Treasure Island Beach
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Treasure Island Beach

4.8
·2k reviews·Treasure Island, United States

Discover the powdery sands and stunning sunsets of Florida's Treasure Island, or the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of its California namesake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early September Fridays

Less crowded, perfect beach day

CrowdLow
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Treasure Island Beach

Treasure Island Beach

Best Time

Early September Fridays

Less crowded, perfect beach day

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the powdery sands and stunning sunsets of Florida's Treasure Island, or the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of its California namesake.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"Treasure Island Beach is exactly what the name promises—an actual treasure."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island

Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences.

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Powder-Soft Sand

Powder-Soft Sand

Treasure Island, Florida

Experience incredibly soft, white sand that feels like powdered sugar underfoot. Perfect for long walks and relaxation.

Dramatic Cliffs & Turquoise Waters

Dramatic Cliffs & Turquoise Waters

Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California

Discover a hidden gem with stunning turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and a picturesque sea cave.

Breathtaking Sunsets

Breathtaking Sunsets

Treasure Island, Florida

Witness spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, painting the sky in fiery oranges and golden hues.

The Arch & Tide Pools

The Arch & Tide Pools

Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California

Explore the unique arch formation and fascinating tide pools, teeming with marine life.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Treasure Island's Two Personalities

Treasure Island Beach exists in two distinct locations: Florida and California. Ensure you're planning for the right coast! The Florida location offers a classic Gulf Coast experience, while the California spot is known for dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.

Parking & Access Tips

Parking can be tricky. In Florida, look for designated lots near Publix or consider the $15 all-day parking mentioned by visitors. In California, be aware that some GPS directions might lead you to hotel parking, so double-check your route.

Best Times

When
Early September Fridays
Why
Less crowded, perfect beach day
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, find shells
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular views, magical ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Treasure Island Beach, FL in 2024. This was a group of friends meeting up for a small beach cleanup
@trashcaulin
35K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island

Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences. TikTok+1

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion. Reddit

Ya conocias la playa mas bonita de California? #treasureislandbeach #mexicanosenusa #latinosenusa #mexicanosencalifornia #latinosencalifornia #lugaresencalifornia #paratupagina
@alohadaniel1
30.3K likes • 935.2K views
@elisolanooo The most beautiful beach in California?! 🐚💦 Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach — and YES, it’s real and YES, I filmed all of this myself!! This spot is truly a hidden gem. Think turquoise water, soft sand, dramatic cliffs, and views that seriously don’t look real. I’ve been coming here for years and it never gets old. 📍 Treasure Island Park — 30801 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA (park...
elisolanooo
60K likes • 1.6M views

🐚 Seashell Hunting

Mornings are best for finding seashells and sand dollars on the Florida beach. Reddit

🌊 Explore the Sea Cave

Discover the hidden sea cave at the California location – a true natural wonder. TikTok

Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach🪸 8.17. 2025 #treasureislandbeach #lagunabeach #la #ロサンゼルス #駐在 #california #カリフォルニア #海
yukino._
15 likes • 508 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Confirm Your Treasure Island

Double-check if you're heading to Treasure Island, FL or CA! They offer very different experiences. TikTok+1

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

GPS can be misleading. Look for designated lots or be prepared for hotel parking confusion. Reddit

🐚 Seashell Hunting

Mornings are best for finding seashells and sand dollars on the Florida beach. Reddit

🌊 Explore the Sea Cave

Discover the hidden sea cave at the California location – a true natural wonder. TikTok

🌅 Stay for the Sunset

Don't miss the incredible sunsets in Florida; they're a major highlight for visitors. TikTokReddit

💰 Beach Gear Rentals

Chairs, umbrellas, and paddleboards are available for rent, but factor in the cost. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Treasure Island Beach is widely praised for its beautiful sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets, offering a relaxing escape. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and affordability, though some note that GPS navigation for parking can be inaccurate. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile destination for a classic beach experience.

"I came to this beach for the first time and I loved it. From the convenience of Publix literally across the street to the low price parking. This was such a great experience. You have everything you need close by as far as stores and the beach itself is gorgeous. The sand definitely feels like powder sugar lol and tons of seashells to capture. I will for sure come back here again"

Mileena Cartagena

"Treasure Island Beach is a beautiful, laid-back destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast that offers everything you’d want for a peaceful beach day. From it's soft white sands to the warm, gentle Gulf waters, this beach delivers a classic Florida experience without feeling overly commercialized.

