Looking to escape to a sunny Florida beach in March?
If so, you’ve picked the perfect time!
March in Florida means perfect beach weather – warm enough to swim but not scorchingly hot, plus tons of exciting events happening coast-wide.
Whether you’re seeking spring break vibes or peaceful shores, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into Florida’s 10 best beaches to visit this March, complete with insider tips on where to stay, what to eat, and the coolest events happening while you’re there!
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Key Takeaways
- Daytona Beach is perfect for families and motorsports enthusiasts alike.
- Destin offers stunning white-sand beaches and is known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
- Treasure Island emphasizes community development and environmental protection initiatives.
- Panama City Beach offers vibrant nightlife and extensive outdoor activities, including state parks.
- Each beach destination in Florida has unique features that cater to diverse visitor preferences with average temperatures around 77 degrees fahrenheit.
Keep reading to get everything you need to know about the top March beach destinations in Florida.
1. Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach shines in March with its 23 miles of stunning Atlantic coastline and perfect 70°F temperatures.
This isn’t just any beach destination – it’s the home of motorsports culture and the famous Bike Week, drawing thousands of enthusiasts during March.
What to Expect
Here you’ll enjoy wide, hard-packed sand that’s perfect for beach driving, volleyball, and people-watching.
The iconic pier and boardwalk create a classic beach town atmosphere that’s hard to beat. It’s one my favorite places to visit whenever I’m in Daytona Beach and one you can’t miss!
While you’re in town, I recommend staying at The Shores Resort & Spa or the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona as both offer oceanfront luxury with fire pits for evening beach gatherings.
March Events
During this time, you can catch the tail end of the Daytona 500 festivities or immerse yourself in Bike Week (usually the first two weeks of March) with motorcycle races, concerts, and street festivals.
Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to visit Monday through Thursday to avoid the spring break crowds that flock here on weekends.
Best Places to Eat
- Try Crabby Joe’s on the pier for fresh seafood with an unbeatable view
- Ocean Deck for live reggae and beach vibes
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2. Destin
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin boasts some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches with powder-white sand and striking emerald waters.
March brings comfortable 68-72°F temperatures – perfect for exploring without summer’s intense heat.
What to Expect
I love the picturesque feel that you get in this Florida beach town. There are crystal clear waters, sugar-white beaches, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Plus, the fishing here is legendary, with Destin harboring Florida’s largest fishing vessel fleet.
While you’re there, I recommend staying at the Henderson Beach Resort which offers luxury accommodations with private beach access.
March Events
The Destin Fishing Rodeo kicks off, and the Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show showcases the latest in marine recreation.
Hipster Power Tip: Book a sunset cruise to spot dolphins playing in the wake – they’re particularly active in March as waters warm.
Best Places to Eat
- Harbor Docks serves the freshest seafood caught by local boats
- Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House offers waterfront dining with southern coastal cuisine
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3. Treasure Island
Now we’re at one of my favorite beaches here in Florida and that’s Treasure Island!
Treasure Island delivers on its promising name with pristine white-sand beaches and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for March visitors seeking relaxation.
This Gulf Coast gem maintains a small-town feel despite its growing popularity. Making it one of the best Florida spring break beaches.
What to Expect
Here you’ll enjoy the magnificent shoreline with plenty of space to spread out, clear gulf waters, and spectacular sunsets that live up to the island’s treasured reputation.
If you’re spending your spring break here, I recommend staying at Treasure Island Beach Resort or the Ocean Club.
Both options offer modern accommodations with Gulf views, spacious rooms and easy beach access.
However, the Ocean Club is my favorite. It’s one of the new resorts on the beach and it comes with 2-bedroom suites.
March Events
Don’t miss the Back to the Beach: Sand & Kites & Coastal Delights, where world-class sand sculptors create incredible artwork right on the beach and you’ll fall in love with the colorful and creative kites high in the sky.
Hipster Power Tip: Take advantage of the beach trolley to explore the entire island without parking hassles.
Best Places to Eat
- Caddy’s on the Beach and Sloppy Joe’s for casual dining with your toes in the sand
- Middle Grounds Grill for upscale seafood in a relaxed setting
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4. Cape San Blas
If you’re seeking unspoiled natural beauty, Cape San Blas offers a tranquil March retreat on Florida’s Forgotten Coast.
This narrow peninsula stretches into the Gulf, providing both bay and gulf beaches with minimal development.
What to Expect
Here you’ll love the pristine shorelines, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere far from commercial tourist areas.
To me, this is the place you go when you want a more tranquil beach trip.
There aren’t many hotels here so vacation rentals dominate here so be sure to look for beachfront homes through VRBO for privacy and space.
March Events
The 1st Annual South Gulf Fire – Mad Dog Run 5K attracts fitness enthusiasts, while local seafood festivals in the county celebrate the start of spring.
Hipster Power Tip: Rent bikes to explore the 8-mile paved trail that runs the length of the cape.
Best Places to Eat
- Cone Heads 8020 for casual beach eats and ice cream
- Indian Pass Raw Bar for the freshest oysters in a no-frills setting
5. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach comes alive in March with its 27 miles of gorgeous beaches and spring break energy.
The emerald waters and sugar-white sands create a stunning backdrop for all the festivities.
What to Expect
Here you’ll love the vibrant atmosphere with plenty of water activities, beachfront concerts, and a mix of families and college students enjoying the perfect spring weather.
I do recommend staying at the Marriott’s Legends Edge at Bay Point or the Calypso Resort which offers modern condos with stunning views and easy access to Pier Park’s shopping and dining.
March Events
The UNwineD food and wine festival showcases the area’s cultural side, while spring break brings beach parties and contests.
Hipster Power Tip: Stay west of Pier Park for a slightly calmer experience if you’re not seeking the full spring break scene.
