Looking to start your vacation vibes at one of the best Florida beaches in May?
I hope so!
The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and with the busy days of spring break now a distant memory, there is no better time to visit a Floridian beach than in May.
A much quieter month than the peak tourist seasons, you can enjoy relaxing on peaceful beaches and swimming in comfortable waters without the hustle and bustle.
With plenty of daylight hours to soak in the sun and excellent water conditions, the state’s beaches are just calling to be visited in May.
However, with so many incredible beach spots to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to spend your time so to help, here is the shortlist just for you!
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1. Ft. Walton Beach
Nestled in the Florida panhandle opposite Okaloosa Island, Ft. Walton Beach is a phenomenal choice for a beach day.
Renowned for its beaches of glistening white sands and turquoise waters, the coastline of Ft. Walton Beach could give the Caribbean a run for its money.
Warm gulf waters mean that any time is a good time to visit Ft. Walton Beach but May is an incredible choice with milder temperatures and fewer visitors.
I honestly feel that it’s a quieter alternative to nearby Destin, Ft. Walton Beach caters to all but is also a great option for families.
Plus there’s plenty of space for laying out, calm waters for swimming and free parking on Okaloosa Island, this beachfront is ideal for those with little ones.
Events and Things to Do
There is also plenty of history, culture and entertainment to explore at Ft. Walton Beach, home to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Indian Temple Mound Museum and Air Force Armament Museum.
The highlight of visiting in May is the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival.
A fun-filled, family-friendly event with live music, crafts, treasure hunts and a firework show, the festival concludes with the annual torchlight parade. This is a festival that I know you will love.
Be sure to book a room at the Holiday Inn Resort and grab a bite at Lulu’s for the best local seafood and fun activities.
2. Palm Coast
On the east coast of Florida, south of St Augustine, Palm Coast is the most popular beach destination in Flagler County.
The perfect blend of natural beauty and urbanization, Palm Coast is incredibly scenic with 19 miles of golden sands, a prime sunrise location and an unbelievable foodie scene.
With such an expanse of beach, there is plenty of space to enjoy any activity you prefer but horseback riding is one of the most popular here.
Events and Things to Do
May marks the beginning of turtle nesting season with the possibility of experiencing newly hatched turtles making their way to water.
Flagler Turtle Patrol is definitely worth a follow to keep up to date with public turtle nest evaluations and the opportunity to have this phenomenal once in a lifetime experience.
It is also worth noting that the journey is often just as important as the destination and one of the best parts of visiting Palm Coast is getting there.
Cruising along the A1A, you will drive along Florida’s famous coastal route that is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in Florida.
Be sure to grab a sweet treat at Sally’s Ice Cream on Flagler Beach! It’s a local staple 🙂
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3. Vero Beach
One of the most famous and incredible beaches in Florida with even Walt Disney World naming resorts after this breathtaking coastal destination, Vero Beach is an absolute must-visit in May.
The 26 mile paradise in Indian River county, Vero Beach offers endless stretches of windswept sands and charming boardwalks for a coastal stroll.
Boasting a reputation for glamor, you can expect a beachfront and its town that is overflowing with elegance as luxury homes and country clubs line the shore.
Events and Things to Do
The perfect blend of nature and culture, you can spend mornings exploring museums and afternoons relaxing on the beachfront or popping by the botanical garden that’s great for the whole family.
By evening, delight your ears to a free outdoor music concert at the Riverside Theater, held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout May.
Be sure to book a room at the Disney’s famous Vero Beach Resort and grab a bite at Ocean Grill for a delicious lunch or dinner on the beach. We also love eating at Bonefish when we’re here.
Read NEXT: Florida Packing List Ultimate Guide: What to Pack for Your EPIC Trip!
4. Crystal River
Arguably one of the most breathtaking cities in the entire state, Crystal River needs to be top of your list of beaches to visit in May.
As the name may suggest, the waters here are nothing short of perfection, ultra clear and sparkling in the sunlight.
Events and Things to Do
The ideal spot for water sports, paddle-boarding, snorkeling and kayaking are extremely popular here. Especially at Three Sisters Springs.
These tranquil waters are a delight to explore with incredible clarity that allows you to admire the underwater world.
The highlight of the marine life here are the manatees you can encounter.
Not only are the waters here spring-fed, they are also warmed by the Gulf, creating the perfect temperature.
Also benefitting from a more inland location than other Florida beaches, surrounded by trees and nature, a visit to Crystal River makes you feel like you’re lost in the jungle.
It’s a special place to us here at Florida Hipster because it’s where our Editor’s family spent countless summers at during her childhood.
Be sure to do a bit of shopping in Crystal River’s historic downtown!
5. New Smyrna Beach
As one of Florida’s largest surf hubs, New Smyrna Beach is the ultimate laid-back coastal destination, boasting some of the best wave action on the east coast.
A surfer’s paradise where the waves can be enjoyed almost every day of the year, water temperature heats up in May making it much more enjoyable.
Accompanying the laid-back surf vibe, the promenade is lined with idyllic cafes and charming bars that bring a relaxed edge to the town.
Events and Things to Do
While big events are limited during the month of May, it is a popular time for the monthly wine walks and vintage car shows with the phenomenal Floridian weather drawing in the visitors.
It’s also one of the beaches in Florida where you’ll see more sharks.
Be sure to grab a sweet treat along with a glass of wine at Third Wave Cafe & Wine Bar!
6. Jacksonville Beach
Affectionately known as ‘Jax Beach’, this east Floridian beach city is famous for its clear Atlantic waters and iconic pier.
