Best Beaches in Florida for Families

Florida’s sparkling coastline draws millions of visitors each year. Although, with so many miles of beach, which are the best beaches in Florida for families?

Florida is a peninsula, which means that it is surrounded by water on 3 sides. Florida has different types of beaches depending on which side of Florida you are on. There are beaches on all sides of Florida that are great for families – it just depends on personal preference.

Now let’s dive into the differences and pros and cons of the best beaches in Florida for families.

Clearwater

First up we have Clearwater, FL which is known for its calmer gulf waters and sugar white sand beaches. Among other beautiful attributes Clearwater also boasts a wide range of activities, amenities and lots of accommodations.

Tourist Meca

With its high rise hotels, extensive dining options, attractions and activities – Clearwater is practically designed for vacation mode. Clearwater can be busy and is perfect for families that enjoy a wide range of attractions and activities such as Pier 6o – which is a boardwalk that spans out into the water with a host of restaurants and shopping.

Additionally, there is an aquarium in Clearwater which inspired the movie Dolphin Tale, great opportunity to educate children on marine life.

Clearwater Beaches

Clearwater is one of the most popular beaches in Florida for a reason, it’s beautiful. The white sand beach is soft, wide and flat and the water can be pretty clear on calm days. Many families enjoy Clearwater for its calm gulf waters which tend to work better for small children.

Sand Key Park 

is our preferred location in Clearwater for photoshoots because it tends to be less crowded and offers stunning views of both the gulf and bay.

New Smyrna Beach

The white sand in New Smyrna Beach and small town charm feel world’s away from Orlando, yet it is only about 70 miles away.

What makes it one of the best beaches in Florida for families? The laid back vibe, small town feel, soft sand beaches and access to unspoiled nature.

Parks & Amenities

You can enjoy Smyrna Dunes Park which preserves acres of natural vegetation and has the most incredible sand dunes. View local wildlife and enjoy a panoramic view of the barrier island from an observation tower.

Marine Discovery Center

Visit the Marine Discovery Center where you can learn about sea turtle rehab and get up close and personal with the diverse biology of the Indian River Lagoon. This is among some of the many things to do in New Smyrna Beach.

Siesta Key

Siesta Key is one the best beaches in Florida for families because of the pure white sand shoreline, calm gulf coast waters and world-famous sunsets. Check out why Siesta Key is the #1 beach to learn more.

However, Siesta Key also sits right outside of Sarasota which is known as the cultural capital of Florida due to its heavy focus on the arts. You can visit The Ringling Museum of Art, which also has a circus museum that is perfect for kids.

Additionally, you can check out some of the cute boutiques in St. Armand’s Circle or eat at one of the popular restaurants like Crab and Fin.

Cocoa Beach

World-famous surfing destination and cruise port hub, Cocoa Beach is a family-friendly beach with lots of things to do. You can visit the world’s largest surf shop or watch cruise ships sail away at Jetty Park

Lori Wilson Park is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature and watch local wildlife like gopher tortoises and scrub jays. There is a playground, wooden walkway and dog park available for use.

Cocoa Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida for families because it combines a laid back vibe with a long list of activities to choose from. Additionally, you will find a wide variety of Cocoa Beach restaurants that cater to all kinds of taste.