When planning a family vacation in Florida, one of the top priorities is finding the best beaches for everyone to enjoy. The best beaches in Florida for families are filled with gently lapping waves and sun-drenched sandy coastlines. There are picnics, kite flying, shelling, and bodyboarding going on. Florida beaches are the ideal place to slow down and reconnect with your family in a state known for its flashy theme parks and glitzy cities.
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7 Best Florida Beaches For Families
Florida boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches, perfect for families. Here’s a list of 7 of the best beaches in Florida for families:
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- Vero Beach
- Panama City Beach
- Longboat Key
- Cocoa Beach
- Amelia Island
- Pensacola Beach
- New Smyrna Beach
1. Vero Beach
The best beaches in Florida for family vacations are in Vero Beach, where you can park your car for a week, stay at an oceanfront hotel, and get around on bicycles or your own two feet. Beach cruiser bikes, stand-up paddleboards, and sea kayaks are included in the resort fee at Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa. Within a five-minute walk of the front lobby, you’ll find oceanfront restaurants such as Waldo’s Restaurant, Mulligan’s Beach House, and The Lemon Tree. As a result of a hurricane in 1715, Spanish galleons spilt their loot along this stretch of Florida. In the McLarty Treasure Museum just north of Vero Beach, you can see items salvaged from that shipwreck.
What to Expect
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- Relaxing beaches
- Abundant wildlife
- Outdoor activities
- Art and culture
- Kayaking
- paddleboarding
Where to stay
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- The Vero Beach Resort & Spa: This oceanfront resort offers stunning views, multiple pools, a spa, and several restaurants. Expect to pay around $400-$800 per night.
- Sebastian Cove Oceanfront Resort: This resort offers beachfront access, a pool, and on-site dining. Prices range from $200-$400 per night.
- McKeever Inn Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B offers a homey atmosphere and a central location. Prices start at around $100 per night.
Total Budget
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- Luxury: $3,500+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
- Mid-range: $2,500–$3,500 per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
- Budget-friendly: $1,500–$2,500 per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
2. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is the best beaches in Florida for families located in the state of Florida, United States. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and warm weather all year round. With an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and over 320 days of sunshine per year, Panama City Beach is the perfect place to escape for a beach vacation. The city also offers various outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.
In addition to its natural beauty, Panama City Beach also has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs. It is often referred to as the “Spring Break Capital of the World” due to its popularity among college students during their break from classes.
What to Expect
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- Beautiful beaches:
- Activities galore:
- Nightlife:
- Family-friendly options:
Where to stay
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- The Shores of Panama: This beachfront resort offers stunning views, multiple pools, a spa, and on-site dining. Expect to pay around $300-$500+ per night.
- Carillon Beach Resort: This resort offers a variety of room options, a beachfront location, pools, and on-site dining. Prices range from $200-$300 per night.
- Laketown Wharf Resort: This resort offers condo rentals with kitchens, perfect for families or those on a budget. Prices start at around $100 per night.
Total Budget
Luxury:
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- $2,500+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
Budget for roundtrip flights (average $400-$800) - car rental (average $50-$100 per day).
- $2,500+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
Mid-range
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- $1,500 – $2,500 per person (including transportation costs)
taking a bus/train to a nearby city and renting a car for day trips. Budget for transportation costs accordingly (average $200-$500).
- $1,500 – $2,500 per person (including transportation costs)
Budget-friendly
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- $1,000 – $2,000 per person (including transportation costs)
3. Longboat Key
Longboat Key is a town in Manatee and Sarasota counties along the central west coast of the U.S. state of Florida. It is located on a barrier island called Longboat Key, which separates the Gulf of Mexico from Sarasota Bay. Longboat Key is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and upscale residential communities. The island offers a tranquil escape from the busy mainland with its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of both the gulf and bay.
What to Expect
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- Upscale paradise:
- Stunning beaches:
- Golfing heaven:
- Water activities:
- Upscale shopping and dining:
Where to stay
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- The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota: This beachfront resort offers stunning Gulf views, multiple pools, a luxurious spa, and world-class dining. Expect to pay upwards of $800+ per night.
