Discover the best beaches close to Orlando for your perfect Florida escape. From pristine coastlines to family-friendly shores, explore these stunning beach destinations within easy reach.
Best Beaches Close to Orlando
Do you dream of clear waters and warm sand near Orlando? What if the perfect beach was closer than you thought?
Orlando is famous for theme parks. But, its beaches offer a great alternative for those who love the coast. You can find beaches for surfing and peaceful spots in nature.
Beaches near Orlando are just 60-90 minutes away. This makes day trips easy for everyone. You can find beaches for families near Walt Disney World or for water sports lovers.
Key Takeaways
- Orlando beaches offer diverse experiences within short driving distances
- Most beaches are accessible within 60-90 minutes from Orlando
- Options range from surfing destinations to tranquil natural beaches
- Beaches near Orlando provide activities for all age groups
- Multiple coastal environments available, including Atlantic and Gulf Coast beaches
Introduction to Beaches Near Orlando
Orlando is a great place to start your journey to Florida’s beautiful coasts. It’s in the heart of Florida, making it easy to get to many beaches. This makes beach trips a fun option for everyone.
Why Choose Orlando Beaches?
Beaches near Orlando offer different coastal experiences close by. You can find beaches that have something for everyone:
- Proximity to major attractions
- Diverse beach environments
- Convenient day trip opportunities
- Range of water activities
Best Times to Visit
Beach trips from Orlando are best in certain times. Spring and fall have nice weather and fewer people. These seasons are great for beach trips because:
- Mild temperatures
- Lower humidity
- Less crowded beaches
- More affordable travel rates
Quick Facts About Orlando’s Location
Orlando is easy to get to the beach from. Most beaches are 50-70 miles away. For example, Cocoa Beach is about 70 miles from Walt Disney World. Daytona Beach is also about the same distance.
Looking for relaxation, water sports, or beautiful views? The beaches near Orlando are perfect. They add to your Florida vacation, making it complete.
Cocoa Beach: A Local Favorite
Cocoa Beach is close to Orlando, making it a top spot for day trips. It’s about 60 miles east of the city. Here, you can find sun, surf, and peace.
Overview and Attractions
Cocoa Beach is a top pick for swimming near Orlando. It has a lively vibe with its old pier and beautiful coast. There are fun spots for everyone.
- Iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop in the beach area
- Kennedy Space Center for space fans
- Pristine sandy shores for sunbathing
Surfing and Water Sports
Cocoa Beach is known as the surf capital of Florida. It’s great for water sports lovers. You can:
- Take surfing lessons for beginners
- Rent boards for any skill level
- Try windsurfing and paddleboarding
Dining Options Nearby
The beach has many places to eat. You can find everything from beachside cafes to fancy restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes with ocean views.
| Restaurant Type | Cuisine Style | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Beachside Cafe | Casual Seafood | Relaxed, Ocean View |
| Local Seafood Restaurant | Fresh Catch | Family-Friendly |
Cocoa Beach is perfect for swimming near Orlando. It has natural beauty, fun activities, and a beachy feel.
Cape Canaveral: A Blend of Nature and Adventure
Cape Canaveral is a special spot on Florida’s Space Coast. It’s close to Orlando and offers a mix of nature and fun. You can see wildlife, learn about space, and enjoy beautiful beaches.
Exploring the National Seashore
The Cape Canaveral National Seashore is a hidden gem near Orlando. It has 24 miles of untouched beach. Here, you can see many amazing things:
- Preserved natural habitats including dunes, lagoons, and salt marshes
- Home to 310 different bird species
- Critical nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles
- Opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography
Space Launch Viewing Experiences
Cape Canaveral is great for watching rocket launches. It has clear water and amazing views. You can see space missions from the beach.
| Launch Viewing Location | Distance from Orlando | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Jetty Park | 65 miles | Direct launch viewing, fishing pier, camping |
| Playalinda Beach | 60 miles | Secluded launch watching, pristine shoreline |
| Space View Park | 55 miles | Unobstructed rocket launch perspectives |
Unique Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife lovers will love Cape Canaveral. It’s full of marine life like manatees and sharks. You can see many birds too. Guided tours let you get close to nature.
Whether you love nature, space, or beaches, Cape Canaveral is a must-see. It’s just a short drive from Orlando.
