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20 Places with the Clearest Water in Florida You Must Visit

20 Places with the Clearest Water in Florida You Must Visit

Looking for the places with the clearest water in Florida? You have come to the right place.

Florida is known for clear water – it is probably the state with the clearest water in the USA so if clear water is what you are after, your wish is our command.

Whether you are looking for clear water beaches, or amazing crystal clear springs in Florida, we have you covered.Here are 20 places with the clearest, bluest water in Florida: 

20 Places with the Clearest Water in Florida

1. Florida Keys

With over 180 miles of beautiful beaches, the Florida Keys are an escape to paradise right here in the U.S. Since it is the most southern part of Florida, the water is truly turquoise. The Florida Keys are also known for having fantastic marine life.

Head down to the Keys to swim with the dolphins! The Dolphin Research Center has a truly unique program where you can not only experience the water but while riding a dolphin!

If you prefer to take a stroll along the beach and admire the crystal-clear water, head to Marathon Key between October and April to see sea turtles out in the wild. This is one of the few places in the U.S. where you might see some sea turtles’ nest and hatch their eggs. The Florida Keys is thriving with once-in-a-lifetime views that you won’t want to miss!

florida-keys-map

2. Jupiter

Jupiter is one of the best beaches to go to with the family! The water is bright blue and has many inlets of shallow, calm water.

Jupiter Beach Park is the perfect place to bring a raft and let the kids float along in the still, clear water. Jupiter is not only great for the kids, but for the whole fur family! Jupiter has many dog-friendly beaches. Bring some beach toys for the whole family!

If you are looking for a more exhilarating aquatic experience, check out Florida Shark Diving in Jupiter! Experience the clear water in a once-in-a-lifetime way. Jump in with experienced divers for a cageless experience.

The sharks glide through the ocean and truly create a spectacle in what may begin to feel like a dream! You will have pictures of the truly amazing ocean water for the rest of your life!

clearest-water-in-florida

3. Destin

The crystal clear beaches in Destin are not to be missed! Destin, which is in the Florida Panhandle, has a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico and is known for having a lively social scene.

Perhaps the best place to hang out with your own friends or to make some new ones is Crab Island. When visiting Crab Island, you can bring your own boat or rent a pontoon. Once you arrive, grab a drink and float (or stand) in the clear, blue water.

Crab Island hosts a variety of food options that are, you guessed it, floating in the water! Grab a snack from a food boat and enjoy it as you bask in the calm of the shallow water. Destin is a great place to spend time soaking up the sun with the people you love or make some brand new friends while enjoying the beautiful weather.

One of the best clear water beaches in Florida.

destin-fl

4. Dry Tortugas

Perhaps one of the most magical spots in the U.S. for clear water, Dry Tortugas is a beach lover’s dream. Dry Tortugas is one of the Florida Keys, but is cut off from the rest of the island chain.

There are a few options when traveling to Dry Tortugas. You can catch a seaplane or travel by boat. The most popular mode of transportation to Dry Tortugas is the ferry, which is a little over two hours from Key West.

While there might be some traveling involved in getting to Dry Tortugas, the beaches will be well worth the wait! The island is made up of four different beaches, each on a different side of the island.

One of the most popular activities is snorkeling. Dry Tortugas is known for being one of the best snorkeling locations in the U.S.

Once you arrive at the island, be sure to grab your complimentary snorkel gear and head out to see the stunning coral reefs. The crystal clear water allows for a nearly perfect view of exotic fish and marine plants. Dry Tortugas is an incredible place to explore with family, friends, or even by yourself!

Dry Tortugas National Park -snorkeling

5. Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is an iconic beach town with stunning water, loaded with waterfront hotels, restaurants, and shopping.

One of the most popular locations on the beach is Pier Park. This expansive mall is not only great for shopping, but is also home to one of the largest observation wheels in the U.S. A visit to Panama City Beach is not complete without riding SkyWheel which boasts phenomenal views of the crystal clear waters of PCB.

Imagine yourself relaxing 170 feet in the air with cocktail and funnel cake in hand, soaking in the beautiful ocean views. SkyWhell is an incredibly unique way to enjoy a sunny beach day.

