19 Best Beaches Near Orlando in 2026

Orlando is the theme parks capital of the United States. With Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in the same citythere’s plenty of family fun to be had. But because Orlando is inlandyou can’t get the full Florida beach day experience there. Get ready to jump in the car and travel to some of the best beaches near Orlando!
Beaches Less Than 1 Hour From Orlando
1. Daytona Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 56 miles (56 minutes)
Daytona Beachlovingly referred to as the “world’s most famous beach,” is definitely one of the best beaches near Orlando for families.
Just under an hour outside of the cityDaytona Beach has one of the most picturesque and massive shorelines you will ever see. It can be as wide as 500 feet at low tide!
Beach driving is one of the most popular activities at Daytona Beach. The 23 miles of hard-packed white sand provide a great opportunity to go on a fun cruise down the Atlantic shoreline with your family.
Keep in mind that beach driving requires a $20 fee and is only allowed in designated areas on Daytona Beachso be sure to plan ahead.
Another reason Daytona Beach is one of the best beaches near OrlandoFL is its location. You can spend the day relaxing on the beach and then spend the evening enjoying amazing dining and entertainmentall in the same place!
Where to Stay

The Daytona is a unique and colorfully fun place to stay when visiting Daytona Beach. Modeled after the nearby Daytona International Speedwaythe vibe and decor of the hotel honors motorsports history.
This place features standard rooms with king and queen bed optionssome even equipped with nice balcony areas to enjoy the wonderful weather. If you’re looking for more spacethey also offer suite optionscomplete with an even roomier balcony and indoor workspace.
This hotel also boasts free parking and free internetas well as refrigerators and coffee machines in each room. Cribs and rollaway beds are available for an extra charge.
They have a gorgeous outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant. But best of allthis hotel is only a 3-minute drive from Daytona Beach. So you’ll be close to the action!
▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Daytona
2. New Smyrna Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 55 miles (58 minutes)
New Smyrna Beach is known for its killer waves. Declared the 4th best town for surfing by Surfing Magazineif you’re a surfer this is clearly one of the best beaches in Florida for you! It’s also a killer spot to enjoy fun boogie boards!
Thought to have some of the best wave action in all of the east coastat New Smyrna Beach both beginners and experts can enjoy the waves.
More than just surfingthe 17 miles of white sand beach also offers trails to walkbikeor horseback ride. If you want to get really adventurousyou could also go shipwreck diving here!
If relaxation is more your speedyou can spend the day wandering the seaside boardwalk or even visiting the dog beach with your puplocated at Smyrna Dunes Park.
Where to Stay

Inn On the Avenue is a cozy bed and breakfastvirtually on the beach as New Smyrna is only a 5 minute walk away. The cottage includes seven roomseach decorated in a sea life or otherwise coastal theme.
A delicious breakfast is available every morning in the dining room. Guests eat at specialty tables equipped with built-in griddles so you can flip your own pancakes! It’s a special touch your kids would be sure to love!
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Inn On the Avenue
3. Ormond Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 61 miles (58 minutes)
Cleanquiet and peaceful. Ormond Beach is nothing like the spring break beaches in Florida. It really is one of the best family beaches near Orlando.
One of the best shelling beaches near Orlandothis is the perfect location to walk the beach and let your kids see who can find the most unique shell of all.
If the weather is rightit might be fun to fly a beach kite. Overallit’s a beautiful and relaxing environment.
Because this is a less popular and happening locationkeep in mind food options won’t be available right on the beach. You can find delicious restaurants nearby though!
Where to Stay

Royal Floridian Resort is a two minute walk from Ormond Beachlocated right on the beach. Guests have access to all ocean and beach activities.
And if that wasn’t enoughthe resort features one of the most spectacular oceanfront pools.
The studio1 bedroom or 2 bedroom condos all feature separate kitchendining and living areas. And some even have walk-out balconies.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Royal Floridian Resort