New Smyrna Beach: A Charming Coastal Town
New Smyrna Beach is just 56 miles from Orlando. It’s a great place for those looking for beaches near Orlando. It has natural beauty, fun for families, and a special coastal feel.
For families, New Smyrna Beach is perfect. It has clean sandy beaches and lots of fun activities. It’s great for both families and beach lovers.
Beach Access and Family-Friendly Activities
New Smyrna Beach has many places to get to the beach:
- Beachway Avenue
- Crawford Road
- 3rd Avenue
- 27th Avenue
Beach driving costs $20 a day. You can go back the same day for free. Smyrna Dunes Park has dog beaches and a boardwalk for $10.
Local Events and Festivals
The town has fun events all year:
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Christmas Market | November 30 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. |
| Light Up Flagler | December 6 | 5-8 p.m. |
| Santa Paws Pooch Parade | December 6 | 6:15 p.m. |
| Holiday Boat Parade | December 9 | 6-8 p.m. |
Eclectic Dining and Shopping
Flagler Avenue is full of local shops and restaurants. It’s a great place to find unique food and things to buy. It’s perfect for those who love to sunbathe on the beach.
New Smyrna Beach is great for wildlife watching, surfing, or just relaxing. It’s a memorable trip from Orlando.
Daytona Beach: A Vibrant Beach Scene
Daytona Beach is just 56 miles from Orlando. It’s a top pick for a quick beach trip. This place offers more than just a beach day.
The Famous Boardwalk and Pier
Daytona Beach has a great boardwalk. It’s perfect for a seaside feel. The historic pier is 1,200 feet long.
The boardwalk has:
- Carnival-style arcade games
- Live entertainment
- Numerous food vendors
- Souvenir shops
Motorsports and Speedways
Daytona Beach is also a racing hub. Racing fans will love it at the Daytona International Speedway. The beach’s sand helped start car racing.
Nightlife and Entertainment Options
Daytona Beach changes at night. It has many bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can find:
- Beachfront live music venues
- Dance clubs
- Casual beach bars
- Restaurants with ocean views
Daytona Beach is great for fun or chill times. It’s close to Orlando and offers a unique beach experience.
Sand Key Park: A Quiet Oasis
Near Clearwater, Sand Key Park is a peaceful beach near Orlando. It’s a calm spot away from busy places. This beach is close to Orlando and offers a quiet place for those who want to relax and enjoy nature.
Pristine Beaches and Nature Trails
Sand Key Park has beautiful beaches. It’s a great place to relax. You can find:
- Soft, white sandy beaches
- Scenic nature trails
- Stunning coastal landscapes
- Quiet walking paths through native vegetation
Picnic Areas and Amenities
The park has great facilities for beach lovers. You can find:
- Covered picnic shelters
- Clean bathhouses
- Convenient dog park
- Ample parking spaces
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Beach Length | 1.5 miles |
| Parking | Large free parking lot |
| Facilities Rating | 4.87/5 based on 259 reviews |
Wildlife Observation Opportunities
Nature lovers will enjoy Sand Key Park. Birdwatchers can see many coastal birds. You might also see sea turtles and marine life.
Sand Key Park is perfect for a peaceful beach day near Orlando. It’s beautiful and calm.
Fort De Soto Park: A Natural Paradise
Fort De Soto Park is in Pinellas County. It’s a beautiful place near Orlando for those who love nature and the beach. This park is huge, with 1,136 acres. It welcomes 2.7 million visitors every year.
Exploring Fort De Soto’s Beaches
The park has almost three miles of beautiful beaches. You can swim, sunbathe, and see lots of wildlife. It’s also great for watching birds, with over 328 species found here.
Camping and Outdoor Activities
Fort De Soto Park has lots to do for those who love adventure:
- 238 family camping sites available
- 7 miles of paved trails for hiking and biking
- 2.25-mile recreational canoe trail
- Two fishing piers for anglers
- Dog-friendly beach areas
Historical Significance of the Park
The park is also very historic. It has amazing military sites from different times:
| Historical Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Military Fortifications | Four 12-inch coastal defense guns |
| Quartermaster Museum | Free admission, open 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily |
| Park Operating Hours | 7:00 am to sunset |
For those looking for a special place near Orlando, Fort De Soto Park is perfect. It has beautiful nature, fun activities, and history to explore.
