Top Spots To Sunbathe In South Florida

South Florida's beaches invite beachgoers to bask in the sun, but its unforgiving rays can cause problems for sunbathers. It's important to have sunscreen, despite your complexion, and to carry a beach umbrella if these items are not provided. Excess exposure to the sun's rays can lead to sun burn, skin cancer or other health concerns. With this in mind, several factors were considered in the compiling of this list such as crowd type and age, proximity to amenities, clothing restrictions, equipment rentals and noise level. Read on to find out more about South Florida's most sun-soaked spots from the sexy to the secluded and bask fearlessly.

Haulover Beach
10800 Collins Ave.
Miami, FL 33154
(305) 947-3525
www.miamidade.gov

Haulover Beach is a locals' hangout that most tourists know about for one reason. On the west side of Collins Avenue, you can park your car and take your boat out for a weekend jaunt with Miami's watercraft elite, but if you take the tunnel traveling northeast under Collins, sun revelers can find a freedom unlike anywhere else. Haulover is a nude beach that allows visitors to lose their inhibitions along with their clothing and not worry about appearance. It caters to all adult body types and free thinkers. So bring your beach supplies and prepare for a unencumbered experience as relaxing as a weekend alone at home.

South Beach
Ocean Drive from 5th St. to 15th St.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-7714
www.miamibeachfl.gov

South Beach is the iconic beach space that everyone thinks of when Miami is mentioned. Loud, brash and unapologetic, this area is the perfect place for the nubile to show off their best assets. While this is not officially a nude beach, it does permit topless sunbathing ensuring an even tan and liberal view. Bring an umbrella for a break from the South Florida sun or utilize one of the many hotel lounge chairs and umbrellas for a fee. Either way, it's the perfect way to play on a lightly sanded beach on a hot summer day.

Crandon Park Beach
6747 Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 361-5421
www.miamidade.gov

If you're looking for pristine beaches, a nature-loving atmosphere and a long stretch of sand, then Crandon Park Beach is for you. This beach is located in Key Biscayne and for under $5, beach goers can bask on the beach without the interruption of tourists, shoppers or partiers. This focus relies on the scenery rather the amenities. Rent a cabana, bring an umbrella or wade out to the sandbar to get the best experience.

Related: South Florida's Best Nude Beaches

(Source: www.sibfl.net)
Sunny Isles Beach
Collins Ave. from 157th St. to 195th St.
Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
(305) 947-0606
www.sibfl.net

Sunny Isles Beach is so European that its nickname is America's Riviera. You cannot bathe in states of undress but if you desire to, Haulover Beach is right next door. Typically sunbathers who venture here are tourists staying at one of the many oceanfront high-rises that populate the beach, meaning plenty of shelter from the South Florida sun. Experience miles of sand-drenched beaches flanked by turquoise seas and set your mind at ease. This is a place to escape.

Delray Beach
S.. Ocean Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33444
(561) 272-3224
www.mydelraybeach.com/delray-municipal-beach

Delray Beach has more of a community vibe with houses and time shares lining the street. The beach itself is fenced off with a rickety wood fence followed by grassy dunes that lead to the sand and shore. It's quaint, quiet and reminiscent of Northern Florida beaches that beg you to bask in their natural beauty. Bring your own beach supplies and enjoy an uninterrupted moment alone with the sun and sand.

Related: Best South Florida Beaches For Kids 

Niema Hulin was born in Newark, NJ but raised in Lexington, South Carolina for the bulk of her formative years. In 2002, she moved to Miami after graduating from the University of Florida. Since then, Niema has worked in film, television and commercials as a Production Assistant and Production Coordinator. Some of her films have included Bad Boys II and I Am Number IV. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.