Are you the kind of traveler smitten by the small wonders of each destination? If you are, then you likely enjoy the uniqueness and mystery of each destination’s sunsets. What better place to catch these daily wonders than in “The Sunshine State” itself? Here are The Top 10 Best Sunsets in Florida.
The Best Sunsets in Florida can often be found near ThirdHome properties. Have you witnessed one of these amazing views?
10. Bradenton
Where does the sun set? In the West, of course! Most of Florida’s best sunsets can be found on the state’s western coast and panhandle, facing the Gulf of Mexico. Bradenton Beach is no exception. Located on Anna Maria Island, just south of St. Petersburg, Bradenton Beach is surrounded on all sides by gorgeous blue waters. Bradenton rarely gets too crowded and the beach is very clean. The island’s small size also makes Bradenton very walkable. So take a stroll down Bradenton Beach to watch the sunset in a haze of purple and orange, it’s a sight you won’t forget.
9. Clearwater Beach
Further north along the West Coast, you’ll find another stellar spot for sunset viewing at Clearwater Beach. Make your way to Pier 60’s sunset festivities which include; live music, artisans, street performers and many other family-friendly activities from 6:00 pm-9:00 pm. There’s also a large number of restaurants and bars along the shore with rooftop decks facing West, as well as a number of sunset cruises offered. If finding your zen is important, maybe head to Indian Rocks Beach for a sunset yoga session. The sheer number of sunset based activities in Clearwater makes it an obvious choice for Florida’s best sunsets.
8. Destin
Celebrity chef, Emeril Lagasse once commented, “Destin’s vanilla sky will take your breath away but the view at twilight is just the beginning. With sugar white sand (and) emerald green water, walking through Destin is like strolling down an exotic beach.” And other’s visiting Destin share the sentiment. Since most of Destin’s coast faces South, you’ll experience the sunset at an angle. Regardless the sunset paints an unforgettable image. Head down Destin’s Harbor Boardwalk or to the dunes at Henderson Park for a great vantage point.
7. Fort Walton Beach
Another panhandle beauty, Fort Walton Beach is brimming with fantastic sunset views. Just hop onto Okaloosa Island Pier, for a small fee, to join in a beautiful sunset ritual. Visitors and locals gather at Okaloosa Island Pier to watch dolphins and manatees swim while the sun swells on the horizon. The pier also features deep sea fishing, while the surrounding area features a number of restaurants and watering holes. Share your next sunset with the dolphins and manatees down at Fort Walton Beach!
6. Islamorada
The west coast has some stellar sunsets, but one of Florida’s most remarkable sunsets can be found in the Florida Keys. Head down to Islamorada and catch an evening champagne cruise or a kayak tour to witness this sunset. Islamorada also has a number of beachfront cafes and restaurants with pristine views of the horizon. Just make sure you’re on the Gulf facing side of the island! You’ll miss your sunset on the ocean facing side.
5. Jupiter
You wouldn’t expect Florida’s eastern coast to have a must-see sunset, but you can find one in Jupiter thanks to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. This towering red icon sits on an inlet just off the coast. If you go across the Loxahatchee River to Square Grouper Tiki Bar or U Tiki Beach, you’ll have a western facing view of the lighthouse for the sunset. Or you can take a lighthouse sunset tour (moonrise tours are also offered) for an up-close sunset experience. If you ever find yourself in Jupiter, Florida, be sure to stop by Jupiter Inlet for a colorful evening.
4. Miramar Beach
If you’re in the Destin area and the Harbor Boardwalk isn’t open or is just too crowded, head down to Miramar Beach for an equally romantic view. High-end designer shops and delightful restaurants skirt the beach, giving you plenty to do after watching the sun illuminate the turquoise shore. Again, the southward view offered by Miramar Beach won’t give you a direct sunset, but you’ll see it at a southwestern angle. Despite the angle, it’ll still stop you in your tracks.
3. Naples Pier
Naples, Florida, looks directly west, out into the Gulf of Mexico. Naples Pier is a 1,000-foot-long pier that’s perfect for sunset gazing. Although it was recently damaged by Hurricane Irma, it should be repaired by the summer season. You can check out a time-lapse of Naples Pier’s sunset by clicking here. You’ll see why locals and visitors love a Naples sunset.
2. Pompano Beach
Just north of Fort Lauderdale is the City of Pompano Beach. The city has a beautiful 3-mile stretch of golden beaches. Although this destination puts you on the east coast, the sky still lights up in a remarkable way. So if you happen to be on the east coast and still want a satisfying sunset, make your way towards Pompano Beach.
1. Santa Rosa Beach
This top selection isn’t an immediately obvious choice for sunsets. Santa Rosa Beach is on an interior inlet facing Choctawhatchee Bay past Miramar Beach. But the peninsula it sits on runs West, giving you a prime view of the sun setting on the water. With splendid beachfront and grassy dunes spread out across Santa Rosa Beach, nothing is quite as pleasant as watching the sun’s glow contrast against the blue water, white sand and green grass. And since Santa Rosa Beach is mostly comprised of rental properties, you won’t find many large crowds out here.
Let’s be honest, Florida is full of gorgeous beaches with amazing sunset views. Find your next sunset with a Florida ThirdHome stay: Click here to see all available properties in Florida.