Beaches with the clearest water. For many people, a beach vacation means white sand and blue water. But it can be difficult to find a clear-water beach if you’re not sure where to look.
We’ve found 16 of the best beaches in Florida that are known for their crystal-clear water. Water is one of the most important elements of a beach.
The clear water is a big attraction for tourists and locals alike. Here you will find the top 16 beaches with the clearest water around the world.
A trip to one of these beaches could be just what your mind and spirit need to feel refreshed and re-energized. So, without further ado, check out these stunning and awe-inspiring top 16 beaches with the clearest water in the world!
Beaches with the clearest water
The Maldives are known for their delicate white sand and crystal clear waters, but there are other places where you can experience the same thing.
These beaches have been voted as having some of the clearest water in the world, so you know your Instagram feed is about to get a lot more envy-inducing.
1. Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world, home to 1,400 species of fish, 450 species of coral, and hundreds of species of mollusks.
Crustaceans and echinoderms It’s also home to one of the most gorgeous beaches ever, Half Moon Caye Beach, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia that boasts some of the most stunning views in all of Polynesia, including its famous emerald lagoon full of tropical fish and bright blue waters that stretch for miles.
It’s also home to some incredible resorts like the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa; check below for the mind-blowing top 16 amazing beaches in the world with the clearest and bluest water.
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Key takeaway points
- 16 clear-water beaches in Florida you must see
- 1. Jupiter
- 2. Crab Island
- 3. Destin
- 4. Fort De Soto
- 5. Rosemary Beach
- 6. Panama City Beach
- 7. Beer Can Island
- 8. Dry Tortugas
- 9. Miami Beach
- 10. Anna Maria Island
- 11. Smathers Beach
- 12. Biscayne National Park
- 13. Honeymoon Island State Park
- 14. New Smyrna Beach
- 15. St Augustine
- 16. Crystal River
16 clear-water beaches in Florida you must see
Miami is a city that has always been known for its beaches, but in recent years, Miami Beach has lost some of its charm.
The reason for this is partly due to the influx of new residents and tourists, but also because Miami Beach has become more commercialized. The rise in high-rise hotels and condos coincided with an increase in prices.
If you still want to enjoy the beach but don’t want to deal with the crowds or high prices, then consider visiting Sanibel Island. This island is located off of Fort Myers, Florida, and is known for its pristine beaches and wildlife preserves.
You can even take a tour of this island on a tram that will take you through all the different habitats, including mangroves and marshes.
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1. Jupiter
The beaches are known for their white sand and clear blue water. There are many restaurants that you can visit while in Jupiter, including Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant, Barefoot Beach Cafe, and Backyard Bistro.
If you’re looking for something different to do while in Jupiter, then try visiting the Royal Palm Beach County Park, which is located right outside of Jupiter.
The park has many different things to do, including biking, boating, hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
The park also has a beach where you can swim in the crystal-clear water or sunbathe on the sand. Jupiter is home to many different schools, including Palm Beach Central High School and Jupiter Community High School.
There are many places to visit in Jupiter, including The Gardens Mall, Westfield Shoppingtown at Jupiter, and The Gardens on El Paseo.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay while in Jupiter, then check out the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton West Palm Beach-Jupiter/Royal Palm Beach.
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2. Crab Island
Crab Island is a mangrove island located in the Gulf of Mexico off Fort Myers Beach. It’s part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, which means that it’s a nature preserve, so you’ll see all kinds of wildlife, including turtles and birds.
This beach is popular for fishing, swimming, and boating, so you can expect to see other people there at any given time of day or night.
The water here is deep enough to dive into without worrying about hitting bottom (it’s about 20 feet deep), but if you’re planning on doing some snorkeling or diving,
It might not be your best option since you won’t find any coral reefs or colorful fish here like other beaches closer by do have.
Another interesting fact about Crab Island is that it has one of only two beaches in Florida where driving on them is allowed, the other being Key West Beach (which isn’t exactly known for having clear water).
The sand here is white and soft, and the water is clean and clear (it’s also pretty shallow). There are no restrooms or showers on Crab Island, so you’ll have to bring your own if you plan on spending the day here.
Crab Island is located on the east side of Florida, near Fort Lauderdale. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Miami and about an hour away from West Palm Beach.