- Zota Beach Resort: This resort offers a beachfront location, multiple pools, on-site dining, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Prices range from $400-$600 per night.
- Vacation Rentals: You can find vacation rentals on Longboat Key that offer a condo or house experience, often with kitchens, for a more flexible and potentially budget-friendly option. Prices can vary depending on size, location, and amenities, but expect a range of $200-$500+ per night.
Total Budget (per person):
Luxury: $4,000+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs).
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- Travellers typically fly into Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and rent a car. Budget $500-$1,000 for roundtrip flights and $50-$100 per day for car rentals.
Mid-range: $2,500–$4,000 per person (including transportation costs).
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- Travellers on a budget might consider flying into SRQ and renting a car for day trips. Be prepared for transportation costs (average $200-$500).
Upscale with some budgeting: $2,000 – $3,000 per person (including transportation costs)
4. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is the best Florida beach for families looking to soak up the sun and enjoy some quality time together. Located on Florida’s east coast, this beautiful beach offers everything from gorgeous white sand to exciting water activities. One of the main draws of Cocoa Beach is its family-friendly atmosphere. The wide stretch of sand makes it easy for kids to play and build sandcastles while parents relax nearby. There are also plenty of lifeguards on duty, providing peace of mind for parents with little ones.
But Cocoa Beach isn’t just about lounging on the beach. There are also numerous water activities available for families to enjoy. From surfing lessons to kayaking tours, there’s something for everyone at this beach. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try parasailing or jet skiing.
What to Expect
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- Surfing Capital of the East Coast
- Family-Friendly Fun
- Space Center Connection
- Ecotourism Opportunities
- Relaxed Beach Vibe
Where to stay (with cost):
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- The Cocoa Beach Marriott Oceanfront: This oceanfront resort offers stunning views, multiple pools, a spa, and on-site dining. Expect to pay around $300-$500+ per night.
- International Palms Oceanfront Resort: This resort offers a beachfront location, a pool, direct beach access, and comfortable accommodations. Prices range from $150-$250 per night.
- Cocoa Beach Suites Hotel: This hotel provides a clean and comfortable stay with convenient access to the beach. Prices start at around $100 per night.
Total Budget (per person):
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- Luxury: More than $2,000 per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs).
- A luxury experience typically involves flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) and renting a car. Roundtrip flights (average $300–$800) and car rental (average $50–$100).
- Mid-range: $1,500–$2,000 per person (including transportation costs).
- Fly into MCO or MLB and rent a car for day trips or take public transportation. Plan transportation costs accordingly (average $200–$500). Consider mid-range hotels or vacation rentals to save money.
- Budget-Friendly: $1,000–$1,500 per person (including transportation costs).
- Luxury: More than $2,000 per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs).
5. Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a popular destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation. With its pristine beaches, charming downtown area, and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why this island has become a top choice for many families.
Amelia Island’s most well-known attraction is its stunning beaches. The main beach on the island, Fernandina Beach, stretches over 13 miles and offers soft white sands and crystal-clear waters suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Families can also enjoy water sports such as snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
What to Expect
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- Unforgettable Beaches:
- Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach
- Fort Clinch State Park
- Ecotourism Activities
- Upscale Shopping and Dining
Where to stay (with cost):
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- The Omni Amelia Island Resort: This oceanfront resort offers stunning views, multiple pools, a spa, a variety of restaurants, and a golf course. Expect to pay upwards of $400+ per night.
- The Amelia Hotel at the Beach: This beachfront hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a pool, direct beach access, and on-site dining. Prices range from $200-$300 per night.
- Elizabeth Pointe Lodge: This historic lodge provides a charming and affordable stay in the heart of Fernandina Beach. Rates commence at approximately $100 per night.
Total Budget (per person):
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- Luxury: $2,500+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
- Fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and rent a car. Flights (average $400–800) and car rentals (average $50–100).
- Mid-range: $1,500–$2,500 per person (including transportation costs).
- Flying into JAX and renting a car for day trips or exploring public transportation options. (average $200-$500). Consider mid-range hotels or vacation rentals for potential savings.
