Gulf coast or bust.
As a kid raised in South Florida, my idea of the beach was based on the Atlantic — the one I grew up visiting. The sand was coarse and light brown, full of shells and hot enough to burn the bottoms of my feet in the height of summer. The ocean was deep blue to blue-green, depending on the day and the waves, which rolled in steadily and sometimes knocked me right over. My beach was THE beach.
All that changed on a summer trip to Siesta Key with my family. When I first stepped onto the beach, my young mind was blown. The sand looked and felt like baby powder and wasn’t hot at all. Where had this beach been all my life? (On the Gulf Coast, of course.)
I’ll always love my hometown of West Palm Beach and its beautiful Atlantic shores, but given the choice, l prefer a beach day on the Gulf coast. Here are a few reasons why:
Soft sand
Bright white sand gives Gulf Coast beaches a Caribbean-like look. The sand is made of tiny grains of Appalachian quartz and has a fine texture that is smooth and soft. Unlike crushed shells and rocks, quartz sand is light in color and reflects the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them, so it’s not as hot underfoot.
Clear water
The sparkling turquoise water on the Gulf Coast is as striking as the beach itself. The light-colored sand, relatively shallow water and natural currents give the water its dreamy, crystal clear appearance.
Stunning shells
While you can find shells on both of Florida’s coasts, the Gulf typically has larger shells that are more intact. The rough seas on the Atlantic side break shells apart, so more fragments wash up on the shore. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, both on the Gulf Coast, are known for their excellent shelling.
Amazing sunsets
If you’re a sunrise person, the Atlantic coast may be your best bet. (I prefer sleeping in when I’m on vacation). And there’s something extra special about a sunset on the beach, especially when everyone gathers on the sand at dusk to take in the glorious scenery.