Must-Visit Islands in Florida

1. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is a must-visit destination for those who love the beach. Its beaches are spectacular, and the mangrove forests are thick. It is home to many animals, including dolphins, alligators, sea turtles, and roseate spoonbills. In addition, Sanibel Island is known as the shelling capital of the world. Visitors can find hundreds of shells washed up on the beach every day.

Temperatures are moderate. Winters are cooler than summers on the mainland, while fall and spring bring steady temperatures in the upper seventies. Despite the cool temperatures, summers can be hot and humid. You can expect a few days with temperatures in the eighties or nineties, but the prevailing breeze and abundant ocean activities help to offset this.

2. Marco Island

Marco Island, Florida, is a vacation paradise with various activities to keep visitors occupied.  Marco Island has something to offer you whether you're on a family vacation or want an intimate dinner for two. The island is renowned for its good restaurants, with nearly 1000 establishments spread out over the island and the nearby Naples. You can find everything from casual waterfront dining to upscale dining. Famous restaurants include Snook Inn on Marco Island and Sale e Pepe at the Beach Ocean Resort.

While on Marco Island, visit the island's lagoon, which has a squishy bottom and stingrays. Another popular spot is Tigertail Beach, which has several different activities, including shelling and beachcombing. There is also a snack bar and basic amenities. In addition, the island is home to the Marco Island Historical Museum, which is situated on Heathwood Drive.

3. Key West

While in Key West, be sure to visit the local museum. The museum houses exhibit on pirates, shipwrecks, and the slave trade. It also has a conservation center where archaeologists actively research artifacts recovered from Key West waters. The museum is open daily and free of charge, and even guided tours are available.

The water is a fun way to experience Key West, and there are tons of activities there. You can take a catamaran ride if you want to see dolphins or humpback whales. You can also go snorkeling or scuba diving. The water is crystal clear, and you can spot many species of birds in the surrounding waters.

4. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is an excellent choice if you want to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. The island has several great kayaking spots, including mangrove tunnels and Tampa Bay. You can also explore the nearby nature preserve. A guided tour can help you navigate the waters if you are a first-time kayaker. These tours provide information about the island and the local area and show you a leisurely route. Kayak rental companies also offer maps of the different routes you can take. Alternatively, you can use apps such as Strava to find your best route.

Cycling is another excellent way to explore Anna Maria Island. The small island is well-suited for cycling and has bike lanes and sidewalks. You can also rent bicycles and ride them around the island.

5. Santa Rosa Island

Santa Rosa Island is the place to go if you're looking for the best Florida beaches. With its beautiful natural environment, the beach is truly spectacular. It is also home to the famous Futuro house and iconic water tower. To get a better sense of the nature and history of the island, make sure to walk the Footprints in the Sand Eco Trail, which provides a glimpse of the area's natural environment.

The pristine beach on Santa Rosa Island is almost fifty miles long - and that's not counting the seashore of the Santa Rosa Sound! Walking along this beach is a breathtaking experience. You can find numbered parking lots on the island, so you can easily find your spot.