Florida is known for its extensive barrier islands along its coastline, which protect the mainland from storms and erosion.

Florida has the longest chain of barrier islands in the U.S., stretching along both its Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These islands serve as natural buffers, protecting coastal areas from storm surges and waves. Barrier islands in Florida include popular tourist destinations like the Florida Keys, Sanibel Island, and Amelia Island. While South Carolina also has barrier islands, Florida's extensive and varied coastline makes it the most prominent state for this feature. Barrier islands are not found along the coastlines of California or Alaska in the same quantity or significance.