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 49 miles (59 minutes)
Canaveral National Seashore is less than 50 miles outside of Orlando and is the longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline. We love visiting the national seashores around the country because they are so beautiful! This seashore home to many different beaches and hiking trails. The landscape here is nature at its best.
This is one of the best beaches near OrlandoFlorida for fishing. Apollo Beach is a great place for surf fishingbut you can also swim and enjoy the sandy beach there as well.
Playalinda Beach is a fun place to fish from a kayak. Redfishtarpon and trout are common catches in this area. Mosquito Lagoon is another recommended area for kayaking.
Where to Stay

The Wayward Traveler’s Inn is a historic Florida Manor House. Built in 1869it’s definitely one of the most unique places to stay when visiting Canaveral National Seashoreonly 11 miles away!
The b&b property is full of themed rooms like The World Traveler RoomThe Birding Room and The Mardi Gras Room. The quirky and ambiance of the place guarantee a stay here would be one to remember.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Wayward Traveler’s Inn
5. Ponce Inlet

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 63 miles (59 minutes)
Ponce Inlet is another one of the best beaches in Florida near Orlando for surfing. Less crowded than some of the more popular spotsyou will have plenty of beach to enjoy here.
Plant and wildlife is a big part of the experience at Ponce Inlet. If you’re visiting in late May through Octoberkeep your eyes open for nesting sea turtles.
It’s important not to approach the turtles or disrupt their nests. It’s such an exciting sight to experience for the whole family.
If your kids are interested in learning about the sea turtles and their nesting routinecheck out the Marine Science Center. It’s a super fun place to explore with your familywhile learning about local sea life through the exhibits and educational presentations.
Where to Stay

If you’re hoping to stay really close to Ponce Inlethotels can be hard to come by. But there are plenty of home rentals available.
Sanibel Condo is a new development that offers ocean views and it’s only 3.5 miles from the beach at Ponce Inlet. This 3 bedroomtwo bathroom condo with spacious living and dining areas is a perfect spot to book for a long stay at the beach.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Sanibel Condo
6. Satellite Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 67 miles (59 minutes)
Satellite Beach is yet another one of the beaches near Orlando renowned for its surfing conditions. The North Dune Crossoveris the place where some of the most successful professional surfers first started out.
One of the more rowdy and active beaches near OrlandoFloridaSatellite beach always has something fun going on. If the kids get bored of playing in the water and sand check out nearby Pelican Beach Park.
Every week there’s a presentation at the parkwhere kids will be able to follow a speaker down the shoreline as they learn up-close about the sea turtles that frequent this beach.
Where to Stay

Candlewood Suites Melbourne/Viera in a great hotel to book in nearby Palm ShoresFL. This run-of-the-mill hotel offers all the standard accommodations you would expect.
The studio or 1 bedroom suites are all clean and offer comfortable double or queen sized beds. They also feature a full kitchenfree parkingwifi and daily breakfast.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Candlewood Suites Melbourne/Viera
Beaches 1-2 Hours From Orlando
7. Cocoa Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 60 miles (1 hour 3 minutes)
Cocoa Beach is considered by many as the best beach near Orlando. It combines beautyfun and entertainment all in one spot. The stretches of beautiful beach offer so many opportunities to make memories with your family. Take to the water to surf or build sandcastles on the beach.
Cocoa Beach is on a stretch of Florida known as the Space Coast. That saidyou might even be lucky enough to watch a Kennedy Space Center rocket launch from your beach blanket. We spent time here visiting the Space Centerthe Daytona Race Trackand Cocoa Beach and had a great time. The beach is beautiful!
Once you need a break from the beachmove on to explore the famous Cocoa Beach Pier. The pier stretches 800 feet into the water. It’s the home to several barsrestaurants and gift shops. It’s also a fun spot to stop and enjoy some live music.
Once all the fun is said and doneif you’re heading back to where you came fromCocoa Beach to Orlando is just a little over an hour on the road.
Where to Stay

Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral is a 7 minute walk to Cocoa Beachso it’s a super convenient place to stay. This hotel features standard king and queen bed staying rooms.
Some rooms feature sofa beds if you are traveling with a larger party. Certain rooms also feature amazing ocean views.
Rooms also include a microwave and refrigerator. Wifi and daily breakfast are complimentary. A bar and convenience store are also conveniently located on the property.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral
8. Flagler Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 77 miles (1 hour 9 minutes)
Flagler Beach is seven miles of pristinesandy paradise. A prime spot for water funyou can surfswim or just float around trying to keep your head above water.
Beach fun asidethere are so many interesting places to check out in this beach area. Spend the afternoon exploring the unique shops or stop by for a meal at one of their popular open-air restaurants.
And stop by Flagler Beach Pier while you’re here too. Established in 1927It’s a great picture of the city’s history. It’s beautiful and adds so much to this beach’s charm.
Where to Stay

A1A Ocean Club is a beachside hotelright on Flagler Beach. It has an enjoyablelaid-back beach vibe. It’s definitely one of the coolest places to stay in the area.
The property is clean and well kept. Room options here include standard roomdouble or studio suite. Each room is equipped with comfortable beds with premium beddingas well as a microwave and mini-fridge.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: A1A Ocean Club
9. Melbourne Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 76 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
Melbourne Beach consists of 33 miles of undeveloped sand. One of the best beaches near Universal Studios in Orlandothis is a gorgeous beach with a family-friendly vibe. It’s a perfect spot for picnicswalks along the water or even snorkeling!
Away from the beachthe Melbourne area has a lively art scene. Live theater and art galleries are entertaining ways to spend some time here. Depending on the timing of your visit you might even catch the Melbourne Art Festival or Oktoberfest.
If you’re looking for some nightlife fun near Melbourne Beacharea bars are a safe bet for a good time with live music.
Where to Stay

Hotel Melby Downtown MelbourneTapestry Collection by Hilton is a comfortable place to stay while visiting Melbourne Beach. The rooms are clean and comfortable and even include a crib at no chargeupon request.
This property features charming outdoor areas. The rooftop terrace is a wonderful place to unwind after a beach day and the garden and firepit areas are amazing as well.
To top it all offa barcoffeeshop and restaurant are all conveniently located on-site.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Hotel Melby Downtown Melbourne
10. Indialantic Boardwalk and Seashore

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 75 miles (1 hour 21 minutes)
Located between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Oceanyou will find Indialantic Boardwalk and Seashore. It’s a low-profile beach area that doesn’t get too busy.
Short and very basicIndialantic is not an amazing boardwalk to write home about. But it’s still a fun experience to check off the family vacation bucket list. There are public bathrooms and benches on the boardwalk.
Waves are rough hereso it’s not an ideal beach to visit with kids eager to be in the water. If you’re not planning to surfthis beach is best enjoyed for peaceful walks and wildlife watching. With lots of species of birds and fish aboutyou never know what you might see!
Where to Stay

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront features both king and queen bed suites with amazing coastal views and outdoor balconies.
The outdoor pool is very nice and offers a great spot for families to have fun and unwind. Adults can even grab a drink at the poolside bar.
Breakfast is available daily for a feeto be enjoyed on the hotel’s picturesque deck. Other meals or drinks can be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: DoubleTree Suites Melbourne Beach Oceanfront
11. Treasure Shores Beach Park

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 104 miles (1 hour 33 minutes)
Treasure Shores Beach Park is one of several beaches in Vero BeachFL.When on the road, Vero Beach to Orlando takes a little over an hour and a half.
This is a secluded and quiet beacha bit off the beaten trail. So you won’t have to worry about crowds here.
The waves at this beach are really rough more often than not. That saidfamilies might not get the full beach experience they are after with a visit to this particular beach.
Because the beach is not patrolled by a lifeguardit might be more wise for families to instead pack a picnic and enjoy the picturesque dunes this beach is known for.
Where to Stay