- Budget-Friendly: $1,000–$2,000 per person (including transportation costs)
- Luxury: $2,500+ per person (including flights, accommodation, dining, activities, and estimated transportation costs)
6. Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The beach is situated on Santa Rosa Island and offers visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and water sports.
In addition to its stunning beaches and pier, Pensacola Beach also has a rich history. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures on Santa Rosa Island.
What to expect:
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- Beautiful beaches
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Lots of things to do:
- Great food scene:
Where to stay (with cost):
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- Beachfront resorts: If you want to be steps from the beach, there are many beachfront resorts to choose from. Prices will vary depending on the time of year, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 per night.
- Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals are an awesome choice for families or groups of friends! You can find rentals with kitchens and laundry facilities, which can help you save money on dining out. Prices will vary depending on the size and location of the rental, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 per night.
- Hotels: There are also several hotels located on Pensacola Beach. Prices will vary depending on the location and amenities, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $200 per night.
Total Budget (per person):
The total cost of your trip to Pensacola Beach will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Here’s a rough estimate of how much you might expect to spend per person:
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- Flights: $300-$800 (round trip)
- Accommodation: $100-$500 per night
- Dining: $50-$100 per day
- Transportation: $50 per day (including car rental or rideshare)
Here’s a sample budget for a 4-day trip to Pensacola Beach for one person:
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- Flights: $500
- Accommodation: $200 per night x 4 nights = $800
- Dining: $75 per day x 4 days = $300
- Transportation: $50 per day x 4 days = $200
- Total: $1,800
7. New Smyrna Beach
One of the main draws of New Smyrna Beach is its pristine beaches. With over 13 miles of coastline, visitors can take long walks along the shore or simply relax and soak up the sun. The water temperature here is perfect for swimming year-round, making it an ideal spot for families with children. For those seeking a more active vacation, New Smyrna Beach has plenty of options as well. The town boasts several golf courses, tennis courts, and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. With its location on the Indian River Lagoon, water sports such as kayaking and fishing are also popular activities.
What to expect
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- Beach Paradise
- Surfing haven
- Beach driving
- Rich in history and culture
Where to stay (with cost):
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- Beachfront resorts: If you want to be steps from the beach with all the amenities, there are several beachfront resorts to choose from. Prices typically range from $200 to $500 per night, depending on the season and the resort’s offerings.
- Vacation rentals: A great option for families or groups, vacation rentals provide more space and privacy. You can find rentals with kitchens and laundry facilities, which can help you save money on dining out. Prices vary depending on the size, location, and amenities offered, but expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $300 per night.
- Hotels: There are also many hotels located throughout NSB, offering a variety of amenities and locations. Prices typically range from $100 to $250 per night.
Total Budget (per person):
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- Flights: $500
- Accommodation: $200 per night x 4 nights = $800
- Dining: $75 per day x 4 days = $300
- Transportation: $50 per day x 4 days = $200
Total: $1,800
FAQS Of Best Florida Beaches For Families
What are some of the best beaches in Florida for families?
There are the best beaches in Florida for families that are perfect for families. Below are some of the most sought-after options:
- Vero Beach
- Panama City Beach
- Longboat Key
- Cocoa Beach
- Amelia Island
What are some of the best activities on the best beaches in Florida for families?
There are many great activities on the best beaches in Florida for families, such as:
- Building sandcastles
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Beachcombing
- Playing frisbee or volleyball
- Surfing or boogie boarding (for older children)
- Taking a boat ride
- Going fishing
When is the best time of year for the best beaches in Florida for families?
The best time to visit the beaches in Florida is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). The weather is typically sunny and warm, but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller than they are during the summer months.
Are there any places to rent jet skis or other watercraft?
Many beach towns offer water sports rentals like jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, and banana boats. This can be a great way to add some excitement to your beach trip
Is there any chance there are public transportation options to reach the beach?
Some beach towns offer trolleys or shuttles that can take you to the beach from your hotel or rental. Larger cities may have public bus routes that reach the beach area.