Live Cams in Florida

Enjoy live streaming cameras of your favorite beach

Indian Harbour Beach Indian Harbour Beach

It is part of the Palm Bay–Melbourne–Titusville

Cape San Blas Cape San Blas

Stumphole - CCTV-SR30A-Cape San Blas Rd-WB

Perry Perry - Big Bend Region

Tucked into the Big Bend region, roughly between Tallahassee and Gainesville

St. Pete Beach St. Pete Beach

Located from west of St. Petersburg

St. Pete Beach St. Pete Beach

A Florida resort city set on a barrier island

St. George Island St. George Island

A stunning barrier island known for its pristine beaches

Rish Park Rish Park

Offers a unique environment of unspoiled natural beauty in Cape San Blas

Tallahassee Tallahassee

It is the county seat and only incorporated municipality in Leon County

SA Midnight Pass Rd SA Midnight Pass Rd

A scenic coastal route that traverses the barrier island of Siesta Key

Anna Maria Anna Maria

Anna Maria is part of the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

A premier destination known for its pristine white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters

Little Sarasota Bay Little Sarasota Bay

This slender bay is central to the communities of Sarasota, Osprey, Siesta Key and Casey Key

Amelia Island Amelia Island

The beautiful marshes along north Florida’s Intercoastal Waterway

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach

Located from atop the famous Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill

St Augustine St Augustine

Directly on the beach of Anastasia Island

Placida Placida

One of the most trusted marinas in Florida

Mallory Square Mallory Square

The Best Place To See The Sunset In Key West

West Palm Beach West Palm Beach

Located on the Lake Worth Lagoon, just west of the Atlantic ocean

Pensacola Beach Pensacola Beach

Located at Starboard Village, a beachfront community

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

A popular tourist destination located on the Gulf of Mexico

Pembroke Park Pembroke Park

Situated on West Hallandale Beach Boulevard

Navarre Beach Navarre Beach

Just over the Navarre Beach Bridge on the right

Melbourne Melbourne

Located from Florida Tech, a private research university in Melbourne

Vero Beach Vero Beach

Just steps from the surf on one of Vero Beach’s best beaches

Marco Island Marco Island

overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and white sand crescent beach of Marco Island

Periwinkle Way Periwinkle Way

Looking North from the intersection of Periwinkle Way & Lindgren Blvd.

Sanibel Causeway Sanibel Causeway

A causeway in Southwest Florida that spans San Carlos Bay

Sarasota Sarasota

It lies along Sarasota Bay (an arm of the Gulf of Mexico)

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The area’s largest private beach and signature boardwalk

Clearwater Clearwater

Famous for its sugar white sand and clear blue water on the Gulf Coast

DeLand DeLand

Hontoon Island State Park on the St. Johns River

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Panoramic Gulf views from your private balcony

Fort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach

A small city in the Florida Panhandle

Dunedin Dunedin

A amazing city on Florida’s Gulf Coast

Venice Venice

Its offshore coral reef, and Caspersen Beach

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church

Stands as both a spiritual beacon and a community hub for locals and visitors alike

Amelia Island Amelia Island

It is the southernmost of the Sea Islands

Winter Park Winter Park

Located from the Park & Lyman Avenues

Treasure Coast Treasure Coast

A region in the southeast of the U.S. state of Florida

Panama City Bay Panama City Bay

A city in and the county seat of Bay County

Panama City Panama City

Situated along route 98 and is the largest city between Tallahassee and Pensacola

Marco Island Marco Island

With spectacular views of the river, bridge and marina

Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale

This urban location has a pleasant mixture of glitz and charm

Miami Downtown Miami Downtown

Miami skyline overlooking the city’s fashionable art

Naples Naples

Conveniently situated only steps from the famous 5th Ave. shopping district

Bokeelia Bokeelia

Situated on Pine Island in Lee County

ICON Park ICON Park

This beautiful views also changes during the day to show Epcot, Disney World and Magic Kingdom

Marathon Marathon

The Best Resort Destination in the beautiful Florida Keys

Marco Island Marco Island

A barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico off Southwest Florida

