Best Beaches Near Orlando for Families

Orlando is an entertainment mecca with iconic theme parks like Walt Disney World.  Here are some options if you want to add a beach trip to your trip to Orlando.  The beach is a great place for a family vacation. Here is our blog post detailing some of Orlando's top family beaches, including the closest beaches to Orlando!  And the best family beaches here are the Best Beaches Near Orlando for Families.  

Cocoa Beach

Situated just one hour from Orlando, Cocoa Beach is one of the area's premier beaches. It is known for its pristine sand, clear water, and excellent surfing conditions. Cocoa Beach draws families and surfers with plenty of on-site amenities such as picnic tables, showers, and restrooms. As well as access to its famed Cocoa Beach Pier offers dining, shopping, and fishing experiences. We did a Spring Break trip there. Check out all the things to do in Coco Beach.

Cocoa Beach boasts some of the finest beaches in Florida. Its beaches are ideal for relaxation and sunbathing, boasting powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. In addition, its excellent surfing conditions have attracted surfers from all around the world.

• Surfing: For good reason, Cocoa Beach has long been considered the surfing capital of the East Coast. Offering consistent waves year-round. Cocoa Beach is ideal for novice and expert surfers to find footing on the waves. Home to one of the best surfing conditions anywhere. And a popular spot for spectators watching these adventurous athletes at work is Cocoa Beach Pier. It provides great conditions and providing ample viewing of those enjoying their ride on Cocoa Beach Fishing Pier. Cocoa Beach offers family-friendly activities beyond surfers; it makes an ideal destination for family beach days! Activities at this popular spot include beach volleyball, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Not to mention playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms that make this destination even more inviting!
• Dining and Shopping: Cocoa Beach boasts several fantastic dining and shopping opportunities. The Cocoa Beach Pier hosts many restaurants and shops, including the Ron Jon Surf Shop. It is renowned for its vast collection of surf gear and apparel.
• Attractions: Cocoa Beach offers numerous local attractions for residents and visitors, including the Kennedy Space Center, a popular destination.  It is located just a short drive away in Cape Canaveral. Here, families can take a guided tour to learn about the history of space exploration. Other popular destinations in Cocoa Beach include Brevard Zoo. The Zoo houses over 900 animals. As well as Cocoa Beach Skate Park, which is popular with skateboarders and BMX riders alike.

Cocoa Beach should be on any traveler's itinerary to Florida. It is one of the best beaches on the Atlantic coast and an easy day trip from Orlando. With its beaches, excellent surfing conditions, family-friendly activities, and local attractions. Personally, we found the water to be darker than we like.  Cocoa Beach draws people in from near and far alike. Cocoa Beach caters to everyone.  Including surfers, families looking for fun beach days, or travelers interested in discovering its treasures. There's something here for everyone in Cocoa Beach.

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach offers another excellent option for families seeking an enjoyable beach day. It is located only an hour's drive from Orlando. It is known for its white sand and gentle waves. Home to several parks like Smyrna Dunes Park. It boasts a boardwalk, picnic areas, and observation towers. As well as guided kayak tours through mangroves and renting bikes to explore this coastal gem!

New Smyrna Beach offers over 13 pristine beaches, making it a prime location for beach enthusiasts. The soft powdery sand and clear waters make New Smyrna an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. And with no overcrowdedness, you can relax and enjoy nature's bounty in peace.

New Smyrna Beach is one of the top East Coast surfing spots, offering consistent waves. And a range of breaks suited for beginner and experienced surfers alike. Hosting the annual NSSA National Championships draws people from all over the world!

• Family-Friendly Activities: New Smyrna Beach is not only great for surfers; it is also ideal for families. Offering kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding as well as parks and playgrounds along the beach. As well as plenty of picnic areas and restrooms, New Smyrna Beach makes an excellent spot for adventure.
• Dining and Shopping: New Smyrna Beach boasts many delicious dining and shopping experiences. The historic downtown district offers unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and gourmet burgers. So there is sure to be something suitable for every palate here!
• Local Attractions: New Smyrna Beach offers many attractions for visitors, such as the Marine Discovery Center with eco-tours and hands-on exhibits about wildlife in the area. Or Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, which gives insight into its rich history.

New Smyrna Beach should be on any traveler's itinerary in Florida. With its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, family-friendly activities, and local attractions - including surfing lessons! And world-renowned surfing tournaments. Plus, family activities and local attractions galore. New Smyrna Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy. Surfers, and families looking for fun beach days together. Or travelers exploring its charms are sure to enjoy themselves here!

Clearwater Beach

While slightly further from Orlando, Clearwater Beach is well worth the visit. Renowned for its crystal-clear water and powdery white sand. Along with excellent amenities that include swimming, snorkeling, and parasailing. For families to enjoy, as well as multiple restaurants and shops available onsite. As well as playgrounds and piers, this destination beach offers everyone something to enjoy.