The island is small and only has two beaches, but if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun, then it’s a great spot to go. There are no lifeguards here, so be sure not to
to swim too far out into the water. The beach is open 24 hours a day, and there’s no fee to enter or park here.
3. Destin
Destin is the perfect place to spend your beach vacation. It’s on the Gulf Coast of Florida, and it has crystal-clear water that you can swim in year-round.
If you love fishing and boating, then this is the place for you. You can also go parasailing or jet skiing if you want some excitement on your trip!
The beach is very wide and long, so there’s plenty of room for everyone.
If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, then the north end of the beach is perfect. There are only a few hotels on this part of the island, and it’s mostly residential.
There are plenty of restaurants in Panama City Beach, and most of them are on the beach. You can get breakfast on the sand or lunch at a restaurant near the water.
There is even an amusement park with a Ferris wheel that you can ride while watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.
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4. Fort De Soto
Fort De Soto is a park with a beach in Pinellas County, Florida. It is part of the Tampa Bay area and also on the Gulf of Mexico’s edge.
In 1847, soldiers working for General William T. Sherman built the fort to keep Seminoles and other native tribes from attacking settlers in Tampa Bay.
Today, it’s one of America’s most popular beaches because it has many facilities such as bathrooms, lifeguards, picnic areas, and even playgrounds for kids!
It also has a lot of activities for people to do, such as swimming, fishing, boating, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
There are many picnic areas that you can rent out for a small fee if you want to enjoy your lunch while watching the waves crash against the shoreline.
There is also a concession stand where you can get food and drinks if you don’t want to bring your own.
The beach has a lot of free parking spaces, but there is also paid parking available for those who want to spend the day or even overnight at the park.
There are many different kinds of fish you can find at Soto’s Beach. The most common ones are snook, sea trout, and redfish.
Snook is a brownish-colored fish that lives in the ocean but migrates to freshwater rivers during the summer months. They are easy to catch because they often feed on schools of baitfish that swim close to shore.
5. Rosemary Beach
The town is also known as the “Venice of Florida” because it has canals and bridges with gondolas that can take you across the water. It is a popular place for weddings because of its beautiful scenery and romantic setting.
There are many things to do in Gulfport, including visiting the beach or going shopping at some of the local malls. There are also many tourist attractions, like museums and aquariums, that you can visit with your family or friends.
The town is also known as the “Venice of Florida” because it has canals and bridges with gondolas that can take you across the water. It is a popular place for weddings because of its beautiful scenery and romantic setting.
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6. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Florida, and for good reason. The white sand and emerald-green waters are breathtaking.
A sunset here will take your breath away, and if you’re looking to get out on the water, Panama City Beach has plenty of options—from boating to fishing and surfing to golfing.
If you’re not a beach person but still want some sun-soaked fun, there are plenty of other things to do around town!
If you’re looking for some excitement, head over to John’s Pass Village on the south end of town. There, you’ll find boat rentals, restaurants, and shops galore.
You can also take a dolphin cruise or go snorkeling or scuba diving at Captain Anderson’s Inlet State Park, which is just north of Panama City Beach.
If you’re feeling like taking a break from the sun, check out the Panama City Beach Museum of Art.
It’s free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are many other museums in town that offer admission at reasonable prices as well!
7. Beer Can Island
Beer Can Island is a small island off the coast of Florida, part of the Ten Thousand Islands. It is located in the Gulf of Mexico, between Marco Island and Naples.
The island is only accessible by boat; there are no roads on it, and it takes about an hour to drive around its perimeter.
Beer Can Island was named for its shape, which looks like a can of beer when viewed from above. The top half is covered with water, while the bottom half has trees and grasses growing on it.
There are two small beaches on this island: one called Shell Beach at the east end and another called Coral Beach at the west end.
The eastern beach is where you can find the most shells on the island. There are also many types of marine life, such as fish, eels, and manatees. The western beach has more coral than the other beaches.
The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. It has many types of fish, coral, and other marine life that can be seen under the water.
There are also many types of shells on the island’s beaches. Beer Can Island is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
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8. Dry Tortugas
Dry Tortugas National Park, which is made up of seven small islands 70 miles west of Key West, has the clearest water.
