Looking for the best beaches in Florida for families? You are at the right place.
Embark on a delightful journey through these soft sand beaches of Sunshine State, just a short drive away from each other.
These beaches are ideal for families and have all the essential amenities for an unforgettable experience with your beloved ones. Let your kids frolic in the shallow waters and unleash their creativity in building sand castles on the soft white sands.
We have created a list of the best beaches in Florida suitable for families.
01. Amelia Island
Visit Amelia Island off the coast of northeast Florida. Amelia Island entices families with its lush green landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
Explore the family friendly beaches on a bike or embark on a scenic boat tour.
Immerse yourself in the island’s history at the Amelia Island Museum of History and Fort Clinch State Park.
The main beach area boasts playgrounds, skate parks, and a volleyball court, ensuring endless fun for the whole family.
Unwind and soak up the sunshine on Amelia’s 13 miles of shoreline with umbrella rentals.
Ritz-Carlton stands as an exceptional beach resort for families, providing a trusted babysitting service for worry-free relaxation.
Indulge in a delightful family meal at The Patio Place, featuring outdoor seating in a picturesque garden setting and a dedicated kids’ menu.
02. St. Augustine Beach
Welcome to St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States.
With 42 miles of pristine beaches, St. Augustine offers a serene and historic family beach experience in Florida.
Build sandcastles with your kids on the spacious shores or witness baby turtles emerging from their nests at Ocean Hammock Park.
Cross the historic Bridge of Lions to visit the Alligator Zoological Park or explore the island’s maritime history at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
The St. George Inn and Casa Monica Resort provide a touch of elegance for accommodations. At the same time, Columbia Restaurant offers delectable cuisine to satisfy every palate.
03. Vero Beach
Situated midway between Miami and Orlando, Vero Beach is renowned for its pristine beaches and the Indian River Lagoon.
Have a memorable family picnic and enjoy outdoor activities at Jaycee Park.
Take a boat tour in the Indian River Lagoon to go snorkeling and fishing.
Explore artworks from different eras at the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
Engage in family fun with mini-golf courses in Vero Beach.
For a Disney-themed experience, stay at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, which offers spacious rooms and excellent service.
04. Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico. It is known for its pristine beauty and boasts the world’s finest white sand.
Siesta Key Beach is an idyllic choice for families, with its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and captivating scenery.
Explore Crescent Beach for leisurely walks and shell collecting, while Turtle Beach offers a serene ambiance.
For added excitement, visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens to discover captivating flora and fauna, or indulge in a pirate-themed mini-golf adventure at Smuggler’s Cove.
The Siesta Key Oyster Bar is perfect for savoring fresh seafood. Another Broken Egg Café offers a delightful children’s menu.
Consider staying at Siesta Key Beach Resort, which provides family-oriented amenities such as a picnic area, heated outdoor pool, and barbecue grill.
05. Clearwater Beach
Situated in Pinellas County on Florida’s western coast, Clearwater Beach beckons families with its shallow waters and soft, powdery sand.
This family-friendly beach offers an array of attractions and activities. Kids can enjoy thrilling water slides, splash around in the pool, and explore the children’s play area.
Embark on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise for an interactive pirate experience.
Rent bikes or rollerblades to traverse the Beach Walk Promenade or visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to observe fascinating marine life like dolphins and sharks.
Don’t miss the spectacular sunsets from Pier 60.
Head to Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill for a memorable family meal, offering beachfront dining.
06. Cocoa Beach
Nestled in Brevard County on Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach proudly holds the title of the Surf Capital of the East Coast.
With calm shallow waters ideal for swimming and surfing, this beach is perfect for kids.
Enroll your family in surf lessons at Ron Jon Surf School or rent a kayak to explore the picturesque Banana River Lagoon.
Enjoy fishing adventures at Cocoa Beach Pier and immerse yourself in the wonders of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Station.
For delightful dining, visit renowned establishments like The Fat Snook and Coconuts.
Consider staying at the family-friendly Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront for a comfortable and convenient beachfront experience.
07. Daytona Beach
On Florida’s east coast in Volusia County, Daytona Beach is known for its vast sandy shores, vibrant atmosphere, and rich motorsport heritage.
Families can delight in amusement rides along the Daytona Beach Broadwalk or make a splash at Daytona Lagoon, offering wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and a thrilling pirate-themed play area.
For a touch of adventure, zip line over the Tuscawilla Preserve.
The Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort provides exceptional dining and accommodations, ensuring a memorable family stay.
08. Marco Island
Located just south of Naples, Florida, Marco Island stretches along the picturesque west coast.
