Best Beach Towns on the Florida Atlantic Coast

The Florida Atlantic Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beach towns in the United States. People have come for decades to relax in the sand and surf, with some deciding to move permanently. The beach towns along Highway A1A developed with different attractions and amenities, with some becoming world-famous destinations while others are relaxing retreats.

This article gives an overview of Florida’s best Atlantic Coast beach towns. Our list doesn’t include Key West or the other Florida Keys. So, if you’re looking for an idyllic coastal vacation home or a new place to call home, read on! We’ll start south and move geographically up the coast to the Georgia border. Which one is the best beach on the East Coast of Florida? We’ll let you decide.

Miami Beach

Miami Beach is a paradise for those seeking an active, urban beach town minutes from South Beach. Set on a barrier island across from Miami proper, Miami Beach is Florida’s world-famous beach town. People know it for its distinct architecture, fashion, and art scene. Residents come from all over the world, adding to the eclectic nature of Miami Beach.

While the seashore is famous, and there are a lot of tourists along Ocean Drive, around 81,000 people call Miami Beach home. It’s oceanfront living or Bayfront with an incredible view. The City of Miami Beach is a self-contained small town incredibly friendly to pedestrians and bicycles. Within walking distance of the city are grocery stores, pharmacies, fitness centers, retailers, and dining. For families, there are excellent schools on the islands, plus parks and green spaces.

Art Deco buildings from the 1920s and 1930s abound if you have a passion for architecture. The Miami Design Preservation League ensures these historical structures stick around for future generations. You’ll also find many other styles, like Mediterranean, Florida Keys, and modern.

Miami Beach Amenities

Miami Beach does have a vibrant nightlife scene and world-class resorts. Many bars and music clubs are concentrated along Ocean Avenue near the resort strip. For residents, the nightlife is there when they want it, but many communities have a quiet, suburban feel.

Miami Beach is a distinct and urban Florida beach town with its vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping, and dining opportunities! The average cost of living in Miami Beach is about 13% higher than the Florida state average, but those who want to establish themselves on the East Coast of the Sunshine State and seek a blend of city living and beachfront say it’s worth it.

Miami Beach has many condominium options, but you can also find single-family homes in various neighborhoods. Miami Beach includes communities like South Beach, MidBeach, North Beach, SoFi, and Surfside. The median list price was $565,000 in December 2022, with 1,896 homes on the market.

Bal Harbour

Bal Harbor is the place to be if you’re looking for a mix of luxury and serenity. Just north of Miami Beach, Bal Harbour is an exclusive beach community of 3,000 residents in South Florida that blends upscale comfort with natural beauty. Even though Bal Harbour is only a mile long, it still has some of the best restaurants, shops, and hotels in Florida.

It boasts one of Florida’s finest beaches, chic hotels, gated communities, and designer shopping venues. The whole area is very walkable, thanks to its abundance of green spaces and well-kept residential areas.

Bal Harbour blends the private and luxurious with quick access to Downtown Miami and South Beach. Access the mainland through Kane Concourse or continue to the beaches along A1A.

Homes here are exclusive, with prices to match. In a statement to its exclusivity, the cost of living here is 97% more expensive than the Florida average, with housing being 298% above the national median. You’ll find single-family homes in gated communities and luxury high-rise condos with stunning views available at various price points but with a December 2022 median of $2.3 million.

Sunny Isles Beach

Sunny Isles Beach is on a barrier island in the northeast corner of Miami-Dade County and it’s considered one of the finest places to set residence on the East Coast. Across the Intracoastal are Aventura and North Miami. Its glittering oceanfront skyline, full of luxury high-rise condominiums and hotels, plus residential pockets of well-appointed single-family homes, have earned it the nickname “The City of Sun and Sea.”

This Florida beach town has a more casual vibe than the beach towns south on the A1A, but it’s not short on modern amenities. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or just enjoying the views from a waterfront restaurant, Sunny Isles Beach has something special that lured 22,000 people to call it home.

Sunny Isles Beach Attractions

Locals have plenty of public spaces with over 10 parks. Pier Park has a restaurant and the Newport Fishing Pier, a popular beach access and fishing location. Samson Oceanfront Park is incredibly popular with its playground and picnic areas.

On Collins Avenue, you can find foods from all corners of the globe, as well as countless local cafes, bars, and restaurants. Sunny Isles connects to Miami Beach and Hollywood Beach through the Federal Highway.

It offers a cost of living 27% above the Florida state average. Sunny Isles Beach had over 900 homes for sale with a median list price of $1.1M in December 2022.