The park is surrounded by a coral reef that’s home to many species of fish and marine life. If you’re looking to explore more than just the beaches, there are several boat tours available from Key West that depart daily.
These tours range from one-hour sightseeing cruises to overnight trips where you’ll sleep aboard an old shipwrecked schooner.
If you’re looking for more of an adventure, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities.
The park is also home to Fort Jefferson, the largest masonry fort in the United States. It’s a fascinating place to explore, especially if you’re interested in history.
If you’re planning on visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park, you’ll need to make sure that you have all of the necessary permits.
You can get these at the Key West Visitor’s Center or call (305) 292-0012 to talk to someone there.
A permit is required for all boats entering the waters of Dry Tortugas National Park. The fee for your boat to enter the park is $100, and it’s good for one year from the date of purchase.
Before you can get into the park, you will also need to show proof of certification (if needed) and proof of insurance.
9. Miami Beach
Miami Beach is a barrier island on the Atlantic coast of Florida, located in Miami-Dade County. It runs from the mouth of the Miami River southward about 37 miles (60 km) to Virginia Key and about 3 miles (5 km) from shore to shore at its widest point.
The beach is popular among locals and tourists alike because of its proximity to South Beach, which is home to some of the most exclusive hotels and shopping malls in all of Miami.
The beach is also known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, the largest of which is Haulover Beach Park. A marine preserve has been made at the mouth of Biscayne Bay thanks to an artificial reef that is part of the park.
Haulover Beach Park is a popular place to go swimming. It has lifeguards and concession stands with bathrooms and showers.
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10. Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a barrier island located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This island is home to the largest concentration of privately owned beach homes in the state and has become a popular destination for tourists, locals, and retirees alike.
The calm waters off Anna Maria Island are ideal for swimming and snorkeling year-round, with crystal-clear water that won’t leave you feeling like you just took a dip in an aquarium!
If you’re looking to spend the day at the beach on your next vacation or getaway, consider heading to Anna Maria Island, where you can bask in beautiful views and enjoy some of the clearest water in all of Florida.
Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to spend time on the beach with your family,
Enjoy some of Florida’s best seafood at one of the many restaurants on the island, or explore nature at its finest by kayaking through mangrove forests and wildlife preserves—Anna Maria Island has it all!
If you want to get away from it all while still being close enough to enjoy Tampa Bay’s nightlife, then consider booking one of our vacation rental homes.
11. Smathers Beach
Located on the Atlantic Ocean near Fort Zachary Taylor and Truman Annex, Smathers Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s also known for its views of Key West’s colorful homes and beautiful sunsets.
You can find this beach at the southernmost tip of Key West—just past Fort Zachary Taylor, where you’ll find plenty of parking on Sand Key Road or South Roosevelt Boulevard (State Road A1A), depending on if you’re coming from land or sea, respectively.
Smathers Beach is a great place to visit at any time of the year. It’s especially popular during the winter months, when snorkeling enthusiasts can swim with parrotfish and angelfish that come here from northern waters.
The beach has plenty of facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
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12. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is located in the Florida Keys and is one of the most popular destinations for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
It features many species of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles. The park also has a large number of different species of fish that can be seen by snorkelers or divers.
A large number of different types of coral can also be found in the park, which is why it is an excellent place for snorkeling or diving.
The water around the national park has been set aside as a preserve, which means that no one will be able to fish there.
The park was established in 1980 and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Florida. It features many different types of fish, coral, and other marine life that can be seen by snorkelers or divers.
The park also has a large number of different species of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles.
The area surrounding the national park has been declared an underwater preserve, ensuring that no fishing will take place here. The park was established in 1980 and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Florida.
It features many different types of fish, coral, and other marine life that can be seen by snorkelers or divers.
The park also has a large number of different species of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles. The water around the national park has been set aside as a preserve, which means that no one will be able to fish there.
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13. Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island State Park is a popular tourist destination in Dunedin. It’s known for its clear water, which makes it a great place to go fishing.
The park sits on a man-made island, which provides plenty of space for picnics and recreation. There are also several trails that wind through the park for hikers and nature lovers.
The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The cost of admission is $5 per vehicle or $3 for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Dunedin’s downtown district is a fun place to explore, with plenty of shops and restaurants. The Dunedin Brewery is a local favorite, serving up craft beers and pub fare in a casual atmosphere.
