By Ron White
Miami Beach lures many locals and tourists.
With the promise of fresh sea air, plentiful sunshine and the soothing sound of crashing surf, millions flock to Florida each year to enjoy its
beaches. The peninsula features more than 2,000 miles of coastline and it offers more than 1,000 beaches.
Florida's beaches offer something for everyone. Swimming, surfing and snorkeling top the list of popular water activities, and children enjoy building sand castles. Many visitors, though, simply plop into a
beach chair and soak up the rays while recharging their batteries.
Wows and Woes
Visitors rave about the Gulf Coast sunsets.
The diversity of Florida's coastline provides multiple options for beach visitors. From sand dunes to marsh to mangrove forest, Florida has some of the world's top beaches, including those in Miami, Cocoa and Key West.
Florida's beaches constantly struggle to recover from dramatic erosion, which wipes out stretches of beach each year. Red tide poses another concern for visitors. Red tide is most prevalent near Gulf Coast beaches. Red tide, caused by a massive bloom of algae in the water, brings with it a strong odor and discolors the water.
Insider Tips
Use sunblock. Sunburn ruins a vacation. Also, check the surf reports. Newspapers in beach communities publish daily reports on surf conditions. Ask someone if you are unsure which beach fits your personality. Some beaches cater to tourists with nearby shopping and dining. Some are in remote areas. Always pack a lunch. It allows you to stay on the beach for several hours.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
In July 2009, we drove to New Smyrna Beach and spent the day playing in the surf and sand. Then we drove to Daytona Beach and watched from the pier as fireworks blasted over the ocean. The colorful sparks lit the sky and bounced off the surf. It was the most satisfying day I can remember, and it cost me just 30 minutes to prepare chicken salad and a few gallons of gas.
Bottom Line
Florida's beaches promise something for everyone and most families love visiting because it's inexpensive.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Central Florida, Ron White is a freelance journalist and stay-at-home dad. A former editor at a Central Florida daily newspaper, White now writes frequently for the "Daytona Beach News-Journal" and "Orlando Sentinel." He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Eastern Illinois University.
