The 16 Best Florida Beaches for a Girls Trip
Have a fun upcoming girls getaway that you need to plan? Ready to head somewhere warm and fun? The Sunshine State is the perfect place for a getaway!
The best beaches for a girl’s trip in Florida are not just about the sand and water. The perfect beach town should have plenty to do, beautiful scenery, unique shops and restaurants, lively nightlife – but also some peace and quiet if you want it.
Based on this criteria, we’ve listed our favorite of the best Florida beaches for girl trip that you’ll remember for a long time. It’s time for some great pictures and time to make some great memories.
But why Florida?
Florida is known for its amazing beaches and there are certainly no shortage of them to choose from. If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in Florida, this list is a great place to start. From party-friendly beaches to secluded getaways, there’s something for everyone on this list. So pack your swimsuit and sunblock, and get ready to hit the beach with your best friends!
( Some of the links in this post are probably affiliate links meaning I might make a small percentage of any purchases you make. All opinions remain my own. For my disclosure policy click here. )
1. Amelia Island
If you’re looking for a beautiful and secluded beach to relax on, Amelia Island is the perfect spot. This quiet island is located off the coast of Florida and is known for its lovely beaches and natural wildlife.
Amelia Island is perfect for a relaxing getaway with your girlfriends – you can soak up the sun and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Amelia Island is best for a girl’s vacation if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From upscale resorts and spas to quaint bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of lodging options to choose from.
Places to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Omni Amelia Island Resort, Seaside Amelia Inn
Best Beaches: Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island State Park
2. Daytona Beach
If you’re looking for a pretty rowdy spot, Daytona Beach is a great place to go. This lively beach town is known for its wild nightlife and world-famous NASCAR races. Daytona Beach is perfect for a girls’ weekend – you can party all night and then relax on the beach during the day. While you’re here, make sure to check out the local bars and restaurants – you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Places to stay: Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, The Daytona Autograph Collection
Best Beaches: Daytona Beach (The World’s most famous beach), Ormond Beach
3. Key West
Key West is a beautiful island located off the coast of Florida. This tropical paradise in the Florida Keys is known for its clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
If you’re looking for a party-friendly beach town to visit with your girlfriends, Key West is the perfect spot. It also makes a great spot for relaxation, up to you!
Another great option is to take a road trip with your gal pals from Miami, where you’ll get to drive the infamous Intracoastal waterway known as the Overseas Highway, which is quite breathtaking. Or, take a ferry from Fort Myers for a unique way to get to Key West.
Places to stay: Ocean Key Resort & Spa, Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel, Oceans Edge Resort & Marina Key West
Best Beaches: Higgs Beach, Smathers Beach, Dog Beach (Pet friendly!)
4. St. Augustine Beach
If you’re looking for a party-friendly beach (or not, depending on what you want), St. Augustine is the place to be. This popular spot is known for its nightlife and lively atmosphere. During the day, you can enjoy the sun and sand and cute little town and shops and then hit the town at night for a more lively scene. There are plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained, and you’re sure to have a good time with all of the amazing live music. Be sure to check out the bar scene on St. George Street – it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Places to stay: Casa Monica Resort & Spa, The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens
Best Beaches: St. Augustine Beach, Anastasia State Park Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach
5. Panama City Beach
If you’re looking for a party-friendly beach, Panama City Beach is the place to be. This lively beach town is known for its nightlife and world-famous spring break parties.
If you’re looking to let loose and have a good time, this is the spot for you. There are plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained, and the beach is beautiful. Be sure to check out the iconic Panama City Beach sign – it’s a popular spot for photos.
Places to stay: Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach, Marriott’s Legends Edge at Bay Point
Best Beaches: Panama City Beach and Pier, St. Andrews State Park, Schooners
6. Miami Beach
Miami is a world-famous beach town located in South Florida. This trendy spot is known for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
If you’re looking for a city to visit with your girlfriends, Miami might be just the right fit for a girl’s weekend.
Side note, Miami is also quite a popular spot for any bachelorette party too (you have to rent a boat, it’s so fun!) with plenty to do and fabulous rooftop bars. You can enjoy the sun and sand during the day and then party all night long.
Miami is also a great spot for shopping – you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to local street vendors.
Places to stay: The Palms Hotel and Spa, Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Best Beaches: South Beach, North Beach
7. West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is a beautiful beach town located in South Florida. This trendy spot is known for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a city to visit with your girlfriends, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. The beaches are stunning and the shopping is even more fun with your best girlfriends. Be sure to check out the popular Worth Avenue for some high-end shopping.
Places to stay: The Breakers Palm Beach, Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, Marriott’s Ocean Pointe
Best Beaches: Delray Beach, Palm Beach
8. Captiva Island
Captiva Island is a beautiful island located just north of Sanibel Island on the gulf coast in Florida. This island is known for its secluded beaches, lush vegetation, and wildlife. If you and your girlfriends are looking for a place to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet, Captiva Island is the perfect spot. The beaches here are stunning, and you can find plenty of places to go shelling and the like. Be sure to add kayaking or paddle boarding to your list. Or, check out the popular Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge for some great nature-watching opportunities.
Places to stay: South Seas Island Resort, Tween Waters Inn Marina & Spa
Best Beaches: Captiva Beach, Blind Pass Beach
9. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is an area located in South Florida on the Atlantic coast. This town is known for its trendy nightlife, beautiful beaches, and canals (the Venice of America!). If you’re looking for a city to visit with your girlfriends, Fort Lauderdale would be a spot for the books.