If heights aren’t your thing, grab a towel or chair and enjoy the miles of white sandy beaches. Panama City Beach hosts many vendors for water sports such as kayaking and jetskiing. 

Panama City Beach

6. Rainbow Springs State Park

If you’re looking to be surrounded by nature, Rainbow Springs State Park is the perfect place to visit! The water there is stunning!

Unlike the majority of the other locations listed, Rainbow Springs State Park is filled with large trees and lush greenery. One of the most popular activities is tubing along the river. There is truly nothing quite like putting your feet up and getting lost in your own thoughts while floating down a calm, blue river.

After a long morning of swimming, snorkeling, and tubing at the park, nothing hits the spot like a picnic. Rainbow Springs State Park has outdoor grills that you can reserve for the perfect end to the day. Catch a view of the water while enjoying your favorite grilled food.

If you want to experience the summer camp lifestyle with family and friends, pack some towels and a cooler and head on over to Rainbow Springs State Park.

rainbow-springs-florida-nature-swimming

7. Kelly Park Rock Springs

Similar to Rainbow Springs State Park, Rock Springs is a greenery lover’s oasis – with nothing less than crystal clear water. Filled with vibrant plants and animals, Rock Springs is a little known destination for adventure.

One of the best ways to explore the animals and nature is through a kayak tour. Paddle on down Rock Springs Run by yourself or in a tour group and get a great glance at the animals walking, swimming, or flying by!

Spot a deer (or maybe even an alligator) as you glide through the water. Some companies even rent clear bottomed kayaks to get an extra special view of the wildlife deep below. 

If you’re up for an extensive exploration, try camping at Rock Springs. Spend the day biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the water. Once you’re finished, head over to one of their campsites and catch a glimpse at the glistening water reflecting the night sky. Springs Run is a one of a kind place to connect with nature. 

kelly-park-rock-springs

8. Siesta Key

While the name might imply that Siesta Key is a part of the Florida Keys, it is actually about an hour south of Tampa on the west coast of Florida.

Siesta Key has been rated the best beach in America multiple times in multiple sources. With such an impressive title to live up to, Siesta Key truly shines with sparkling sapphire water. One event that shouldn’t be missed is the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival.Every year, sand artists from around the world come to compete in building the most elaborate sand sculptures.

The sand at Siesta Key is perfect for sand sculpting, pure and white. Next time you are at Siesta Key looking to enjoy a beach day there, look no further than this annual festival to add food and entertainment to a one of a kind day!

Siesta Key’s perfectly white sand makes it an excellent place to bring your family and friends for a relaxing beach day. Grab a chair and a towel, put your toes in the sand and soak in the sunshine at one of the world’s best beaches.

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach/ Flickr

9. Devil’s Den

This spooky named attraction has some claim to its name as it is an underground cave filled with brilliant clear turquoise water.

Devil’s Den, which is about thirty minutes south of Gainesville, is a place to live out your underwater fantasy. Climb down and witness millions of years of nature in the making. Underwater explorers have the option of an aquatic adventure either through snorkel or SCUBA.

Since the cave is mostly covered, this is a great location for travelers coming in colder months. Unlike most of the locations listed, Devil’s Den may not be for the whole family as it has risks and requires advanced swimming skills.

As you view down below, you will see some small cave life as well as fossils dating back millions of years. Whether you are a natural risk-taker or somebody looking to experience a rare opportunity, Devil’s Den is a thrilling way to explore the bright blue waters of Florida.

Devils Den

Adrian Diiaz Cadavid/ Shutterstock

10. Miami Beach

If you are looking to bring city life to the beach, Miami Beach is the right place for you! Miami Beach is a unique destination with some of the clearest water in Florida.

To one side is the sparkling blue ocean and white sandy beaches filled with both partygoers and families. To the other side is the city, packed with luxury stores, boutique hotels, spas, restaurants, art, and so much more.

Head to the beaches early, as they get crowded very quickly. When you’re ready to explore, check out the Wynwood Walls. This art exhibit speaks to the life and energy sprawling through Miami. With bright, vibrant works of art, this is a great photo opportunity.