Palm Beach

Palm Beach is a luxurious getaway for those looking for a more laid-back beach experience on the East Coast. Located on Florida’s Gold Coast on a barrier island, Palm Beach offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from its sandy shores and A1A. Sometimes Palm Beach is lumped in with West Palm Beach, the city on the mainland. They both are part of Palm Beach County.

Since its creation, Palm Beach has been a wealthy tourist playground. You may have heard of Mar-a-Lago Club, home of former President Donald Trump, just one of the area’s affluent residents. The Breakers in Palm Beach is another world-class resort for industry magnets.

Popular Attractions in Palm Beach

This suburb community is a palm tree-lined paradise, home to over 9,000 Floridians who enjoy access to white sandy beaches, tropical weather, designer shops, and well-manicured country clubs. Popular attractions include Worth Avenue – Palm Beach’s shopping mecca – and the Flagler Museum, a Florida landmark.

Social clubs are par for the course here. Take your pick: the Bath and Tennis Club, the Everglades Club, the Sailfish Club, the Palm Beach Country Club, and the Beach Club. Naturally, these clubs offer recreation options like tennis, golf, and sailing.

Living in Palm Beach and West Palm Beach can be pricey, but it’s worth the splurge for those who desire a country club lifestyle. Expect to see well-manicured lawns and custom homes. The December median list price was $2.5 million, with 265 homes for sale; the top listing was $218 million.

Hutchinson Island

Escape Florida’s hustle and bustle on the Treasure Coast’s Hutchinson Island! Stretching 23 miles, locals and visitors access some of Florida’s most pristine beaches. Hutchinson Island is technically two barrier islands (North and South) across from Fort Pierce and St. Lucie.

The island has several nature preserves and state parks where dolphins, manatees, and pelicans can be spotted. The state park is a nesting site for endangered sea turtles, and development on the island is more sparse.

Peaceful Relaxation in Hutchinson Island

The 5,000 residents on Hutchinson Island picked it because it’s one of the quietest areas on the East Coast. Relax in peace, with no noisy upscale resorts or nightclubs – just peaceful beaches and stunning waterfront views. There are no big-box stores, only charming local venues, waterfront restaurants, and marinas. A few museums pay homage to the area’s history and wildlife.

You’ll find plenty of single-family homes and condominium options for purchase or rent. Prices range from moderate to more expensive depending on location and amenities. The good news is the cost of living is just 8% more expensive than the Florida average. The median list price in December 2022 was $574,900, with 230 homes for sale.

Vero Beach

Head north from Hutchinson Island, and you’ll find Vero Beach. This Florida beach town is known for its laid back vibe and Florida charm. With 17,000 residents, some people call it Florida’s version of The Hamptons. This is where people come who don’t want to be spotted in Palm Beach or Miami Beach but still want upscale amenities.

Vero Beach’s city limits include the mainland and barrier island. The Indian River divides the city into two sections. The mainland connects to the barrier island with two fixed bridges.

Numerous public access points are available along white sand beaches and the island marinas. Several parks and trails add to what’s available for outdoor recreation. The historic Jungle Trail is popular among joggers, cyclists, and birdwatchers and allows public access to the northern portion of Vero’s barrier island. The refuge has an 18-foot observation tower that visitors can climb for a better view.

Vero Beach Resident’s Daily Life

Residents play golf seaside at Riomar Country Club. Visit the Vero Beach Art Museum or Riverside Theater. Island residents also have an elementary school, health care center, art galleries, boutique shops, and local markets.

To the north is the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, an essential and historic rookery for 130 species of birds. The white pelicans and endangered wood storks that call it home are two examples of the different kinds of birds inhabiting the refuge. Loggerhead and green sea turtles also nest there.

Vero Beach is perfect for you if you’re desiring a more laid-back vibe where people of all ages are generally enjoying life at a slower pace. The zoning restrictions prevent buildings more than four stories tall, so it will never feel overdeveloped. The overall cost of living was 8% less than the Florida average, but that includes the mainland. A median list price of $384,400 in December 2022 makes it one of the more affordable beach towns.

Cocoa Beach

If you’re looking for an adventure-filled Florida beach escape, head to Cocoa Beach! This barrier island 60 miles east of Orlando is known for its surfing culture. The stunning East Coast beaches stretch over 13 miles.

One of the great things about Cocoa Beach is that you’re never far from the water. The shoreline here is smoother than at other beaches. There are over 50 different public access points all over the city, so no matter where you choose to live, you’ll be able to quickly get to the beach.