Sea Turtle Inn is a 10 minute drive from Vero Beach. This is such a fun and colorful place to stay. The patio areas are shrouded with colorful flowers and plants and they even have a cute garden to wander through.
Accommodations include standard roombasic apartmentdeluxe apartment and luxury apartment options. Which of staying area you choose would depend on how much space you need and the level of comfort you desire.
All rooms include a kitchen as well as a living and dining area. The hotel offers free parking and wifi as well as outdoor pools!
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Sea Turtle Inn
12. Sebastian Inlet State Park

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 90 miles (1 hour 40 minutes)
Sebastian Inlet State Park is one of Florida’s more impressive state parks. It’s also considered one of the best places on the east coast to surf.
If you’ve been looking for a chance to drop a line with your kids over vacationthis might be the right spot. Fishing is also a favorite pastime at this beach. SnookRedfishBluefish and Spanish Mackerel can all be caught here.
An all-around majestic beachit checks all the fun boxes. You can swimscuba divesnorkelshell hunt or just enjoy the day lounging around on the beach. My kids could spend all day snorkeling and looking for shells.
Where to Stay

Sebastian Saltwater Lodge is a luxurious place to settle in when vacationing in the Sebastian Inlet State Park area. This property is clean and very well put together. Located right next to the marina it definitely has a nautical and coastal ambiance.
Accommodations here include studio suites or town homes with marina views. Each room is equipped with a full kitchen so you can really make it feel like home with a home cooked meal. If you’d rather dine outa bar and restaurant is also located on the hotel property.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Sebastian Saltwater Lodge
13. Clearwater Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 108 miles (1 hour 51 minutes)
An adventure to Clearwater Beach offers a great experience for families. This is one of our favorite beaches in Florida. There are so many fun things for families to do in Clearwater like kayak toursyummy restaurantsand the water is amazing there. Plusthe smaller Gulf waves are perfect.
Don’t just take our word for itthis beach is rated by travelers far and wide as one of the top beaches in the United States. A road trip from Clearwater Beach to Orlando (or vice versa) is a little under 2 hours.
One of the best gulf beaches near Orlando, we’ve never seen a more beautiful shoreline than that of Clearwater Beach. The powderywhite sand is soft to the touch and makes for a wonderful spot to spend the afternoon.
Different from all the surfing beaches on the Atlantic coastthe water is very tranquil at Clearwater Beach with warm ocean temperatures. It’s an excellent place to practice paddleboarding or even take the kids snorkeling.
Be sure to visit nearby Pier 60 as well. It’s a fun and happening spot with lots of attractionsactivities and food to enjoy!
Where to Stay

Tahitian Beach Motel offers wonderful accommodations when visiting Clearwater Beach. Standard rooms as well as junior and regular suites are availabledepending on your party’s needs.
Visit one of their two outdoor pools to truly experience this property’s splendor. The Floridian views from the pools are amazing. The fun pool areas also feature sun loungersgas grills and umbrellas.
If Tahitian Beach Motel doesn’t sound like the place for youthere are many other Clearwater motels and resorts for families in Clearwater too.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Tahitian Beach Motel
14. St. Augustine Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 103 miles (1 hour 52 minutes)
Home of the nation’s oldest citySt. Augustine Beach is a widesprawling sandy playground. With so much roomit’s easy to find your own personal paradise here and not feel overcrowded.
During our last visit to Orlando we spent a few nights in St. Augustine Beach and had a great time exploring the cool history of the city and the great beaches in Anastasia State Park. We also love visiting the Alligator Zoological Park.
Beach driving is always exciting and is permitted in certain portions of St. Augustine Beach. The fun doesn’t have to end after leaving the beach. We loved exploring Castillo de San Marcosan old military fort located near the beach. There is a junior ranger program at the fort if your kids enjoy participating in that.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is another fun place we like to visit when we are in St. Augustine. My kids climbed the lighthouse twice – once with me and once with my husband. If you climb to the very topyou’ll get an awesome view of the whole city.
Where to Stay