Clearwater Beach boasts some of the world's most stunning beaches. Boasting soft white sand and clear turquoise water. Its delicate white sand makes for ideal swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing activities. Plus the beaches are never overcrowded so visitors can truly relax and enjoy their time there!

• Family-Friendly Activities: Clearwater Beach is a fantastic spot for families, with many activities for kids and adults to enjoy. Activities available here include jet skiing, parasailing, boat tours, and more. There's a playground, splash pad, and volleyball courts, so kids can have fun too.
• Dining and Shopping: Clearwater Beach boasts numerous excellent dining and shopping opportunities. The Beach Walk promenade features unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. They serve everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. Something is sure to meet everyone's taste buds!
• Local Attractions: Clearwater Beach offers visitors several local attractions, such as the Clearwater Marine Aquarium - home of Winter from Dolphin Tale. This aquarium provides hands-on exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. While there's also Clearwater Beach Marina, where visitors can take dolphin-watching tours or fish for sharks!
• Festivals and Events: Clearwater Beach offers festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Clearwater Beach Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, featuring sand sculpting, live music performances, and fireworks displays. There's also the Clearwater Jazz Holiday event. Which attracts thousands of visitors each year who experience live jazz music performances.

Clearwater Beach should be on any Florida traveler's itinerary. It offers beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, dining and shopping options, local attractions, and festivals/events. That all provides something for everyone to enjoy. From families looking for fun beach days, travelers exploring local landmarks, or festivalgoers seeking live music entertainment. Clearwater Beach has something special in store.

Daytona Beach 

Daytona Beach offers families searching for an exciting beach experience an ideal solution. Renowned for its vast stretches of sand suited for sunbathing and lively atmosphere. Families can also take part in activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Not forgetting numerous restaurants, shops, and an amusement park on-site!

• Wide Beaches: Daytona Beach offers 23 miles of expansive sandy beaches, making it the ideal destination for beach lovers. The hard-packed sand allows vehicles to drive on it, providing an exclusive experience you won't find elsewhere. These expansive shorelines are great for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. While remaining relatively crowded so that visitors can unwind in peace. While taking in all that Florida sunshine has to offer.
• Racing Heritage: Daytona Beach is known as the "World Center of Racing," home to Daytona International Speedway. And home to various events throughout the year. Most notably, hosting one of the most renowned races, the Daytona 500. Visitors can tour both facilities to gain more insight into its rich racing heritage in Daytona Beach.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Daytona Beach is an ideal family destination, offering plenty of activities for children and adults. Jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball are among the many exciting experiences. While there is also Daytona Lagoon water park. Which features water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers - not forgetting plenty more family-friendly fun like shopping.
• Dining and Shopping: Daytona Beach boasts numerous dining and shopping opportunities, such as the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, which is a favorite destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Here you'll find everything from seafood specialties to classic American fare. So there is sure to be something suitable for every palate!
• Local Attractions: Daytona Beach offers many attractions for local residents to enjoy. Such as the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, which provides insight into its rich history. As well as the Museum of Arts and Sciences, with exhibits spanning everything from art to Science.

Daytona Beach should be on any traveler's must-see list while in Florida, from its wide beaches to racing heritage, family activities, dining and shopping options, and local attractions. Daytona Beach offers something for everyone. It is a great beach for a racing fan, beach day enthusiast, or visitor looking to discover local gems.

Melbourne Beach

Melbourne Beach is located on Florida's Space Coast. It is an iconic coastal town known for its gorgeous beaches, incredible surf breaks, and rich history. Offering relaxed surroundings with abundant wildlife and outdoor activities provides travelers with an exceptional travel experience. Melbourne Beach makes an excellent getaway destination. In this post, we will examine what makes Melbourne Beach so unique.

• Beaches: Melbourne Beach boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in Florida, featuring soft white sand and crystal blue waters. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing alike. With great waves for everyone to enjoy and plenty of space available on this wide expanse of sand. Nearby Sebastian Inlet State Park also provides opportunities for fishing and surfing enthusiasts.
• Wildlife: Melbourne Beach offers visitors an exciting chance to view abundant marine life, such as sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, and birds. And visitors can either join a guided eco-tour. Or venture off to spot these unique animals in their natural environment.
• Outdoor Activities: Melbourne Beach provides visitors various outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to kayaking and paddleboarding. Parks and trails, such as Turkey Creek Sanctuary and Barrier Island Sanctuary. You can explore, while fishing can provide opportunities to catch various fish species.
• Local Culture: Melbourne Beach boasts an enthralling history and vibrant culture that visitors can explore. Visitors may explore its historic downtown district, which hosts various art galleries, shops, and restaurants. As well as the Foosaner Art Museum featuring both modern and contemporary pieces of artwork.
• Space Coast: Melbourne Beach in Florida's Space Coast is home to the Kennedy Space Center and Astronaut Hall of Fame. Visitors can gain insight into NASA's past missions, and see rockets and spacecraft close-up. Or even meet an astronaut during their visit!

