The Best of South Florida: Best Beaches

Sun, surf, and sand. South Florida has plenty of all three. But do you know what are the best beaches in South Florida? We've tallied your votes and here are the answers.

It's that sound... The waves lapping on the beach, that instantly brings to mind peace and tranquility. And the feel of sand between your toes. And the warm crystal-clear blue waters don't hurt either.

When it comes to fun in the sun, our viewers say the Cape Florida Beach on Key Biscayne is number three.

Colorful umbrellas line the beach under the lighthouse. It's a great place to bring the family or just relax or get baptized?

Proof positive that this beach is good for almost everything.

Is this a familiar sky line to you? Do you recognize this oceanfront drive?

Lt. Jim McCrady, a Lifeguard, says "I'm surprised that we're not number one."

It was close, but Fort Lauderdale Beach at the end of Las Olas Boulevard came in second.
   
Folks who come here say they like the laid back attitude and the family atmosphere.

Danielle Gagnon, a beachgoer, says "I love this place so much. I've been coming here for the last seven years every other weekend at least."

And perhaps one of the best features is a quick walk across the street takes you to shops and restaurants, when the sun gets just too strong.

Bill Wilders, a beachgoer, says "It's a lot of nice shops... lot of nice restaurants. Lot of atmosphere to the beach itself.

And the number one place that our viewers choose to beach it is right here on South Beach. 

It's a good 15 - 20 block stretch with something for everybody. You've got your gay crowd, straight crowd, family crowd... even the topless crowd.

And if it's topless you want, it's topless you'll get. Some come to bare it all, others come for the sun and surf.

Sandra Torcato, a beachgoer, says "The white sand, blue water, sunny skies. You can come on the beach and see all different kinds of people and nobody really bothers anyone."  

And that's what makes South Beach the place to work on your killer tan.

It's all a matter of finding a block of beach where you're most comfortable, spreading out that towel and starting to relax. And to many, there is just something magical about this place where the water meets the land.

Nothing really compares to the unique atmosphere that South Beach has. It's not anything even tangible. It's just the spirit of South Beach.

Right now we're taking your votes for the "best ice cream shop" in South Florida and next week, sink your teeth into one of our favorite categories: "best donut shop."