BD Importance

Tourism is vital to Florida's economy, with beaches being the main attraction. In 2011, Florida had 87.3 million visitors, making it the top tourist destination globally. France and the entire US followed with 79.5 million and 62.3 million visitors respectively. Tourists also contribute significantly to the economy, with the US bringing in $90.5 billion and Florida generating $67.2 billion in annual spending. Florida consistently ranks high on the list due to its beautiful beaches. And, people visiting the beaches is a major part of Florida's identity. Tourism is actually the number one job provider in Florida, supporting over 12% of the entire Florida job market, and the main reason tourists visit are the beaches. Numbers from 2011 provided by the World Tourism Organization 2012 and Visit Florida 2013 show that if Florida were a country, it would be the world's leading tourist destination. With 87.3 million visitors a year, France and the U.S. as a whole follow with 79.5 million and 62.3 million visitors a year. Also highlighted was tourist spending, with the U.S. bringing in $90.5 billion per year and Florida following with $67.2 billion. Though the rankings fluctuate yearly, Florida consistently remains high on the list and the beaches are the main reason why.