Jupiter Jupiter

Harbourside Place is Jupiter’s premier destination

Plant City Plant City

Situated in the Historic Train Depot - S Line Facing North

Pompano Beach Pompano Beach

A Florida city just north of Fort Lauderdale

Tavernier Tavernier

The largest island in the upper Florida Keys in Monroe County

Port Canaveral Port Canaveral

A world-class cruise and cargo port located 45 minutes east of Orlando

Orlando Orlando

Downtown is officially home to two Orlando Main Streets

International Drive International Drive

Conveniently connecting the Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando areas

Daytona Beach Daytona Beach

It’s known for Daytona International Speedway

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach

The northernmost developed barrier island along the Tampa Bay Beaches

Sarasota Sarasota

A beautiful city south of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast

Sunshine Skyway Bridge Sunshine Skyway Bridge

A central cable-stayed bridge that spans Lower Tampa Bay to connect St. Petersburg

Downtown Tampa Downtown Tampa

Bounded by the Hillsborough River to the west

Seawalk Pavilion Seawalk Pavilion

Centrally situated in Jax Beach

Commercial Pier Commercial Pier

Tourist attraction in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

Stetson University Stetson University

Situated at the Pi Beta Phi House on the east side of the Carlton Union Building

Naples Historic Pier Naples Historic Pier

The pier extended 600 feet into the Gulf to a depth of 18 feet

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach

Live weather camera images looking North on Gulfview Blvd

Estero Beach Estero Beach

Lounges, sand chairs and umbrellas for all Members and their Guests

Estero Beach Estero Beach

Where activity and social events revolve around lifestyle similar to a friendly small town setting

Estero Beach Estero Beach

Views of the surrounding nature preserves where wildlife

Fort Myers Fort Myers

A city in and the county seat and commercial center of the beautiful Lee County

Fort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach

A prime location on the beautiful Emerald Coast at Okaloosa Island

Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches on Florida's Atlantic Coast

Deerfield Beach Deerfield Beach

A beautiful city in Broward County - Florida

Sanibel Sanibel

Sanibel Island is the perfect sift for the Gulf tides

Fort Pierce Inlet Fort Pierce Inlet

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the beaches

Fort Pierce Jetty Fort Pierce Jetty

A beautiful public beach that offers great views

Destin Destin

View from Destin Beach in Florida

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

View of the Emerald Beach Resort in Panama City, Florida

Santa Rosa Beach Santa Rosa Beach

Overlooks beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay

Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach

On the Broadwalk at Johnson Street with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop

Santa Rosa Beach Santa Rosa Beach

View of Choctawhatchee Bay in Santa Rosa

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

Leeward Key Webcam Miramar Beach

Bridge of Lions Bridge of Lions

A double-leaf bascule bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway in St. Augustine

Port Everglades Traffic Port Everglades Traffic

View from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale

View of New River in Fort Lauderdale

Dania Beach Pier Dania Beach Pier

Sun shelter & fish-cleaning tables on a 900-ft-long wooden pier with a fish restaurant on the beach

Hollywood Beach Broadwalk Hollywood Beach Broadwalk

2.2 mile long pedestrian promenade, combined with dramatic coastal views

Port Everglades Port Everglades

View of the Port Everglades container terminal in Fort Lauderdale

St. Augustine St. Augustine

This is the Surf Station Live St. Augustine Beach North Side Pier Cam

Hillsborough River Hillsborough River

View of The University of Tampa Vaughn Center

Flagler Beach Pier Flagler Beach Pier

The boardwalk on both sides of the Flagler Beach Pier

Downtown Winter Garden Downtown Winter Garden

Small town charm of old Florida

Fort Myers Fort Myers

Unique webcam after hurricane IAN from Caloosahatchee Bridge

Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale

Lauderdale Marina’s 365′ Fuel Dock – the longest in Florida

Sanford Sanford

Orlando Sanford International Airport, is one of two airports serving the Orlando area

Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale

Premier destination for shopping, dining, events and entertainment

Albert Whitted Airport Albert Whitted Airport

Overlooking Tampa Bay, a public airport in St. Petersburg, Pinellas County

North Palm Beach North Palm Beach

An incorporated village in Palm Beach County

Fort Pierce Fort Pierce

The city is part of the Treasure Coast region of Atlantic Coast Florida

Sunny Isles Beach Miami Sunny Isles Beach Miami

On the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west

Holmes Beach Holmes Beach

View from the beautiful gulf-front dining room at Beach Bistro

St. George Island St. George Island

Situated just off beautiful North Florida's Gulf Coast

Pine Island Road Pine Island Road

A city in beautiful southwest Florida, known for its many canals

Santa Rosa Beach Santa Rosa Beach

Turquoise water on beautiful Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast

Key Biscayne Key Biscayne

Situated across the Rickenbacker Causeway from Miami

Santa Rosa Beach Santa Rosa Beach

Situated along a 26-mile stretch of sugar-white sand beaches

Dunes of Panama Beach Dunes of Panama Beach

A waterfront town and vacation destination in northwest Florida

Key West Key West

Relaxed upon leaving this tropical paradise

Key West Key West

Relaxing atmosphere with pool, jacuzzi, hammock area and many garden areas

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Watch one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world

Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale

Everglades Holiday Park, situated in sunny South Florida just outside of and Miami and Fort Lauderdale

Key West Key West

Check out the occupancy through this live feed

Key West Key West

Check out live concerts, events and shows

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Directly on the beautiful emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Duck Key Duck Key

Surround your soul in the heart of the beautiful Florida Keys

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Located directly on beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Live view of the pool, beach and tropical gardens

Key West Key West

Key West is known for its world famous sunsets

Key West Key West

Discover Key West cultural attractions

Key West Key West

Experience all Key West activities and attractions

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The city is located in the panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Wonderful weather, friendly locals, beautiful condos, and breathtaking views

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The city is also a popular spring break destination

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Beautiful beaches from the top of the resort

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Incredible views of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico

Duval Street Duval Street

Overlooking Duval Street in beautiful Key West

Key West Key West

The most memorable things to do in Key West

Key West Key West

The most energetic strips of shops

Marathon Marathon

Located in Marathon, the Heart of the Florida Keys

Marathon Marathon

Experience a true Florida Keys Adventure aboard a working lobster boat

Miami Beach Miami Beach

Had a fantastic experience with South Beach Dive Shop

Grayton Beach Grayton Beach

Between Destin and Panama City in Walton County and adjacent to Grayton Beach State Park

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Come see the fun during the day and take a look at the live bands at night

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Come see the fun during the day and take a look at the live bands at night

Fort Myers Beach Island Fort Myers Beach Island

Located on 12 acres at the northern end of Estero Island

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

Northern tip of Estero Island on the Gulf of Mexico to Estero Bay

Fort Island Trail, Crystal River Fort Island Trail, Crystal River

Located on the Nature's Coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

The breathtaking view below was captured by the Hilton Sandestin Beach beachcam

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

Carved out of 2,400 beautiful acres along Florida's Gulf Coast

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

An unforgettable tennis experience waits for you on Florida's most beautiful gulf beaches

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

Located on Horseshoe Bayou in the Choctawhatchee Bay

Miramar Beach Miramar Beach

Located south of Highway 98 directly on the Gulf of Mexico

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

A beautiful waterfront town and vacation destination in northwest Florida

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Bay County is included in the Panama City, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Its beautiful beaches, countless theme parks and great nightlife

Key West Key West

A last little piece of Old Key West

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Every evening we celebrate the sunset with a blast

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Sun, surf, sand, volleyball, all the essentials

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

This is for the locals who want to see and be seen

Siesta Key Siesta Key

Situated directly on the aqua blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Siesta Key Siesta Key

Located just offshore on Sarasota's lovely Siesta Key, play in the Gulf's calm

Key West Key West

World-class musicians on our courtyard stage and great local seafood

Key West Key West

Located just off of Duval Street in Old Town Key West

Key West Key West

A resort with a beautiful history and lore as magical as the Island itself

Key West Key West

Simple sophistication unlike anywhere else on the beautiful island

Key West Key West

From beachfront views to private poolside ceremonies

Miami Beach Miami Beach

Located directly at the Millionaire's Row of Miami Beach with its own dock

Adagio Beach Adagio Beach

Get the most up-to-date weather in Destin

Adagio Beach Adagio Beach

The beach crowds in real-time

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

Located in the quiet center of Fort Myers Beach

Marco Beach Marco Beach

Is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches

Holmes Beach Holmes Beach

Anna Maria Island located directly on the Gulf of Mexico in Holmes Beach

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The most spectacular Panama City Beach views

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The place to go for fresh Gulf seafood