Surfing is king here. Cocoa Beach offers beginner and experienced surfers alike waves that are easy to ride and warm temperatures year-round.

People hang out at Cocoa Beach Pier for great food and fun events year-round. The pier is a popular spot for fishing, with plenty of opportunities to catch snook, bluefish, flounder, pompano, redfish, and more.

Cocoa Beach Life Perks 

Many parks are nearby, such as Lori Wilson Park, which features trails for walking and biking amongst native Florida vegetation. Cocoa Beach Country Club faces the Banana River and the Aquatic Preserve for a stunning vista during play.

Another big perk is Cocoa Beach’s proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. The town is on the same island as Cape Canaveral. Watch rocket launches from anywhere in the city with one of the best seats in the house.

Cocoa Beach has many developed communities and neighborhoods. Prices vary depending on proximity to the waterfront and amenities – but you’ll find something that fits your budget, as the 161 homes had a median list price of $530,000 in December 2022. The cost of living is also decent, at just 5% above the Florida state average.

Daytona Beach

Home to the famous NASCAR races at its world-famous Daytona International Speedway, this city arguably has more activities than anywhere else on the East Coast of Florida. From sailing, surfing, kayaking, and parasailing to art shows, Bike Week, street festivals, and outdoor concerts – Daytona will keep you busy!

The City of Daytona Beach includes mainland and barrier island living. Four bridges connect to the historic beachside neighborhoods.

The 23 miles of sandy coastline give visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf – from beachfront parties to quiet walks along the shoreline. On the Daytona Beach Main Street Pier, climb the 203-foot observation tower to see the Atlantic Ocean. Or, get up close and personal with the beach. The hard-packed sand makes this beach one of the few you can drive on!

Daytona Beach Attractions

The island has countless attractions, from the Daytona Beach Bandshell, where free outdoor concerts are hosted, to the Daytona Lagoon Adventure Prk. Along the A1A are beach resorts, dining, and boutique shopping.

Daytona Beach’s island housing options contain condos with ocean views and historic single-family homes. Neighborhoods include South Peninsula, Surfside, Seabreeze, Bayshore Bath and Tennis Club, Ortona, and Triangle Park.

Amelia Island

When it comes to Florida Atlantic beach towns, Amelia Island stands out for its history. It’s on the northern part of the East Coast near the Georgia border and changed hands countless times during the colonial era.

The island features 13 miles of breathtaking beaches with Turquoise waters, plus vast stretches of mangrove and marshlands on the Amelia Riverside. Fernandina Beach is the most well-known town on the island, but residents live in American Beach and Franklintown.

Historical sites like Fort Clinch State Park preserve the island’s colorful history. Amelia Island State Park is the only state park in Florida where you can ride horses on the beach.

A Vibrant Resort Destination

As a resort destination, it also features nine different golf courses, like the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island and the Amelia Island Club at Long Point. These courses over Atlantic, river, or sand dunes views in a stunning setting.

One unique thing about this island is that there are no high-rise buildings or condos—just low-rise single-family homes in a beautiful natural setting. This makes Amelia Island the perfect place for those who want an escape from overcrowded Florida beach towns while still being close enough to enjoy all their benefits.

Fernandina Beach is the central city on the island. The Victorian seaport village was a bustling town in the 1880s, and the historic district has been lovingly preserved for a postcard-perfect vibe. The historic buildings have an eclectic assortment of boutique shops and restaurants, and rows of shops sell antiques and collectibles.

The median list price on Amelia Island in December 2022 was $629,000. Homes are available at different price points, so you can easily find something that fits your budget.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the ‘Venice of America,’ is a unique gem on the Florida Atlantic coast. Its intricate system of waterways, a distinctive feature, adds a touch of charm to this premier destination. With its miles of stunning beaches, blue waters, and vibrant community life, Fort Lauderdale is a haven for both residents and visitors.

The city’s beaches, including the renowned Fort Lauderdale Beach, are celebrated for their warm, shallow waters and powdery sand. These make them ideal for a variety of activities, from lounging in beach chairs to exhilarating water sports. The laid-back yet lively atmosphere makes it one of the best beaches on the east coast of Florida, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Fort Lauderdale’s community is diverse and welcoming, offering a blend of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts a variety of festivals (like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show or the Tortuga Music Festival), art exhibitions, and dining options that cater to different tastes, creating a vibrant social scene.

Families, retirees, and young professionals find the town equally appealing due to its well-praised schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Nature trails and green spaces are abundant, providing residents ample opportunities to explore the outdoors. The city manages 90 parks and over 900 acres of green space The city’s infrastructure supports a high quality of life, with well-maintained public services and a focus on community well-being.

