Forget dreaming of a white Christmas. Most Americans are dreaming about a tropical getaway. From the Maldives to Aruba to all the hidden atolls in between, most of us can’t wait to sink into some warm sand below a swaying palm tree.
Can’t you hear the waves washing onto shore already?
Unfortunately, the only official US territories that exist in the tropics are Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and a smattering of Polynesian locations like American Samoa.
Fortunately, however, much of the US fits into the subtropical zone, including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas coastlines. Despite the designation of ‘subtropical’, you might not notice the difference in many parts of the Sunshine State.
The line dividing topical from subtropical brushes against the state’s southernmost areas. That means you can find more than a few palm tree-laden hidden paradises in Florida.
If you’re dreaming of a luxurious tropical getaway but can’t quite swing it, then consider a trip to Florida. I’ve uncovered some of the state’s most delectable seaside destinations, all of which are protected and regulated by state authorities.
You might even forget you’re not in the Caribbean or South Asia.
Cayo Costa State Park, Cape Coral
This state park is situated on an island around ten miles off Cape Coral on Florida’s west coast. It’s accessible by private boats and charters, along with a public ferry. You can even camp out on its beaches beneath towering palm trees.
But you’ll probably be focused on its crystal-clear waters and rugged landscape. Cayo Costa State Park is protected because it’s home to four sea turtle species, including the world’s rarest and most endangered species (Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle).
Don’t worry—park authorities block off the nests, so you won’t accidentally stomp on any fragile eggs when setting up camp. You might even see a few as you enjoy the island’s many outdoor activities.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West
Around 70 miles west of Key West, you’ll find a mini archipelago known as Dry Tortugas Island. Similar to Cayo Costa State Park, this area is protected by the US Park Service.
Along with monitoring sea turtles and marine life populations, they also seek to protect and support the island’s some 300 species of bird.
Interestingly enough, history is a major attraction here. At Dry Tortugas National Park, you’ll also have access to a defunct fort from the 1800s. Fort Jefferson was never completed but still stands as a National Historic Landmark.
Officially, it’s the US’s most remote landmark. (Unofficially, it kind of looks like an old-school version of the Pentagon?)
Keewaydin Island, Marco Island
West of Marco Island (and the city of Naples) is a barrier island called Keewaydin. If you’ve traveled to the area, you might have heard of it from Marco Island natives; many leave from the local docks to check out Keewaydin.
In fact, when Marco Island was developed in the 1950s and 60s, some builders set their sights on Keewaydin. After a few homes and plots were set, construction was halted thanks to a local petition to prevent development on the island. (Not before the Biden bungalow went up, though.)
Since construction was banned, Keewaydin become an important breeding and hatching ground for loggerhead turtles. But you’ll probably be more interested in the little isthmus at the end of the island. It’s a popular spot for people to congregate in their boats to take in the scenery, throw back a few cold ones back, and drink in that tropical sun.
Crab Island, Destin
As part of Florida’s panhandle, Destin has some of the clearest waters and whitest sands in the US. This area got its name the ‘Emerald Coast’ thanks to sunlight playing off the plankton along the ocean’s bottom, which refracts through the clear water. (Science!)
The city of Destin and nearby Miramar Beach are two of the most tropical locations in the Gulf. But there’s an even more breathtaking spot: Crab Island.
Technically, this isn’t an island—just a sandbar that stretches along the coast. That makes it great for swimming and otherwise lounging in the gentle tides. It’s also the perfect place for locals and visitors to park their boats and enjoy the tropical summer vibes.
Hidden paradises in Florida: Choosing your champion
If you’re looking for a tropical getaway with family, I’d suggest checking out Crab Island in Destin. The area is renowned for its family-friendly list of activities. Keewaydin also seems a bit more accessible thanks to its proximity to Marco Island.
However, I’m personally intrigued by Dry Tortugas National Park. Not only does it have a historical element, but it’s also a protected zone for birds, sea turtles, and other marine life. That’s a win-win for me.