The beach is impressively clean and spacious, making it ideal for spreading out a towel or renting a cabana. The shoreline is calm and shallow, which is perfect for a couple's day out or anyone looking to float and relax. You’ll often find seashells and sand dollars, especially in the morning.
One of the standout features is the sunset—it’s breathtaking. Visitors routinely stay well into the evening just to witness the sky turn golden and fiery orange as the sun dips into the Gulf. Bring a camera or just take it in.
You can rent paddleboards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and more, but be prepared for some extra costs—the convenience comes at a price. That said, everything is easy to access.
Restrooms and outdoor showers are available and generally clean. Beach mats and ramps make parts of the beach accessible, which is a plus for families.
Treasure Island Beach strikes a great balance between relaxation and activity. Whether you're there to unwind, take long walks, or catch a perfect sunset, it’s hard to be disappointed. Just plan ahead for parking and bring a little patience if it’s a busy day.
Would I go back? Absolutely."

Lani Jones

"I absolutely loved this beautiful beach. The beach chair rental staff was very nice and the attractions were really fun and worth the prices.. The only thing that could be much better is where Google maps brings you to park. The parking was wrong! It brought us to the parking lot of a hotel."

Myrlaine “Milly” Henry

What People Like

Powder-soft sand
Breathtaking sunsets
Clear turquoise waters

What People Dislike

Inaccurate GPS parking directions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Treasure Island Beach, Florida, is located west of Tampa. You can drive directly to the beach. For parking, look for designated lots, with some visitors mentioning affordable all-day options around $15. Be mindful that some GPS navigation might incorrectly direct you to hotel parking areas. TikTokReddit

Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach is accessible by car. Parking is available, but some visitors have noted that Google Maps can sometimes lead to hotel parking lots, so it's wise to verify your route. TikTok+1

Treasure Island in San Francisco is accessible by car via the Bay Bridge. While it offers unique views, it's also known for some abandoned areas, making it a different experience than the beach destinations. TikTok

Public transport options can vary. In Florida, local bus services might connect to the Treasure Island area. In California, consider local Laguna Beach transit or ride-sharing services to reach the beach, especially if you're concerned about parking. TikTok

Driving to Treasure Island, Florida, is generally straightforward via local roads from the Tampa Bay area. For the California location, expect coastal traffic, especially during peak seasons or weekends. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, Treasure Island Beach in both Florida and California does not have an entrance fee for public access to the beach itself. However, parking fees may apply. Reddit

Beaches are typically open from sunrise to sunset. While there are no strict closing times for the sand, any facilities like restrooms or concessions may have specific operating hours. TikTok

No, advance ticket booking is not required for general beach access. It's a public beach. If you plan on renting equipment or participating in specific activities, you might need to arrange those separately. Reddit

Standard beach rules usually apply: no glass containers, respect for wildlife, and proper disposal of trash. Check local ordinances for any specific restrictions on bonfires or alcohol. TikTok

The iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort in Treasure Island, FL, has been demolished due to hurricane damage. It is being rebuilt from the ground up. TikTok+1

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Treasure Island, Florida, offers a laid-back beach experience with opportunities for water activities like jet ski rentals, paddleboarding, and swimming. You can also enjoy long walks on the soft sand and explore nearby shops and restaurants. TikTok+1

In Laguna Beach, Treasure Island Beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and a unique sea cave. It's also a great spot for exploring tide pools and enjoying scenic views. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Treasure Island Beach in Florida is family-friendly with calm, shallow waters perfect for children. Beach mats and ramps also enhance accessibility for families. Reddit

Restrooms and outdoor showers are available at Treasure Island Beach, Florida, and are generally kept clean, adding to the convenience for visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! Treasure Island Beach, especially in Florida, is known for its abundance of seashells and sand dollars, particularly in the mornings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Treasure Island, Florida, has numerous beach bars, restaurants, and dining options nearby, offering a variety of cuisines. Some visitors recommend places like the Boardwalk Grill. TikTok+1

While Treasure Island Beach itself is more focused on natural beauty, the surrounding Laguna Beach area offers a wide array of dining experiences, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. TikTok

Bringing your own food and non-alcoholic drinks is generally permitted at Treasure Island Beach. However, glass containers are usually prohibited for safety reasons. TikTok

In Florida, a Publix grocery store is conveniently located across the street from Treasure Island Beach, making it easy to grab snacks and drinks. Reddit

In Florida, expect classic beach town fare, including seafood, casual American dining, and beach bars. Laguna Beach offers a more diverse culinary scene with options ranging from fresh Californian cuisine to international flavors. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities at Treasure Island, Florida, include capturing the soft, powdery sand, the clear Gulf waters, and especially the vibrant sunsets. The beach itself offers a picturesque backdrop. TikTokReddit

Treasure Island Beach in California is incredibly photogenic due to its dramatic cliffs, the unique arch formation, the clear turquoise water, and the tide pools. It's often described as looking unreal. TikTokInstagram+2

