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4 of the Best Florida Beaches

Escape to Stunning Views and Sandy Shores

Have you been finding yourself dreaming of a warm-weather getaway to the beautiful Florida beaches?  So have we - and we think this spring presents us with a great opportunity to shake off that cabin fever that may be building and make our dreams a reality.

While much of the country is still mired in cold, wintry weather and eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring, which, thankfully, isn't too far away, our friends in Florida are enjoying their seasonably warm weather and beautiful natural surroundings.

There are quite a few Select Registry properties in the Sunshine State, many of which can be combined into one incredible trip as you explore the different personalities along the Florida Coast.  Which Florida beaches will you visit?

A gorgeous sunrise at some of the best Florida Beaches

4 Places to Find Great Florida Beaches

There are so many Florida beaches to choose from - and, truthfully, it's kind of hard to go wrong.  Provided you have plenty of warm, soft sand to sink into and beautiful views of the Florida Coast to enjoy, odds are you'll enjoy a spectacular getaway.  

That being said, there are some Florida beaches that are truly special and worth planning your trip around.  Combine your visit to several of the top Florida beaches by visiting multiple Select Registry properties, and you have a dreamy getaway in the making!

Whether you want to lounge seaside with your favorite novel, splash around in the gentle surf, get out on the water for some boating or fishing, or just admire the beautiful natural surroundings, the Florida beaches are ready and waiting. 

Below, we've outlined what we think are 4 of the best places to visit and enjoy some time at the beach- and, of course, they're all located near a Select Registry property or two!

You'll find gorgeous colors like these on the best florida beaches

Amelia Island

Amelia Island is an unbelievably beautiful destination in which to vacation.  The island is home to some of the most beautiful Florida beaches, too, along with plenty of that old-world charm Florida is so well known for.

Situated about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island features 13 miles of beaches, including Amelia Island State Park.  If you've always wanted to ride a horse through Florida's gentle surf, this is a great place to do it! At the northern tip of the island is the popular Fernandina Beach. 

Key West

Just like Amelia Island, Key West has been noted as a stunning destination for a beach-focused vacation. Here, you'll find that dreamy, relaxing vacation you've been looking for, with plenty of beautiful Florida beaches to enjoy while you're there.

If you're visiting Key West, we highly recommend you make the trip out to Dry Tortugas National Park, which is composed of seven small islands about 70 miles west of Key West. You can only get there by seaplane or boat, but it's more than worth the trip!

The park spans 64,000 acres. The beaches here are remote and pristine, and the waters off the coast offer some of the best snorkeling in the area, as well as great for birdwatching, not to mention the chance to visit the famed Fort Jefferson.

St. Augustine

There are a number of popular and beautiful Florida beaches near the historic city of St. Augustine, not least of which is St. Augustine Beach itself.  In total, there are actually 42 miles of beach near St. Augustine, which makes it a great destination if you're looking to combine a bit of city fun with some relaxing on the beach!

If you're looking for a pristine and quiet beach experience, head to Anastasia Island, the home of St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park.  The beaches here are beautiful and a great place to enjoy the local wildlife. Another great choice for a quiet beach experience is Crescent Beach, just south of St. Augustine. 

Daytona Beach

Just to the south of St. Augustine is another popular Florida beach, Daytona Beach. Daytona is, of course, famous for the Daytona International Speedway, but its beach has also long been a draw for the millions of visitors coming to Florida each year.  

Aside from the draw of the beach itself, which is so hard-packed, you can drive on it, Daytona Beach is famous for its boardwalk and pier, which are filled with amusement rides, games, and concessions.

Just south of Daytona Beach you'll find New Smyrna Beach and the Canaveral National Seashore. New Smyrna Beach is a popular surfing destination, and otherwise a great place to kick back and relax on the beach.

Unfortunately, there aren't any Select Registry properties on the western shores or in the gulf-region of Florida.  Still, the area is home to some truly spectacular Florida beaches, like those found at Marco Island, Sanibel Island, Clearwater Beach, and Destin.

Romantic getaway to these beautiful florida beaches

Multiple Stops Along the Florida Coast

As we mentioned earlier, you can make your trip to Florida even better by visiting several of our Select Registry properties, and thus, visiting even more of these beautiful Florida beaches!  From the northern reaches of the state on Amelia Island to the southern tip of Key West, there are plenty of wonderful properties to visit and beaches to enjoy. 

Amelia Island, one of the barrier islands off the northern coast of Florida, is best known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and sandy, beautiful beaches. The historic brick streets of Fernandina Beach give you the feel of old-world Florida and is a great place to learn about the area's rich cultural and historical legacy. 

St. Augustine, known as the nation's oldest city, is a fascinating place to explore. Here, you'll find an eclectic mix of attractions, including historic parts of the Old City, massive military forts and stately castles, beautiful parks and beaches, and even some remnants of the Gilded Age.

Continue down the coast and you'll find the charming areas of New Smyrna Beach and Melbourne Beach, just south of Daytona Beach.  This part of the coast, especially New Smyrna Beach, is a major surfing hub known for its beautiful Florida beaches. It's not too far away from the Canaveral National Seashore, either.

