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Published: July 12 2022

It's not news that Florida is one of the top vacation destinations in the country. It's also popular among tourists worldwide, who often include it in the world's top vacation spots. People who have visited Florida before don't need a lot of convincing to come here again – and there are some great reasons for it. This guide will tell you more about why the Sunshine State should be the next item on your travel bucket list. Furthermore, we'll explore the best summer vacation destinations in Florida and save you time when planning this amazing trip. 

Reasons to spend your summer vacation in Florida 

If you've visited the Sunshine State at least once, you'll know what we'll talk about – Florida is an amazing place to spend your summer vacation. From watersports to fine dining, Florida has it all. However, for those who need a reminder, here are the top reasons that make this state a perfect summer destination:

• World-known beaches are probably the top reasons to visit – blue skies, crystal clear waters, and the softest sand await at the beaches all around the state. There are all sorts of beaches at hundreds of miles of the shoreline, so you will definitely find what you're looking for; 
• Watersports – while you can enjoy peaceful beach time, Florida's beaches are also great for those who like a bit of adrenaline. There are plenty of watersports to choose from and take your water adventures to another level;
• Nightlife – after spending a day at the beach, you can head to some of the numerous nightclubs and restaurants in Miami Beach, West Palm Beach, or Fort Lauderdale. Florida is the place where you can enjoy amazing concerts, music festivals, and events that host performers from all around the world.
• Theme parks – Florida is the second on the list of states with the most amusement parks, and you should definitely take advantage of this fact. 
• Shopping – if you like to use your off-beach hours to hit the shops, Florida will certainly meet your needs. From small boutique shops to grand malls – you can have it all in the Sunshine State.

Now that you know why you should go to Florida, let's see the best places to book a hotel and start planning your dream vacation. 

What are the best summer vacation destinations in Florida?

This guide will help you narrow your list to the top 7 vacation spots in the Sunshine State. Use it to choose the spot according to your preferences and your vacation style. Some locations are perfect for families; others are great for young people looking for excitement and fun. 

New Smyrna Beach 

If you're looking for a place to enjoy a beautiful sandy beach – New Smyrna is the way to go. Located an hour away from Orlando, this place is a perfect vacation destination for those who want to mix the beach and theme parks. Visitors love its laidback atmosphere, amazing beach area, and the fact it's one of the top surf towns in the world. 

Clearwater beach 

The name says it all – Clearwater Beach is where you'll find crystal clear waters and white sand. Even though it's the main reason why young people love it, Clearwater beach has a lot more to offer. Millennials choose this place for their vacation so they can see different attractions, go on a cruise to see dolphins, and enjoy beach activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and more. There's so much to do here, as this is a small town with a big city feel – perfect for young people and families who want some fun during summer. 

Perdido Key 

Another place with beaches included in numerous top lists, Perdido Key is a true gem of the Mexican Gulf. The name means 'lost island, but the place is certainly worth finding for an unforgettable vacation. This narrow strip of land is actually an island that is a perfect blend of nature and wildlife, southern charm, and the southern lifestyle.

Miami 

Any list of best summer vacation destinations in Florida can't go without Miami. The city has it all – rich nightlife, amazing shopping, sightseeing spots, and most importantly, beautiful beaches. You can visit some top-class restaurants, participate in cultural events and festivals, and experience this big city vibe while still having fun at the beach. Also, experts from bigmansmoving.com note that it's not unusual for people to visit Miami for their vacation and decide to stay for good. Moving to Miami is common among tourists, and you can't blame them – the city is amazing. 

Captiva and Sanibel Islands

The two islands are perfect for those looking for a low-key vacation right outside the city. Located next to Fort Myers, these two islands are a perfect weekend getaway location for locals but also a favorite vacation spot for tourists. People love it for the relaxed, quiet atmosphere, as you can really unwind here surrounded by white sand beaches and tropical flora and fauna. 

Key West 

Let's go to the southernmost spot in Florida – Key West. This vibrant spot is famous for its great beaches, historical sites, rich nightlife, and water sports. It's perfect for ocean lovers who like to have an active vacation and practice all sorts of water activities such as mangrove kayaking, reef dives, and taking a cruise in a glass-bottom boat. You can visit Hemingway's home and museum, experience an authentic Caribbean vibe in the Bahama Village and see some of the most spectacular sunsets as a part of daily Sunset Celebrations. 

Naples 

For those who can't imagine their vacation without a couple of games of golf, Naples should be the way to go. With over 90 golf courses in the area, even the pickiest golf players will find a place to enjoy. Perfect beaches and picturesque Florida landscapes will astonish nature lovers, but you can also enjoy some high-end shopping and have the tastiest bites in high-rated restaurants in Naples. 

The list can go on and on in the Sunshine State. However, we managed to put together only the best summer vacation destinations in Florida so you can easily pick the place for your next unforgettable holiday. So, are you ready to go?