Florida’s beaches pull in over 85 million visitors every year. It’s a top spot for family getaways. The state’s stunning coasts, warm weather, and tons of fun activities are perfect for all ages. You’ll find beaches with soft sands on the Gulf Coast and peaceful spots on the Atlantic. Florida has everything you need for a memorable family vacation.
This guide dives into the 13 best family-friendly beaches in Florida. You’ll learn about each beach’s special features, things to do, and places to stay. If you’re looking for calm waters for young ones, thrilling water activities, or a quiet place to relax, this guide has your back. It’s your roadmap to finding the ideal beach holiday for your family.
Key Takeaways
- Florida is an exceptional destination for families seeking unforgettable beach vacations.
- The Sunshine State offers a diverse array of family-friendly beaches along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic coastline.
- This guide will explore the 13 best family-friendly beaches in Florida, catering to a variety of preferences and needs.
- Families can enjoy gentle waves, water sports, and peaceful sanctuaries at these top beach destinations.
- The guide will provide insights into the unique characteristics, activities, and accommodations of each beach.
Why Florida is the Perfect Destination for Family Beach Vacations
Florida is just right for family trips to the beach. It has a stunning coastline filled with sandy beaches. These beaches, like white sands of Clearwater Beach and vibrant Cocoa Beach, are great for families.
Stunning Beaches and Warm Climate
The state enjoys a warm and sunny climate all year. This means families can have fun at the beach any time. With its gorgeous, sunlit beaches, Florida is perfect for making memories with family.
Abundance of Family-Friendly Activities
Florida’s beaches are loaded with fun activities for the family. You can do water sports, play beach games, or build sandcastles. With swimming and kayaking or sandcastle and beach volleyball, every family member will find something they love.
Year-Round Beach Enjoyment
Seeking relaxation or adventure? Florida’s beaches are great for both. They offer family-friendly attractions and fun that lasts all year. For unforgettable family beach getaways, the Sunshine State is the top choice.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach sits on the
Gulf Coast
and is loved by many families. It has soft, white sand and calm waves. This makes it a peaceful yet fun spot. You can play beach volleyball or try out
water sports
. There are also dolphin-watching cruises that families enjoy. Don’t miss the
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
. It’s where Winter the Dolphin from Dolphin Tale lives.
Overview: A Gulf Coast Gem
Many people say Clearwater Beach is one of Florida’s top beaches. It always makes the list of great places for families. The beautiful setting by the Gulf Coast, fun activities, and lots of things to do, make it a gem in Florida.
Things To Do on Clearwater Beach
There’s so much to do on Clearwater Beach. You can play beach volleyball or go parasailing. Kayaking and cruises to spot dolphins are also popular. The
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
is a special spot with Winter the Dolphin. It’s a place for everyone to learn and enjoy feel-good stories about saving sea animals.
Places to Stay on Clearwater Beach with Prices
| Accommodation | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa | $300 – $600 |
| Sandpearl Resort | $400 – $800 |
| Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel | $200 – $400 |
| Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach | $400 – $800 |
Nearest Airports
Tampa (TPA) and St. Pete/Clearwater (PIE) are the closest airports. They are just a short drive away, about 30 to 40 minutes. These airports make it easy to get to the beautiful Gulf Coast, ideal for families visiting.
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach is a popular spot near Sarasota. It’s famous for its powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters. This makes it great for families with little ones.
There are picnic areas and volleyball courts to enjoy. Plus, nearby Siesta Key Village offers fun shops and tasty treats.
Overview: Powdery White Sand and Calm Waters
Many people say Siesta Key Beach is one of the top beaches globally. It has wide sandy shores and a peaceful setting. The soft sand and gentle waves are just perfect for family outings.
Things To Do on Siesta Key
Visiting families love the variety at Siesta Key Beach. There’s beach play, swimming, and more. The village nearby adds to the fun with its shops and eateries.
Places to Stay on Siesta Key with Prices
There are many stay options on Siesta Key. You can choose from beachfront resorts to cozy rentals. Prices vary but you can find something for your family’s size and budget.
Nearest Airport
The closest airport is Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ), just 25 minutes away. Tampa (TPA) is also an option and it’s about 90 minutes from Siesta Key.
Amelia Island Beaches
Amelia Island’s beaches are a hidden gem along Florida’s northeastern coast. They offer a serene and picturesque escape with soft sands, gentle waves, and natural beauty. It has over 13 miles of shoreline, providing a mix of secluded spots and bustling areas. The island’s wide, sandy beaches are great for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
The clear Atlantic waters are perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing. Amelia Island’s beaches are known for their laid-back charm and timeless appeal. They are a beloved coastal escape for visitors from all over.
Things To Do on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is the perfect place for outdoor activities and beach getaways. You can enjoy serene sandy stretches or take part in water sports. Families can have a picnic, build sandcastles, or take a walk by the seashore.
Those looking for adventure can surf, paddleboard, or fish in the Atlantic waters. Nature lovers can watch birds or enjoy the island’s stunning beach views.
Places to Stay on Amelia Island with Prices
Amelia Island has a nice variety of places to stay, catering to all budgets. You can choose from beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals. There are also charming bed and breakfasts.