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

There's always something happening at The Salty Crab Bar & Grill

Holmes Beach Holmes Beach

Located on Anna Maria Island in beautiful Manatee County

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach

Dazzles with impeccable beaches and inviting waters

Siesta Key Siesta Key

Sarasota County is part of the beautiful North Port–Sarasota–Bradenton

Siesta Key Siesta Key

Situated in West-Central Florida on the Gulf Coast

St Petersburg Clearwater St Petersburg Clearwater

A spectacular view of the water or nearby marina

St. Pete Beach St. Pete Beach

Located in the beautiful Tampa Bay area

Lauderdale Beach Lauderdale Beach

Situated just steps from Ft. Lauderdale's beautiful Atlantic beach

Captiva Island Captiva Island

Two small and beautiful islands off the coast of Florida

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Amazing beachfront and beachview

Sanibel Sanibel

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico just a short drive from Fort Myers

Naples Naples

Take in the soothing breezes floating lightly off the beautiful Gulf of Mexico

Pensacola Beach Pensacola Beach

Located on beautiful Pensacola Beach, Florida

Pensacola Beach Pensacola Beach

There is never a cover charge for music at Peg Leg Pete's

Destin Jetty Destin Jetty

Located on the sugar white beaches of exclusive holiday isle in beautiful Destin, Florida

Destin Jetty Destin Jetty

Jetty East is located approximately 1-2 miles on the left side of the road

Marathon Marathon

Marine park's home of Marathon in the Florida Keys

Sanibel Island Sanibel Island

On the Gulf of Mexico offers you a secluded seaside natural sanctuary

Estero Island Estero Island

Caper Beach Club is located directly on the beach on Estero Island

Key West Key West

Key West is Florida’s quirky little island paradise

Key West Key West

The entire island is a colorful, tropical feast for the senses

Duval Street Duval Street

Is this paradise? I thought it would be less... weird?

Navarre Beach Navarre Beach

Located on a barrier island just off the coast of the Florida panhandle

Vanderbilt Beach Vanderbilt Beach

An unincorporated community in Collier County

Babcock Ranch Babcock Ranch

Situated in northeastern Lee County and southeastern Charlotte County

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

Located behind the Pierview Hotel and Suites

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Florida weather make this the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors

Ormond Beach Ormond Beach

Look for the brightest spot on the map and you have found the Coral Sands Inn

Pompano Beach Pompano Beach

The Lighthouse is located on Hillsboro Inlet off Hwy A1A

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

See and play in such beautiful water as the Gulf of Mexico

St. Andrews State Park St. Andrews State Park

Situated three miles east of Panama City Beach Florida

Key West Key West

Boasting the island's largest private beach

New Smyrna Beach New Smyrna Beach

Situated on the north side of the Lifeguard Station

Fernandina Beach Fernandina Beach

A beautiful city in northeastern Florida and the county seat of Nassau County

Key Largo Key Largo

Streaming Live from Downtown Key Largo

Key Largo Key Largo

The Marina is a half mile inland on the ocean side via a wide canal

Punta Gorda Punta Gorda

Located on Charlotte Harbor at the mouth of the Peace River

Siesta Key Beach Siesta Key Beach

Nestled among our beautiful tropical landscaping

Indian Rocks Beach Indian Rocks Beach

View at Plumlee Gulf Beach Realty in Indian Shores Florida

Navarre Beach Navarre Beach

Located on Santa Rosa Island at Gulf of Mexico

Daytona Beach Daytona Beach

Located in the Lifeguard Station at the Dunlawton

New Smyrna Beach New Smyrna Beach

Located in the north side of the Lifeguard Station

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

The perfect blend of spectacular sugar-white beach and sophisticated

Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze

A beautiful city in Santa Rosa County, suburb of Pensacola

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Enjoy the spectacular beach views at the resort along with the close proximity to Pier Park

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Overlooks the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Located on Grand Lagoon at North Lagoon Drive

Osprey Nest Osprey Nest

Pelican Bay beach are located at the end of each boardwalk

Treasure Island Treasure Island

Situated on the beautiful Florida Gulf Coast and Beaches

Destin Destin

Located on exclusive holiday isle in beautiful Florida

Vanderbilt Beach Vanderbilt Beach

Situated at the Turtle Club and Vanderbilt Beach Resort

Orlando Orlando

The Port Canaveral Barge Canal Bridge, on Florida highway SR 401

Deerfield Beach Deerfield Beach

Situated just above the main lobby, and is typical of the view from Oceanfront guestrooms

