The beaches here, where the land juts into the Gulf of Mexico, boast some of Florida's purest, white-sugar sands and glittering waterways.

Silent and serene, this area features some of the most secluded shorelines in the state.

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

In 2002, Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, more endearingly called "Dr. Beach," voted the beach at the tip of Cape San Blas on the way from the Port St. Joe area the nation's best. Bordered by the waters of St. Joe Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, this 2,516-acre state park includes a heavily forested interior and 10 miles of dunes dappled by sea oats. Sun and sand lovers can enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling and long walks on the soft sands in this secluded oasis.

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

- Colin Hackley for VISIT FLORIDA

Cape San Blas

The entire peninsula, better known as "the Cape," is comprised of more than 17 miles of pristine beach accessible though a number of beach parks. Cape Palms Park includes a picnic pavilion, playground, grills and an observation deck. Salinas Park, at the entrance of Cape San Blas, is nestled among scrub oak trees. Winding boardwalks allow you to meander and quietly observe wildlife while you stroll toward miles of unspoiled beach.

Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill is a dune ridge located on the mainland across from Cape San Blas. The 40-acre park once housed the St. Joseph Lighthouse. There is a boardwalk that leads you to beautiful beaches. The park also includes trails, picnic areas and plenty of activities for your entire family.

Go fishing at Cape San Blas

Go fishing at Cape San Blas

- Colin Hackley for VISIT FLORIDA

Indian Pass

Indian Pass is a natural channel between Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Its broad beach provides a nice spot for fishing and relaxing away from the crowds. If you're a boater, take advantage of the Indian Pass public boat ramp and take a cruise to St. Vincent Island.

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge

This natural barrier island set off the Apalachicola beach coast features more than 12,000 pristine acres accessible only by boat or ferry. This wildlife refuge includes 14 miles of beach and 80 miles of sandy roads that are a haven for a turtles, bald eagles and many other animal species.

St. George Island State Park

Situated at the western tip of Florida's Big Bend, St. George features secluded beaches that are perfect for sunning, shelling and surf fishing. St. George Island State Park sits on more than 1,900 acres at the eastern tip of the island and has nine miles of unspoiled coastline. Enjoy meandering on the boardwalks and nature trails, sitting on the observation deck and swimming in the beautiful Gulf water.

Dog Island

The smallest in the chain of Apalachicola barrier islands, this island is accessible only by boat or ferry. The island is free of modern development, with the exception of a few private homes. Spend an afternoon here walking the dune-swept beaches or just relaxing.

Carrabelle Beach

Considered by locals to be the gateway to the world's most beautiful beaches, Carrabelle Beach is a beauty in its own right. One-and-a-half miles west of town, this quiet beach features picnic areas and facilities. It's perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming or surf fishing.

PLACES TO REMEMBER