19 Alluring Islands to Visit in Florida

St. Pete Beach – One of Florida’s Best Island Beaches

You could almost duplicate the words for Clearwater Beach for St. Pete Beach. This is an island with long sandy beaches and tons of hotels. The Don CeSar is a classic old hotel that anchors the south end of the beach. Maybe not quite as much to do on St. Pete Beach as Clearwater Beach, but this beach is party central for the younger crowd.

Best Island to Visit in Florida For:

• Beach Bars
• Many Restaurants
• Big Beach
• Dozens of Hotels 

Fort Jefferson – Island and Historical Attraction

About 70 miles west of Key West is truly a Florida island adventure. In the mid-1800s the United States built a prison on an island in the Dry Tortugas. At the time it was a marvel of red brick construction.

Called Fort Jefferson originally, it was converted into a prison to hold Confederate prisoners during the Civil War. Even Dr. Mudd was there! It is a must-see for those who want to see the Tortugas and this historical island. There are ferry and float plane trips daily from Key West.

Best Island to Visit For:

• History
• Snorkeling
• Boat or Sea Plane Trip You Can Book Here and beat the crowd!

If you like history coupled with islands to visit in Florida, you must go to Fort Jefferson.

Boca Grande – Relaxed Island, World Class Fishing!

Just west of Port Charlotte, Florida is a small, but exclusive, island called Gasparilla Island. For a century the island has been dominated by the rich and famous who want to get away from crowds in a town called Boca Grande. We don’t know if the exclusivity continues today, but we do know Boca Grande swells by several hundred people each spring when the tarpon are running. The island is called the Tarpon Capital of the World.

Best Florida Island to Visit For:

• Stately Luxury
• Fishing
• Relaxation
• Hotels and cottages available on Boca Grande

Key Largo – The Largest Island in The Keys

The string of islands off the southern tip of Florida are called the Florida Keys. There are about 47 of them connected by bridges. Key Largo is the largest of the islands to visit in Florida and the Keys. This is the perfect island to visit in Florida.

Key Largo is known for the fabulous scuba diving on local reefs. But in fairness, other places like Islamorada, Marathon and Big Pine Key are equally popular islands in the chain. For the ultimate Florida island adventure, explore them all! There are amazing sights throughout the Keys. Visit all the islands in the Florida Keys!

Best Island in Florida to Visit For:

• Diving and Snorkeling
• Fishing
• Sightseeing
• Resorts on Atlantic Ocean
• Hotels and Lodgings

 Cabbage Key – Island on the Gulf Coast

Do you like a little mixture of experiences in your visit to a Florida island? Adventure? How about an island-hopping ferry ride to a small island that supposedly serves up the best cheeseburger in Florida and then a stroll around the barrier island?

That is the agenda for Cabbage Key and the Cabbage Key Inn. Cabbage Key is in Pine Island Sound north of Sanibel and Captiva.

Best Island in Florida For:

• Arriving by boat
• Best Cheeseburger
• walking the shoreline
• Ferry to the Island

Cedar Key – Historic Island on the Gulf Coast

At one point in Florida’s history, Cedar Key was a major shipping port on the Florida Gulf coast. Eventually, the island became one of the state’s biggest suppliers of clams and oysters. Quaint shops and a line of buildings with restaurants built right over the Gulf highlight  Cedar Key’s appeal. Cedar Key is 45 miles north of Crystal River.

Best Island to Visit in Florida For:

• Haunted Hotel
• Aqua grown seafood
• clams
• Waterfront bars
• Hotels nearby

What To Expect When Visiting Florida Islands

Florida’s islands offer a diverse range of experiences, from the vibrant energy of Key West to the secluded natural beauty of the Dry Tortugas National Park. Here’s what you can generally expect when visiting these Sunshine State gems:

Stunning Beaches:

• Expect sugar-white sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
• Many islands boast calm, shallow waters ideal for families with young children (Bahia Honda is a good example).
• For snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life await exploration.
• Kayaking and paddle boarding are popular ways to explore the coastline and mangroves.

Island Charm and Culture:

• Each island has its unique personality and cultural heritage, from the conch communities of the Keys to the Bahamian influences in the Bahamas.
• Quaint towns with colorful architecture and friendly locals offer a laid-back atmosphere.
• Fresh seafood dishes are a must-try, featuring local catches like lobster, grouper, and snapper.
• Don’t miss out on local festivals and events celebrating the islands’ unique traditions.

  

Outdoor Activities and Adventure:

• Hiking trails weave through lush landscapes, offering opportunities to spot diverse birdlife and native plants.
• Fishing charters cater to all skill levels, allowing you to reel in your own piece of paradise.
• Boating excursions take you to secluded beaches, dolphin-watching tours, and unforgettable sunset cruises.
• For the adventurous, kayaking through mangrove tunnels and exploring underwater caves provide thrilling experiences.

Things to Consider:

• Accessibility: Some islands are easily accessible by car or ferry, while others require flights or boat charters.
• Accommodation: Choose from a variety of options, including hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Hotels and lodging must be booked in advance.
• Activities: Research the activities available on your chosen island and book tours or equipment rentals in advance.
• Seasonality: Consider the weather and hurricane season when planning your trip.

By understanding these general expectations and considering your individual preferences, you can plan an unforgettable and enriching island getaway in Florida.