Flagler Beach Flagler Beach

Live stream webcam of Atlantic Ocean

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach

The second-busiest cruise-ship base in Florida

Miami Beach Miami Beach

Mount Sinai Medical Center of Greater and beautiful Miami

St. Augustine St. Augustine

Locally from St. Augustine Beach North Side Pier

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Tower III of Calypso Resort and Towers places its newest tower adjacent to Pier Park

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Located at Capt. Anderson's Marina at Grand Lagoon

Fort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach

Emerald waters of The Gulf of Mexico in the Panhandle of Florida

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

An indoor interactive amusement park for the mind

Key West Key West

Enjoy the fabulous Sunset Bar, overlooking the Harbor

Longboat Key Longboat Key

Directly on the Gulf of Mexico

Sombrero Beach Sombrero Beach

Lovely beach and beautiful park on the Atlantic Ocean

Anglin’s Pier Anglin’s Pier

Discover Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FLorida a small walkable beach town

Anglin’s Square Anglin’s Square

The hot place for cool people in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Riviera Beach Riviera Beach

Oceanfront in West Palm Beach on Singer Island

Sanibel Island Sanibel Island

Conveniently situated on the Gulf of Mexico

Key West Key West

South streets on the south coast of Key West

St. Pete Beach St. Pete Beach

This is what your next great vacation could look like, relax on the beach

Destin Destin

Keep up to date with the latest weather here on the Gulf of Mexico

Captiva Island Captiva Island

Greetings from Southwest Florida's World Famous Gulf Beaches

Daytona Beach Daytona Beach

Located directly on the beach in the heart of Daytona

Venice Venice

Its offshore coral reef, and Caspersen Beach

Islamorada Islamorada

Situated 80 miles south of Miami and 80 miles North of beautiful Key West

West Palm Beach West Palm Beach

Views of the scenic Intracoastal Waterway and Palm Harbor Marina

Panama City Beach Panama City Beach

Situated just past "the curve" on Thomas Drive

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Located 33 miles north of beautiful Miami

Captiva Island Captiva Island

The beautiful sunsets are always breathtaking

Bonita Springs Bonita Springs

Situated in the very heart of Bonita Bay

Cape Canaveral Cape Canaveral

Cape Marina was one the first and largest lease holders in Port Canaveral

Captiva Island, Pool Captiva Island, Pool

Poolside Cabanas overlooking Pine Island Sound

Captiva Island, Beach Captiva Island, Beach

2-and-a-half glorious miles of paradisiac white-sand beaches

Bradenton Beach Bradenton Beach

Check out the liove view from the beautiful Bridge Street Pier

Pensacola Pensacola

The westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle

Sunny Isles Beach Sunny Isles Beach

Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway on the west

Marco Island Marco Island

A beutiful island in the Gulf of Mexico off Southwest Florida

Destin Destin

The beautiful area known as the Panhandle

Fort Myers Beach Fort Myers Beach

Views of the dazzling beach our resort sits upon with our Fort Myers

The beautiful southeasternmost U.S. State

Following American independence, when Florida was returned to Spain, the US began to think in terms of controlling the state. In 1814 a US general, Andrew Jackson, marched south, killing hundreds of Indians and triggering the First Seminole War - on the pretext of subduing the Seminole but with the actual intention of taking the region. Spain formally ceded Florida to the US in 1819, with Jackson sworn in as Florida's first American governor and Tallahassee selected as the new administrative center.

What saved Florida was World War II. Thousands of troops arrived to guard the coastline, empty tourist hotels provided ready-made barracks, and - most importantly - the soldiers got a taste of Florida that would entice many of them to return. In the mid-Sixties, the state government bent over backward to help the Disney Corporation turn a sizable slice of central Florida into Walt Disney World, the biggest theme park ever known. Its enormous commercial success helped solidify Florida's place in the international tourist market: directly or indirectly, tourism makes up 20 percent of the total state economy.

