If one Southern state has cornered the market on beach towns, it’s Florida.
But even in the Sunshine State, not all coastal communities are created equal.
Or head over toAnna Maria Islandand lay out on its pristine beach.
Credit: Crawford A. Wilson III / Getty Images
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is what beach town dreams are made of.
see to it to grab a Margarita Donut or some other crazy confection from The Donut Experiment for breakfast.
Golf carts are the preferred method of transportation, and there are zero traffic lights on the island.
Credit: Walter Bibikow/Getty Images
Beaches here are second to none and offer some of the best shelling you’re free to find.
The town is so idyllic it served as a film set forThe Truman Show.
Think unspoiled beaches, salt water lagoons, and protected wildlife refuges.
Credit: Kara Franker
With miles of biking and hiking trails, there are ample opportunities for eco-friendly adventures.
Dunedin
Some secrets are meant to be shared.
Just 25 miles from the heart of Tampa, this easygoing locale feels worlds away.
Credit: Kara Franker
But don’t expect a sleepy little spot.
You’ll find plenty of tiki bars and casual watering holes in this town.
Eat at the Aruba Beach Cafe and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Caribbean.
Credit: japrz/Getty Images
The public beach frequently gets chosen as first or second best in the nation.
Madeira Beach
Madeira Beach lies on the Gulf west of artsy, vibrantSt.
Today it’s the hot spot on the island for booking a boat tour, eating, and shopping.
Credit: Tommy Crow Photography/Visit South Walton
Credit: Doug Schneider Photography/Getty Images
Credit: Jodi Jacobson/Getty Images
Credit: Kara Franker
Credit: MyLoupe/UIG/Getty Images
Credit: Getty/Matt English
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Credit: Getty Images / Anthony Festa
Credit: John Coletti / Getty Images
Credit: Courtesy of Visit St. Pete Clearwater