Treasure Island in San Francisco offers unique photographic opportunities with its skyline views of the city and the Bay Bridge, as well as its more industrial and sometimes abandoned landscapes. TikTok

For the Florida location, early mornings are great for soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings are unparalleled for sunset photography. In California, morning light can highlight the turquoise water beautifully. TikTokReddit

Drone usage is often restricted in public beach areas and parks due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local regulations for both Florida and California locations before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Treasure Island Beach in Florida is an excellent choice for families. The calm, shallow waters make it safe and enjoyable for children to play and swim. Reddit The soft, powdery sand is perfect for building sandcastles. Plus, the availability of restrooms and outdoor showers adds to the convenience for families managing sandy kids. Reddit

For families visiting the California location, the tide pools offer an educational and engaging experience for children, allowing them to discover small marine creatures. While the waves might be a bit more active than in Florida, the scenic beauty and unique rock formations provide plenty of visual interest. Remember to supervise children closely, especially around the cliffs and tide pools. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

Treasure Island Beach in Florida can be budget-friendly. While beach gear rentals have a cost, parking is often surprisingly affordable, with some visitors noting rates as low as $15 for all-day access. Reddit Bringing your own snacks and drinks from nearby stores like Publix can also help save money. Reddit

In California, the main cost is typically parking. The beach itself is free to access, making it a great option for enjoying stunning scenery without a hefty price tag. Pack a picnic to enjoy the views without the expense of a restaurant meal. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Both Treasure Island locations offer incredible photographic opportunities. In Florida, focus on capturing the iconic sunsets and the vast expanse of soft sand. TikTokReddit Early mornings provide soft light and fewer crowds for pristine shots. Reddit

For California, the dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, sea cave, and arch are prime subjects. TikTokInstagram The unique geological formations and vibrant water colors make for stunning, almost surreal images. TikTokInstagram Be mindful of tide times for the best tide pool photography. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Two Treasure Islands: Florida vs. California

It's crucial to distinguish between the two popular 'Treasure Island' destinations. Treasure Island, Florida, located west of Tampa, is celebrated for its expansive, soft white sand beaches, calm Gulf waters, and stunning sunsets. It offers a classic, laid-back Florida beach town vibe with amenities like beach bars and water sports rentals. TikTok+1 Visitors often praise its cleanliness and the feeling of having ample space to relax. Reddit

In contrast, Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California, is a smaller, more dramatic cove known for its breathtaking turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and unique geological features like a sea cave and an arch. TikTokInstagram+1 This location is a photographer's dream and offers a more intimate beach experience, perfect for exploring tide pools and enjoying the picturesque coastal scenery. Instagram+1

While both share the 'Treasure Island' name, they cater to different desires: one for classic sunbathing and relaxation, the other for dramatic natural beauty and exploration. Understanding which Treasure Island you're visiting will significantly shape your expectations and itinerary. TikTok+1

Experiencing the Sunsets and Seashells of Florida's Treasure Island

The sunsets at Treasure Island, Florida, are a major draw, consistently described as breathtaking and spectacular. TikTokReddit As the sun dips below the horizon of the Gulf of Mexico, the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges, pinks, and golds, creating a magical atmosphere that many visitors choose to linger for. It's a perfect, free spectacle that defines the end of a day at this beach. Reddit

For those who enjoy beachcombing, seashell hunting is a rewarding activity at Treasure Island, Florida. Visitors frequently mention finding an abundance of seashells and sand dollars, especially during the early morning hours when the beach is less disturbed. Reddit The sand itself is often described as incredibly soft, like powdered sugar, making walks along the shore even more pleasant. Reddit

While the beach offers a peaceful escape, it's also equipped with conveniences. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are readily available, though they come at an additional cost. Reddit Restrooms and outdoor showers are also on-site, contributing to a comfortable and convenient beach day for all visitors. Reddit

Discovering the Natural Wonders of California's Treasure Island Beach

Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach, California, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, often lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Its defining features include dramatic cliffs that frame the cove, creating a sense of seclusion and awe. The water here is a vibrant turquoise, inviting and clear, offering a stark contrast to the rugged coastline. TikTokInstagram+1

A significant attraction is the hidden sea cave and the unique arch formation that visitors can explore. TikTokInstagram These geological wonders add an element of adventure to a visit. The tide pools at Treasure Island Beach are also a highlight, providing a fascinating glimpse into marine life when the tide recedes. Instagram+1 It's a place where you can truly connect with the coastal ecosystem.

This beach is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike, offering postcard-perfect views that many find hard to believe are real. TikTokInstagram The combination of soft sand, clear water, and striking rock formations makes it a memorable destination for anyone seeking a picturesque coastal experience in Southern California. Instagram

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