Melbourne Beach is an undiscovered treasure on Florida's Space Coast, offering something for all visitors to enjoy. Boasting beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, outdoor activities, local culture, and an exciting connection with space history. Melbourne Beach provides a memorable vacation experience.  Be it a peaceful beach getaway or an active outdoor adventure.

Canaveral National Seashore

Canaveral National Seashore offers the ideal spot for a more tranquil beach experience. Situated an hour outside Orlando, Canaveral's natural beauty and wildlife make for stunning sights on this stretch of sand. Families can participate in numerous activities like hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Picnic areas and restrooms are also conveniently available here.

Canaveral National Seashore, situated along Florida's east coast, is an idyllic escape for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. Boasting unmatched beaches, diverse wildlife, and unique ecosystems, Canaveral National Seashore provides an unforgettable experience - and here we explore why! In this blog post, we'll examine just what makes Canaveral National Seashore special.

• Beaches: Canaveral National Seashore offers some of Florida's most stunning and tranquil beaches. Offering over 24 miles of undeveloped shoreline, visitors can enjoy a relaxing beach experience sans crowds. Ideal for swimming, surfing, fishing, and bird watching!
• Diverse Wildlife: Canaveral National Seashore offers visitors an impressive diversity of wildlife. Such as sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, and over 300 bird species. Guided tours can help visitors learn more about Canaveral's flora and fauna or simply explore independently.
• Unique Ecosystems: Canaveral National Seashore offers several unique ecosystems. Such as barrier island dunes, saltwater marshes, and mangrove swamps that visitors can explore via hiking, kayaking, or other outdoor activities?
• Historic Sites: Canaveral National Seashore is also home to various historical sites. Such as Eldora State House (dating back to the 1800s). And Apollo Beach Visitor Center, which highlights the Apollo space program history.
• Sustainability: Canaveral National Seashore is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Visitors can learn more about Canaveral's eco-friendly practices. earn about conservation efforts within the park itself. Participate in beach clean-up efforts, or join conservation programs like beach clean-ups.

Canaveral National Seashore is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife species, unique ecosystems, historic sites, sustainable tourism practices, and sustainable tourism efforts. Canaveral National Seashore provides something special for everyone who visits. Beach-goers, wildlife enthusiasts, or history enthusiasts all have something unique to enjoy here; you won't find this experience elsewhere!

St. Pete Beach

St. Pete Beach, also called St. Petersburg.  It is located on Florida's west coast on the Gulf of Mexico. And it is an idyllic destination for travelers in search of sun, sand, and relaxation. Offering crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and an inviting atmosphere. St. Pete Beach truly has something special to offer to all travelers who visit its shores. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at why so many people love visiting this Florida beach destination.

• Beautiful Beaches: St. Pete Beach offers some of the most breathtaking beaches in Florida. Boasting crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and warm temperatures throughout the year. Visitors can take advantage of St. Pete Beach for an ideal beach day any time of the year. Be it sunbathing or watersports activities. St. Pete Beach truly has something for everyone at its beachfront paradise.
• Water Sports: St. Pete Beach is an ideal setting for water sports enthusiasts of all skill levels. You can engage in kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing, and jet skiing. Calm waters and mild temperatures make this destination suitable for beginners as well as experienced water enthusiasts alike. Visitors can rent equipment or take lessons from local vendors.
• Attractions: St. Pete Beach offers several attractions for visitors. Such as the Salvador Dali Museum which houses one of his works outside Spain. Clearwater Marine Aquarium featuring rescued marine animals is another popular draw. Or visitors may explore art galleries, shops, and restaurants nearby.
• Fishing: St. Pete Beach is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering an abundance of species. Visitors can join a fishing charter or try their luck from the pier. Additionally, this area regularly hosts fishing tournaments throughout the year.
• Family-Friendly Activities: St. Pete Beach is an excellent destination for families. It offers plenty of activities that cater to both kids and adults. From volleyball and mini-golf to sandcastle building. And Fort De Soto Park's hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities - there's something fun here for all ages.

St. Pete Beach should be on every Florida traveler's must-see list. It offers stunning beaches, water sports activities, local attractions, fishing opportunities, and family-friendly activities that cater to every taste imaginable. From beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike to families searching for fun vacation spots. St. Pete Beach truly has something special in store!

Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach, situated along Florida's east coast, is renowned for its relaxing environment and stunning beaches. Boasting stunning coastal landscapes, rich historical traditions, and outdoor activities to explore. Flagler Beach makes for the ideal retreat for travelers in search of more relaxed vacation experiences. In this blog post, we'll examine what sets it apart.