You can spend the day lounging on the beach or exploring the town’s shops and restaurants. Be sure to check out the popular Las Olas Boulevard also known as “style mile” for some great shopping and dining options.
Places to stay: The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Best Beaches: Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood Beach
10. Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is a charming Florida beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Northwest Florida. You can find gorgeous white-sand beaches and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants here.
It’s a great small town vibe with plenty of spots to rent an Airbnb. It’s also great because it’s extremely walkable and bikeable, making it a great pick for you and your girlfriends especially if a car isn’t an option.
The beaches here are beautiful and there’s plenty to do in the town center and plenty of vacation rentals in the area. Be sure to check out the popular Seaside Farmers Market for some great local produce and goods.
If you want a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Alys Beach for some peace and quiet. Or, if you want a little more excitement check out nearby Destin (about an hour away) and spend the day at Crab Island or take a dolphin cruise to enjoy a fun day on the water.
Places to stay: The Pearl, WaterColor Inn
Best Beaches: Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach
Related: The Best Breakfast Restaurants in Destin Florida
11. Naples
Naples is a beautiful beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. This town is well known for its dazzling white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts.
And while the beaches here are beautiful there’s also plenty to do in the adorable town center. It’s also pretty walkable in a lot of areas, making it a great place to vacation.
Be sure to check out the popular Fifth Avenue South for some great shopping and dining options. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Lowdermilk Park Beach or Vanderbilt Beach.
Pro-tip: Naples also has a lot of great outdoor activities like incredible places to kayak for a fun outdoor adventure.
Places to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Naples, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
Best Beaches: Lowdermilk Park Beach, Vanderbilt Beach
12. St Pete Beach
St Pete Beach is a great spot located on the Gulf of Mexico in Central Florida. This area (right outside Tampa Bay) is known for its white-sand beaches and lively nightlife. If you’re looking for a spot with beautiful beaches and lots of entertainment, St Pete Beach is a great spot. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in town, and the beaches here are stunning. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Pass-a-Grille Beach. One of the most popular restaurants in St Pete Beach is Sandbar Bills, which offers waterfront dining and live music.
Places to stay: The Don Cesar, Postcard Inn on the Beach
Best Beaches: St Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille Beach
13. Sarasota
Sarasota is an area near some really beautiful beaches located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. If you’re looking for white-sand beaches and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, this is a great choice for you and your girlfriends to explore. With so much development in the area, there’s lots to be done. Be sure to check out the popular Main Street for some great shopping and dining options. If you’re looking for a great beach option nearby head to Lido Beach or Siesta Key Beach (or you can stay here if you would prefer!).
Places to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, Lido Beach Resort
Best Beaches: Lido Beach, Siesta Key Beach, Turtle Beach
14. Clearwater Beach
Clearwater is a beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Central Florida right outside of Tampa Bay area. This beach has calm, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. If you and your girlfriends are looking for a beach town to relax in, Clearwater is a perfect choice. The beaches here are absolutely beautiful and there’s lots to do and see in the area. Be sure to check out the popular Pier 60 for some great shopping and dining. For a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, head to Sand Key Park or Caladesi Island State Park.
Places to stay: Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, Opal Sands Resort
Best Beaches: Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park, Caladesi Island State Park
15. Vero Beach
Vero Beach is a stunning beach town located on the Atlantic Coast of Florida. This town is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. If you’re looking for a spot to relax with your girlfriends, Vero Beach might be a great choice. The beaches here are absolutely breathtaking and there’s lots of activities and things to do nearby. Be sure to check out the popular Ocean Drive for some great shopping and dining options. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Humiston Park Beach or South Beach.
Places to stay: Costa d’Este Beach Resort and Spa, Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Best Beaches: Ocean Drive Beach, Humiston Park Beach, South Beach Park
16. Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida (outside of the Bradenton area). This island has white-sand beaches and charming beach towns. If you’re looking for a spot to explore with your girlfriends, Anna Maria Island is a great option.
The beaches here are beautiful in every season and there’s plenty of fun you can have (we recommend an exciting boat tour while you’re here!). Be sure to check out the popular Pine Avenue for some great shopping and dining options. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Manatee Public Beach or Holmes Beach.
Places to stay: Waterline Marina Resort, Anna Maria Island Beach Resort
Best Beaches: Manatee Public Beach, Holmes Beach, Coquina Beach
How to pick a travel destination for girls weekend?
What are the best activities for a fun girls’ getaway?
Need some fun ideas for your next girlfriend getaway? Try some of these activities to add to your trip:
- Head to the beach and relax for the day
- Head out on a boat for some fun in the sun
- Yoga on the beach
- Go shopping
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding
- Have a picnic on the beach
- Ride bikes along the beach
- Watch the sunset
- Make reservations for a lovely dinner on the beach
- Cocktails by the water
- Brunch at a nice restaurant
The Best Florida Beaches for Girl Trip Destinations
No matter what scene you’re looking for, Florida is a great spot to take a girl’s vacation weekend or getaway. You can get a tan during the day and explore the endless options of nightlife later in the evening. With tons of different beaches and restaurants, you’ll never run out of options for what to do next. There’s a spot for everyone in Florida. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! Grab your best girlfriends and book those flights and reservations. You can thank us later. 😉
We want to hear all about your future girls’ weekend trip or one that you’ve taken in the past – leave us a note in the comments!
