This article is part of a directory: Visit The Bahamas: The Bahamas Travel Guide, Things To Do & All-Inclusive Hotels
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Many people dream of an island vacation where they can enjoy the pristine beaches with clear and turquoise waters, white sands with tall palms drooping over, and breathtaking views of the sea, along with unlimited water sports and fun activities. When they dream about such a wonderful holiday, most people think about the Maldives, the Bahamas, the Cook Islands, and others.

However, they forget or don’t know about the many Floridian islands that boast a similar, and sometimes, a much better, idyllic vibe. There are more than 4,500 islands in the Sunshine State, and there’s much more to Florida than its pulsating cities and landmark attractions, such as Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. Here’s a guide to spending the perfect vacation on Florida’s most beautiful islands.

Related: Skip The Touristy Side Of Key West And Spend Time Doing These Things Instead

This Island Is A Short Drive From Naples City In Florida, And Is A Must Visit For An Unforgettable Vacation

People who want to visit an island in Florida to witness the softest white sand, indulge in the yummiest meals, and behold the beauty of gorgeous shells have nowhere to go other than Marco Island. The latter can be reached by driving the bridge from Naples city in Florida. The isle is the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands Chain and is luxuriously developed and maintained.

People visiting Marco Island will mostly enjoy the iconic beaches there, including South Marco Beach, best for sunsets, and Tigertail Beach, which features powdery sands mixed with unique shells. People can also enjoy eating out at the many restaurants on the island, attending the multiple golf courses there, and shopping at the various stores.

  • Recommended: People visiting Marco Island in Florida are advised to take a cruise to explore the isle from the water and try deep-sea fishing. They will also have the chance to see some dolphins around.

This Florida Island In The Gulf Of Mexico Is Perfect For Families To Visit

For hundreds of years, families have frequented Sanibel Island, the Floridian island lying in the Gulf of Mexico. This island on the west coast offers a quieter beach destination than its counterparts on the east coast, Miami Beach, and Fort Lauderdale. The beaches on this island are rough and feature tons of shells washed up on the shores. Sanibel lacks urban development and collects hundreds of shell species that come to its shores from the Gulf of Mexico. Shells are a big thing in Sanibel, and this is why the island has created the National Seashell Day on June 21st, marking the first day of summer. Moreover, people visiting Sanibel Island are encouraged to check the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.

  • Where to stay: Sanibel Island in Florida is home to many outstanding resorts offering special recreational activities and the best sunsets over the gulf. People are advised to stay at Sanibel Moorings Resort, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, West Wind Inn, Casa Ybel Resort, Island Inn, South Seas Island Resort, and several other top-rated resorts on Sanibel Island.

Apart from enjoying the beaches and shells on Sanibel Island in Florida, people also will be amazed by the many activities they can partake in on the island, such as seeing the animals at JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, exploring Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, visiting Sanibel Historical Museum & Village, hitting Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Nature Center, and grabbing dinner fixings at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market.

Related: Here Are Some Sunny Florida Destinations To Consider When The Weather Gets Chilly

Those Islands In Florida Boast Unique Attractions And Mesmerizing Beaches

Another island not to be missed in Florida is Amelia Island, frequented by the wealthy and home to the state’s most luxurious beach resorts. People must head to the main town on the island, Fernandina Beach, where they can witness eclectic shops and restaurants found in fishing cottages and the most attractive Victorian buildings. The island also has 13 miles of pristine sand-dune-lined beaches. Amelia Island is the perfect destination to swim, paddle, shop, dine, or relax in Florida.

Known for its fantastic nightlife and vibrant arts scene, Key West Island in Florida is frequented by millions of visitors every year. In addition to what it’s famous for, Key West is also home to wondrous beaches and the Great Florida Reef, the world’s third-largest coral reef.

  • Recommended: People visiting Key West in Florida are advised to take in the spectacular views of the horizon along with street performances, live music, and food stalls every night at Mallory Square.

Some of the best resorts on Key West Island include the Marker Key West Harbor Resort, Ocean Key Resort & Spa, Santa Maria Suites Resort, the Perry Hotel & Marina Key West, Pier House Resort & Spa, among others.

Other islands worth visiting in Florida include Gasparilla Island, Little Gasparilla Island, Anna Maria Island, Crab Island in Destin, Key Biscayne, Little Palm Island, Islamorada, Cedar Key, St George Island, Pine Island, Longboat Key Island, and more.

Next: Florida Vs The Caribbean: 20 Reasons To Choose One Over The Other