Best Western St. Augustine Beach Inn features standard rooms in king and queen varieties. Microwaves and fridges are convenient in-room extras. The laundry facilities will come in handy if you need to catch up on laundry after a sandy trip to the beach.
The outdoor pool is a fun and easy way to keep your kids entertained when hanging out at the hotel. This property is also pet-friendlyin the case that you’re traveling with a dog.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Best Western St. Augustine Beach Inn
15. St. Pete Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 113 miles (1 hour 53 minutes)
St. Pete Beach is the place to visit if you are looking or a classic Florida beach experience. The whole town is filled with brightly colored buildings and definitely has a laid-back and tropical spirit.
Not focused on the same glitz and glamor that other beaches on this list are known forSt. Pete Beach is a wonderful place to spend a laid-back and relaxing day. We have seen dolphins many times right off the coast here so keep your eyes open!
It’s also home to some of the best beach bars and some of the best places in the country to eat fresh seafood.
St. Pete Beach is located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. Soas you might expectthe waters are clear and calm here. You can enjoy a day of sunbathing and swimming herebut that’s not all. The views are exceptionalespecially during sunrise and sunset.
Where to Stay

The Villas at St Pete Beach is a 9 minute walk from St. Pete Beach. Staying rooms here include villasbeach bungalows and beach havensall of which feature king-sized beds.
The more spacious Beach Haven rooms are the only staying rooms to feature kitchen amenities at this property.
The outdoor pool and garden areas are really fun spaces to enjoy the sun with your family. They also have picnic areas and a barbecue grill available for guest use.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Villas at St. Pete Beach
16. Caladesi Island State Park

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 110 miles (2 hours)
Caladesi Island State Park is referred to as a “truly untouched island offering natural delights”. There may not be a fun pier or boardwalk full of restaurants at this beachbut the stillness of the environment really enhances the beauty of the area.
We took the ferry out to Caladesi Island during our last visit to Clearwater and it is amazing. The water is such a gorgeous blue color and the sand is so soft.
Away from the hum of the citythis may be the best beach to visit if you’re looking to truly reconnect with nature. It’s only accessible by boatbut that could provide a fun new adventure for your family.
This is the perfect place for your kids to run through the powderywhite sand and enjoy the crystal clearturquoise water. You can build sand castles with your favorite beach toyssnorkel or even go on a kayaking trip through the mangrove forest. When it comes to Orlando beachesthis is the best of the best.
Where to Stay

Beso Del Sol Resort in Dunedin is a great spot to set up base when exploring Caladesi Island State Parkas well as the nearby Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.
Located next to a marinait definitely has a beach and coastal ambiance. The aparthotel features 2 fun outdoor pools where adults can enjoy a drink at the poolside bar. They have a restaurant and lounge on-site too.
The apartment-stye staying rooms include furnished balconies and convenient kitchenettes with a refrigeratorstove topand microwave. The beds are comfortable and boast premium bedding and fluffy down comforters.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Beso Del Sol Resort
17. Ponte Vedra Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 142 miles (2 hours)
Ponte Vedra Beach has gained national notoriety for being the home of the PGA Tour. It’s a gorgeous areasurrounded by multi-million dollar homesfun breweries and stellar restaurants.
This beach is special in a variety waysbut the most unique pull to this area is…shark teeth. Yesyou read that right. Searching for small and shiny black objects in the sandthat just happen to be shark teeth will be a family memory that will last a lifetime!
You can explore this beach many different ways. Rent some bikes and ride along the sandpass around a pair of binoculars for some birdwatchinggo on a hikefloat the calm waters in a kayak or maybe try some world-class fishing.
Where to Stay