Clearwater Beach: Award-Winning Shoreline
Discover the magic of Clearwater Beach. It’s a stunning spot that’s one of the best near Orlando. It’s perfect for families and those who love water sports. It’s just 90 minutes from Orlando and is a Gulf Coast gem.
Highlights and Popular Attractions
Clearwater Beach is a top spot. It has pristine white sand and clear waters. You can see many amazing things:
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium – home to rescued marine animals
- Pier 60 – famous for nightly sunset celebrations
- Sugar Sand Festival – a 17-day event with amazing sand sculptures
Water Activities and Rentals
Clearwater Beach is great for water sports. You can try:
- Parasailing
- Jet skiing
- Snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Dolphin watching tours
Beachfront Dining and Nightlife
The beach has lots of places to eat and have fun. You can enjoy:
- Waterfront restaurants
- Live music at Pier 60
- Nightly street performers
- Beachside bars and cafes
Clearwater Beach has 361 sunny days a year. It’s welcoming to families and adventure lovers. It’s a must-see just a short drive from Orlando.
Melbourne Beach: Serene and Scenic
Melbourne Beach is a quiet spot on Florida’s Space Coast. It’s perfect for those looking for a calm beach near Orlando. It’s only 75 miles from Orlando and has beautiful views and fun activities.
Surfing and Fishing Opportunities
Melbourne Beach is great for water lovers. It’s one of the best spots for surfing near Orlando. The waves are perfect for all levels, from newbies to pros.
- Consistent wave patterns
- Multiple surf spots along the coastline
- Rental shops with professional equipment
Community Events and Artisans
The local community adds a lot of life to Melbourne Beach. You can check out unique local markets. There, you’ll meet talented artists who show off the area’s creativity.
| Event Type | Frequency | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Craft Fair | Monthly | Downtown Melbourne |
| Seafood Festival | Annually | Riverside Park |
Beachfront Accommodations
Melbourne Beach has many places to eat and stay. You can find restaurants right by the water and cozy places to stay. They all have amazing views of the ocean.
Places like JB’s Fish Camp offer great food. Whether you love surfing, nature, or trying new foods, Melbourne Beach is a must-see. It’s just a short drive from Orlando.
Treasure Island: A Hidden Gem
Treasure Island is a beautiful spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s perfect for a romantic day trip from Orlando. The area has natural beauty and fun activities for everyone.
The beach here is three miles long and has soft, white sand. It’s famous for its amazing sunsets. It’s a great place for couples to enjoy a romantic day.
Unique Beach Activities
- Stand-up paddleboarding along the scenic coastline
- Dolphin watching tours
- Beach volleyball
- Shell collecting at the Florida Shell Shop
Sunset Celebrations and Local Events
The island has fun events all year. Some include:
- Annual Sanding Ovations sandcastle competition in November
- Treasure Island Kite Festival during MLK Holiday weekend
- Regular live music events at local venues
Exploring Nearby Attractions
There’s more to see near Treasure Island:
| Attraction | Distance from Treasure Island | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| John’s Pass Village | Nearby | Historic fishing village with shopping and dining |
| Gulf Boulevard | On-site | Boutiques and local shops |
| Sand Key Park | 34 minutes north | Peaceful natural retreat |
Pro tip: Visit during sunset for the best views. Walk the one-mile Treasure Island Beach Trail for stunning Gulf of Mexico views.
Ormond Beach: A Historical Marvel
Ormond Beach is just north of Daytona Beach. It’s a special place for families. It’s a hidden gem among the best beaches near Orlando. Here, history and fun come together in a beautiful way.
Discovering the Historic Area
Ormond Beach is known as the “Birthplace of Speed.” It’s famous for setting land speed records in the early 1900s. You can see cool places like the Casements, where John D. Rockefeller used to stay.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Tomoka State Park for nature walks and wildlife viewing
- Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Tomoka River
- Exploring historic sites and museums
- Beach activities perfect for all ages
Restaurants with Local Flavors
Ormond Beach has great dining spots. You can find fresh seafood and Florida dishes that everyone will love.
| Restaurant | Cuisine Type | Family-Friendly Rating |
|---|---|---|
| The Wharf | Seafood | ★★★★☆ |
| Alfie’s Restaurant | American | ★★★★★ |
| Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille | Casual Dining | ★★★★☆ |
Ormond Beach is great for history, beach fun, and food. It’s a perfect place for families to get away from Orlando’s theme parks.