Round out your vacation with a trip down to the tip of the Florida Keys, visiting the stunning paradise of Key West. In Key West, you'll feel as though you're in a totally different world than the rest of Florida, where there is a unique confluence of history, natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a hefty dose of romantic appeal. 

As you can see, a trip down Florida's coast would not only be a beautiful journey, but it'd be filled with fun and interesting things to see and do!  Join us at a craft lodging property, and enjoy the best Florida beaches and more!

Lodging on the Florida Coast

The Addison Room Amelia

The Addison on Amelia Island

The Addison on Amelia Island is conveniently located one block from Centre Street, within walking distance of the main street through the downtown historic district with boutique shops, restaurants, galleries, and a marina. 

The Addison on Amelia Island has three buildings, the historic house built in 1876 and two antebellum-style buildings added in 1996, that surround the professionally landscaped courtyard with brick walkways and a three-tier fountain. With 14 guest rooms and plenty of space to enjoy, you won't regret a second of your time here.

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Amelia Island Williams House

Amelia Island Williams House

Come fall under the spell of the Williams House Bed and Breakfast, one of Amelia Island's grandest historic homes. Romance, relaxation, and history combine in this sleepy, seaside village just off Florida's northeast coast.

Enjoy the authentic elegance of historic Florida. Come and relax in an era of times gone-by amidst crystal chandeliers, beautiful antiques, and amazing craftsmanship.

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Fairbanks House

Fairbanks House

Featured in The Best Romantic Escapes in Florida and awarded membership in Select Registry for 22 consecutive years, Fairbanks House is a delightful getaway. We're located in the historic district of Fernandina Beach and an easy bike ride to 13 miles of pristine beach.

We offer oversized rooms and suites and beautiful eco-friendly landscaped grounds, the perfect blend of today’s comforts and yesterday’s beauty.

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swimming Pool

St. Francis Inn Bed and Breakfast

Located within walking distance of downtown St. Augustine, St. Francis Inn of Florida exudes a romantic vibe. Your stay at our St Augustine bed and breakfast includes a gourmet buffet breakfast and a host of amazing amenities.

Our semi-tropical weather, coupled with coastal breezes, makes a St. Francis Inn vacation suitable for any time of year.

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Casa de Suenos Exterior

Casa de Suenos Bed and Breakfast

Aptly named, Casa de Suenos, which means the "House of Dreams" is an intimate B&B, located in the center of St. Augustine.

Leave your car behind and explore on foot, by trolley, or from a horse-drawn carriage. Seven comfortable guest rooms each have unique appointments, some with private balconies or jetted tubs, all with private en suite baths.

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sunset

Marker 8 Hotel & Marina

Marker 8 Hotel and Marina is a boutique hotel on the water, near the historic Bridge of Lions. We offer extraordinary views of the City’s historic skyline.

We offer 26 elegantly-themed guest rooms, along with intimate garden spaces, a cantilevered boardwalk, a waterfront poolscape, and a rooftop that looks out at it all. 

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Bayfront Westcott House

Bayfront Westcott House Bed and Breakfast

The Bayfront Westcott House Bed and Breakfast is located in the downtown historic district of St. Augustine. Nearby, you'll find plenty of award-winning restaurants, shops, art galleries, and historic sites and attractions to enjoy. 

With 4 well-appointed guest rooms, you can be ensured of a safe and relaxing getaway to beautiful St. Augustine!

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Black Dolphin Inn

Black Dolphin Inn

Enjoy the ultimate coastal getaway at this beautiful and historic Inn. Once you've experienced these beautiful accommodations, you'll want to come back time and time again.

Fourteen rooms provide a peaceful escape, with just the right amount of warm breezes, palm trees, and endless water views.

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Windemere Inn

Windemere Inn by the Sea Bed and Breakfast

The Windemere Inn by the Sea is a Caribbean-style Bed and Breakfast with 11 guest rooms. Our luxury oceanfront accommodations are located on a barrier island facing the beautiful Atlantic ocean near the Kennedy Space Center.

This is the place to relax and be pampered while enjoying your coastal getaway in Florida.

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Port d'Hiver

Port d'Hiver Bed and Breakfast

Our romantic Florida Beach bed and breakfast offers timeless Florida luxury at its finest, just across the street from the beautiful beaches. With stunning ocean views, expansive private porches, a bubbling spa pool, and lovely brick paths through lush tropical landscaping, you may never want to leave.

In the morning, savor a full breakfast on your private porch or at individual tables in the cheerfully inviting dining before heading out for a day of adventure in Melbourne Beach.

Fourteen rooms provide a peaceful escape, with just the right amount of warm breezes, palm trees, and endless water views.

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Casa Grandview

Casa Grandview

Experience Florida's historic past surrounded by a cozy Caribbean-like island atmosphere. We're located in the heart of Grandview Heights Historic District, and a short walk away from all things in West PalmBeach. 

