smyrna maintains a balance between visitors and locals.

The beach itself is wide, pristine, and ideal for long walks, while the town’s small restaurants and galleries provide a break from the sun and sand. It’s a haven for surfers, thanks to some of the best waves in the state, and it remains one of the best spots for a relaxed, authentic Florida experience. One of the highlights of this beach is that, for a fee, you can drive your car on the packed sand in designated areas. It's part of the local tradition for Volusia County beaches.

#3 Clearwater Beach, FL

Third on my list is Clearwater Beach, which often gets attention in best-of lists, but it still somehow takes a backseat to Siesta Key. Its powdery white sand is just as soft, its sunsets just as photo-worthy, and its water just as warm and inviting. What sets Clearwater apart is its energetic atmosphere and its famous Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, from late March to mid-April, offering nightly celebrations, complete with street performers, craft vendors, and live music.

Families love it, thanks to its calm, shallow waters and abundance of activities, from dolphin-watching cruises to waterfront dining. Although summers are crowded, you'll have a lot of space on the three miles of powdery, white sand that remains fairly cool under your feet. And don't forget about the sunsets here, they're truly magical; be sure to plan your trip to see them.

#4 Delray Beach, FL

After a St. Patrick's Day excursion last year, I explored Delray Beach for the very first time, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. As number four on my list, Delray Beach is an approachable beach that combines the natural beauty of the Atlantic shoreline with a swinging social scene. The water here is a striking shade of blue, the sand soft and welcoming, and the beach town itself is buzzing with energy.

Unlike Siesta Key, which leans heavily on its natural beauty, Delray offers a lively downtown just steps from the ocean, complete with high-end restaurants, art festivals, and boutique shopping. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning sunbathing and the evening enjoying live music with a cocktail in hand. For anyone seeking a low-key spot or even some solitude, this is the perfect destination for you. If you visit in the morning, you could even have the entire stretch of beach to yourself.

#5 Jupiter, FL

Our next destination is Jupiter Beach, an underrated gem located just above the main South Florida beaches. It might not have the widespread fame of Siesta Key, but that’s precisely what makes it special. Known for its unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear water, and the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, this stretch of coastline offers a sense of solitude rarely found in more commercialized areas. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Florida, which adds to its charm. I've taken my dog here before to frolic in the surf at the dog beach, and it was a day I'll never forget!

Since it's often overlooked by nearby West Palm Beach and is less tourist-focused, this is the laid-back destination locals gather in the summer. When here, it feels like a secret Florida coastline that hasn't been discovered by tourists on their way to Miami. Don't let its ranking as number five trick you; this stunning beach rivals the Caribbean shores, without the extra crowds.

#6 Miramar Beach, FL

We may have saved the best for last because we can't forget about the Emerald Coast, can we? Miramar Beach boasts some of the clearest, most mesmerizing waters in Florida. Its sugar-white sand rivals that of Siesta Key, but with a different vibe altogether. Unlike busier tourist hubs, Miramar Beach offers a balance of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for paddleboarding, parasailing, and deep-sea fishing.

The nearby Scenic Gulf Drive adds to its charm, featuring beachside eateries as you dine on the water, making it a perfect destination for those seeking total beach relaxation. Pro tip: Waterfront hotels and vacation rentals are cheaper here than in the neighboring town of Destin. And there is no sacrificing the overall experience of the Emerald Coast; the beaches along this stretch are equally stunning with Caribbean-like waters.

Are These Beaches Worth Visiting?

Siesta Key’s annual placement at the top of beach rankings is understandable; it’s undeniably beautiful. But there’s a case to be made for variety. Florida’s coastline is diverse, offering everything from high-energy beach towns to secluded nature preserves. New Smyrna, Delray, Jupiter, Clearwater, Hollywood, and Miramar each bring something unique to the table, proving that there’s more than one definition of “best.”

You'll never run out of beaches to explore in Florida, but I encourage you to go beyond our busy tourist corridors to discover these gorgeous spots that still offer a "close to authentic" Florida beach experience. The best time to visit? Florida beaches are great year-round; however, during the warmer months and on holidays, the crowds ramp up. If you want a more low-key tropical vibe without the extra crowds, the shoulder season from May to October delivers big.

Read on for more hidden beaches in Florida, some flying under the tourists' radar. These are the spots you'll find locals beachcombing.