Boating days are upon us and we want to share the best sandbars in Florida. Most of the spots in this sandbar map from The Florida Guidebook are popular sandbars. These spots can get crowded and if you prefer peace and quiet there are many other peaceful, secluded islands and sandbars in Florida. Sandbars vary in size, shape and depth. They may be exposed above the water, or submerged beneath the surface. Sandbars can grow to become islands, or completely disappear overnight in strong currents, especially during hurricanes.
On the top of the list as a very popular spot for boaters to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day on the sandbar in Florida is Sarasota’s “Big Pass” sandbar. This place is one of the most popular places for boaters in the area and is a popular spot due to its clean, clear water and white, sandy beach. It’s a great place to spend the day with family and friends. The Big Pass sandbar is constantly changing due to the strong currents in the area. Its current form consists of a large strip of sand located in the middle of Big Sarasota Pass and it’s much smaller than it used to be. Consequently, its smaller shoreline fills up quickly on busy days.
Passage Key is another great sandbar that made this list. You can find this white sand paradise right here in Tampa Bay.
The trickiest part of anchoring here is handling the strong currents that flow through the pass. It’s best to try to anchor on the inside of the sandbar (eastern side) and a stern anchor is a must! If you can’t anchor on the eastern side, then anchor as close to the island as possible. That way you can walk to and from the boat without having to swim against the current.
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Pensacola Beach
This Florida panhandle beach is rising through the ranks in multiple categories. They also have some of the best neighborhoods in Florida to buy a house.
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Clearwater Beach
I mean… DUH. Clearwater Beach has been named one of the best beaches in America for multiple years. On top of their gorgeous white sand and clear blue waters, there’s so much to do around Clearwater Beach.
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Siesta Key
Siesta Key has also been commonly known for their gorgeous white sand beaches. And if you’d like to get away from the large beach crowds, this spot is even better. Best of all the sand is made up of nearly all quartz. This means that you can actually walk barefoot on the beach without burning the bottom of your feet.
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Caladesi Island - Dunedin
We feel that Caladesi is one of the most underrated beaches in the Tampa Bay area. Most people just settle for the Dunedin Causeway but it’s so worth it to take the ferry over to the island where there are usually less people.
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