In my extensive research, I have reviewed a total of 13 stunning beaches that are perfect for a day of fun in the sun. From the sandy shores of Clearwater Beach to the picturesque Cocoa Beach, there is something for everyone in this diverse coastal paradise. Often a popular spring break destination, it can also make a great day trip from Orlando! While Orlando is known for its theme parks those living in central Florida are just an hour or two drive away from either the Atlantic or Gulf coast of Florida! With so many beaches near Orlando it makes sense many Orlando Families head to the coast for a day trip or weekend getaway.
This is the reason so many of the best Florida beaches near Orlando on the Atlantic side are widely known for surfing. The rough water creates the perfect environment for surfing, body surfing and boogie boarding. Away from the hum of the city, this may be the best beach to visit if you’re looking to truly reconnect with nature.
A vibrant and well-maintained playground awaits, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures. Your little ones will have a blast exploring this mini wonderland while you unwind on the nearby benches, basking in the warm Florida sun. One of the things that stood out to me about Lake Underhill Park was the ample space for outdoor activities. What struck me first about Lake Eola Park Peninsula was its pet-friendly vibe. As I strolled along the tree-lined walkways, I couldn’t help but smile at the sight of adorable dogs happily wagging their tails and chasing their toys.
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An adventure to Clearwater Beach offers a great experience for families. There are so many fun things for families to do in Clearwater like kayak tours, yummy restaurants, and the water is amazing there. Sanibel Condo is a new development that offers ocean views and it’s only 3.5 miles from the beach at Ponce Inlet. This 3 bedroom, two bathroom condo with spacious living and dining areas is a perfect spot to book for a long stay at the beach. While you can go swimming and surfing in the waters, you can also spend the day playing on the playground and beach volleyball courts in the area.
This run-of-the-mill hotel offers all the standard accommodations you would expect. Satellite Beach is yet another one of the beaches near Orlando renowned for its surfing conditions. The North Dune Crossover, is the place where some of the most successful professional surfers first started out. Thought to have some of the best wave action in all of the east coast, at New Smyrna Beach both beginners and experts can enjoy the waves. While each beach destination has unique features, all of these beaches offer unique experiences to each traveler.
It’s only accessible by boat, but that could provide a fun new adventure for your family. Caladesi Island State Park is referred to as a “truly untouched island offering natural delights”. There may not be a fun pier or boardwalk full of restaurants at this beach, but the stillness of the environment really enhances the beauty of the area.
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Melbourne Beach is one of the best beaches along the Space Coast, with plenty of sunny days spent on the sand or out on a boat. Of course, you can check into hotels with beachfront views so you’re never too far away from the sound of the waves. This is also a great spot to see a rocket launch from the nearby Kennedy Space Center.
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New Smyrna Beach is also home to a vibrant artist community, which once included legendary “The Joy of Painting” host Bob Ross. Art lovers can view the collection of his work or try an oil painting class at the Bob Ross Art Workshop and Gallery. From the Atlantic coast to the Gulf Coast, here’s where to hit the sand on your next trip to the Florida theme park hub. The impact of the Gulf Stream keeps gulf waters 5 degrees warmer, on average than the Atlantic Ocean.
Other tourists also offered some of their experiences and feedback about each beach I listed here. And my first-hand experience lets me share my thoughts and create in-depth reviews of these beaches. But there are occasional marine wildlife sightings, so it is important to be aware while swimming and surfing, especially with kids.
- Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or a workout, this park offers it all.
- If you’re looking for more space, they also offer suite options, complete with an even roomier balcony and indoor workspace.
- Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or a day filled with water sports and games on the sand, there’s a beach vibe for everyone.
- Canaveral National Seashore is less than 50 miles outside of Orlando and is the longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline.
- Snook, Redfish, Bluefish and Spanish Mackerel can all be caught here.
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One of the top destinations to visit in Florida is Orlando, though many arrive shocked to realize it does not have a beach. Orlando is smack dab in the middle of Florida and has all the theme parks, pools and lakes you could imagine, but no beaches. Luckily, there are plenty nearby and I wanted to share what I think are the best beaches close to Orlando. Candice Steele is the owner of Exploring the Gulf, a blog that helps travelers explore the Gulf Coast Region in the United States. Since 2015, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families traveling to the Gulf Coast.
- Once you are here, it costs $8 per vehicle to get in and that includes beach and nature trail access.
- Apollo Beach is a great place for surf fishing, but you can also swim and enjoy the sandy beach there as well.
- A prime spot for water fun, you can surf, swim or just float around trying to keep your head above water.
- Lake Eola Park Peninsula also invites visitors to indulge in some laid-back dining experiences.
Its enticing blue waters are breathtaking, especially when the waves crash on the white sands. Cocoa Beach is a popular beach destination for its wide range of water activities, such as surfing. Some of the beaches in Vero Beach are known to be favorite spots for sea turtles. There are four parks in the city with acres of beautiful oceanfront that you’re sure to love. Whether you’re looking for powdery sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, or exciting attractions and activities, Orlando has your back. What sets Eatons Beach apart is not just its beautiful shoreline, but also the delightful array of amenities it offers.
, 7. and 8. Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach and Indialantic
One of the highlights of West Beach Park is the best toddler area I have ever seen at a beach. The park has taken special care to create a safe and engaging space for our little ones to splash and play. With shallow pools, gentle water fountains, and brightly colored play structures, kids were absolutely delighted. Indulge in parasailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, or learn to surf on its gentle waves.
We took the time to head out here more to sit on the sand, which was a pleasant experience too. You are going to find open spaces here and it is nice to be able to check out the views from here. We wanted to learn how to surf and that’s when we decided to hop over to this gorgeous beach.
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It offers you personalised highlights in a prominent position on the Sunrise TV App – clear and simple. These are the best beaches in Orlando for those who want to sit on the sand with the sun beaming down. The last beach on the list is going to be the gorgeous Clearwater Beach. If so, you are going to want to consider the beauty of Flager Beach.
The beach is well-maintained and provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Whether you’re looking to relax or have an action-packed day, Eatons Beach has it all. One of the standout features of Waturi Beach is its great wave machine.
Of these, I recommend Lori Wilson Park, just south of the 520 Causeway. It takes a little less than an hour to drive to from Orlando and has free parking. If parking is full, keep driving south to a metered spot or Murkshe Memorial Park. If you paying the principal on a car loan are looking for a relaxing day at the beach, I think Spessard Holland in Melbourne Beach, Florida is the best beach to go to. However, I have visited all the beaches on this list and feel pretty confident about it.
The untouched beaches of Caladesi Island are reason enough for you to visit here. The cinnamon-colored sands of Flagler Beach is a huge draw for most visitors. Make sure to visit the historic Melbourne Beach Pier when you’re nearby. Swimming and wading in Indialantic Beach’s waters are enjoyable, but that’s not all that there is to do here. There aren’t many beaches in Orlando and in the surrounding area that are as dog-friendly as the one you’ll find in Satellite Beach.
Element Jacksonville Beach is a special hotel focused on sustainability. Guests are impacted by this via housekeeping, which is only available upon request. Hampton Inn Jacksonville/Ponte Vedra Beach is a 9 minute drive from Ponte Vedra Beach. If Tahitian Beach Motel doesn’t sound like the place for you, there are many other Clearwater motels and resorts for families in Clearwater too.
New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County is a short 58-minute drive away from Orlando. Besides car racing, this city also has one of the prettiest beaches in the area. From the famous Disney World to the many Universal Studios activities, there are many options for fun-filled days.