Best beaches for sunsets in florida

7 Best Places to Catch a Florida Sunset this Fall

Written by Boatsetter Team
November 29, 2023

Autumn offers a unique experience for boaters in Florida, whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor hoping to make the most of your trip. If you’re wondering where to set sail for a sunset cruise, then you’re in the right place. 

Below, we’ve created a quick guide to seven of the best places to catch a Florida sunset this fall. So, book a boat rental and pack a camera, because you’ll want to remember these epic sunsets for years to come!   

  1. Bowman’s Beach 
  2. Cedar Key
  3. Clearwater Beach
  4. Islamorada, Key West
  5. Miami Beach
  6. Naples
  7. St. George Island

Explore boat rentals for a Sunset Cruise in Florida 

 

1. Bowman’s Beach 

Sanibel Island, Florida.

Sanibel Island beaches are some of the best along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Bowman’s Beach is well-known for its quiet atmosphere, great shelling, and sunset views. Milder weather and smaller crowds make this a great place to watch a Florida sunset in the fall. Sunsets at Bowman’s Beach paint the sky with hues of pink and gold, making for a postcard moment on the water.

Find boats for rent in Sanibel, FL 

 

2. Cedar Key

cedar key

Cedar Key is an Old Florida vacation spot off the northwest shores, in the Gulf of Mexico. After an afternoon strolling the city streets in search of the best clam chowder, take a trip over to the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge. Look for dolphins and manatees, or turn your eyes to the sky. Beyond the birds taking off, you’ll find unforgettable sunsets coloring the western horizon in soft pastels.

Find boats for rent in Cedar Key, FL

 

3. Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Just off the coast of Tampa is one of Florida’s most popular and picturesque barrier islands. Clearwater Beach offers an abundance of activities, from dockside dining to beautiful beaches, premiere fishing, and a vibrant nightlife. But before the sun goes down, we highly recommend taking your boat out for a spin so that you can embrace the sky’s transformation at sunset. Sunsets at Clearwater Beach offer panoramic spectacles with vibrant colors, often bolstered by clear skies. 

Find boats for rent in Clearwater Beach, FL

 

4. Islamorada

Anne's Beach, Islamorada.

Islamorada is a cluster of islands in Florida’s Keys, known for stunning views, pristine diving conditions, and beautiful coral reefs. The preserved landscape and vibrant wildlife have left the islands fairly untouched and uncrowded. So, if you’re on your way to Key West this fall and want to find the best place to catch a quiet Florida sunset, then we recommend venturing out to the serene waters of Islamorada. 

Find boats for rent in Islamorada, FL 

 

5. Miami Beach

South Beach, Miami.

It’s no secret that Miami is one of Florida’s hot spots, especially in the colder months. Miami’s urban backdrop provides more than a variety of dining options and cultural attractions. While most Florida sunsets happen on the western shores, a sunset at Miami Beach offers boaters an alternative view. Watch from the water as a dazzling array of colors descend behind the Miami skyline, illuminating the city in an unforgettable way.

Find boats for rent in Miami, FL 

 

6. Naples

Clam Pass Park, Naples, Florida.

Naples is a must-visit destination for boaters in southern Florida. And with smaller crowds and milder temperatures, the fall is the best time to do so! Between the white-sand beaches and crystal waters, Naples offers a phenomenal backdrop for water sports and activities. When you’re ready for a bite, wind down at one of Naples’ finest waterfront restaurants, and keep an eye on the time if you want to watch a glorious, colorful sunset over the Gulf. 

Find boats for rent in Naples, FL 

 

7. St. George Island

 

If you’re farther north and are looking for the perfect place to catch a Florida sunset this fall, then sail over to St. George Island from Panama City. A barrier island off of Apalachicola Bay, St. George Island is a quaint panhandle escape. 

St. George is a great location for families, pet owners, and anyone looking to get in touch with nature. In addition to the quiet local beaches and calm waters, St. George Island has miles of undeveloped beaches where you can enjoy extraordinary wildlife, landscapes, and premiere fishing. Sunsets at this hidden gem paint the skies with hues of red, gold, and violet.

Find boats for rent in Panama City, FL 

 

Get the best of Florida this fall on the water  

Whether you’re visiting Florida this fall or are a local looking for a new adventure, we hope this guide helps you find unforgettable Florida sunsets. Between the shell-strewn shores of Sanibel to the bustling energy of Miami Beach, each of these seven spots have their own unique allure. 

Whether you own a boat or are looking to rent, Boatsetter is ready to help you have the best sunset cruise. For more information and booking options, click here!

 

About us 

Boatsetter is the go-to app for boat rentals and on-water experiences. Whatever the adventure, we’ve got a boat for that—Set sail, start the party, go yachting, make your trophy catch, and hone your watersports skills! Download the Boatsetter app (App Store | Google Play). Make sure to follow @boatsetter on Instagram, and tag us in all your boat day pictures for the chance to be featured.

Rent. List. Share—Only at Boatsetter 


Browse by experience


Explore articles