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Florida Has the #1 New Beach Resort in America

Author Anne Erickson
MargaretW/ Getty Images

We’re heading into December, so it’s difficult to think about beaches right now. But, in certain areas of the U.S., it’s always a good time to hit the beach. As someone who lives in the Midwest, I definitely wish we could have our beaches open year-round. But, it obviously gets super cold in the Midwest during the winter months. That said, if you’re looking at a winter getaway, Good Housekeeping has a new list out featuring the best beach resorts in the U.S. What’s extra cool is that Florida has the best new beach resort in America, according to the study.

The report highlights beaches from all over, including getaways in Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, New York and even Portugal. One interesting pick was their “cottages at the lake” choice at The Cove at Sylvan Beach in Sylvan Beach, New York. The Cove at Sylvan Beach boasts 70 two- and three-bedroom cottages with kitchens, outdoor grills, living rooms and washer/dryers. As a Midwestern, that sounds like a totally familiar vacation. Another interesting spot is their pick for a “Cape Cod treasure.” It’s a nearly century-old Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Harwich, Massachusetts.

So, which Florida beach resort is the best new spot in America? Good Housekeeping says the No. 1 new beach resort in America is the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. This resort is located in Clearwater Beach and just opened in May, according to the publication. Moreover, it features a special kids’ play section that’s just for resort guests. In addition, Good Housekeeping adds, “Mini vacationers can go to town with the loaner sand toys (and even games like Jenga) while you comfortably watch from your nearby lounger. One- to three-bedroom “residences” give you separate sleeping quarters from the kids’ as well as a mini fridge, a microwave and a pantry to boot. A swimming pool is on the rooftop (whoa!), and you can drop off 5- to 12-year-olds at Hideaway Hangout for an array of activities including a beach-themed craft and yoga sesh.” Find the full list here.

5 Florida Beaches Named the Best 'Secret Beaches' in America

  • Shell Key Preserve

    Shell Key Preserve, Florida is ranked No. 2 on the list. That’s amazing! What makes it stand out? According to Family Destinations Guide, “The beach is unspoiled and natural, with no development or buildings, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere.”

    Shell Key Preserve

    Shell Key Preserve is a jewel-in-the-rough that few people take the time to experience. A 1,828-acre archipelago at the mouth of Tampa Bay off Florida's Gulf Coast, Shell Key Preserve is frequented primarily by birds and other wildlife. For people to get there, they must take a boat to Shell Key, the biggest piece of dry land in the preserve.

  • Lovers Key State Park

    Lovers Key State Park is ranked No. 6 on the list. According to the official Florida State Parks website, the park “protects some of the most pristine barrier islands in Southwest Florida.” It also features “over two miles of sugar-sand beaches.”

    Lovers Key State Park

    Once a collection of secluded barrier islands reachable only by boat, Lovers Key, in recent years, has become a romantic destination for spectacular, beachside weddings.

  • Dry Tortugas National Park

    Dry Tortugas National Park is ranked No. 9 on the list. According to the park’s official website, “This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands.” It’s also accessible only by boat or seaplane.

    Dry Tortugas National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

    Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.

  • Boneyard Beach

    Boneyard Beach is ranked No. 10 on the list. According to the Florida State Parks website, it “is a favorite Jacksonville retreat and close-kept secret.” It also offers three miles of shoreline along the Nassau Sound.

    Boneyard Beach

    Escape the hustle of the city shore and explore a wilder side of Jacksonville at a one-of-a-kind beach at Big Talbot Island State Park.

  • Navarre Beach

    Navarre Beach is ranked No. 13 on the list. According to the Visit Florida website, “Navarre, a compact beach community found just east of Pensacola at the far northwestern tip of the state, beckons with 12 miles of pristine white shoreline.”

    Navarre Florida - Vacation Guide & Attractions in Navarre FL

    Nestled between Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach County Park, the beach community of Navarre offers solitude and simplicity. Relaxation is the main attraction here.

  • Source

    This study comes from the Family Destination Guide. They surveyed 3,000 families in the United States to find the hidden beaches they most want to visit in summer 2023. Find the full list here.

    100 Best Secret Beaches in the USA for (2024)

    Looking for the top hidden beach destinations in the USA? Click this now to discover the BEST secret beaches in the USA - AND GET FR

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.

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