Offering a rugged beach escape, Jacksonville Beach boasts the magnificent untouched beauty of the US coastline with charming boardwalks to explore.
Events and Things to Do
Music is a big deal and you will hear tunes playing wherever you go. However, the highlight of visiting Jax Beach is the abundance of festivals popping up such as The Jacksonville Jazz Festival that usually happens at the end of May.
Held at Seawalk Pavilion, you can regularly enjoy live music here with a stunning coastal backdrop and incredible food to eat.
Be sure to book a room at the Margaritaville Beach Hotel (our favorite spot) and grab a cup of coffee with breakfast at Delicomb (right next to the Margaritaville Beach Hotel).
7. Cocoa Beach
Undoubtedly one of Florida’s most iconic coastal hot spots, Cocoa Beach is the ultimate oceanfront destination.
Located on Florida’s Space Coast, just south of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cocoa Beach offers you a prime location to witness history in the making.
While your average day brings the joys of a day by the ocean, it is also one of the hottest rocket launch viewing spots.
Events and Things to Do
Also considered to be the surf capital of the east coast, you can ride the waves in style here.
In addition, there is so much else to enjoy here with three oceanfront parks, numerous cool jazz clubs and as Florida’s fastest growing port, you can also admire some of the world’s biggest vessels coming into dock.
Below are our favorite things to do in Cocoa Beach:
- Visit Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Eat at Coconuts on the Beach (great food and entertainment)
- Hang out at the Cocoa Beach Pier
- Explore the Wizard of Oz Museum
- Visit Kennedy Space Center
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8. Naples
On the west coast of Florida, Naples Beach is almost 9 miles of purely pristine beaches.
A scene of postcard perfection on the Paradise Coast, there is no denying that the waters of the Gulf lap this shoreline with natural beauty just as breathtaking as the neighboring Caribbean islands.
Events and Things to Do
It is also an area where marine life thrives in the waters and the two passes at Naples are the perfect spots to get to know the abundant underwater world through snorkeling, kayaking or paddle-boarding.
The Naples Art Institute hosts various events and workshops during this month, showcasing local talent through art fairs and exhibits.
The star attraction at Naples Beach, however, is undoubtedly the sunsets.
As the sun descends over the Gulf, you are treated to a truly majestic landscape admired from this serene coastal spot.
After a day on the sand, explore Fifth Avenue South for exquisite dining options and boutique shopping that make every moment memorable!
Don’t forget to explore the nearby Everglades for an exhilarating airboat tour, giving you a chance to encounter Florida’s unique wildlife.
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9. Miami Beach
Connected to the mainland of Miami by bridge, Miami Beach is the laid-back sister to the big city.
The perfect spot for those wanting to combine a coastal retreat with a city break, Miami Beach is also renowned for its nightlife and luxurious scene but with a more tranquil edge to it.
Home to a diverse range of cultures, Miami Beach is a vibrant destination with pastel architecture, eclectic offerings and a huge foodie scene.
The beach itself is truly spectacular with glistening turquoise waters and pristine white sands.
Events and Things to Do
Throughout the year, Miami Beach welcomes some of Florida’s most exciting events including world-class music concerts, food festivals and sporting competitions.
While not directly on Miami Beach, a visit to this oceanfront spot in May could perfectly align with the Miami Grand Prix, one of the world’s biggest motoring events.
A destination for those in search of sun-drenched days and exciting nights, Miami Beach is a hub of activity.
Best Things to Do in Miami Beach, Florida for May
- Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Package at Lapis, the Spa at Fontainebleau
- Feel the Gatsby-esque vibes at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- Escape into the Historic Spanish Village of Española Way
- Shop at the luxurious Bal Harbour Shops
- Tour the artsy Wynwood neighborhood.
- Visit Little Havana and dine on authentic Cuban cuisine
- Wander along Ocean Drive and explore the Art Deco District.
- Go on an adventure tour to the Everglades National Park
- Unwind on a sunset cruise
- Hangout at the Miami Grand Prix
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10. Key Largo
Once you begin visiting the Florida Keys, you’ll never look back and visiting Key Largo during the month of May is exceptional.
Boasting a backdrop of a captivating botanical landscape, Key Largo is a breathtaking work of Mother Nature, home to two state parks and a national park.
Meanwhile, palm-lined beaches with sparkling sands makes Key Largo a top spot for beach breaks.
Events and Things to Do
However, Key Largo’s biggest claim to fame is as the Diving Capital of the World.
The crystal clear waters are home to thriving coral reefs and an abundance of sea life, creating not only one of the best destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving in Florida but in the world.
Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys for May:
- Party on Duval Street in Key West
- Sip Cocktails and Dinner in Key Largo at Snook’s Bayside Restaurant and Grand Tiki Bar
- Paint with rescued and orphaned dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key
Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys:
- Santa Maria Suites (Key West)
- H2O Suites (Key West)
- Aqua Lodge Rentals At Coconut Cay (Marathon)
- Margaritaville Beach House (Key West)
- The Perry Hotel & Marina (Key West)
- Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa (Marathon)
- Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel and Resort (Marathon)
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My Final Thoughts
While most Florida beaches are stunning enough to capture your attention, only the most special ones take a place in your heart.
It may be difficult to narrow down the best beaches in Florida but if you’re visiting in May, you don’t want to miss a visit to this top ten.
From serene oceanfront spots to world-renowned water-sport hubs, whatever you’re looking for from a beach destination in May, you’re guaranteed to find it in Florida.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!
About the Author
Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast. She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.
