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Tallahassee Florida Beaches: A Guide To The Best Beaches In The Area (2023)
Searching for Tallahassee Florida beaches? If you’re looking for a beach vacation in Florida, Tallahassee may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, you might be surprised to learn that there are several beautiful beaches within driving distance of the city. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to surf and play, there’s a beach near Tallahassee that’s perfect for you. You’ll just have to drive a little ways to reach it – but trust us, it’ll be worth it.
As a long-time Florida resident who frequently visits Tallahassee to see my child who attends university there, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many of the state’s beaches, but my absolute favorites are the ones within a short drive of the city. Two of my top picks are the beaches in Panama City and 30A. Both are located about 1.5-2 hours from Tallahassee, but the drive is definitely worth it!
LOCAL TIP: The beaches in Panama City are known for their soft, white sand and emerald green waters, and there are plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby. Meanwhile, the beaches along 30A are a bit more secluded and offer a quieter, more laid-back vibe. Plus, there are some amazing state parks and nature preserves in the area where you can explore the local flora and fauna. So, if you’re looking for some of the best beaches in Florida and you happen to be in Tallahassee and have the time to drive, be sure to check out Panama City and 30A!
Best Beaches Near Tallahassee
If you’re looking for a quick escape from bustling city life, Tallahassee has some of the best beaches in Florida that are just a short drive away. Here are some of the best beaches near Tallahassee that are worth checking out.
St. George Island State Park
St. George Island State Park is one of the most popular beaches near Tallahassee, and for good reason. This nine-mile-long barrier island offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and sugar-white sand beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The park also has picnic pavilions, walking trails, and an observation tower that offers panoramic views of the island.
If you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, St. George Island State Park is a great place to spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and plovers. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and sea turtles.
Carrabelle Beach
Carrabelle Beach is another great option for those looking for a beach near Tallahassee. This quiet and secluded beach is located in the small town of Carrabelle and offers a peaceful escape from the city. The beach is known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Carrabelle Beach is also a popular spot for fishing, and you can often see locals casting their lines from the shore. The beach has picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family picnic or a romantic beachside dinner.
Mashes Sands Beach
Mashes Sands Beach is a hidden gem located just a short drive from Tallahassee. This small, quiet beach is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape from the city. The beach is known for its soft, white sand and clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Mashes Sands Beach is also a popular spot for kayaking and fishing, and you can often see locals paddling along the shore. The beach has picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family picnic or a romantic beachside dinner.
Overall, these beaches near Tallahassee offer a great escape from the city and are perfect for those looking for a relaxing day at the beach. Whether you’re into swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, or bird watching, there’s something for everyone at these beaches.
Beaches within 1-2 hours of Tallahassee
If you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Tallahassee, there are several beaches within a 1-2 hour drive that are worth checking out. Here are two of the most popular options:
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With 27 miles of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or engage in water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to do so here.
In addition to the beach, Panama City Beach offers a variety of other attractions, including amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and shopping centers. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can easily make a day (or weekend) of it.
30A Beaches
The 30A Beaches are a collection of small communities located along the Gulf of Mexico, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular beaches in this area include Seaside, Grayton Beach, and Rosemary Beach.
One of the main draws of the 30A Beaches is their laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. You won’t find any high-rise hotels or chain restaurants here – instead, you’ll find quaint shops, local eateries, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the surrounding towns, the 30A Beaches are a great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Overall, there are plenty of options for beach lovers within a short drive of Tallahassee. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of Panama City Beach or the laid-back charm of the 30A Beaches, you’re sure to find a destination that suits your style.
State Parks and Nature Reserves
When it comes to exploring the natural beauty of Tallahassee, you won’t want to miss out on the state parks and nature reserves. Here are some of the top options to consider:
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
Located just 25 miles south of Tallahassee, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for nature lovers. This 70,000-acre refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, bald eagles, and manatees. You can explore the refuge’s hiking trails, take a picnic lunch, and even climb to the top of the observation tower for stunning views of the area.
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
For a beach day with a twist, head to T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. This park is home to miles of pristine white sand beaches, as well as hiking trails that wind through the nearby forests. You can also take advantage of the park’s picnic areas and restrooms for a full day of outdoor fun.
Bald Point State Park
Another great option for nature lovers is Bald Point State Park. This park is located on the Gulf of Mexico and offers visitors the chance to explore a range of ecosystems, from saltwater marshes to pine flatwoods. You can hike the park’s trails, take a picnic lunch, and even go fishing or swimming in the nearby waters.
No matter which state park or nature reserve you choose to visit, you’re sure to be impressed by the stunning natural beauty that Tallahassee has to offer.
Barrier Islands
If you’re looking for a remote beach experience near Tallahassee, the barrier islands are a great option. These islands are located off the coast and offer a more secluded and natural beach experience. Two popular barrier islands near Tallahassee are Cape San Blas and Dog Island.
Cape San Blas
Cape San Blas is a beautiful barrier island located about an hour and a half from Tallahassee. The island offers miles of pristine beaches with crystal clear water. You can swim, sunbathe, and even go snorkeling or kayaking. The beach is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the fun.
One thing to keep in mind is that seaweed can be a common sight on the beaches of Cape San Blas. While it may not be the most visually appealing, it is a natural occurrence and can actually be beneficial for the ecosystem.
Dog Island
Dog Island is another barrier island located off the coast of Tallahassee. As the name suggests, this island is a great destination for dog owners. The beach is pet-friendly and offers plenty of space for your furry friend to run around and play.
One thing to keep in mind is that Dog Island is a remote location with limited amenities. There are no restaurants or shops on the island, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies. However, the lack of development also means that the island is incredibly peaceful and natural.
In summary, if you’re looking for a more secluded and natural beach experience near Tallahassee, the barrier islands are a great option. Cape San Blas and Dog Island are two popular choices, each with their own unique features and attractions. Just be prepared for a more remote and rustic experience, and don’t be surprised if you see some seaweed on the beaches.
Conclusion: Tallahassee Florida beaches
In summary, Tallahassee, Florida has a variety of beautiful beaches nearby that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an adventure-filled day of water sports, you’ll find it all here.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more secluded beach experience, Keaton Beach is a great option. With its natural surroundings and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the crowds.
For those who want to explore the local wildlife, St. George Island is a must-visit. With its pristine white sand and warm Gulf waters, it’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and kayaking. The island’s marshes are also home to a variety of unique wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else.
If you want to experience one of the best beaches near Tallahassee, head to Cape San Blas. This stunning beach is part of St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and offers miles of pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views.
Overall, Tallahassee Florida beaches have hidden gems nearby that shouldn’t be missed. With their natural beauty and variety of activities, they’re the perfect destination for your next beach vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions about tallahassee florida beaches
What is the closest beach to Tallahassee Florida?
The closest beach to Tallahassee is Shell Point Beach, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
How far is the closest beach to Tallahassee?
The closest beach to Tallahassee is about 20 miles away.
What is the best beach near Tallahassee?
There are several great beaches near Tallahassee. Some popular options include Alligator Point and Cape San Blas.
Is Panama City Beach near Tallahassee?
Panama City Beach is about 85 miles away from Tallahassee.
What is Tallahassee most known for?
Tallahassee is known for being the capital of Florida and home to Florida State University. It also has a rich history and many cultural attractions.
How far away is the beach from Tallahassee?
The distance between Tallahassee and the nearest beach is about 20 miles. However, there are several other great beaches within a few hours’ drive.
