Known as the Sunshine State and flanked by the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean on either side, Florida is where you should search for your dream new home if you love golf courses and beaches.
Brilliantly designed and verdant golf courses keep your social life buzzing under warm, balmy skies while miles of white sands and unbelievably blue waters deliver the peace, relaxation, and freedom you seek.
Furthermore, a median sale price of around $410,000 makes the state’s housing market attractive, lucrative and not too intimidating. The state also boasts a vibrant nightlife, an inspiring art scene, and exciting amusement parks.
But a big part of the appeal of living in Florida is the golf courses and beaches. They’re picturesque and relaxing and provide endless opportunities for fun.
So, before you look for a perfect new home in Florida, review this guide on the finest beaches and golf courses.
There are over 1,200 courses in Florida. Whether you are in it for gorgeous green views, fun with friends on a Sunday or take the game seriously, there’s a golf course in Florida that you’ll fall in love with.
These are the best golf courses to play while living in Florida.
Owing to a coastline of around 1,350 miles away, living in Florida is synonymous with year-round beach getaways and aquatic entertainment.
Whether you want to soak in mesmerizing sceneries, frolic with kids and pets on golden sands, indulge in adventure sports, or unwind amid serenity, the best beaches in Florida will surely delight you.
Sugar-white sand and emerald waters – that’s Panama City Beach for you. Swim in the Gulf of Mexico, soak up some sun under a bright umbrella, or take a boat to the remote yet picturesque Shell Island.
Sandwiched between the Gulf and St. Andrews Bay, the island is known for dolphin spotting and fishing. If you have kids in tow, visit St. Andrews State Park for canoeing, camping, biking, and snorkeling. Have fun spotting blue crabs, deer, and alligators too. Panama City Beach is also perfect for scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing, and enjoying pirate ship cruises.
There are many beachfront restaurants if you want to enjoy good food and raise your spirits while admiring unforgettable views.
When it comes to the best beaches in Florida for diverse activities, Santa Rosa on the state’s northwest coast wins hands down.
Enjoy the relaxed vibe here, camp at Grayton Beach State Park, admire coastal dunes at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and spot rare species at Point Washington State Forest.
Santa Rosa Beach is a great place to snorkel, scuba dive, fish, and more, with the Gulf of Mexico to its south and Choctawhatchee Bay to its north.
You can also catch live concerts, visit art galleries, and explore the ancient Wesley Mansion. Gorge on seafood, Italian dishes, or Mexican fare before washing it all down with craft beer.
Whether new to surfing or a veteran on the waves, Jacksonville Beach, overlooking the mighty Atlantic, is the perfect place to kick-start your learning journey or engage in exciting competitions. The 1,300-foot pier is ideal for casting fishing lines, checking out what local fishermen reeled in, and taking leisurely walks.
The local eateries serve everything from tacos and sausages to shrimp, scallops, oysters, and vegetarian delicacies. Moreover, the craft breweries on the beach often host live music shows, yoga sessions, and comedy shows.
A scenic gem on the southeastern coast of Florida, Delray Beach is famous for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Head to Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens for calligraphy workshops and elegant tea ceremonies or visit Wakodahatchee Wetlands to spot turtles, alligators, and exotic birds from a raised boardwalk. Explore the galleries and public works dotting the Pineapple Grove Arts District, too.
The area’s nightlife is vibrant and offers ample shopping.
The best part about living in Florida is you don’t need to travel too far for a vacation vibe.
The plethora of luxurious beach resorts in Florida makes getaways simple yet memorable. From elegant rooms and mind-blowing views to top-notch facilities, upscale restaurants, and exclusive entertainment, the best beach resorts in Florida have it all.
The Breakers (Palm Beach): Established in 1896 by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, The Breakers is a majestic and historic affair that offers fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean. It boasts an opulent ambiance, a wide array of tasteful rooms, multiple pools, an arcade, a premium spa, and ten on-site venues for food and beverages.
Apart from a private beachfront, the resort has everything you need to indulge in a game of tennis, golf, or watersports. Warm hospitality only adds another feather to The Breakers’ cap.
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club (Ponte Vedra Beach): This one-of-a-kind beach resort has been blending grand auras, gracious service, beautiful accommodations, and incredible Atlantic views since 1928. Ponte Vedra is a sprawling Spanish colonial property with a luxury spa, top-class dining joints, 12 tennis courts, 4 heated pools, 36 golf holes, a fitness center, and more.
You can also rent paddleboards, kayaks, and cruisers for a great time on the beach. The beachfront bar serves specially concocted frozen drinks.
Visiting a nude beach while living in Florida is sure to be a liberating experience. It will allow you to truly connect with nature as the sun bathes your entire being with its golden warmth. The best nude beaches in Florida let you unwind in peace, embrace body positivity, and meet like-minded people.
Haulover Beach: Known for its well-established nudist culture, it lies between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. You will love the non-judgmental environment, picnic spots, and azure blue waters. The LGBTQ community in Haulover also hosts volleyball tournaments, musical performances, and other events on the beach from time to time.
Playalinda Beach: Located in Brevard County, this serene beach promises ample privacy due to the absence of nearby homes and shops. You don’t need to purchase an annual pass to access Playalinda, a favorite among surfers. Just remember that the nudist zone begins at the last parking lot if you wish to bare all. Also, with the Kennedy Space Center right next to it, the beach lets you catch a rocket launch while you are soaking in some sun.
By now, you probably can’t wait to experience the sun-kissed state with Insta-worthy beaches and impressive golf courses. Also, remember that the list above only gives a sneak peek into what’s best in Florida for a potential homebuyer like you.
There is more to see and experience, whether you wish to get better at making a hole-in-one, tame the waves, or simply admire them, check into a classy beach resort, or visit the nude beaches in Florida for uninhibited relaxation.
Blue Monster, Trump National Doral, TPC Sawgrass, and Stadium Course challenge even seasoned golfers with sneaky water hazards, deep bunkers, undulating patches, and more.
Panama City Beach and Santa Rosa Beach offer memorable views of the Gulf and are ideal for enjoying a variety of watersports. You will also find many beachfront restaurants here.
The best resorts usually offer tastefully appointed rooms with stunning views, private beach access, multiple swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, elegant onsite restaurants, well-equipped sports zones, and watersport gear to rent.
Yes, Florida has multiple nude beaches, including popular ones like Haulover and Playalinda. If you remember to follow a few dos and don’ts and stick to designated areas, you will have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience.