Looking to catch some rays at one of the best Florida beaches in April?
I hope so!
April is the perfect time to hit Florida’s beaches before the summer crowds and while the weather’s just right—warm but not scorching!
I’ve rounded up the absolute best beach destinations for your April getaway, complete with all the happenings that’ll make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
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Key Takeaways
- The Florida beaches in April offer a mix of vibrant atmospheres and stunning natural beauty.
- Pensacola Beach is famous for its family-friendly activities and free summer trolley service.
- Miami Beach combines relaxation with fitness opportunities, attracting health-conscious visitors.
- Neptune Beach is known for its small-town charm and strong community feel.
- Key West stands out for its unique local governance and community engagement initiatives.
As you can see, each location provides unforgettable experiences that make Florida a top April getaway destination. Find out why below.
1. Treasure Island
Today we’re starting off with one of my favorite beaches here in Florida and that’s Treasure Island!
This Gulf Coast gem lives up to its name with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
April brings perfect 75-80°F temperatures and the annual American Legion Car Show and Treasure the Island Day, where we gather and enjoy the lively community vibe that makes Treasure Island so special in the heart of this beach town.
Be sure to stay at the Treasure Island Beach Resort or the Ocean Club for direct beach access.
Both choices provide contemporary accommodations with stunning Gulf views, roomy spaces, and convenient access to the beach.
But honestly, I’m a big fan of the Ocean Club. It’s one of the newer resorts along the shore, and it features 2-bedroom suites.
You can’t miss dining at Sloppy Joe’s on the beach for sunset views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Visit mid-week to avoid the weekend crowds that come for the Treasure Island beach activities.
2. Pensacola Beach
With its emerald-green waters and powdery white sand, Pensacola Beach is a slice of paradise in April.
The weather hovers around a comfortable 75°F, perfect for catching some rays without melting. Making it one the best Florida beaches to visit in April.
I like visiting Pensacola Beach because of its vibrant atmosphere and plethora of family-friendly activities such as Laguna’s Adventure Park and Fast Eddie’s Fun Center.
After a day of fun in the sun, you can unwind at one of the numerous seaside restaurants such as Water Pig BBQ which offers slow smoked BBQ and stunning sunset views.
Don’t forget to explore the nearby historic sites, like Fort Pickens, which add an intriguing layer to your beach experience. Pensacola Beach truly embodies the spirit of Florida’s coastal charm!
April brings the lively Blue Angels practice sessions—a totally free air show that’ll blow your mind! And it’s one of my favorite things to do at a Florida beach in April.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Book a dolphin cruise in the morning when waters are calmest and dolphins are most active.
3. Miami Beach
Miami Beach in April means perfect weather without the intense summer heat or spring break madness.
To me, there are two sides to Miami and Miami Beach:
- There’s the luxurious side that you see all over social media
- Then there’s the local side where you can see the authentic influences of many cultures across the town
If you’re more of a luxury type of traveler, then I recommend soaking up the rays on South Beach’s iconic shoreline and cooling off with a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Health enthusiasts will love the numerous beach fitness sessions and paddle-board rentals available. The water temperature is just right for swimming at around 75°F.
Stay at the Fontainebleau for luxury vibes or The Confidante for retro cool, and grab dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab—a Miami institution!
HIPSTER POWER TIP: You’ll want to visit during the week to score a prime spot on the sand without fighting crowds.
4. Neptune Beach
This charming small beachfront city near Jacksonville offers a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for those seeking a more relaxed April beach experience. The annual Neptune Beach Easter Egg Hunt draws families from all over.
What makes Neptune special is its strong community feel and independence from Jacksonville, giving it a unique small-town charm right on the Atlantic.
This is what makes me truly love this small beach town in Florida as it always makes me feel like I’m home away from home. Making it one the best Florida beaches to visit in April.
Plus, the beachfront parks provide ample space for picnics and games, while the local shops and cafes offer delightful tastes of Florida’s coastal cuisine.
Book a room at One Ocean Resort and don’t miss dinner at North Beach Fish Camp for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Check out Beaches Town Center, the heart of Neptune Beach’s dining and shopping scene.
5. Key West
April in Key West means perfect weather (around 80°F) without the crushing summer humidity.
The island comes alive with the Conch Republic Independence Celebration—a quirky 10-day festival commemorating Key West’s “secession” from the US in 1982.