Accommodation prices start at around $150 for a standard room and can go up to over $500 for a luxury suite. These places often come with swimming pools, spas, and dining options. They truly make the serene and picturesque Amelia Island experience even better.
Nearest Airport to Amelia Island
Jacksonville (JAX) is the closest airport to Amelia Island, about 30 miles away. It’s a big international airport that makes getting to the island easy. Other options to consider are Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport, both a bit further away.
Naples Beach
Naples Beach is on Florida’s southwest coast in the city of Naples. It is known for its clean white sands and clear blue waters. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and walking.
The calm waves and soft sand make it great for everyone – families, couples, and solo travelers. It stretches along the Gulf of Mexico for miles.
Things To Do in Naples Florida
At Naples Beach, you’ll find luxury resorts, fine dining, and unique shops. Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South are nearby with boutiques and eateries. Take a walk on the Naples Pier for beautiful Gulf Coast views and fishing.
If you’re up for more adventure, Fort Myers is close by. It’s full of outdoor activities and cool attractions.
Places to Stay in Naples with Prices
| Accommodation | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|
| The Ritz-Carlton, Naples | $600 – $1,200 |
| The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club | $400 – $800 |
| LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort | $500 – $900 |
| Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa | $400 – $800 |
Nearest Major Airport
The closest big airport to Naples Beach is Southwest Regional Airport in Fort Myers (RSW). It’s about a 45-minute drive away.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is perfect for families wanting a fun beach vacation. It has soft sand, calm waves, and warm ocean water. Kids can swim safely, build sandcastles, and play under the eyes of lifeguards. There are also fun activities like beach volleyball, kite flying, and collecting shells, perfect for everyone.
Things To Do in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach has more than just the beach to offer. At the Cocoa Beach Pier, you can eat, shop, and fish. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is close by, offering fun and learning about space for all. It’s a great chance for families to enjoy and discover the U.S. space program history.
Places to Stay in Cocoa Beach with Prices
| Accommodation | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|
| Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront | $200 – $400 |
| Cocoa Beach Suites | $150 – $300 |
| Marriott’s Courtyard Cocoa Beach | $175 – $350 |
| Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral | $175 – $325 |
The closest airport to Cocoa Beach is Orlando International Airport. It’s about a 75-minute drive away. This makes Cocoa Beach an easy-to-reach spot for families from far and wide. So, it’s a top pick for a fun and memorable beach vacation.
St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach is on a barrier island off Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s a top pick for families wanting a chill beach spot. Warm waters, soft sand, and beautiful sunsets await you here. The beach is wide and long and offers water slides, mini-golf, lovely hotels, and many eateries.
Overview: Laid-Back Beach Experience on the Gulf Coast
This beach is famous for its easy mood. Families love spending quiet days here, either in the Gulf waters or building sand castles. There’s plenty of room for activities on the wide shores. Moreover, water slides and mini-golf courses nearby add a fun twist to your beach day.
Things To Do in St. Pete Beach
Visitors can pick from various things to do. If you love the water, jump in for a swim, some snorkeling, or even parasailing. Others who prefer the beach can enjoy water slides and mini-golf. You could also walk the shores, look for seashells, or just catch a stunning sunset over the Gulf Coast.
Places to Stay in St. Pete Beach with Prices
St. Pete Beach has lots of places to stay, fitting all kinds of budgets. You can go for a fancy beachfront resort or a more budget-friendly spot. Expect to pay between $150 and $500 a night, based on where, the extras, and the season.
Closest Airport to St. Pete Beach
The nearest airports are St. Pete/Clearwater (PIE), only 25 minutes away, and Tampa (TPA), a 50-minute drive. These airports make it easy to reach the beach and nearby St. Petersburg sights.
West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is perfect for a family beach vacation. It has beautiful beaches, fun attractions, and a lively feel. You’ll find great spots like Palm Beach Municipal Beach and Lake Worth Beach. These places have soft sands and clear waters for families to enjoy.
Overview: Combination of Beautiful Beaches and Family-Friendly Attractions
Lifeguards keep watch for safety at West Palm Beach. You’ll also find picnic areas, playgrounds, and places to rent beach gear. Besides the beach, you can visit the Palm Beach Zoo. It’s a fun and educational spot for everyone.
Things To Do in West Palm Beach
Make sure to visit the Palm Beach Zoo. It’s home to all sorts of wildlife, including endangered animals. Downtown West Palm Beach offers lots of family activities too. You can check out unique shops, eat at local spots, and soak in the lively scene.
Places To Stay in West Palm Beach with Prices
There are many places to stay in West Palm Beach, fitting different budgets. You can choose from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and rentals. Many places offer beach access and family-friendly amenities like pools and playgrounds.
Closest Airport to West Palm Beach
The nearest airport to West Palm Beach is Palm Beach Airport (PBI). It’s only a short drive from the city’s beaches and attractions.
Sanibel Island Beaches
Sanibel Island is perfect for a family beach trip. It has sunny shores and many seashells. Families can enjoy a peaceful time here. It’s called the “Seashell Capital of the World.” This is because its beaches are full of unique shells for you to find.
