Soft, sandy beaches. Warm, emerald-colored waters. Endless opportunities to swim, surf, snorkel, and sit along either the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean. Welcome to Florida, appropriately nicknamed the Sunshine State. Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on the west coast and the Atlantic Ocean on the east, the Peninsula State offers subtropical weather, hundreds of beaches to play on, and plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy.

Not sure where to start? Check out the best destinations in the state for beach goers, fishermen, sports enthusiasts, and cultural connoisseurs—there’s something for everyone in Florida.

1. Soak up the sun in the Florida Keys. As the southernmost point in the continental United States, the Florida Keys are a group of islands with endless ways to enjoy the beach. Stay in popular Key West to mix some night life into your beach vacation. Don’t forget to check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Find peace and quiet in outdoorsy Key Largo, where you can snorkel, kayak, and fish. For fisherman, staying on one of the 6 Islamorada islands—dubbed as the Sports Fishing Capital of the World—is a must.
2. Cheer on the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay. Football enthusiasts, catch a game at the Raymond James Stadium to have the ultimate fan experience. While you’re in town, take the family to the Florida Aquarium, relax on Davis Island, or explore Busch Gardens—a 335-acre African-themed animal theme park smack dab in the downtown district.
3. Play on the soft sands of Clearwater Beach. With miles of beaches, Clearwater Beach on the western side of the Florida peninsula is a popular destination for anyone who enjoys soft sands, warm waters, and mild winters—so, everyone. Watch dolphins play on a Clearwater Shark Boat, spend the day bird watching at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, or take a boat out to Honeymoon Island State Park.
4. Fish in the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. If you’re feeling lucky, head to Destin on the “Emerald Coast.” Start at the Okaloosa Island fishing pier to try to catch large game fish like tarpon, tuna, king mackerel, cobia, redfish, bonito, jack crevalle, and—if you’re feeling really lucky—sailfish. When you’re done, check out the area’s iconic white beaches at Henderson Beach State Park, enjoy water-related activities at Harborwalk Village, or take the whole family to the Florida Gulfarium.
5. Find world-class entertainment in Panama City Beach. Whether you’re a fan of country or prefer jazz, Panama City Beach has you covered. While the destination’s 27 miles of sand is known as the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches, Panama City is also a hot spot for live music and culture. Visit in April for the Seabreeze Jazz Festival or wait until Labor Day weekend for the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam—rated one of the best country festivals in America by Billboard Magazine.