The beaches here are smaller but packed with character, especially Smathers Beach where the vibe is real chill here.
It’s my favorite destination in Florida and I just love how it makes me feel like I’ve escaped to a quaint Caribbean island.
Pro tip: Rent a bike! It’s the best way to explore this compact island.
Stay at the Southernmost House for historic charm, and grab dinner at Blue Heaven where you’ll dine under the stars with roaming chickens (seriously!).
Below are more of my favorite hotels in Key West Florida:
Book your discounted Florida Key West Vacation Resort TODAY!
6. Deerfield Beach
This hidden gem in Broward County offers a more relaxed vibe than its flashier neighbors.
The beach’s Blue Wave certification ensures you’ll enjoy clean, well-maintained shores. Water temperatures hover around a comfortable 76°F.
I truly love coming here during April because the crowd levels are not too bad and the weather is still pretty good for Florida!
Book at the Royal Blues Hotel for boutique luxury, and don’t miss JB’s on the Beach for oceanfront dining that won’t break the bank.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Visit the International Fishing Pier for amazing views and to watch locals reel in impressive catches.
7. Destin
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin shines in April with its emerald waters and sugar-white sands.
The Destin Cobia Tournament kicks off the fishing season, bringing anglers from across the country.
I fell in love with the picturesque feel that you get in this Florida beach town.
Plus, the water temperatures are warming up to about 70°F, perfect for wading and water activities. The crowds are still manageable compared to the summer influx of tourists.
Stay at the Henderson Beach Resort for luxury or the SunDestin Beach Resort for families, and don’t miss dinner at Harbor Docks for the freshest catch of the day.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Take a dolphin cruise through Crab Island, a submerged sandbar where locals gather.
8. Ponte Vedra Beach
This upscale northeast Florida destination offers a more refined beach experience and home of The PLAYERS Championship!
The beach itself is known for shark teeth hunting and cinnamon-colored sands. Temperatures hover in the mid-70s, ideal for long beach walks.
I wanted to add this nice hidden gem to the list because most tourists don’t know about this amazing location and I’m definitely not the one to gate-keep this type of information.
Book a stay at the iconic Ponte Vedra Inn & Club for old Florida luxury, and dine at Restaurant Medure for an upscale evening out.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Visit at low tide to find the most shark teeth along the shoreline.
9. Panama City Beach
By April, Panama City Beach has shed its spring break reputation and welcomes families with open arms.
The fun Line Dancing event at Glenwood Community Center is the perfect place for you and your friends to meet up for some hoedown fun!
The emerald waters are warming up to around 72°F, and the famous “sugar sand” beaches are less crowded than in summer months.
I do recommend staying at the Marriott’s Legends Edge at Bay Point or the Calypso Resort which offers modern condos with stunning views and easy access to Pier Park’s shopping and dining.
Just make sure that you don’t miss dinner at Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant if you want a casual dining experience with a spectacular view
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Take a shuttle to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island with pristine beaches.
10. St. Pete Beach
Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches, St. Pete shines in April with perfect 80°F temperatures and a free concert in Horan Park.
Plus, the white sand stretches for miles, and the Gulf waters are calm and clear. Making it one the best Florida beaches to visit in April.
What makes St. Pete special (and the reason why I moved there) is its old Florida charm mixed with modern amenities. It’s a city that knows what it is and it doesn’t try to be like anyone else.
This is why I fell in love with this Florida town.
Just make sure that you don’t miss the weekly Corey Avenue Sunday Market for local crafts and food.
Book a room at the historic Don CeSar (the “Pink Palace”) for a splurge or the FUSION Resort Waterfront Suites for laid back vibes, and grab dinner at The Hurricane (or Spinners Rooftop Grille whenever it reopens) for fresh seafood with a view.
HIPSTER POWER TIP: Rent a cabana at the famous Don CeSar hotel beach even if you’re not staying there—it’s worth the splurge!
My Final Thoughts on the Best Florida Beaches in April
As you can see, Florida beaches in April offer something for every type of traveler – from the spring break energy of Panama City Beach to the tranquil shores of Neptune Beach.
This is why I love living here and why I’ll never move out of this great state.
Remember to book accommodations early, as April is a popular time for Florida beach vacations.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