Overview: The “Seashell Capital of the World”
Sanibel Island has calm waves and shallow waters, making it great for kids. They can swim, build sandcastles, and play safely. Families can also kayak, paddleboard, and see wildlife like dolphins and birds.
Things To Do on Sanibel Island
- Beachcombing and shell collecting
- Swimming and sandcastle building
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Wildlife watching for dolphins, manatees, and birds
Places to Stay on Sanibel Island
| Accommodation | Average Nightly Rate | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club | $300-$500 | Golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, beachfront access |
| Sundial Beach Resort & Spa | $250-$450 | Spa, multiple pools, waterfront dining, beach access |
| Sanibel Siesta on the Beach | $150-$300 | Beachfront condos, kitchenettes, outdoor pool |
Closest Airport to Sanibel Island
The closest airport to Sanibel Island is Southwest Regional Airport (Fort Myers) (RSW). It’s about a 40-minute drive away.
St. George Island
Located in the Florida Panhandle, St. George Island is a great spot for a family-friendly beach vacation. This barrier island boasts sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters. It’s perfect for families looking for peace and space to make memories.
St. George Island is known for its quiet and uncrowded beaches. It’s not as busy as some other Florida beach towns. This makes it a top choice for families who want to relax. Activities like swimming, beachcombing, and sandcastle building are enjoyed with a view of the stunning Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Besides the beautiful beaches, this island has attractions for all ages. Families can visit the St. George Island State Park. It has trails, picnic spots, and chances to see birds and wildlife. The Apalachicola River Blueway is nearby too, offering kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. It’s a hit with active families.
If you’re looking for a relaxing time, St. George Island’s coastal towns have a lot to offer. There are restaurants, art galleries, and shops to explore. The island also has affordable places to stay like beachfront rentals and cozy cottages. St. George Island is both easy on the wallet and perfect for an unforgettable family beach trip.
The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida’s Panhandle
Florida’s Panhandle is full of beaches perfect for family vacations. You’ll find beautiful white sandy beaches and stunning green waters.
These spots are known for fun activities that everyone can enjoy, especially families.
Overview of the Panhandle Beaches
The Panhandle’s beaches are among Florida’s best. Places like Pensacola Beach and Panama City Beach offer both peace and excitement.
They are great for families looking to make lasting memories.
Top Panhandle Beaches for Families
Pensacola Beach, Panama City Beach, and Destin are top picks for families. These spots have lots of things to do, like swimming and building sandcastles.
You can also see interesting sea life and ecosystems.
Activities and Attractions in the Panhandle
There are plenty of fun things to do off the sand too. Visiting state parks and wildlife refuges adds to the adventure.
Beach Safety Tips for Families
When you visit Florida’s beautiful beaches, the safety of your family is top priority. To enjoy the beach and stay safe, remember these important tips.
Sun Protection
Shielding your family from the sun is very important. Put on sunscreen often, even when it’s not so sunny, and every two hours. Apply more after going in the water. Wear hats, UV sunglasses, and cool, long-sleeve shirts. Try to sit under a beach umbrella to avoid too much sun.
Water Safety
At the beach, keeping safe in the water is a big deal, especially for kids. Only swim where lifeguards can see you and follow their advice. Watch kids who are swimming and think about using floaties. If a rip current pulls you, swim sideways alongside the shore.
Beach Etiquette
Being polite at the beach keeps it nice for everyone. Put your trash in the right places and don’t harm the beach’s nature. Keep quiet and give others space. Kind behavior makes the beach fun for all.
Stick to these safety tips for a carefree time at Florida’s beaches. Enjoy the gorgeous surroundings without stress. Make memories that will last a lifetime.
Affordable Family Beach Getaways in Florida
Florida is a great place for families wanting a beach break on a budget. You can find low-cost places to stay, enjoy free or cheap activities, and save money with smart tips. This makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the Sunshine State’s shores without spending a lot.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
There are many affordable places to stay in Florida for families. You can choose from rentals, camp sites, and economy hotels. This way, you won’t spend too much on where you sleep. Instead, you can use your savings to have fun and make memories together.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
The beaches in Florida offer plenty of activities that are free or very cheap. You can collect seashells, build sandcastles, or simply take in the stunning scenery. These simple activities are a great way for families to enjoy the beach without worrying about their wallet.
Money-Saving Tips for Families
To save even more money, families can follow some easy tips. Bringing your own snacks and meals helps cut food costs. Also, visiting during the off-season and looking for local discounts can make a big difference. With a little planning, you can have a fantastic beach vacation in Florida without spending too much.
Conclusion
Florida’s beaches are perfect for memorable family vacations. Amelia Island offers calm beaches, while Cocoa Beach is lively. This guide has highlighted 13 top spots for families. Each place has something special, meeting every family’s needs.
The Gulf Coast has white sand, the Atlantic is peaceful, and the Panhandle has lots to do. These beaches are ideal for family fun. Follow the safety tips and budget advice in this guide for a great, affordable trip.
This guide has shown the best family beaches in Florida. Get ready to create lifelong memories. Pack your bags and head to the Sunshine State’s beautiful shores soon!