Living in Fort Lauderdale

Living in Fort Lauderdale means having unparalleled access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast of Florida. Fort Lauderdale Beach, the city’s crown jewel, offers soft sand and warm, blue waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like jet skiing. For the adventurous, the area is a hotspot for water activities like scuba diving, with its clear waters and vibrant marine life.

The beachfront promenade is lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants, offering a scenic and leisurely way to enjoy the coast. Beachgoers can easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas, making for a comfortable and enjoyable day by the sea.

Fort Lauderdale’s real estate market is as diverse as its community, offering a wealth of options to suit a wide range of preferences and budgets. From luxurious waterfront estates and high-rise condos with panoramic water views to charming single-family homes and modern apartments, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic market.

The average price for properties in Fort Lauderdale varies greatly depending on the type and location, but buyers can expect a median price of $573,000 in the area. Properties range from upscale condos to multi-million dollar estates along canals and the beachfront. This dynamic real estate market makes Fort Lauderdale an attractive option for primary residences and investment dwellings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Beach Towns on the Florida Atlantic Coast

How do East Coast beach towns compare to those on the Gulf Coast?

Beach towns on the Florida Atlantic Coast generally feature more waves and stronger ocean currents compared to the calmer waters of the Gulf Coast. This makes them ideal for those seeking vibrant social scenes and an active lifestyle, with the Atlantic Ocean providing a dynamic environment for water sports and bustling beach town activities.

Conversely, Gulf Coast beach towns like Panama City and Clearwater Beach offer a more relaxed and serene atmosphere. The Gulf’s gentler waters are perfect for families with young children and those who enjoy peaceful activities such as shell collecting and kayaking. The Gulf Coast is known for its slightly warmer year-round water temperatures and stunning, picturesque sunsets.

Choosing between the two coasts ultimately depends on personal preferences for beach conditions, recreational opportunities, and the desired ambiance.

What are some less crowded beaches in Florida that offer a quieter experience?

For a more tranquil beach outing in Florida, consider visiting Canaveral National Seashore, Ormond Beach, Fort De Soto Park, Santa Rosa Beach, and Sanibel Island. These locations offer serene environments, beautiful natural settings, and fewer tourists than more popular spots, making them perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Where is the cheapest oceanfront property in Florida?

If you’re dreaming of oceanfront living without breaking the bank, Florida offers several coastal towns with affordable property options. These destinations combine the charm of seaside life with budget-friendly real estate, making beachside living more accessible. Here are the five top places where you can find some of the cheapest oceanfront properties in Florida:

• Panama City – Median Sale Price: $359,900.
• Pensacola – Median Sale Price: $320,000.
• Fort Myers – Median Sale Price: $399,000.
• Tarpon Springs – Median Sale Price: $368,000.
• Vero Beach – Median Sale Price: $384,400.

What are some small beach towns to live in on the East Coast of Florida?

• New Smyrna Beach offers a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful sandy shores, gorgeous beaches, and a strong community spirit. This charming town is ideal for those who enjoy surfing, fishing, and an active local arts scene. The historic downtown area provides quaint shops, eateries, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it great for families and retirees.

• Delray Beach offers a unique lifestyle with its vibrant downtown and nice beaches. The lively mix of art galleries, boutiques, dining options on Atlantic Avenue, award-winning beaches, and a calendar full of festivals and events make Delray Beach a dynamic yet relaxing place to call home.

• Ormond Beach is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more residential coastal experience. It is located just north of Daytona Beach and offers serene beach settings, parks aplenty, and a charming historic downtown area. Ormond Beach blends outdoor activities and a tranquil environment, making it an appealing spot for retirees and families.

• Jacksonville Beach combines small-town charm with big-city amenities, offering beautiful sandy beaches, water activities, and a lively boardwalk area. Jacksonville Beach is part of the Jacksonville metropolitan area, providing residents easy access to urban conveniences while enjoying a coastal lifestyle. It’s known for its active community, great local dining, and recreational opportunities.

Find Your Florida Atlantic Beach Town

Florida’s Atlantic beaches remain a lifestyle destination from Miami Beach to Amelia Island. The towns featured here hit on a range of beachfront living options. With outdoor activities ranging from fishing and surfing to golfing and shopping, you can find a beach town with the amenities you want.

So, whether you’re looking for a laid-back beachfront escape or an upscale waterfront retreat – Florida has it waiting for you! Come explore Florida’s beautiful Atlantic coast and its best beachfront towns.

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