• Beautiful Beaches: Flagler Beach is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, with miles of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing. Visitors can also explore nearby parks and trails like Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area.
• Rich History: Flagler Beach boasts an intriguing past, featuring historic sites and landmarks to discover. Visitors can learn about its past at the Flagler Beach Historical Museum. Which showcases pre-Columbian times to modern times. Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park also provides insight into Florida's past.
• Outdoor Activities: Flagler Beach offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of activities, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can explore nearby state parks, nature preserves, and waterways. While fishing can provide visitors with ample chances to catch an array of fish species.
• Local Culture: Flagler Beach boasts an active cultural scene, featuring numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore its weekly farmer's market as well as events and festivals held throughout the year.
• Sustainability: Flagler Beach is dedicated to sustainability and conservation efforts. Home to several eco-friendly businesses and initiatives such as the Flagler Beach Turtle Patrol. Aimed at protecting sea turtle nesting sites. This town provides many avenues for individuals interested in joining these efforts to do their part for sustainability and the environment.

Flagler Beach is an undiscovered gem along Florida's eastern coast, offering something for all visitors. Boasting beautiful beaches, rich history, outdoor activities, and local culture. As well as being environmentally responsible - Flagler Beach makes for an unparalleled vacation experience. No matter whether it's a relaxing beach vacation or an active outdoor adventure. Flagler Beach has everything to offer its visitors!

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is a cute beach town on the East Coast of Florida. It is the oldest town in Florida.  Known for its historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and endless outdoor activities. It is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and memorable vacation experience. 

• Beaches: It is home to beautiful beaches, including the Anastasia State Park. The park has four miles of pristine coastline. As a visitor, you can swim, sunbathe, surf, and explore the nearby dunes and nature trails.
• History: St. Augustine Beach has so much history.  There are lots of historic landmarks and attractions to explore. Don't miss Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort.  And the St. Augustine Lighthouse.  B's class just went on a school field trip. 
• Outdoor Activities: As a guest, you can kayak, paddleboard, or fish. You can also explore the nearby waterways. Or take a guided eco-tour to spot local wildlife, such as dolphins and manatees. The nearby St. Johns River also offers opportunities for airboat rides and fishing.
• Dining: It has a great culinary scene.  There are several excellent restaurants offering a range of cuisine options. Don't miss fresh seafood and international cuisine.
• Local Culture: St. Augustine Beach has a vibrant local culture. With several art galleries, shops, and live music venues to explore. Visitors can also attend the town's festivals and events. Including the St. Augustine Music Festival and the First Friday Art Walk.

St. Augustine Beach is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a beach vacation with a touch of history and culture. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, outdoor activities, dining options, and local culture, it offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a peaceful beach getaway or an active outdoor adventure, St. Augustine Beach has it all.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Disney's Vero Beach Resort is a beautiful oceanfront resort located on the Atlantic Ocean in Vero Beach.  It is a longer drive, but it keeps with the Disney theme.  The resort is known for its adorable seaside atmosphere and family-friendly activities.  The resort offers guests a unique and memorable vacation experience. 

• Beaches: Vero Beach has a pristine stretch of beach.  You will have miles of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Visitors can also take part in a range of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Disney's Vero Beach Resort offers a range of activities for families to enjoy together. Including miniature golf, tennis, and beach volleyball. The resort also has a children's play area and a supervised kids' club, allowing parents to enjoy some alone time.
• Nature: The resort is located near several natural attractions Including the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Sebastian Inlet State Park. Visitors can explore these areas to spot wildlife, hike through scenic trails, and take part in guided eco-tours.
• Dining: Disney's Vero Beach Resort offers several dining options, including a beachside grill, a fine-dining restaurant, and a lounge. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, international cuisine, and cocktails while taking in the stunning ocean views.
• Disney Magic: As with all Disney properties, guests can expect to experience the magic of Disney. The resort features several Disney-themed activities and events, including character meet and greets and movie nights.
• Disney's Vero Beach Resort is a fantastic destination for families looking for a beach vacation with a touch of Disney magic. With its beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, nature experiences, dining options, and Disney-themed events. The resort offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway or a fun-filled family adventure, Disney's Vero Beach Resort has it all.

Orlando may be famous for its theme parks. But there are also plenty of incredible beaches nearby that make for ideal family trips. No matter whether you prefer lively atmospheres or natural settings - there's an ideal beach for everyone nearby! So pack up the sunscreen, and towels. And go explore one of Orlando's stunning beaches for a day filled with fun in the sun!

Planning a trip to Orlando check out our 3-day literary for Orlando or Family-friendly things to do in Kissimmee. If you have young kids, you will love Peppa Pig Theme Park.

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