Pinellas County, Florida — known for its sun-kissed coastlines and crystal-clear waters — is once again in the national spotlight. Four of its breathtaking beaches have earned nominations for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Florida Beach 2025. The nominees are Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Caladesi Island State Park, and Fort De Soto Park.
The annual contest by USA Today allows beach lovers across the country to vote for their favorite Florida coastal destinations. With fierce competition from over 30 nominees across the Sunshine State, the inclusion of four beaches from one county is a remarkable achievement for Pinellas.
Pinellas County is a thin peninsula on Florida’s Gulf Coast, bordered by Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. What makes it unique is not just the quantity of its beaches, but the diversity of experiences they offer. From lively boardwalks and family-friendly attractions to untouched natural preserves and secluded white-sand coves, there’s something for every kind of beachgoer.
Let’s explore what makes each of these four nominated beaches worthy of national recognition.
Regularly ranked among America’s best beaches, Clearwater Beach is no stranger to fame. With its soft, sugar-white sand and turquoise waters, it’s a magnet for tourists year-round.
Clearwater Beach is also famous for its Pier 60, a hub of nightly sunset festivals featuring street performers, artisans, and live music. The beach offers every modern amenity — from luxurious resorts and family-friendly hotels to beachside restaurants and water sports.
According to Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, over 6 million people visited Clearwater Beach in 2024, making it one of the most popular beach destinations in the U.S.
Located just a short drive south of Clearwater, St. Pete Beach offers a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere. This beach is known for its warm, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.
It’s also home to the iconic Don CeSar Hotel, a pink 1920s-era resort that adds a touch of historical glamour to the coastline. Visitors appreciate the town’s vibrant art scene, boutique shops, and welcoming vibe. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the shore or catching a sunset cruise, St. Pete Beach delivers both elegance and serenity.
Accessible only by boat, kayak, or ferry, Caladesi Island State Park is one of Florida’s last undeveloped barrier islands. This beach offers a rare chance to experience nature in its purest form.
A short ferry ride from Honeymoon Island, Caladesi is perfect for those seeking peace, wildlife viewing, and gentle walks through mangrove forests. With fewer crowds and commercial activities, it’s a great escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Named one of the top beaches in the U.S. by Dr. Beach (Dr. Stephen Leatherman), Caladesi continues to earn acclaim for its environmental preservation and pristine beauty.
Rounding out the list is Fort De Soto Park, a massive 1,136-acre park made up of five interconnected islands. It’s much more than just a beach — it’s a complete outdoor experience.
Visitors can explore a historic Spanish-American War fort, kayak through mangroves, camp under the stars, or bike along scenic trails. The beach here stretches for over 7 miles and is often less crowded than its northern neighbors. Fort De Soto’s Dog Beach is also a favorite among pet lovers.
With its mix of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical landmarks, Fort De Soto offers a rich, all-in-one coastal experience.
The nominations have generated excitement among residents and local tourism officials. “This kind of recognition reinforces what we already know — Pinellas County beaches are world-class,” said Steve Hayes, CEO of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.
Local businesses also benefit from increased visibility. Tourism contributes over $10 billion to the Tampa Bay economy annually, and beachgoers are a significant part of that success.
The contest is open to the public, and you can cast your vote for your favorite Florida beach once per day until the voting period closes. Final results will be announced in late May on USA Today’s 10Best website.
To vote, simply visit the 10Best Best Florida Beach page and select your top choice. The more daily votes a beach receives, the higher its chances of claiming the title.
Florida is often called the “Beach Capital of the U.S.” — and for good reason. With 825 miles of accessible coastline, the state offers a diverse range of coastal experiences that attract tens of millions of tourists annually.
Pinellas County’s strong showing in the USA Today contest speaks volumes about its coastal stewardship and hospitality. Winning or not, the recognition brings more eyes — and more tourism dollars — to the region.
With four beaches in the running, Pinellas County has a solid shot at clinching the top spot for Florida’s best beach. Each destination has its own charm, from Clearwater’s energy to Caladesi’s peaceful retreat. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or someone just looking to relax under a beach umbrella, there’s no doubt that Pinellas County offers some of Florida’s finest coastal experiences.
So what are you waiting for? Cast your vote, plan your visit, and discover why these beaches deserve the title of Florida’s Best.
Also Read – These 2 Best Spots Are Connecticut’s Scenic, Says Yankee Magazine
The University of Pittsburgh, commonly known as Pitt, has maintained its position as 32nd among…
Troy University has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the…
Salisbury University has recently been recognized as one of the best colleges in the United…
In a significant development, Hamas has announced that it will release all remaining hostages held…
In a recent statement, President Trump urged Israel to “immediately stop” bombing Gaza, emphasizing his…
U.S. financial markets experienced notable movements as Treasury yields ticked higher and crude oil prices…