Bradenton

Along the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and into Tampa Bay are over 20 miles of fine coastal shores - many which are shaded by tall Australian Pines.

The centerpiece of a number of equally beautiful beaches to its north and south. One can find a range of ambiances from very popular and energetic to quiet and relaxing.

Miles of hard-packed sand make this ideal for driving cars, four-wheelers, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles. In the summer and during spring break the area is absolutely bustling with activity. During the winter months the area takes on a more leisurely pace.

Continuing north from Miami, Fort Lauderdale is a pleasant strip accentuated with palms and numerous parks.

A world of tropical beauty and wildlife with dozens of islands to explore. The area is a playground of sand and water. Fort Myers, Bonita Beach, Sanibel Island, Captiva are just a few excellent places to enjoy the sea and sun.

Jacksonville has twenty miles of wide, beautiful shores along the the Atlantic Ocean. Swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and sunning are popular at the coastal communities of Mayport, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach and Jacksonville.

A strip of miles of fine golden sand with emerald waters. People flock to Miami for business, sun, water, fun and entertainment - this place really rocks!

Naples originally established itself with its spectacular beaches. It has now become equally known as an upscale community with great golfing and shopping.

Among the best in Florida with nearly 20 miles of fine sugar-sand, relatively warm and generally calm seas. In the summer the water is often crystal clear with a beautiful emerald-green hue.

Located at the west end of the panhandle, the area is best known for its many miles of pristine snow-white sand. Dunes decorated with delicate sea oats accent the coast. With so many miles of spectacular coast it is easy to find a secluded spot away from it all.

Has several miles of hard-packed sand which are bordered with beautiful natural dunes. Driving is permitted on the hard sand in some areas.

St. Pete Beach is a seven mile beach of fine white sand that so typifies the west-central coast.

Waters along the Florida coasts are generally warmer than other areas along the continental US. Surf tends to be higher on the Atlantic coast with relatively little surf on the Gulf coast (surfers take note). Sea temperatures are also warmer on the Gulf coast throughout the year compared to the Atlantic coast.

Florida sand consistency in the northwest along Pensacola, Panama City Beach and the West Coast from Clearwater through Naples is fine and very white. Beaches along the Atlantic tend to shade towards light beige with a somewhat coarser texture.

Additional resources:

Florida beach sand comparison

More Beaches of Florida

Florida Beaches by Region

Excerpt from:

Florida's Beaches - Florida Beaches and Vacations