The 2000 presidential election fiasco brought unwelcome attention to the state. Both Gov. George Bush of Texas (Republican) and Vice President Al Gore (Democrat) needed Florida's 25 electoral votes to win. Bush led by a few hundred votes on the morning after the election in unofficial returns. For five weeks top lawyers on both slides slugged it out in the courts. Disputes raged over such issues as whether ballots with "hanging chads" (partially punched out holes) should be counted. Ultimately, the US Supreme Court issued a ruling that effectively halted the recounts, and Bush won the state by 537 votes out of some six million cast.

In many respects Florida is still evolving. Seven hundred people a day move to the state, now the fourth most populous in the nation. Changing demographics are eroding the traditional Deep South conservatism: the new Floridians tend to be a younger, more energetic breed, while Spanish-speaking enclaves provide close ties to Latin America and the Caribbean - links as influential in creating wealth as the recent arrival of the movie industry in central Florida, fresh from Hollywood.

Although inadvisable in the cities, cycling is a great way to see large parts of Florida - miles of cycle paths follow the coast, and long-distance bike trails cross the state's interior. Forget hitching: always dangerous (especially for women), it's illegal in Miami (where you'd be lucky to live to regret it) and on the outskirts of many other cities.

Further south you’ll come to world-famous Daytona Beach, as well as the site of the American space agency, NASA, in Brevard County--well worth seeing. Central Florida is dominated by Orlando and its well know coterie of theme parks, including Disney World, EPCOT Center, MGM Studios, Universal Studios, Sea World, and more tourist attractions than you can shake a stick at. But don’t miss the charming small citrus towns south of Orlando or the lake towns to the north. Tampa boasts a Busch Gardens theme park, but the real attraction here is the Gulf of Mexico, who’s calm green waters and white sandy beaches are suitable for sunning year-round.

Hurricanes and Climate

Florida, a state synonymous with sunshine and beaches, is also well-known for its frequent encounters with hurricanes. These formidable storms have played a significant role in shaping Florida's climate history, economy, and infrastructure. This article explores the extensive history of hurricanes in Florida, the climatic patterns contributing to these storms, and their profound impacts on the state.

Florida's history with hurricanes extends back to the 16th century. Early Spanish explorers recorded the first hurricane in 1523, marking the beginning of a long and turbulent relationship with these natural disasters. Over the centuries, numerous hurricanes have struck Florida, each leaving its mark on the state.

The Great Miami Hurricane of 1926

The Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 was one of the most devastating hurricanes in Florida's history. Striking Miami on September 18, this Category 4 storm brought winds of up to 150 mph. The hurricane caused over 370 deaths and $100 million in damages, equivalent to approximately $164 billion today. The destruction from this storm highlighted the need for improved building codes and emergency preparedness in Florida.

Labor Day Hurricane of 1935

The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 remains one of the most intense hurricanes to hit the United States. Making landfall in the Florida Keys on September 2, this Category 5 hurricane had winds reaching 185 mph. The storm resulted in over 400 deaths and caused immense destruction in the Upper Keys. This hurricane underscored the necessity for better hurricane forecasting and emergency response systems.

Hurricane Donna (1960)

Hurricane Donna was a powerful Category 4 storm that struck the Florida Keys on September 10, 1960. With winds exceeding 140 mph, Donna caused significant damage across the state, from the Keys to Jacksonville. The hurricane resulted in 50 deaths in Florida and caused $350 million in damages. Donna's impact was felt along the entire East Coast, showcasing the far-reaching effects of powerful hurricanes.

Hurricane Andrew (1992)

Hurricane Andrew, a Category 5 storm, made landfall on August 24, 1992, in Homestead, Florida. With wind speeds over 165 mph, Andrew caused unprecedented damage in South Florida. The storm resulted in 65 deaths and $27 billion in damages. Andrew's aftermath led to significant changes in Florida's building codes and disaster management practices, setting new standards for hurricane preparedness.

2004 Hurricane Season

The 2004 hurricane season was one of the most active and destructive in Florida's history. Four major hurricanes – Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne – made landfall within six weeks, causing widespread devastation. These storms resulted in over 100 deaths and more than $45 billion in damages collectively. Each hurricane presented unique challenges and highlighted the resilience of Floridians.

Hurricane Charley

Hurricane Charley, the first of the 2004 storms, made landfall on August 13 as a Category 4 hurricane with winds reaching 150 mph. Charley caused severe damage in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, leading to 15 deaths and approximately $16 billion in damages.

