Top 5: Beaches in Northern Florida

While Miami and Key West may be on everyone’s list when thinking about an early-summer vacation to Florida, you can often travel to gorgeous beaches in northern Florida for half the price and all the fun of many of the more southern destinations.

Pelicans on the St. Augustine Beach Pier © Francocogoli | Dreamstime

St. Augustine

A gorgeous beach town rich with history, St. Augustine is often known as the oldest European settlement in the United States. Visit Castillo De San Marcos, built by the Spanish in the early 1600s and a beautiful example of architecture right on the coast. St. Augustine is also home to Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you can explore the original site of the historic city.

Lifeguard Station and Fishing Pier at Pensacola Beach © Colin Young | Dreamstime

Pensacola

White sands and warm Gulf waters may tempt you to lay in the sun all day, but this town has much more to offer on the coast than just the sand. Pensacola has tons of outdoor and water activities to keep you active — visit some dolphins, snorkel, try parasailing or go deep-sea fishing. Pensacola is also proud of its Naval Aviation Museum, which hosts weekly air shows.

Antebellum cannons at Fort Clinch, Amelia Island © Wellesenterprises | Dreamstime

Amelia Island

Right off the northeast coast of Florida, Amelia Island is easy to get to by car, and you can find both luxurious lodging with a Southern-plantation flair and lots to keep you occupied. If you want to take things a little slow, you can always take a leisurely horseback ride down the beach or rent bicycles for the oak-lined streets. However, if you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, you can choose to skydive over the Atlantic Ocean.

Jacksonville Beach © Robwilson39 | Dreamstime

Jacksonville

While Jacksonville’s urban center may be a short drive away from the shore, Jacksonville Beach boasts a lively nightlife, with numerous beachfront restaurants, bars and music venues to keep the party going. Whatever your tastes, you’ll find a spot that’s right for you, whether it be one of the more upscale lounges or a more casual bar and grill.

Panama City Beach © Robhainer | Dreamstime

Panama City

Don’t be fooled by its Spring Break reputation — Panama City isn’t just for college kids. Whatever it is that you want to get out of your beach vacation, Panama City has it. Looking for fun festivals and events? You’ll find everything from jazz festivals to country music concerts. Ecotourism more your thing? Panama City has more than 6,000 acres of parks for hiking, canoeing and biking among the abundant wildlife.