Beaches by Style: Your Beach Day, Your Way

With more than 30 miles of azure Gulf shoreline and white sand, Florida’s Paradise Coast beckons all year long with heavenly beaches – each with its own allure. See which one best suits your beach mood.

Close to it All

Sometimes, you want the best of both worlds: a stretch of pristine sand all to yourself and world-renowned shopping and dining that’s just steps away. At Naples Beach, you’ll be steps from downtown, including shopping and dining hubs Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. Lined with opulent mansions tucked into the dunes, the beach here culminates with Naples Pier. Spot dolphins, manatees and pelicans in the surf, cast a line and celebrate sunset. To the north, Vanderbilt Beach sits near the growing North Naples shopping, resort and entertainment district. It’s a local favorite also beloved for its sunsets.

Natural Beauty Just Steps Away

Sometimes, the perfect beach day means discovering a pristine spot, albeit one that’s not as far away as it feels. These beaches combine natural beauty with just the right amount of amenities. An undeveloped portion of an island north of Naples, Barefoot Beach is where you can spot local flora and fauna, including gopher tortoises. Bathrooms, showers, a snack bar and beach rentals are conveniently located for your comfort. Marco Island’s Tigertail Beach Park is home to a butterfly garden, a tidal lagoon, rolling dunes and boardwalks for spotting seabirds. It’s a rustic retreat just steps away from it all. With miles of sandy beach and wetlands, Clam Pass Park is perfect for a calm beach day, or to rent a kayak or stroll. There are bathrooms and a restaurant nearby.

Feel Like a Castaway

On Florida’s Paradise Coast, you’re never far from an untouched stretch of sand where often, the only other footprints you’ll see are those of wading shorebirds. Keewaydin Island is a stunningly pristine barrier island offering hours of shelling, wildlife spotting and wandering. You can only get here by boat (rent one or join a sightseeing tour). There’s no need for a boat at 199-acre Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, a local favorite teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.

Resort Luxe in the Sand

Florida's Paradise Coast has long been celebrated as a destination that blends laid-back luxury with coastal chic – and few things showcase this appeal like the beach resorts in Naples and Marco Island. Experience amentities like beach massages, lauded restaurants and exquisite pools. See our guide to the top beachfront hotels and resorts on Florida's Paradise Coast.

Explore the beaches of Naples and Marco Island in depth.