Accessible via the Jolley Bridge or S.S. Jolley Bridge, this island paradise offers a perfect setting for a family beach vacation.
Take your kids to Tigertail Beach Park, where they can frolic in the shallow waters and collect beautiful shells along the sandy shoreline.
Mackle Park’s splash pads provide a refreshing retreat from the sun while renting a kayak allows for exciting water adventures on natural trails.
Indulge in beachfront dining at The Sand Bar and consider staying at Marriott’s Crystal Shores or Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort for a memorable family retreat.
09. Caladesi Island
Embark on a scenic ferry ride from Honeymoon Island to reach the pristine shores of Caladesi Island.
Unleash your adventurous spirit, rent a kayak, or bring your vessel to explore the island’s stunning waterways.
Bask in the sunlight on the white sands or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Rent a paddleboat to navigate through the mangrove forests and marvel at the diverse bird species that call the island home.
Sandpearl Resort offers excellent family amenities, including a children’s pool and rental bicycles.
Nearby restaurants in Clearwater provide fresh seafood and global cuisines for a delectable dining experience.
10. Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is situated on several barrier islands in the Gulf of Mexico and offers families a peaceful haven to unwind.
The park’s North Beach Tidal Pool offers a safe haven for children to swim and play.
Explore the patchwork of mangroves through canoeing and fishing adventures, and enjoy camping in the park’s RV campsites.
Remember to visit Dog Beach, where your furry companions can play and swim off-leash.
For an iconic and luxurious stay, The Don CeSar offers a breathtaking waterfront experience.
At the same time, the Critters Cafe provides a perfect beachside dining spot.
11. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach, on the northwest coast of Florida, offers a peaceful setting for enjoying family activities.
Snorkel, swim, and surf with your kids at St. Andrew State Park. At the same time, Camp Helen State Park offers exceptional fishing opportunities.
Explore the pristine Shell Island, accessible by the Shell Island Shuttle, and collect seashells as cherished souvenirs.
For thrilling water adventures, visit Shipwreck Island Waterpark, featuring slides, pools, and dedicated kids’ play areas.
Enjoy direct beach access and stunning ocean views at The Pearl Hotel or Seahaven Beach Hotel.
12. Sanibel Island
Rent an umbrella and relax on beach chairs while your kids enjoy the playgrounds at Algiers Beach.
Explore the island’s beauty by renting a bicycle.
Take a Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise to witness dolphins, seabirds, and manatees in their natural habitat.
Indulge in a diverse seafood menu while dining at The Island Cow.
Enjoy a family-friendly stay at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort, a resort that caters to the needs of families.
Located near Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is renowned for being one of the best beaches in Florida for family vacations.
13. New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is only an hour’s drive from Orlando. It is known as the Shark Bite Capital of the world.
Enjoy classic beach fun at Disappearing Island, where you can swim and snorkel.
Watch out for blacktip sharks during migration season at New Smyrna Beach.
With lifeguards always on duty, it’s a safe beach for your kids.
Stroll on the boardwalks for a picturesque ocean view, or embark on a boat tour to spot dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat.
Coconut Palms Beach Resort II offers comfortable beachfront accommodations, and you can savor delicious meals at Breakers Restaurant.
14. Key Biscayne Beach
Key Biscayne is a famous beach for families in Miami-Dade County. It boasts crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.
Climb the stairs of Cape Florida Lighthouse for a picturesque view of the sea and learn about its historical significance.
Have a great time fishing with your loved ones!
Watch captivating dolphin shows and orca performances at Miami Seaquarium.
Crandon Park offers opportunities for tennis, golf, and softball. Key Biscayne is a haven for beach and outdoor enthusiasts.
15. Fort Lauderdale Beach
Hop on a Water Taxi and visit the Museum of Discovery and Science for a day filled with scientific wonders.
Find serenity at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, an oasis perfect for relaxation.
Explore the vibrant street art of Miami on a Wynwood Graffiti Tour.
Fort Lauderdale is often called the Venice of America on the southeastern coast of Florida.
It offers numerous family-friendly activities and attractions.
Final Words
The list of selected beaches for families in Florida will help you to plan your family beach holiday within minutes. All the beaches are equipped with recreation centers that provide endless entertainment options for the whole family.
Hop on exciting cruises and explore the fascinating world of dolphins and other marine animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy a relaxing walk on the boardwalk while holding hands with your children. Go for a delightful beachside picnic in the designated picnic areas.
Indulge in a relaxing stay at beachfront resorts, where you’ll find a multitude of entertainment options to choose from. These resorts cater to the needs of families, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.