Best Places to Eat
- Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant for casual dining with a view
- Firefly for an upscale dinner experience
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6. Clearwater Beach
Now we’re at one of the top Florida coastal spots for spring break.
With its consistently ranked #1 beaches and crystal-clear waters, Clearwater Beach offers March visitors the perfect blend of relaxation and activities.
The beach’s fine, white sand feels like powdered sugar between your toes and it’s a short drive across the bridge to Tampa, Florida, one of my favorite cities in the state.
What to Expect
Here you’ll enjoy the impeccably maintained beaches, a bustling pier area, and family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of water sports options.
During this time, you’ll see an influx of tourists to this beach town to celebrate the start of spring.
While you’re there, I suggest that you stay at the Avalon Club. It’s my absolute favorite hotel on the main strip of Clearwater Beach.
It offers luxury accommodations with eco-friendly practices, water activity equipment, a rooftop bar/pool, and a prime beachfront location.
March Events
Clearwater Comic Con brings fans of kinds to the sand, while the daily Pier 60 Sunset Celebration features artisans and performers.
Hipster Power Tip: Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to meet rescued marine animals and learn about conservation efforts.
Best Places to Eat
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill for the famous grouper sandwich
- Clear Sky Café or The Salty Crab for an amazing beach lunch
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7. Pompano Beach
One of my good friends is from Pompano Beach, Florida and she always talks about how much of a great place it was to grow up in.
Pompano Beach offers March visitors a more relaxed alternative to its flashier neighbors like Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
The warm Atlantic waters and excellent fishing make it a perfect spring destination.
What to Expect
You’ll enjoy the clean, lowkey beaches with good facilities, clear waters, and a more local vibe than tourist-heavy destinations.
If you’re going to this city, then I recommend staying at the Beachcomber Resort & Club since it offers oceanfront rooms with balconies and multiple pools.
March Events
The Spring Palooza celebrates the start of spring with a petting zoo, food trucks, tons of activities for kids, and a live DJ.
Hipster Power Tip: Check out the artificial reef program. March’s clear waters make for excellent snorkeling and diving conditions.
Best Places to Eat
- Beach House Pompano for seafood with stunning ocean views
- The Foundry for craft cocktails and upscale pub fare
8. Jacksonville Beach
Jacksonville Beach offers March visitors 22 miles of spacious beaches and comfortable temperatures in the low 70s.
This northeast Florida destination provides a different vibe from the state’s southern beaches. A vibe to me that’s in between a family destination and a quick girls trip getaway.
What to Expect
What I like the most about Jacksonville Beach is the laid back atmosphere, the flat beaches perfect for long walks, surfing (March brings good waves), and its overall local atmosphere that’s away from the major tourist crowds.
When I’m there, I always have to live it up and stay at the Margaritaville Hotel.
If you love the vibes of a Jimmy Buffett song, then you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the tropical oasis of Margaritaville.
Plus, it offers modern accommodations with beachfront access and excellent customer service.
March Events
The 904 PopUp transforms into Jacksonville’s largest curated pop-up market, with almost 200 local creatives and 15 food trucks near the oceanfront!
Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to grab breakfast at Delicomb. It’s one the best places to get coffee in Jacksonville, Florida.
Best Places to Eat
- North Beach Fish Camp for fresh seafood in a casual setting
- O-Ku Jacksonville Beach for amazing sushi
- Delicomb for the delicious coffee and breakfast with an authentic local experience
Get more Jacksonville travel planning tips right here!
9. Palm Bay
This is another lowkey destination on the list.
Palm Bay welcomes you to pristine Atlantic beaches without the crowds of more famous destinations.
Located on Florida’s Space Coast, it combines beach relaxation with natural and technological wonders.
What to Expect
Here you’ll notice that it has less developed beaches with a natural beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and proximity to Kennedy Space Center.
While you’re there, I would look for vacation rentals along Melbourne Beach for a more authentic experience of this part of Florida.
March Events
The Grant Seafood Festival that highlights the region’s natural bounties and delicious cuisine.
Hipster Power Tip: Check the rocket launch schedule as March often features launches that are visible from the beaches.
Best Places to Eat
- Yellow Dog Café for waterfront dining on the Indian River
- The Mansion for upscale meals in a historic setting
- The Shack Riverfront Restaurant & Outback Tiki bar for great views and seafood
10. St. Augustine Beach
I have a lot of family in St. Augustine which is why it’s so special to me.
St. Augustine Beach combines historical charm with a beautiful Atlantic shoreline, making it a perfect March destination for those seeking culture and coastline.
The weather is ideal, with temperatures in the low 70s and minimal rainfall.
What to Expect
Here you’ll fall in love with the white-sand beaches and gentle waves, the historic sites within easy reach, and a more sophisticated atmosphere than the other party beaches on this list.
I recommend staying at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort offers comfortable suites steps from the sand.
March Events
The St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival and Lion’s Seafood Festival bring cultural celebrations to the oldest city in America.
Hipster Power Tip: Visit on weekdays in March to avoid the weekend crowds from nearby cities.
Best Places to Eat
- Salt Life Food Shack for casual beach fare with a view
- Sunset Grille for seafood and spectacular sunset dining
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Florida Beach in March
Florida’s beaches in March offer something for every type of traveler – from the spring break energy of Panama City Beach to the tranquil shores of Cape San Blas.
The perfect weather conditions make March ideal for beach activities without summer’s extreme heat or crowds.
Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, family-friendly activities, or peaceful natural surroundings, these top 10 Florida beaches deliver unforgettable March experiences.
Remember to book accommodations early, as March is a popular time for Florida beach vacations.
Pack sunscreen, a light jacket for evening ocean breezes, and an adventurous spirit to make the most of your perfect March Florida beach getaway.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
