To protect, preserve and manage Florida’s valuable sandy beaches and adjacent coastal systems, the Florida Legislature adopted the Florida Beach and Shore Preservation Act, contained in Parts I and II of Chapter 161, Florida Statutes. The beach and dune system absorbs wave energy and reduces damage to upland structures.

During storms, waves reach the beach and dunes before they get to upland property.

The beach and dune system is the first line of defense against storms because it acts as a buffer between storm waves and coastal development or infrastructure. These factors make Florida's beaches are an integral part of the state's economy. Others visit the beaches and nearby waters to engage in boating, fishing, diving and other recreational activities. Tourists and residents come to the beaches to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of natural beauty. These plants and animals are adapted to living in the beach’s harsh environment of salt spray, shifting and infertile sand, and bright sunlight and storms.įlorida’s beaches are a primary attraction for almost 19 million tourists each year (Economic Evaluation of Florida’s Investment in Beaches, 2015).

There are more than 30 plants and animals considered rare within the state that inhabit the beach and adjacent habitats. During summer months, marine turtles come ashore to nest on Florida's beaches. For example, beaches are used by resident and migratory shorebirds for resting, foraging and nesting.

The coastal sandy beach system is home to many species of plants and animals dependent upon the beaches, dunes and nearshore waters for all or part of their lives. Florida’s beaches are deserving of this status because they serve several important functions they are all vital to maintaining the health of Florida’s economy and environment. The 825 miles of sandy coastline fronting the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico or the Straits of Florida are one of Florida’s most valuable natural resources. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Beaches Programs, within the Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, have the primary mission of protecting, restoring and managing Florida's coastal systems.

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