Florida is a popular place to visit because it has amazing beaches, huge amusement parks, and exciting cities. While places like Orlando and Miami are great to explore, you shouldn’t forget about the awesome islands in Florida.
There are islands that are not as crowded and closer to Cuba than Miami. What’s interesting is that you can reach all of these islands by driving across one or more bridges, which is pretty cool if you’re traveling by car.
10. Siesta Key

Siesta Key is an island near Sarasota, situated in the Gulf of Mexico. It is famous for its stunning white sand beach, stretching for 8 miles and considered to be one of the most beautiful in the US.
People often visit Siesta Key solely to enjoy its beach, which offers a perfect opportunity to relax under the sun and take a refreshing swim in the ocean. Along Ocean Boulevard, you can explore various independent restaurants, visit local bars for drinks, or browse shops for souvenirs.
9. Marco Island

If you drive across a bridge from Naples in mainland Florida, you will reach Marco Island. It is located near the Everglades and is a popular place for boat tours in Southwest Florida. Marco Island is an urban island, and there are tall buildings along the coast that offer amazing views of the ocean for both visitors and residents.
Many people come to the island for activities such as deep-sea fishing, romantic sailing cruises, and expeditions to spot dolphins. Apart from that, Marco Island has beautiful beaches. South Marco Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, while Tigertail Beach is famous for its shells.
When you’re at Tigertail Beach, remember to always keep an eye on the ground because the beach is covered with extraordinary shells that you’ll want to collect.
8. Key Largo

When you travel south of Miami and start exploring the Florida Keys, Key Largo is one of the first places you’ll come across. Many people tend to skip Key Largo and continue further south. However, Key Largo is actually worth spending more time in, especially if you enjoy scuba diving.
If you’re into scuba diving, Key Largo is definitely a place you should consider visiting. You can go to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for scuba diving and snorkeling, or you can also join a guided tour to venture out into the deeper waters away from the shore.
7. Islamorada

Located approximately one third of the distance between Miami and Key West, you will find the city of Islamorada. Surprisingly, it is situated on three different islands: Tea Table Key, Plantation Key, and both Lower and Upper Matecumbe Keys.
Islamorada holds the prestigious title of being known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, which appeals to devoted anglers and even casual fishing enthusiasts. For those who prefer observing marine life rather than catching them, Bahia Honda State Park is a well-liked destination for snorkeling.
Conveniently located off the Overseas Highway, this park provides an excellent opportunity to explore underwater wonders. If you are seeking a more interactive experience, Theater of the Sea offers the chance to swim with dolphins and sea lions in close proximity.
6. Key West

Key West is a very well-known island in Florida, located at the southernmost part of the state. It is a popular tourist destination with warm weather throughout the year and a lively nightlife scene. Whether it is winter or summer, Key West is always bustling with activities.
If you are interested in history, you should visit Ernest Hemingway’s house or take a tour of the Harry S. Truman Little White House, which was used by the president for work during the winter months. In the evening, you can go to Mallory Square to enjoy live performances and a beautiful view of the sunset.
And if you’re looking for delicious seafood and a vibrant bar scene, Duval Street is the place to be, with many establishments open until the early hours of the morning.
5. Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, located on the western coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular vacation spot known for its peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. The beaches on the island, though not perfectly clean and white, are absolutely beautiful, consisting primarily of sand dollars and seashells.
This means that you can always find something amazing to look at right beneath your feet. Aside from collecting shells, you can also explore the island’s historic lighthouse or enjoy birdwatching at the renowned J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
4. Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne, located off the coast of Miami and just south of Miami Beach, is a barrier island. While it is close to the vibrant city, it mainly serves as a peaceful residential area. Key Biscayne offers a great opportunity to stay active and bask in the warmth of Southern Florida.
You can relax on the three-mile stretch of beautiful white sand at Crandon Park or visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area for kayaking and a chance to explore the nearby lighthouse.
Additionally, there are numerous paved pathways that span for miles, providing perfect settings for activities such as jogging, cycling, and rollerblading, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the water.
3. Gasparilla Island

Gasparilla Island is a small barrier island located on the western coast of Florida. Despite its proximity to cities like Port Charlotte and Cape Coral, the island has a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.
Its name is derived from a Spanish pirate who used to reside on the island, and it offers a rare opportunity to experience the charm of old Florida. You can enjoy a leisurely morning walk along Boca Grande Beach and even dip your feet into the refreshing ocean waters.
At the southernmost point of the island, you will find the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, which first started shining in 1890. If you have an interest in birdwatching, a bike ride along the Boca Grande Bike Trail will create lasting memories.
2. Amelia Island

Amelia Island is located in the northeastern part of Florida and is a barrier island in the Sea Islands Chain. It is well-known for its stunning beaches and offers various recreational activities like golfing and boating. If you’re interested in history, make sure to visit Fort Clinch, a historic fort that provides a beautiful view of the beach.
The museum next to the fort is also highly recommended. Additionally, there are numerous hiking paths surrounding the fort, spanning several miles.
1. Anna Maria Island

There is another barrier island in Florida called Anna Maria Island, located south of Tampa and St. Petersburg. The main attraction of Anna Maria Island is its stunning beaches. Bradenton Beach and Coquina Beach are highly recommended for swimming and building sandcastles.
The island has made an effort to preserve its history and unique architecture, giving it a nostalgic “Old Florida” atmosphere.
For those interested in learning more about the area’s past, a visit to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society is a great opportunity to discover the history of the Timucuan Indians who lived there and the Spanish settlers that followed.