Florida's Gulf Coast Beaches

Regionally, Tampa Bay encompasses three cities — Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater — but Tampa Bay is actually a body of water, the largest open-water estuary in Florida, covering nearly 400 square miles. Situated on Florida's Gulf Coast, it encompasses some of the best beaches in the state.

Caladesi Island State Park consistently ranks among America's top beaches. Only accessible by boat or ferry, the park's natural setting offers an array of outdoor activities.

Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular and best beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Honeymoon Island is a barrier island beach destination that has the feeling of isolation with easy access and convenient facilities.

Lido Beach is located on the gulf-fronted Lido Key and is one of Sarasota's well-kept secrets.

Madeira Beach is a dazzling stretch of white sand along Florida's Gulf Coast, but isn't the best beach in the area.

Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola's sugar-white sand looks like snow to many, but you're sure to warm to this area's beaches and activities.

Sand Key is a 14-mile stretch along the Gulf of Mexico between John's Pass and Clearwater Pass that includes Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Indian Shores, Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair Shore and Belleair Beach. Sand Key Park is one of the best beach parks on the Gulf Coast.

Situated along Florida's Gulf Coast just off of Sarasota Siesta Key has some of the area's finest stretches of sand.

St. Pete Beach is located on Florida's central west coast along the Gulf of Mexico.

Fred H. Howard Park, named in honor of a former Tarpon Springs mayor, is one of Pinellas County's best kept secrets.