Florida beaches are full of wildlife. From dolphins enjoying the surf to sea turtles building nests and laying their eggs, to migrating birds, whales, and sharks, Florida’s coastline is alive with activity. The beaches offer more than incredible views; they’re landing points for coastal life and windows into an amazing natural world.

Crescent Beach

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Crescent Beach, just south of St. Augustine, is a quiet little stretch of shoreline that has some of the best surf in Florida. Aside from solid waves, you can spot dolphins, manatees, right whales, and, if you are lucky, manta rays. This small sliver of beach is right next to the Matanzas Inlet, and you can camp out for the day in calm, shallow waters. It is also a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise when the wildlife is most active.

Fort Clinch State Park

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Fort Clinch State Park near Fernandina Beach is full of wildlife to observe. You can spot dolphins from the beach and see a variety of seabirds as well. What makes this beach interesting is the Willow Pond Nature Trail. On this trail, you might hear baby alligators chirp or even spot one, along with bats hunting insects and armadillos foraging. It’s a perfect spot for anyone who enjoys exploring both the shoreline and the surrounding forest for wildlife.

Jupiter Beach

Jupiter Beach is a solid option to see migrating Florida wildlife. On the shores, you will find hermit crabs, sand dollars, and ghost shrimp in the shallow surf. The further south you head in Florida the water becomes clearer making it easier to spot oceanic animals. At Jupiter Beach, If you get in the water, there is a good chance to see small rays, pinfish, or even a sea star resting on the sandy bottom. For bird lovers, gulls and terns can be seen walking the beach or flying over the waves.

Ponte Vedra Beach

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Ponte Vedra Beach showcases pristine beaches and an abundance of wildlife. While the water is murkier, making it harder to spot oceanic wildlife beneath the surface, this provides ideal cover for migrating white sharks making their way south. From December to February is the perfect time to grab a pair of binoculars, camp out on the beach, and watch for migrating right whales and great white sharks.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

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For snorkelers, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is an ideal location. It is located on Key West, the last island in the Keys. The water is exceptionally clear, some of the best Florida has to offer. It can be hard to find an actual beach in the Keys, with resorts and hotels lining the waterfronts. Fort Zachary Taylor offers a traditional beach with white sand to relax or camp for the day, which can be rare in the Keys. If you are lucky, you can spot loggerhead sea turtles along with parrotfish, sergeant majors, and angelfish. Pelicans and frigatebirds are always nearby, making this one of the best beaches in Florida to observe migrating wildlife.

Navarre Beach

For those who like to camp out or take walks along the beach, Navarre Beach is perfect. The water is crystal clear, making this a great spot for jumping in and exploring with goggles and a snorkel. If you are lucky, you might spot sea turtles, dolphins, rays, and more. It also offers a great stretch of beach for a peaceful place to enjoy a sunset stroll while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

Vilano Beach

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Lastly, we have Vilano Beach, located in St Augustine Florida near Guana State Park, which also has beach access. This stretch of beach is famous for its coquina sand, the product of broken shells accumulated over time. These shells form on Vilano beach's shore making it unique. The debris of so many shells makes Vinano beach one of the best beaches to search for shark teeth because of the dense quantity of shells. You can spot pelicans, right whales, sharks, rays, and more at Vilano Beach, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tips For Seeing Wildlife

If you are planning to explore and spend a morning or day looking for migrating wildlife in Florida, here are some tips to help you. Get up early because wildlife is most active at sunrise and sunset. For those visiting clear beaches like Navarre, Juniper, and Fort Zachary Taylor, bring snorkel gear to explore the water and its creatures. Always be mindful of the animals you see and give them space. If you are visiting Ponte Vedra Beach, and Fernandina Beach to spot wildlife, plan a stop at Timotis Seafood Shack to refuel after your sightings.

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Best Beaches In Florida to Spot Migrating Wildlife