A boardwalk along the beach is a great place to relax and watch the waves come in.
Dunedin is a charming community that is popular with tourists. This small town offers plenty of activities and attractions, including Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Dunedin Brewery, and Honeymoon Island State Park.
Dunedin is a city in Pinellas County, Florida. It is part of the Tampa Bay Area, a region known for its beaches and aquatic activities.
The city has plenty of attractions for tourists who enjoy spending time outdoors or on the water. Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Honeymoon Island State Park are both popular places to visit.
Dunedin is located in Pinellas County, Florida. The city has a population of around 28,000 people and covers an area of approximately 9 square miles. Dunedin is known for its beaches and aquatic activities.
14. New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a town in Volusia County, Florida, USA. The population was 18,868 at the 2010 census. New Smyrna Beach is in central Florida, on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. To the east of the city is the Canaveral National Seashore.
The city was founded in 1887 by settlers from New Smyrna Beach, California, which explains why many streets are still named after towns in California.
The name comes from its location on “the new Smyrna River,” now known as Tomoka Creek. The beaches of New Smyrna Beach are some of the cleanest and most beautiful on Florida’s east coast.
There are several miles of shoreline that have been set aside as part of Canaveral National Seashore; some areas are accessible by car, others only by foot or boat (with parking available nearby).
The city is known for its beautiful beaches, with white sand and emerald-green water. It also has a quaint downtown area with many shops and restaurants to choose from.
New Smyrna Beach has a number of thriving businesses, including a Harley-Davidson dealer. The city’s downtown area features many shops and restaurants, along with a historic train depot that houses several local art galleries.
The city has a thriving art scene, which is evident in the many galleries and studios located throughout the region. It’s also home to the annual Art on the Beach Festival each January.
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15. St Augustine
St. Augustine is a city in the US state of Florida, founded by Spanish admiral and conquistador Juan Ponce de León. It was founded in 1565 and is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States.
The city’s rich history has resulted in a number of tourist attractions, including Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Fort Matanzas National Monument, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum.
St. Augustine is also home to Flagler College, a private university that was founded by railroad tycoon Henry Morrison Flagler in 1935.
St. Augustine has a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, dry winters, and warm springs.
The city is located on the Atlantic Coastal Plain, approximately halfway between Jacksonville and Miami. The area immediately around St. Augustine is primarily low-lying marshland.
The terrain gradually rises to a height of about ten feet above sea level at the community of San Marco, just south of the city limits.
16. Crystal River
Crystal River is a town in Citrus County, Florida, USA.The population was 10,539 at the 2000 census. As of 2004, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau was 11,523.
It is part of the Tampa Bay Area and is located on the southwest Gulf coast of Florida along US 19/98 between Homosassa Springs and Inverness.
Crystal River has been rated as one of America’s top ten fishing towns by Field & Stream magazine since 2005.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge includes mangrove swamps that provide habitat for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), and hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata).
Leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea), West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Atlantic spadefish (Chaetodipterus faber)
The Crystal River area and its surrounding coastal waters are known as one of the best places to snorkel or scuba dive in Florida.
The water is very clear, there are virtually no currents, it’s shallow (averaging only 10–20 feet in depth), and the bottom is made up of white calcareous sand.
In Citrus County, Florida, there is a protected area called the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
It was set up to protect the West Indian manatee’s natural habitat, which is in the springs and estuaries of Kings Bay all year long. The West Indian manatee is an endangered species.
The refuge also provides a safe haven for other species, such as loggerhead sea turtles and American crocodiles.
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Conclusion
We have given you several options for beaches with the clearest water. We hope this list will help you find the right beach for your family when planning your next trip. The best way to determine which water is the clearest is to enter it and judge based on what you see.
If it is crystal clear when you enter, but upon exiting the water becomes incredibly cloudy, then there is likely a problem with some debris.
The only other way would be to have someone survey or assess it, as this person would have better visibility for clarity. The best time of year to survey for the clearest water is during a dry season if there is one, like in Florida.
However, this also leaves a handful of months between the dry season and rainy season, perfect for taking a tour around coastal communities and determining which beach has the clearest water.
There are plenty of different things that could compromise the clarity of the water, including distance and the color of your body’s skin. But there are a lot of things to think about when judging how clear the water is near a beach.
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