Top 10 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast USA

Sun, sand and sea: the beach. There is nothing like a beach to provide endless diversion for families with children. With sand ranging from a powdery-white, to a golden sugar-brown, to an exotic volcanic black, beaches come in all sorts of colors and consistencies. There are those with crashing waves, to the ones that lay like tranquil lagoons beckoning onlookers to dip their toes in their shimmering depths. Listed alphabetically, the following beaches are among the very best that the USA’s Gulf Coast has to offer.

A beach is one of those simple pleasures in life that can provide hours of diversion

Caladesi Island, Florida

Located north of Clearwater Beach in Florida, Caladesi Island State Park is accessed by boat and ferry and has a lovely beach, marina, and activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling and more that make the most of its natural beauty.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

This beautiful beach offers year-round events, attractions, a marine aquarium and plenty of history dating back to the American Civil War. Its unspoiled waters, white beaches and passionate sunsets set the tone for a relaxing holiday for everyone in the family to unwind and discover the beauty around them.

Destin, Florida

The emerald green waters of this pristine beach located along the Emerald Coast are simply breathtaking. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway to enjoy the powdery-white sand and stunning gulf waters, look no further than Destin, Florida.  It’s no wonder there are many notable residents with a home here including John Grisham, Sheryl Crow, and Britney Spears.

Most of these beaches have sugary-white sand and crystal waters like this beach photo of St. George Island State Park in Florida

Fort De Soto Park – North Beach, St. Petersburg, Florida

Fort De Soto Park is composed of five keys off the shores southwest of St. Petersburg, Florida. North Beach in Fort De Soto Park is a lovely family retreat great for picnics, swimming, nature trails, canoe trails, and more. Its history goes back to include the Tocobaga Indians and Spanish conquistadors.

Galveston Island, Texas

This Texas barrier island near Galveston is lots of fun with its beachfront boardwalk, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, shops, cafes, and year-round family-friendly events. There are 32 miles of gorgeous beaches waiting to be explored and lots of activities for all ages.

Gulf Shores, Alabama and Orange Beach, Alabama

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama lie adjacent to each other and are perfect for family vacations with lots of restaurants, shopping and recreational activities. Their renowned white sugary sands and jewel-toned waters are sure to rejuvenate the senses.

There’s nothing like a setting sun over the beach’s smoldering horizon (South Padre Island, photo by Brendajane Herbert)

Panama City Beach, Florida

The gorgeous white sands of Panama City Beach are reminiscent of the tropical island in the film The Blue Lagoon (1980). It used to be a popular spring break destination but has evolved into a wonderful family-friendly beach with plenty of activities for everyone in your clan.

Siesta Key, Florida

This eight-mile long barrier island is lush, tropical and so enticing from its mangrove forests, to its soft white sandy shores composed of 99% quartz, to its shallow coastal waters that make it safe and enjoyable for families with small children. It’s an idyllic spot for swimming, strolling, fishing, dining, sports, or simply relaxing under the sun or shade.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is another one of Texas’s barrier islands with beautiful coastlines and activities galore. It stretches 34 miles long by ½ mile at its widest area. It is also a popular spring break destination, drawing students by the droves who are looking for some fun in the sun.

St. George Island State Park, Florida

Located off the Florida Panhandle, the 28 mile long island of St. George Island is loved for its quiet serenity.  St. George Island State Park is composed of nine miles on the island’s eastern side and boasts swimming, hiking, fishing, a variety of boardwalks, restaurants with excellent seafood and more.

About the Author: Jocelyn Murray is a travel writer and historical fiction novelist. She holds two university master's degrees in both English and Education, along with a bachelor's degree in Economics and European Studies. She also has a teaching credential and taught at the elementary school level.