Florida is known for its beautiful beaches all along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Coast. From the northern to southern parts of the state, there are charming beach towns that offer a relaxed lifestyle close to the ocean. If you are looking to settle down near the beach in Florida, here are 7 top recommendations of coastal towns worth considering. Each town has its unique character and attractions for you to enjoy living near the surf.

1. St. Augustine Beach

The oldest permanent settlement of European Americans in the continental United States is St. Augustine. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine has a beautifully preserved historic district with Spanish Colonial architecture. St. Augustine Beach sits just south of the historic area and offers a more laidback atmosphere compared to the bustling downtown. You can easily walk or bike along St. Augustine Beach and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean. Rent a beach chair and umbrella to lounge the day away. For a beach community filled with Old Florida charm, St. Augustine Beach is an excellent choice to call home.

2. Satellite Beach

North of Cocoa Beach you will find the low-key town of Satellite Beach. Despite its small size, Satellite Beach has everything you need for comfortable coastal living. The 3-mile-long beach has soft white sand and calm waters that are perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. Several parks in Satellite Beach like Ralph Williams Park have playgrounds and picnicking spots. Housing options include beach homes, high-rise condominiums, and duplex communities. For those who want to be close to major metropolitan areas like Orlando and Tampa without the crowds, Satellite Beach’s laid-back atmosphere makes it very appealing.

3. Daytona Beach

Most famous for its NASCAR races and Bike Week festivals, Daytona Beach has built a reputation as the “World’s Most Famous Beach”. Extending some 23 miles, Daytona Beach has wide stretches of hard-packed sand that are perfect for long walks, jogs or bike rides. While the beach’s busy boulevard attracts tourists and partiers, quieter neighborhoods like Daytona Beach Shores offer a more comfortable place to call home. Live near iconic landmarks like the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse or enjoy the nightlife and attractions in Daytona Beach’s business district without living right in the thick of it. With moderate year-round weather and affordable beachside Orlando homes for sale, Daytona Beach is great for families too.

4. Fort Myers Beach

On the west coast of Florida, Fort Myers Beach is a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico surrounded by tranquil waters. Known for its powdery white sand beaches and laidback island charm, life on Fort Myers Beach moves at a slower pace. Enjoy water sports like swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking right from your backyard. Come evening, relax at one of the many beachfront restaurants and bars featuring fresh seafood. Fort Myers Beach is also home to some of Florida’s best shelling and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the quiet beaches or play a round of golf, Fort Myers Beach has everything for a comfortable island lifestyle.

5. New Smyrna Beach

Consider New Smyrna Beach if you want charming small-town beaches without large tourist crowds. Located 20 miles south of Daytona Beach along Florida’s Atlantic coastline, New Smyrna Beach has a population of just over 26,000 residents. Away from busy streets, coastal hammocks and dunes offer pristine habitats for native plants and animals. Come visit the coastal barrier within Canaveral National Seashore to glimpse sea turtles and birds. In town, trendy shops and restaurants have sprung up while keeping the historic downtown charm intact. With over 23 miles of shoreline to enjoy, New Smyrna Beach allows you to settle into an idyllic beach lifestyle.

6. Clearwater Beach

If you want world-class beaches near vibrant cities without compromising on nature or charm, Clearwater Beach should be at the top of your list. Situated on a barrier island west of Tampa, Clearwater Beach fronts the Gulf of Mexico with powdery white sand and emerald-green waters. Kayak, fish, or take a cruise to spot dolphins and seabirds along the shoreline. For relaxation visit one of the many spas, or try your luck at casino cruises departing from here. After a day at the beach, dine at waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. With premier beaches, a vibrant downtown, and natural areas like Sand Key Park, Clearwater Beach offers the best of beach and city living combined.

7. Cape Coral

If you want miles of canals winding through tropical landscaping in addition to nearby beaches, Cape Coral is a unique choice. As Florida’s largest city by land area, Cape Coral has over 400 miles of navigable waterways with homes lining the banks. On the west coast near Fort Myers, Cape Coral is close to the barrier islands of Captiva, Sanibel, and Fort Myers Beach to access the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Inland water sports like boating, kayaking, fishing, and airboat tours through the mangroves are popular here. Cape Coral also has great public parks and golf courses. With plenty of homes for sale including annual rental properties, Cape Coral pairs small-town living near nature and beaches at affordable prices.