Hampton Inn Jacksonville/Ponte Vedra Beach is a 9 minute drive from Ponte Vedra Beach.
This hotel is definitely a nice place to come home to after spending the day at the beach. The rooms are spacious and comfortableequipped with a microwaverefrigerator and even a sofa bed.
The outdoor pool area is really fun for families. If you’re not in the water you can unwind on a pool lounge under an umbrella. Daily breakfast and parking are both complimentary at this property too.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Hampton Inn Jacksonville/Ponte Vedra Beach
18. Jacksonville Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 143 miles (2 hours)
Jacksonville Beach is another great beach to visit. It’s well keptalways clean and it’s never too crowded. You won’t find a lot of shells herebut it’s a great space to enjoy some beach frisbee or fly a kite.
Jacksonville Beach Pier is another cool portion of the beach experience here. It’s a fisherman’s hub. It’s quite the experience to fish from the 1,300 foot pier and then turn around to clean your fresh catch at one of the cleaning stations right on the pier.
If fishing isn’t your forteyou can also just enjoy the ocean breeze on the pierwatching other reel in impressive catches.
Keep in mind Jacksonville Beach is a favorite among nearby University of North Florida students. The beach sometimes plays backdrop to the college bar-hopping atmosphere.
Where to Stay

Element Jacksonville Beach is a special hotel focused on sustainability. It’s a very green and eco-friendly place to stay. Guests are impacted by this via housekeepingwhich is only available upon request.
This is a very nice hotelfeaturing modern and luxurious amenities. Standard roomsstudios or suites to choose fromthis hotel is bound to have the right accommodations for your family.
The rooms are spacious and very clean. They feature comfortable beds and full kitchenettes. And most exceptional of allthe hotel offers a freecooked-to-order breakfast daily!
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Element Jacksonville Beach
19. Treasure Island Beach

🚗 Distance from Orlando: 112 miles (2 hours)
With four miles of sandy brillianceIt’s not much of a challenge to find your own piece of paradise on Treasure Island Beach. Not as high-profile as Clearwater and Cocoa beachesTreasure Island Beach has old Florida charm.
Treasure Island Beach Trail is an extra special addition to this fun beach. This path can be enjoyed on a bikeskateboard or just on a meandering journey with your family.
If you’re interested in visiting Treasure Island Beach you should plan your visit during the Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup.
Sculptors from around the world make their way to Treasure Island Beach to create some of the most unbelievable sand sculptures. The work is phenomenal and it’s such a cool community event.
Where to Stay

Treasure Island Beach Resort is a 4-star resort. It’s a gorgeous hotel with very luxurious accommodations. With Junior SuitesSuites and Premium Suites availableyou’ll be in the lap of luxury at this resort.
The rooms are equipped with full kitchens and cribs are available upon requestat no charge.
We love the swimming pool and hot tub herethey are so nice to enjoy after a long day at the beach. There’s both a bar and restaurant on-site to enjoy drinks and delicious dishes. Breakfast is available daily for an additional fee.
It’s only a 4 minute drive to Treasure Island Beach and close by a variety of other beaches.
▶️ Check Rates & Book: Treasure Island Beach Resort
Map of the Best Beaches Near Orlando
How Far is Orlando From the Beach?
Orlando is about 60 miles from the beach. You can reach a variety of beaches from Orlando in around an hour.
Atlantic Beaches vs Gulf Coast Beaches
Atlantic Beaches
⛱️ Sand
Atlantic beaches feature golden brown sand. It’s often coarse and rougher on feet due to the seashellspebbles and other sediments mixed up in it.
🌊 Wave Size
Atlantic beaches are known for large and forceful waves. This is the reason so many of the best Florida beaches near Orlando on the Atlantic side are widely known for surfing. The rough water creates the perfect environment for surfingbody surfing and boogie boarding.
🌡️ Temperature
At their peakAtlantic Ocean temperatures top out around low to mid 80s. Though cooler than the gulfthis water temperature is known to offer a more refreshing experience.
Clarity
Active waves are constantly churning the water along with sand and other sentiments. This is why the water at Florida beaches on the Atlantic side isn’t as clear as it is in the gulf.

