Gainesville FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Gainesville, Florida.
1. Crescent Beach
SERENE ATLANTIC SHORES
Crescent Beach offers a tranquil stretch of white sand along the Atlantic Ocean, south of St. Augustine. The beach is favored for its uncrowded, relaxing atmosphere and convenient amenities, including restrooms, walkovers, and easy parking. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, family picnics, and seasonal beach driving, making it a beloved escape for both locals and tourists.
2. Jacksonville Beach
VIBRANT OCEANFRONT PLAYGROUND
Jacksonville Beach boasts a wide expanse of sand, a vibrant boardwalk, and a famous fishing pier, providing a lively beach experience on Florida's First Coast. Families can enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and accessible dune walkovers. The energetic atmosphere and diverse recreational offerings make it a top choice for beachgoers of all ages.
3. Flagler Beach
CINNAMON SAND RETREAT
Flagler Beach welcomes visitors with its unique cinnamon-colored sands, laid-back vibe, and charming oceanfront town ambiance. The beach features ample space for relaxing, surfing, and fishing, while its pet-friendly policy appeals to families with dogs. Quaint local shops and seaside restaurants complete the small-town coastal experience.
4. St. Augustine Beach
HISTORIC SEASIDE ESCAPE
St. Augustine Beach combines the allure of sunny shores with rich history and modern amenities, offering a beachfront park, splash pad, fishing pier, and sand volleyball courts. This lively destination balances activity and relaxation, with beachside restaurants and a large seaside pavilion. It is an ideal spot for families looking for both adventure and comfort.
5. Neptune Beach
PEACEFUL COASTAL HAVEN
Neptune Beach provides a quiet, family-friendly shoreline near Jacksonville, known for its beautiful sunrises and laid-back environment. The clean sands and tranquil ambiance attract those seeking a peaceful escape from busier beaches. Visitors can savor relaxed days by the water and enjoy the friendly residential surroundings.
6. Cedar Key Public Beach
QUAINT GULF GETAWAY
Cedar Key Public Beach offers a small, charming stretch of sand by the marina on Florida's Gulf Coast, ideal for a low-key day by the water. The atmosphere is relaxed and the beach is perfect for picnics, wading, and watching boats drift by. Its unique, Old Florida vibe and scenic sunsets attract visitors looking for a quiet waterfront retreat.
7. Amelia Island State Park
WILD BARRIER ISLAND
Amelia Island State Park features untouched beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests on a scenic barrier island. The park is known for horseback riding on the sand, fishing, shelling, and wildlife viewing. Its natural beauty and peaceful setting make it a favorite for nature lovers and explorers.
8. Clearwater Beach
AWARD-WINNING GULF BEACH
Clearwater Beach is renowned for its powdery white sand, gentle Gulf waters, and lively beachfront scene. Visitors can enjoy swimming, parasailing, fishing, and sunset festivities at Pier 60. The beach's walkable promenade and vibrant atmosphere draw crowds year-round.
9. Ichetucknee Springs State Park
CRYSTAL-CLEAR RIVER TUBING
Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers a pristine, spring-fed river ideal for tubing, swimming, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Shaded by lush forests, the park is a refreshing inland escape with picnic pavilions and nature trails. The spring's cool waters and natural setting provide a unique swimming hole experience close to Gainesville.
10. Ginnie Springs
POPULAR SPRINGS RETREAT
Ginnie Springs is famous for its sparkling clear waters, sandy beaches, and numerous water activities along the Santa Fe River. This privately operated park allows visitors to swim, snorkel, scuba dive, paddleboard, and tube. Its lively social scene and beautiful natural environment make it one of North Florida's most sought-after spring destinations.