St. Pete Beach: Endless Entertainment Options
St. Pete Beach is close to Orlando. It’s great for water sports and relaxing. It’s perfect for all ages.
St. Pete Beach has lots of fun things to do. It’s on 40 tropical acres with 1,600 feet of beach. It’s a great place for a vacation.
Water Sports and Rentals
There are many water activities at St. Pete Beach. You can try:
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Paddleboat rentals
- Parasailing
- High Tide Water Slide
- Surf WipeOut experiences
Shopping and Nightlife
St. Pete Beach has more than water sports. It has shops and places to have fun at night.
| Entertainment Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Beachfront Pools | 9 pools with 550 cabanas |
| Evening Entertainment | Magic shows, pirate performances |
| Dive-in Movies | Screenings at beachfront pool |
Festivals and Events Calendar
St. Pete Beach has many family-friendly events. Shelldon’s Adventure Club has fun for kids. There are also campfire s’mores and a big aquarium.
There are 733 rooms and villas at top resorts. St. Pete Beach is the best beach getaway near Orlando.
Canova Beach: A Local Secret
Tucked away near Melbourne, Canova Beach is a hidden gem. It’s a peaceful beach near Orlando. It’s a calm escape from the busy theme parks.
Reasons to Discover Canova Beach
Canova Beach Park is in Palm Bay. It’s a peaceful beach near Orlando. It offers unique experiences that make it stand out:
- Quiet and uncrowded shoreline
- Excellent opportunities for wildlife watching
- Pet-friendly beach areas
- Proximity to Space Coast attractions
Accessibility and Facilities
The beach has easy-to-use amenities. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful beach near Orlando. Key facilities include:
| Facility | Available |
|---|---|
| Parking | Free parking lot |
| Restrooms | Clean and maintained |
| Picnic Areas | Designated spaces |
| Dog-Friendly | Leashed dogs allowed |
Nature and Wildlife Watching
Canova Beach Park is great for nature lovers. The area is full of wildlife. You can see birds and sea creatures.
Wildlife watchers will love it here. You can see sea birds, marine creatures, and plants. It’s a special place on Florida’s Space Coast.
Best Beach Tips for Orlando Visitors
Planning a beach trip in Orlando needs careful thought. You might want to swim at the best beaches or just relax by the coast. Knowing some key tips can make your day better.
What to Pack for a Beach Day
Packing right is key for a great beach day. Here are some must-haves for your trip:
- Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Large beach towels
- Reusable water bottles
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Beach umbrella or portable shade
- Waterproof phone case
- First aid kit
Safety Guidelines for Beachgoers
Staying safe is very important at the beach. Knowing about the water can help avoid dangers:
| Safety Aspect | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Rip Current Awareness | Swim parallel to shore if caught in a current |
| Marine Life | Watch for jellyfish and avoid touching unfamiliar sea creatures |
| Sun Protection | Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours |
| Hydration | Drink plenty of water to prevent heat exhaustion |
Local Laws and Regulations
Knowing the beach rules makes your visit better. Here are some important ones to remember:
- Check alcohol consumption restrictions
- Verify pet policies at specific beaches
- Understand parking limitations
- Respect wildlife protection zones
Pro tip: Always check local weather forecasts and tide information before your beach trip to maximize safety and enjoyment.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Beach Escape
Orlando is close to many amazing beaches. You can drive to Cocoa Beach in 60 miles. Or go to Clearwater Beach for a calm day by the sea.
Every beach near Orlando is special in its own way. You can find adventure, peace, or fun for families. Places like Turtle Mound and Canaveral National Seashore offer unique experiences.
Exploring Coastal Diversity
Florida’s coast has many beaches near Orlando. You can enjoy Daytona Beach’s buzz, New Smyrna Beach’s beauty, or Vero Beach’s wildlife. Each place offers something new and exciting.
Planning Your Beach Adventure
Think about what you want from your beach trip. Look up local events and get ready for wildlife. Each beach near Orlando has something special for you, making your trip unforgettable.
