Exploring Peanut Island, Florida: A Hidden Gem in the Sunshine State

Nestled just a short boat ride away from Riviera Beach, Florida, is a true hidden gem of the Sunshine State. This 80 acre, peanut-shaped island packs a punch with its rich history, beautiful beaches, and abundant recreational opportunities.

Smathers Beach: A must see beach in the Florida Keys

 

As the largest public beach in Key West, Smathers Beach offers over half a mile of soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. 

CURRY HAMMOCK STATE PARK IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

Nestled along the beautiful blue waters of the Florida Keys, Curry Hammock State Park is a hidden gem, located midway between Key Largo and Key West.  

Why Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Should Be Your Next Destination

If you're planning a trip to the tropical paradise of Key West, Florida, there’s one destination you absolutely cannot miss: Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Tucked away at the southernmost tip of the island, this gem offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and recreation. Here’s why Fort Zachary Taylor should be at the top of your Key West itinerary.

15 OF FLORIDA'S PRETTIEST BEACHES YOU MAY NOT HAVE HEARD OF

Florida is famous for its stunning beaches, from the bustling shores of Miami Beach to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys. But while the well-known destinations get plenty of attention, there are hidden gems along the Sunshine State's coastlines that are equally beautiful—and less crowded. If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach adventure, here are 15 of Florida’s prettiest beaches that you may not have heard of, but definitely should visit.

Guide to Bahia Honda State Park

 

If you're looking for a serene escape filled with natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of history, Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys is a must-visit destination. Nestled on Big Pine Key, this gem of a park offers visitors a chance to experience the unspoiled charm of the Keys without the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas.

VISITING BEAN POINT ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Nestled at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point is a hidden gem that captures the essence of old Florida charm. Named after George Emerson Bean, the island’s first permanent resident, this serene location offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots further south.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND - FLORIDA

With white-sand beaches, beautiful blue water, swaying sea oats, and incredible sunrises and sunsets, Anna Maria Island is one of the most scenic destinations in the state.   

This seahorse-shaped, 7-mile-long barrier island is surrounded by the sparkling Gulf of Mexico on the west and the deep blue bay waters to the east. It has a low-key Old Florida vibe with no high rise buildings to block the view and where, at times, golf carts out number automobiles.

ST GEORGE ISLAND, FLORIDA

 Located just off North Florida's Gulf Coast, the 28-mile St George Island is one of the last inhabited yet unspoiled barrier islands in Florida – a serene and pet-friendly vacation paradise.

St. George Island consistently rates as one of the top beaches in the U.S., with miles of uncrowded expanses for sunning and shelling, clear Gulf waters for swimming and fishing, and pristine marshes for wildlife viewing.

HOW CUTE IS THIS?

I just had to share these pics of my grandson on the beach in Galveston.

We stayed at the Comfort Suites in Galveston the day before our cruise.  The hotel was okay and I have no major complaints.  Just be aware that there is a charge for the shuttle to the cruise port and it's not cheap.   

US VIRGIN ISLANDS (MEGAN'S BAY)

The US Virgin Islands was the first stop on our week long cruise.  We didn't have any plans when we arrived and decided to take a taxi to nearby Magens Bay.  It's only 6 miles from the cruise port and cost about $8 per person each way.

HENRY MORGAN BEACH RESORT ~ ROATAN, HONDURAS

There’s no arguing that the beach here is beautiful. We didn’t book an excursion through the cruise line, but instead hired a driver/guide outside the Carnival cruise port. We asked to visit a nice beach, and they took us to the Henry Morgan Resort. Admission was $10, which included access to clean restrooms and a beach chair.

We were only there for about three hours, so I can’t personally speak to the food or lodging, but you’ll find plenty of information on TripAdvisor. Overall, most of the negative reviews of this resort relate to the food. The beach itself is public, so you’re likely to find a great place to eat nearby.

ARUBA, JAMAICA, OH I WANT TO TAKE YOU....

Every time I hear Aruba....I immediately break out into song....

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take ya

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don't we go...

My daughter, sister, niece, and mother went on a Caribbean cruise from Florida, visiting many islands including Aruba.

Why You Should Consider Biloxi, Mississippi for Your Next Beach Getaway

I love going to the beach.

Unfortunately, I don't live anywhere near one. Being landlocked in Arkansas means that when I get the urge to put my toes in the sand, I have to make a road trip out of it.

One of my favorite places to do just that is Biloxi, Mississippi.