The Atlantic coast: international and connected
From Jupiter through Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale to Miami, the Atlantic coast is the most international part of Florida. Miami is a gateway to Latin America and Europe, and Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale have their own international airports. Life ranges from Palm Beach's quiet privacy to Miami's energy, with culture, private schools and business close at hand.
The ocean here has more surf, and mornings belong to the sunrise over the water.
The Gulf Coast: calmer water, slower pace
From Naples and Bonita Springs up through Sarasota and Tampa Bay to the Nature Coast, the Gulf feels quieter and more relaxed. The water is usually calmer, the beaches face the sunset, and many towns are lower-rise. Naples is known for its golf and its downtown; Sarasota for arts and barrier-island beaches; Tampa Bay for a growing city with an international airport.
How families usually decide
- Flights home. Check which airport has the routes you'll use most. Many families choose the coast that gets them home with one flight.
- Pace. City and culture on the Atlantic; space and quiet on much of the Gulf.
- Water. Ocean surf and sunrises, or calmer Gulf water and sunsets.
- Family and business. Where your children will study, and where your business or clients are.
- Golf. Both coasts have outstanding club communities. See our golf communities page.
Storms, on either coast
Both coasts are hurricane country, and recent storms have reached both. What matters most is the specific property: its elevation and flood zone, how the building was built and when, and the cost of insuring it. Those are worth checking before you choose a home, wherever it is.
How we help
We help you compare towns on the things that matter to your family, then introduce the right local professionals. Explore the areas, town by town, see the Gulf Coast map, or tell us what you're looking for.
General information. Confirm flight routes, flood zones and insurance for any specific property.