After a long day at the beach, be sure to dine at one of the many rooftop restaurants and bars in Miami Beach. Catch a sky-high view of the gorgeous beaches and the mesmerizing ocean waves. Serena Rooftop and Voodoo Lounge are two of the many hot spots you don’t want to miss! 

south-beach-miami

11. Palm Beach

Palm Beach is a pristine, glamorous beach filled with luxurious hotels, museums, and dining and some of the clearest water in Florida. The main attraction on Palm Beach is Municipal Beach. Slightly separated from mainland Florida, the beach has gorgeous views of the water on all sides. The sandy beaches are the perfect place to spend your day relaxing or heading out into the ocean with family or friends. 

If you prefer golfing instead of sunbathing, check out the world-famous Palm Beach Country Club. While a round of golf here may be expensive, it is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Be sure to make a reservation, put on your nicest golf clothes, and enjoy the grandeur of the Palm Beach Country Club. Here you can soak in the beautiful Florida weather while teeing off right next to the ocean.

If you want to turn your visit into a vacation, spend the night at The Breakers. With access to an exclusive private beach, watersport equipment, along with five-star amenities, a stay here will round out the perfect beach vacation.

clearest-water-in-florida

12. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a small coastal town about an hour south of Tampa with some of the clearest water in florida. With so much coastline, it’s no surprise that Anna Maria Island is known for its fisherman and quality of seafood. Some of the beaches in florida with clear water are located in Anna Maria Island.

To experience Anna Maria Island like a local, rent a fishing pole and head over to the pier. With bait by your side and a pole in hand, spend your morning soaking in the brilliant ocean view and waiting patiently for a tug on your rod.

If you are looking to get out on the water, book a reservation on one of the many fishing charter boats leaving off Anna Maria Island. Bring the whole family! Catch a trout, flounder, and maybe even see some sharks! Whether you leave the boat with a bucket full of fish or empty-handed, know you will be leaving having had a wonderful day out on the ocean enjoying the waves and the view.

where to stay in anna maria island

13. Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a magical aquatic destination about an hour northwest of Gainesville. While most outdoor activities are family-friendly, Ginnie Springs boasts a reputation of being a partygoer’s paradise due to the allowance of alcoholic beverages on-premise.

Ginnie Springs is made up of sparkling springs filled with crystal clear water. This is an excellent location for certified SCUBA divers due to the high visibility in the water. If you are not SCUBA certified, snorkel equipment is also available to rent!

Want to take advantage of the party atmosphere? Grab a tube and a cold beer and head down the Santa Fe River. While not attached to directly Ginnie Springs, the Santa Fe River is one of the main attractions at the Ginnie Springs complex. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the calm current of the Sante Fe River and you mosey on down with your friends.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs/ Flickr

14. Tampa

Tampa is one of the most well-known cities in Florida, boasting some of the clearest water in the State.

Perhaps known for its airport, amusement parks, and sports teams, Tampa is not as well known for its beaches and beautiful ocean. When in Tampa, make sure to visit Ben T Davis Beach. Filled with families and friends playing in the ocean, Ben T Davis is a classic beach that shouldn’t be missed. After a long day at the beach, head over to Whiskey Joe’s.

 Come for the fun drinks and tasty bites but stay for the sunset views looking over the beach.

If you are looking to spend more time out on the ocean, sign up for a boat tour! One of the most fun boat tours getting a Tiki Boat. Pile in with a group of your closest friends, hang a lei around your neck and pop open a cold one. You can choose to stay in the boat to enjoy the views or hop in the ocean to experience the calm Florida water for yourself!

Tampa-beach

15. Sarasota

Sarasota, which is about an hour south of Tampa, is a gorgeous oceanside town gleaming with white sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean.

Sarasota is made up of many beaches, with one of the most popular being Venice Beach. Not to be confused with the popular California location, the Florida location is known for many things such as a cute beachside town, clear water, and shark teeth!

Yes, Florida’s Venice Beach is known for being a great place to go searching for washed-up shark teeth along the coastline and deep in the sand. Grab a bucket and a friend and enjoy the views while sifting for this unique prize.

