It is that time of the year when people start dreaming of escaping the cold winter blues with a trip to warm and sunny Florida. As you begin planning your tropical getaway to the Sunshine State, be sure to consider the safety of your possible destinations. Here are five of the safest cities in Florida and why they would make an ideal vacation choice:
Sanibel Island
This island paradise is located just off of the coast of Fort Myers on the state’s Southwest Gulf Coast. The island’s relatively remote location combined with its unique topography make Sanibel protected from most types of property crime. The characteristics of this barrier island help it to be a barrier to crime as well as a fun playground on any trip to Florida. Visitors especially enjoy hunting for seashells under the guard of the iconic Sanibel Lighthouse.
Weston
Despite its location in the generally high-crime area of Broward County, Weston carries the distinction of being the safest city in Florida on many lists. The master-planned suburban community was established in 1996 to much fanfare. The entire west side of Weston is adjacent to the famed Florida Everglades, making it the perfect jumping off point for exploring the swampy lands of the state. Its central southern Florida location makes Weston a good home base for any Florida adventure, regardless of whether you want to take in the glitz and glamour of Miami or connect with Mother Nature in the Everglades.
Marco Island
Like Sanibel, this island’s remote location lends itself well to a low amount of property and violent crime. This idyllic island is located off of the shores of Naples in Southwest Florida. The natural environment of Marco Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking for opportunities to swim, kayak, canoe, and hunt for seashells. The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge provides an ideal location for spotting manatees, alligators, pelicans, herons, and more of Florida’s native animals.
Longboat Key
It is no surprise that this luxury Gulf Coast resort community ranks at the top of the list of the safest places in Florida. Straddling both Manatee and Sarasota counties, Longboat Key boasts a safe place to enjoy the sun and surf of Florida. 12 miles of white sandy beaches are surrounded by a myriad of waterfront dining and shopping opportunities. The elegant lifestyle is highlighted by a championship golf course and tennis club, providing plenty of recreational opportunities to its visitors.
Key Biscayne
If you want to enjoy the best that Miami has to offer in an exceptionally safe environment, you would be wise to check out Key Biscayne. Located only 15 minutes from downtown Miami, this urban oasis feels world’s away from the bustling city scene and eclectic vibe of South Beach. This small island boasts two state parks as well as a vast network of running and biking paths. A variety of premium resorts and restaurants deliver a luxury vacation to all who choose to spend time in Key Biscayne.
Whatever your travel fancy, you will sure to find and a safe and relaxing place to dip your toes in the water while vacationing in Florida.