As of today, May 28, 2026, the sun-soaked shores of Florida continue to capture the hearts of beachgoers and travelers alike. Recently, Southern Living released its highly anticipated ranking of the best beach towns in the South, and guess what? Two delightful spots right here in the Sarasota area made the cut! That’s right—Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island are officially among the top 50 beach towns, with Siesta Key snagging the 15th spot and Anna Maria Island coming in at 11th. Not too shabby, right?
These rankings didn’t just come out of thin air; they were based on over 10,000 survey responses collected during the summer of 2024. People were asked to weigh in on their favorite beach towns, and clearly, Florida has a lot to offer. Both Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island are shining examples of what makes this state so special. Siesta Key, with its renowned public beach made of quartz sand that stays cool even under the blazing sun, is bouncing back from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. It boasts three stunning beaches, a variety of shops, and a plethora of restaurants for all tastes. Plus, you can hop on the free public trolley, the 77 Seaside Islander, to get around—no stress about parking!
Anna Maria Island: A Slice of Old Florida
On the flip side, Anna Maria Island is a gem known for its sugar-white sands and mesmerizing turquoise waters, stretching about seven miles. What sets it apart is its commitment to preserving the Old Florida atmosphere—no high-rises or chain stores here! Instead, you’ll find charming local businesses that reflect the island’s unique vibe. It’s a great place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life by the beach.
But wait, there’s more! A total of 19 Florida beach towns made it to the top 50 list, showcasing the Sunshine State’s rich diversity. Sanibel Island, ranked No. 6, is famous for its shell collecting and laid-back charm, while Captiva Island earned the No. 20 spot. Other notable mentions include St. Augustine Beach at No. 7 and Fernandina Beach at No. 10. Clearly, Floridians and visitors alike have plenty of beautiful coastlines to explore!
Year-Round Beach Vibes
Interestingly, this isn’t just a one-off ranking. Southern Living has consistently highlighted the allure of Florida’s beach towns, and for good reason. The state’s warm weather allows for year-round beach fun. For instance, Cocoa Beach, which ranked No. 36, is a hotspot for surfers and locals alike, thanks to its fantastic waves and the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, where you might even catch a glimpse of a rocket launch! You can read more about this in another piece by Florida Today.
So whether you’re lounging on the silky sands of Siesta Key or exploring the quaint streets of Anna Maria Island, you’re in for some unforgettable experiences. The natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and friendly atmosphere make these beach towns some of the best spots in the South. Grab your sunscreen, pack your beach towel, and dive into the magic that Florida’s coastline has to offer!