Hurricane Frances

Hurricane Frances struck on September 5 as a Category 2 storm, causing extensive flooding and wind damage across the state, particularly in the Treasure Coast region. Frances resulted in 49 deaths and over $10 billion in damages.

Hurricane Ivan

Hurricane Ivan hit Florida’s Panhandle on September 16 as a Category 3 hurricane with wind speeds of 120 mph. Ivan caused severe damage in the Pensacola area, leading to 25 deaths and about $20 billion in damages. The storm's remnants also triggered flooding and tornadoes in other parts of the United States.

Hurricane Jeanne

Hurricane Jeanne, the final storm of the 2004 season, made landfall on September 26 as a Category 3 hurricane. Jeanne struck near the same area as Frances, exacerbating the damage in the Treasure Coast. The storm resulted in 3 deaths and approximately $7 billion in damages.

Climate Patterns and Hurricane Formation

The formation of hurricanes is closely linked to climatic patterns and oceanic conditions. Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters in the Atlantic and are influenced by various climatic factors, including sea surface temperatures, atmospheric conditions, and wind patterns.

Sea Surface Temperatures

Warm sea surface temperatures are a crucial factor in hurricane formation. The heat from the ocean provides the energy necessary for storms to develop and intensify. In the Atlantic, hurricanes often form during the late summer and early fall when sea surface temperatures are at their peak.

Atmospheric Conditions

Atmospheric conditions, such as humidity levels and wind patterns, also play a significant role in hurricane development. High humidity levels and favorable wind shear conditions can contribute to the formation and strengthening of hurricanes. Conversely, strong wind shear can disrupt storm formation and weaken existing hurricanes.

El Niño and La Niña

El Niño and La Niña are climatic phenomena that significantly influence hurricane activity in the Atlantic. During El Niño years, increased wind shear typically reduces hurricane formation in the Atlantic. In contrast, La Niña conditions decrease wind shear, often leading to more active hurricane seasons.

Impact on Florida's Climate and Society

The frequent occurrence of hurricanes has profoundly impacted Florida's climate, economy, and society. These storms have shaped the state's development and influenced policies and practices related to disaster preparedness and response.

Economic Impact

Hurricanes cause significant economic damage through the destruction of property, infrastructure, and businesses. The costs associated with rebuilding and recovery can be immense, affecting local and state economies. Additionally, hurricanes can disrupt tourism, a major economic driver for Florida, leading to substantial revenue losses.

Infrastructure and Building Codes

The devastation caused by past hurricanes has led to stricter building codes and improved infrastructure in Florida. After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the state implemented comprehensive building code reforms to enhance the resilience of structures against high winds and flooding. These changes have been critical in reducing damage from subsequent storms.

Emergency Preparedness and Response

The frequent threat of hurricanes has necessitated robust emergency preparedness and response systems in Florida. State and local governments, along with federal agencies, have developed comprehensive plans for evacuation, sheltering, and disaster response. Public awareness campaigns and regular drills ensure that residents are prepared for hurricane threats.

Environmental Impact

Hurricanes also have significant environmental impacts. The strong winds and storm surges can cause coastal erosion, damage ecosystems, and disrupt habitats for wildlife. Flooding from hurricanes can contaminate water supplies and lead to the spread of pollutants. These environmental effects can have long-term consequences for Florida's natural landscapes.

Future Outlook

As climate change continues to influence global weather patterns, the future of hurricanes in Florida remains uncertain. Rising sea surface temperatures and changing atmospheric conditions may lead to more frequent and intense storms. Florida's resilience and preparedness will be critical in mitigating the impacts of future hurricanes.

Map of Florida beaches

The map of Florida's beaches is distributed along both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico coastlines, providing a wide range of beach experiences from the northern Panhandle down to the southernmost point in the Florida Keys. On the Gulf Coast, the Panhandle features pristine white-sand beaches like Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City Beach, known for their emerald-green waters. Moving south along the Gulf, popular beaches such as Clearwater, Sarasota, and Naples offer warm, calm waters ideal for families and relaxation. On the Atlantic side, the northern coast includes destinations like Amelia Island and Jacksonville Beach, while Central Florida's Atlantic coast features famous surf spots like Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach. Further south, the vibrant beaches of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the more secluded stretches in the Florida Keys are prominent. Altogether, Florida’s beaches are categorized by regions, each offering unique environments and attractions.


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