Gulf Coast Beaches
⛱️ Sand
Gulf Coast beaches are known for their whitesoft and fluffy sand. Made from white quartz crystalsthis sand stays remarkably cool and comfortable to walk oneven on hot days.
🌊 Wave Size
The waters on the Gulf Coast are known to be quiet and tranquil. Calmer waves offer a more suitable beach environment for children. Without trepidation about incoming waves they are able to play in a carefree manner.
The calm gulf waters are also optimal for fun kayaking and paddleboarding adventures.
🌡️ Temperature
The impact of the Gulf Stream keeps gulf waters 5 degrees warmeron average than the Atlantic Ocean. Sometimes climbing higher than the air temperaturegulf waters are known to be comfortablelike bath water.
Clarity
Gulf Coast beaches lack strong waves. Because there is no force mixing up sand and sentimentthe water maintains its stunningcrystal clear presentation.

Things to Bring to the Beach
Sun Protection Items
It’s super important to keep your family and yourself protected from the damaging rays of the sun while enjoying a beach day. Be sure to pack lots of sunscreenhatssunglasses and even some sort of portable shade.
Cooler
It’s vital to stay hydrated when spending so much time outdoors in warm temperatures. A dependable cooler will help keep your drinks and snacks chilled so you’re better able to enjoy them throughout the day.
➡️ SHOP Coolers
Beach Chairs
If you’re planning on spending the better part of the day at the beachyou’ll need somewhere comfortable to sit. Beach chairs are great supportive options for all members of the family. We especially love the convenience of a backpack beach chair.
Beach Fun Items
Take advantage of your day in the sun and plan for some real fun! Whether you want to toss a ball aroundfly a kite or take to the water on a boogie board or kayakmake sure you plan accordingly and have a roomy beach tote on hand!
FAQ: Best Beaches Near Orlando

What is the Nicest Beach Near Orlando?
Cocoa Beach is noted as one of the nicest beaches near Orlando. Many visitors prefer this beach because it offers so much in one location. It’s beautifulit’s a great spot for surfing and it also features a fun pier and nearby downtown.
Which Beach Has the Clearest Water Near Orlando?
Clearwater Beach is the beach with the clearest water near Orlando. Thanks to the calm Gulf Coast watersClearwater is able to maintain its crystal clear appearance year-round.
What is the Closest White Sand Beach to Orlando?
One of the closest beaches to Orlando with white sand is Daytona Beach. Keep in mindthe white sand at Daytona Beach is hard-packedas opposed to the fluffier white sand you find on the Gulf Coast.

Is Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach Better?
Whether Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach is a better fit for your family depends on what you’re looking for in a beach vacation.
Cocoa Beach is a great option for families who are looking to enjoy the beach in a comfortable and laid-back way.
Daytona Beach is often a better fit for adults who are less likely to be playing in the sandas Daytona’s is hard-packed compared to the soft sand at Cocoa Beach.
Daytona Beach is also a better location for visitors who may have been pulled to the city for racing.
How Far is Clearwater Beach From Orlando?
Clearwater Beach is 108 miles from Orlando. A road trip from Orlando to Clearwater Beach takes a little less than 2 hours.
Conclusions: Beaches Near Orlando
Whether you’re looking for a looking for a high energy beach party vibe or wish to spend the afternoon peacefully relaxing in the sunone of the beaches near Orlando will fit your needs. We always love spending a beautiful day at the beachenjoying the amazing Florida sunshine!
We hope you have an amazing time on your beach vacation.