In recent weeks, Florida’s coast has been a macabre scene of blood-red waters, and though the source is not quite so gruesome, it still poses a huge threat to Florida’s livelihood. The infamous red tide has bled across the west coast another 130 miles; with toxic algae bloom congesting the beaches and leaving dead marine life in its wake makes you wonder if there are any beaches without red tide in Florida right now.
Caused by toxic runoff from pesticides and higher-than-normal acid levels heated by rising temps, the toxic red algae blooms contaminate drinking water and stain Florida’s otherwise pristine beaches.
From late 2017 to early 2018, the Gulf coast was drenched in one of the worst outbreaks yet, with algae being observed in places it rarely grows, like the Panhandle and along the east coast.
It can seem impossible, maybe even a little dangerous, to try enjoying the Florida beaches right now. Thankfully the website visitbeaches.org gives daily updates on the conditions of Florida beaches, and here is a list of sandy shores algae-free as of now.
Caladesi Island
Address: Offshore Island Dunedin FL 34698
Why You Need To Go: With clear water and no reported algae, Caladesi is clear and open for lounging.
Clearwater Beach
Address: Clearwater, FL
Why You Need To Go: Thankfully, as of now, Clearwater's pristine white sandy beaches are algae-free, with calm surf and few crowds.
Indian Shores
Address: 19305 Gulf Boulevard Indian Shores, FL 33785
Why You Need To Go: Indian Shores is clear of algae, but the surf is choppy and rough, so you might be better off relaxing on the sand than swimming.
Madeira Beach
Address: Madeira Beach 33708, 33738
Why You Need To Go: Madeira Beach is free from the red tide, with calm surf and a five-day forecast of high 60's temps and moderate clouds.
Treasure Island
Address: Treasure Island, FL 33706, 33740
Why You Need To Go: With no algae in sight, the aptly named Treasure Island is a gem on the Gulf Coast right now.
St. Pete Beach
Address: 4700 Gulf Blvd. St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Why You Need To Go: The longest stretch of undeveloped beach in the St. Pete/Clearwater area is thankfully free of algae, so you can relax in the clear green water with moderate temps.
Currently, it seems everything north of Venice is mostly clear of the red tide menace, while everything south is being impacted. The algae blooms can shift suddenly with tides and wind patterns, so if you're planning a beach trip soon, be sure to check in at visitbeaches.org first to make sure your destination is clear!
If you're looking for more excuses to get out and about, check out these free places to watch New Years fireworks in Florida, and these unique Florida sights to see that you never knew existed.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.
