Plan a family vacation to one of these unusual locations and discover some of the nicest beaches in Florida. Select from charming coastal towns, small, isolated islands, lakes, and city retreats with fantastic state parks close to well-known eateries, museums, and attractions. During your Florida weekend break, spend time building sandcastles, playing in the water, and lounging in the sun with your children at these gorgeous Florida beaches.
1. Naples
Great golf and high-end shopping are two of Naples’ most famous attractions. Naples, on the Gulf of Mexico in southwestern Florida, is an ideal spot for a family holiday.
Miles of golden sand beaches and fantastic parks provide endless opportunities for children to play, swim, and construct sandcastles. Many of Florida’s most beautiful beaches are located in this region.
Explore the mangroves on a free tram ride to Clam Pass Park, walk the historic Naples Pier (built-in 1888) to see dolphins in their natural habitat or cast a line in the water, peruse the shops and galleries of charming old downtown, or stop by a brightly colored café by the bay for a snack.
An airboat journey through the Everglades in Florida would be a blast for kids, what with all the birds and the rare sighting of an elusive alligator. Here are some more suggestions: Days out in Naples, Florida, and its beaches.
2. Mexico Beach, Florida
One of the nicest beach communities in Florida where it seems like time has stood still is Mexico Beach. Despite being only 20 minutes from Panama City Beach, the breathtaking ocean vista is unobstructed by any large apartment complexes or posh resorts.
Nothing but miles and miles of soft beaches, beautiful oceans, and charming seaside eateries and boutiques where you can just walk barefoot.
The beaches of Mexico Beach are among the most picturesque in all of Florida. Ideal for scuba diving, boat rides, birdwatching, and fishing, this location is a must-visit.
Also, every day features a breathtaking sunset; thus, settle into a plush chair with a vibrant beverage in hand and watch the world-famous green flash unfold.
This is a fantastic holiday location if you are seeking family-friendly beaches in Florida. Other suggestions: Top Beaches Along the Gulf Coast of Florida.
3. Daytona Beach
There is no better place to enjoy the sunshine than on Daytona Beach’s incredible 23 miles of sparkling, soft sand beaches.
Moreover, Daytona Beach has a wide array of non-beach activities that visitors of all ages can enjoy. These include visiting the Marine Science Centre, going on chartered fishing and sightseeing boat tours, parasailing, surfing, paddleboarding, and a plethora of other enjoyable pursuits.
Visit the lighthouse, go hiking, play golf, go karts, or attend the races when you need a reprieve from the heat. Museums and art galleries abound, as do several retail establishments and excellent dining options.
4. Key Biscayne
Taking a drive across Biscayne Bay on the Rickenbacker Causeway is an adventure in and of itself, but after escaping the city of Miami for a short distance, you’ll reach a small island town nestled between two stunning parks: Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
Key Biscayne is a beautiful getaway spot because of its palm tree-lined streets, charming shops, galleries, restaurants, and, of course, some of the greatest beaches in Florida.
Bill Baggs Park is a great place to swim or rent kayaks; the Cape Florida Lighthouse is worth a visit; the Miami Seaquarium has dolphin swimming opportunities; the Crandon Golf Course is world-renowned; and the two-mile-long beach at Crandon Park is a great place to see turtle eggs hatch. Key Biscayne is an excellent stop on a day trip to Florida if you are seeking some of the state’s best beaches.
5. Key West
Ernest Hemingway, Elizabeth Bishop, Jimmy Buffett, Robert Frost, and countless others were captivated and inspired by Key West’s one-of-a-kind combination of rich history, stunning natural beauty, pleasant weather, cultural variety, and distinctive architecture. Next up, you.
Stunning gingerbread palaces and quaint tin-roofed conch dwellings line the streets of Key West, creating an extraordinary sense of charm.
Neighborhoods adorned with palm trees have witnessed the melting pot of cultures and nations that eventually transformed everyone into Kenyans.
When you’ve got your fill of exploring the charming old town, hit the water for some fishing, snorkeling, or scuba diving; go on a boat ride to see dolphins; or just relax on the beach.
When the sun goes down, you and every other person in Mallory Square must be there to witness the street circus come to life, complete with jugglers, tightrope walkers, monkeys, and all sorts of other animals vying for the audience’s attention.
6. Clearwater Beach, Florida
When we think of a Florida beach town, we picture Clearwater. The 2.5 miles of fine sand beaches, scenic boardwalks, quirky beach shacks, nightly beach festivals, and, most importantly, ice cream shops along the shoreline.
Off the coast of Clearwater, northwest of Tampa, lies a little barrier island where you may find Clearwater Beach.
Sunbathers and beachgoers alike can hire cabanas and umbrellas for the day. Peddlers can meander along Clearwater Marina and Pier 60, while families can go on pirate cruises. Animal lovers can meet Winter, the beloved star of Dolphin Tale, and other marine creatures at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
7. Marco Island
Situated between Naples and the Florida Everglades, Marco Island is one of the thousand islands in Florida and the sole one that has been developed.
There are wild, undeveloped parks, luxurious resorts, and beautiful beaches all coming together in perfect harmony.
If your children become tired of playing on the beautiful sand beaches and collecting shells, you can always take them to Briggs Nature Centre, where they may observe wild animals in their native habitats along a half-mile boardwalk.
Another option is to go on a boat ride around the Ten Thousand Islands, where you can potentially spot manatees, turtles, and dolphins.
Make a sunset stop at Quinn’s on the Beach to see the fire dancers that perform there daily.
FAQ’s
Q1. What are the best beach activities to enjoy in Florida?
Florida offers a plethora of beach activities to suit every interest. Some popular ones include swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and beachcombing.
Q2. Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Florida?
Yes, swimming in the ocean in Florida is generally safe, but it's essential to pay attention to local conditions and any posted warnings, such as rip currents or marine life hazards. Always swim in designated swimming areas and follow lifeguard instructions for a safe experience.
Q3. Can I rent equipment for beach activities in Florida?
Absolutely! Many beachside resorts, rental shops, and tour operators offer equipment rentals for various activities like snorkeling gear, surfboards, kayaks, paddleboards, and beach chairs. Prices and availability may vary depending on the location and season.
