Starting a family beach vacation in Florida means there are lots of great places to explore along its long 800-mile coastline. This guide will show you the top 10 family beaches in Florida, each with its special charm and things to do. From the peaceful Vero Beach to the classic feel of New Smyrna Beach, let’s check out the best spots for your family’s next awesome vacation.
1. Vero Beach
Discover the allure of Vero Beach nestled on the Treasure Coast, offering an idyllic setting for a family vacation. Explore the charm of oceanfront hotels, revel in the joy of beach cruiser bikes, and embark on a whimsical treasure hunt with a provided metal detector. Vero Beach ensures a week of family fun and relaxation against the backdrop of coastal tranquility.
2. Panama City Beach
Dive into the wonderful charm of Panama City Beach, where peaceful Gulf waters, captivating sunset dolphin cruises, and the untouched Shell Island are ready to be explored. Walk along 27 miles of clean white-sand beaches and enjoy family fun at Pier Park, offering various shops, restaurants, and even an IMAX movie theater.
3. Longboat Key
Experience the calm and beauty of Longboat Key, a residential beach community near Sarasota. Unwind in condominium-style properties, relish gulf-front barbecues, and venture to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium for captivating encounters with manatees and sea turtles.
4. Cocoa Beach
Embark on a family beach vacation to Cocoa Beach, known for its thrilling rocket launches, captivating sea turtle walks, and surf lessons on the same shores where champion Kelly Slater honed his skills. Stay at Beach Place Guesthouses, meet a talking African parrot, and immerse your family in the vibrant atmosphere of this sun-soaked destination.
5. Amelia Island
Discover the northernmost coastal gem of Florida, Amelia Island. Roam through dedicated cycling lanes, explore remote beaches at Fort Clinch State Park, and meander through downtown Fernandina Beach. Choose from a spectrum of accommodations, ranging from the opulent Ritz-Carlton to the family-friendly SpringHill Suites.
6. Clam Pass Park
Unearth the picturesque and serene sands of Clam Pass Park in Naples. Traverse the shaded boardwalk via a complimentary golf cart tram ride, rent kayaks to explore mangrove trails, or simply relax under an umbrella on the tranquil sandy shores.
7. Key Biscayne
Visit Key Biscayne to get away from the busy vibes of Miami. It’s a peaceful paradise right across the bridge. Discover untouched areas at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, climb up a very old lighthouse, and enjoy activities for the whole family at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.
8. St. Pete Beach
Discover the best of both city and beach life in St. Pete. Book a stay at The Don CeSar, located directly on the Gulf of Mexico, and check out the downtown St. Pete sights. Have fun with free bikes, pools with Gulf views, and the soft white sand for lots of family beach enjoyment.
9. Naples
Explore the family-friendly side of Naples, a fancy town by the Gulf in Florida. Choose to stay at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, check out the stylish Fifth Avenue, and find cool spots like the Naples Train Museum and Naples Zoo nearby.
10. New Smyrna Beach
Immerse your family in the charming nostalgia of New Smyrna Beach, an East Coast gem exuding old-school Florida vibes. Revel in the expanses of long, wide beaches, pedal along the shore on beach cruisers, and explore family-friendly stays like the Black Dolphin Inn nestled along the scenic Indian River.
Conclusion
Florida’s family beaches beckon with a diverse range of experiences, from tranquil getaways to vibrant coastal adventures. Strategically plan your family vacation to one of these top 10 beaches and create enduring memories under the warm and welcoming Florida sun.