Sarasota is the perfect place to bring the whole family and enjoy a beach day. If your family has some furry friends, head on over to Brohard Paw Park. You can bring lunch for everybody and sit down at a picnic table while your furry companion runs along and explore the ocean water. There aren’t many better sights than a dog running along the water, jumping in the shallow ocean waves!

sarasota-beaches-Lido-Key-Beach

16. Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach is a destination that feels as if it is out of a movie. A picturesque beach scattered with people laughing and smiling.

Children building sandcastles and families jumping through the waves. There are plenty of activities to choose from at Navarre Beach. Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a more common activity that is also an excellent workout! If you’re looking for something even less traditional, opt-in for SUP yoga! That’s right – grab a paddleboard and glide right into a tranquil yoga class out on the glistening ocean.

If you want to enjoy the water but stay dry, head on a bike tour of Navarre Beach. Get a great view of the coastline while biking along the dunes.

Bring your own bike or rent one from the many vendors lining the beach. Whether you want to be active on your beach day or would rather lay out and soak in the sun, Navarre Beach is an excellent destination for all.

17. Crystal River

Crystal River is a small town on the west coast of Florida centrally located between Gainesville, Orlando, and Tampa. The pride and joy of Crystal River is the manatee.

Even featured in its emblem, Crystal River boasts one of the best locations to view manatees swimming in crystal clear water. Three Sisters Springs hosts a wildlife refuge and is best visited in the winter to get excellent views of one of the most threatened animals in the United States.

To get a close-up look at these magnificent animals, rent a kayak and peruse while looking down. You can also choose to rent snorkel gear to get a vivid look while floating in the turquoise water.

There are many rules and regulations when visiting Crystal River’s manatees, so make sure to read up before arriving. Crystal River is a destination that should not be missed when exploring all that Florida has to offer.

Three Sisters Springs

Three Sisters Springs/ Wikipedia

18. Gilchrist Blue Springs

Gilchrist Blue Springs is a state park located under 30 miles northwest of Gainesville. Gilchrist Blue Springs is a recent addition to the Florida state parks and is made up of multiple bright blue natural springs.

With so many different springs to explore, Gilchrist Blue Springs makes an excellent overnight camping stay. At Gilchrist Blue Springs, you can bring an RV or tent and rent a space for a small campsite fee. If you choose to camp, you could spend the entire day exploring the brilliant natural pools of water.

You can swim or rent snorkel gear. If you hold a SCUBA certification, you can also choose to go diving. Concession stands for a snack or equipment rental making it easy for families to make a day out of the location. End your evening by heading over to the grills and relaxing at a picnic table while soaking in the beautiful view of the natural springs.

Gilchrist Blue Springs

Gilchrist Blue Springs/ Facebook

19. Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island is on the west coast of Florida, a few miles north of Sarasota. This quaint town is a nature photographer’s dream. Beer Can Island is a truly scenic destination.

Decorated with thousands of shells, graceful birds, and artistic placed pieces of driftwood, Beer Can Island appears to be a scene out of a painting. Whether you are a professional photographer or a smartphone user with a love of natural beauty, bring an umbrella and a chair and snap some pictures of nature in all of its glory.

Beer Can Island also boasts gorgeous blue waves as far as the eye can see. Perhaps Beer Can Island would be a great place to come and sketch or even bring the whole family for some great photos you will treasure forever.

beer-can-island

20. Boca Grande

Boca Grande is a small beachside town on the west coast of Florida, slightly north of Fort Myers, home to some of the clearest water in Florida. 

Boca Grande is known for having restaurants with excellent seafood. Some local favorites are The Pink Elephant and Miller’s Dockside both of which have stunning views of the water.

Order some freshly caught snapper or grouper while you listen to the sound of the waves crashing. If you’re interested in embarking on seeing the most stunning views that Boca Grande has to offer, head over to the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse.

Make sure to check in advance for the climbing hours, but if you head over at the right time you may catch a beautiful sunset setting on the horizon. What a truly magical way to end your day by getting a perfect view of the water from high up on a lighthouse.

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