With a complimentary made-to-order three-course gourmet breakfast for inn guests, and an extensive range of amenities, it's no wonder our guests continue to return to this hidden urban gem year after year when visiting beautiful Florida.

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The Mermaid & The Alligator

The Mermaid & The Alligator

Embrace the casual elegance of Key West at The Mermaid & The Alligator. Our Inn is housed in a beautiful Victorian home, originally built in 1904, and is in the heart of Old Town Key West.

We offer nine beautiful guest rooms and are within easy driving distance to the major attractions in Key West.

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The Kenwood Gables Bed & Breakfast

The Kenwood Gables Bed & Breakfast

The Kenwood Gables Boutique Bed & Breakfast is Select Registry’s newest member in Florida. Located in the “Sunshine City” of St. Petersburg, the B&B is nestled in the quaint residential neighborhood of Historic Kenwood which is conveniently situated between downtown to the east and Gulf Coast beaches to the west.

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Best Places to Stay in Fernandina Beach

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amelia cove
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ameliaisland
amelia-table
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Amelia Island Williams House Bed & Breakfast

Fernandina Beach, FL

The Addison on Amelia Island Courtyard
Breakfast on the Veranda
Premium Room at The Addison on Amelia Island
The Addison on Amelia Island Parlor
Social Hour on the Veranda
The Addison on Amelia Island Front Entry
Guest Room 2
Room 2 Bath
Soaking Tub in Room 3
Private Balcony Room 3
couple walking on a beach
The Addison on Amelia Island Entry

The Addison on Amelia Island

Fernandina Beach, FL

Front exterior of inn
Front porch with wicker table, couch and chair
outdoor patio with two tables and chairs
table with sorbet and tea
beautiful suite in the fairbanks house on amelia island features cream and white interior decor
interior living room with fireplace, coffee table and couch
bathtub in front of window

The Fairbanks House

Fernandina Beach, FL

Best Places to Stay in Indialantic

Windemere Aerial
Windemere Water View
Windmere Guestroom
Windemere Pool
Windemere Poolside
Windermere Bedroom 1

Windemere Inn by the Sea Bed and Breakfast

Indialantic, FL

Best Places to Stay in Key West

Mermaid & Alligator Front
guest room
outdoor pool
back patio
Bathroom at Mermaid and the Alligator
the mermaid and the alligator exterior
mermaid logo
pool
woodroom
dining room
unique room
guest room
front porch
back patio

The Mermaid & The Alligator

Key West, FL

Best Places to Stay in Melbourne Beach

Port-D-Hiver Exterior Pool
Port-D-Hiver-20-Rooms-Windward
port d'hiver bubbling pool
Port D'Hiver Inn breakfast on beach
port d'hiver rooms windward
Port d'Hiver Bed and Breakfast bedroom
Port D'Hiver sunrise Food
Port-D-Hiver Gym
Port-D-Hiver-20-Rooms-Charlotte
Port-D-Hiver wet bar
Port D'Hiver Inn Diane

Port d'Hiver Bed and Breakfast

Melbourne Beach, FL

Best Places to Stay in New Smyrna Beach

couple by fireplace looking at water views
Black Dolphin InnFlorida
bedroom with view of water
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Black Dolphin InnFlorida
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Black Dolphin InnFlorida
Black Dolphin InnFlorida
bedroom with view of water

Black Dolphin Inn

New Smyrna Beach, FL

Best Places to Stay in St. Augustine

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bayfront-view
bayfront-front
Bayfrontbalcony
blue room
dining room
guest book
breakfast spread
sunrise on bay
dessert bark
bayfront-rear

Bayfront Westcott House Bed and Breakfast

St. Augustine, FL

inn at night
breakfast spread
common area
back patio
jetted tub
Casa de Suenos Exterior View
wine glasses
brown room
common area
Horse and Carriage Ride in a forest
Dancing dolphins in water

Casa de Suenos

St. Augustine, FL

waffles and water view
Bed closeup left - Virginia whetstone Marker 8 Hotel
Marker 8 Hotel Marina Sunset Hot Tub Pool
Marker 8 Hotel Cheese Wine Fire Pit
fire and pillow
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Marker 8 Hotel and Marina

St. Augustine, FL

Best Places to Stay in St. Petersburg

kenwood-lving room with fireplace & two blue sofas
Exterior of The Kenwood Gables Boutique B&B
Our pool and garden area
Castaway Master Suite located on the main floor
The Nomad Master Suite located on the main floor
kenwood-enter
Brewton Vintage Room located on our 2nd floor
The Astoria Vintage Room on the 2nd floor with Queen sized bed
The Burlington Vintage Room on the 2nd floor - Queen sized bed
rose petals on bed

The Kenwood Gables Boutique Bed & Breakfast

St. Petersburg, FL

Best Places to Stay in West Palm Beach

front entrance
indoor patio
guest room
casa grandview pool
porch dine
side view
front road
side door
pool
back patio
common area
common area

Casa Grandview

West Palm Beach, FL

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