15 Best Beaches Near OrlandoFL — Closest Lake & Ocean Beach Spots

When you think of Orlandothe first thing that comes to mind is ‘theme park.’

From the famous Disney World to the many Universal Studios activitiesthere are many options for fun-filled days.

Howeverthe “City Beautiful” offers more than that.

You might want to check out the best nearby beaches that offer a fun-filled day trip or beach vacation.

Whether you’re looking for powdery sand beachescrystal-clear turquoise watersor exciting attractions and activitiesOrlando has your back.

I have visited many lake and ocean beaches near Orlando and reviewed the best places to help you plan a perfect trip with your family.

AdditionallyI have interacted with locals and other travelers and asked them about their insights.

I have also listed the beaches according to their family-friendlinesssafetywater qualityand more.

With this informationyou will be ensured to have a memorable vacation.

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Best Beaches Near OrlandoFL Compared

Prepare for a fun-filled getaway and check out our reviews of the best beaches near OrlandoFL.

Here are the top 15 beaches near OrlandoFL.

1. Cocoa Beach (Editor’s Choice)

N Atlantic Avenue
Cocoa BeachFL 32931
(321) 868-3252
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Cocoa Beach in Brevard County is about an hour away from Orlando by car.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 3/5
• Safety: 3.5/5
• Amenities: 3.5/5
• Water Quality: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Wide range of water activities
• A popular spot for surfing 

Cons

• The occasional presence of marine wildlife

Why We Recommend This Beach

If you’re up for some quick beach getaways from OrlandoCocoa Beach beaches are perfect.

There are four parks in the city with acres of beautiful oceanfront that you’re sure to love.

If you have kids with youthe Sidney Fisher park has a picnic pavilion and playground near the waters and the sandy shores.

Expert Tip

All four parks in Cocoa Beach offer stunning views of the oceanso choose depending on what interests you the best.

Alan Shepard Park is near retail storeswhile Lori Wilson Park has a dog park.

Recommended Hotel Near Cocoa Beach: Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort

Related: Best Things to Do in Orlando

2. Clearwater Beach

Gulf of Mexico Drive
Longboat KeyFL 33767
(727) 464-7200
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Clearwater Beach in Pinellas County is about an hour and 46-minute drive away from Orlando.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 4.5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Amenities: 4/5
• Water Quality: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Crystal-clear water
• Powderywhite sand 

Cons

• Expensive rates of water activities

Why We Recommend This Beach

When you’re going on an oceanside day trip with young childrenadd Clearwater Beach to your choice for the safest beach for kids.

It has a full-time lifeguard and a clear swim zone (about 300 feet wide)so you won’t need to worry about getting mowed down by kayaks or surfboards.

Expert Tip

Just like its name suggeststhis beach has stunning clearand clean waters that you and little children will enjoy wading in.

And if you’d rather stay dry?

The beach has vast white sand shores for you to play in.

Recommended Hotel Near Clearwater Beach: Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach

Related: Places to Eat in Pinellas County

Related: Things to Do in Orlando with Kids

3. Daytona Beach

N Atlantic Avenue
Daytona BeachFL 32118
(386) 255-0415
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Daytona Beach on the Atlantic Coast is about an hour away from Orlando.

Besides car racingthis city also has one of the prettiest beaches in the area.

Ratings Criteria

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 3/5
• Amenities: 4.5/5
• Water Quality: 3/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

Pros

• Variety of attractions 
• Spacious beach 

Cons

• Crowded during peak tourist season

Why We Recommend This Beach

There are tons of fun things to do in Daytona Beach.

Sureyou can do the usual swim in the water and lounge on the sandbut you can also do more.

This oceanfront has a boardwalk full of quirky shopssnack barsand even an arcade.

When you want to take a break from the salty seajust look aroundand you’ll find something else to do.

Expert Tip

Daytona Beach is known for hosting bandshell concerts from May to September.

If you’re going thentake the time to watch some performers.

You might even witness fireworks.

Recommended Hotel Near Daytona Beach: Max Beach Resort

Related: Restaurants: OrlandoFL

Also See:
Beaches Close to Daytona Beach
Best Beach Close to Panama City Beach
Best Beaches Near Tallahassee

4. New Smyrna Beach

S Atlantic Avenue & 4th Avenue E
New Smyrna BeachFL 32169
(386) 424-2175
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New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County is a short 58-minute drive away from Orlando.

Why We Recommend This Beach

With its budget-friendly amenities and less-crowded atmosphereNew Smyrna Beach is an excellent alternative to Clearwater Beach and Daytona Beach.

When it comes to the best beach for swimmingNew Smyrna Beach is a formidable contender.

It has shallow waters that even the most novice of swimmers can enjoy.

It has sweeping sand dunes that you’ll love exploring and playing in.

You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards while you’re here.

Expert Tip

New Smyrna Beach is also known as a great location to spot for dolphins and manatees so keep a careful eye out.

It’s also good to be vigilant and watch out for sharks (no worriesthey aren’t killer sharks; this isn’t JAWS).

Recommended Hotel Near New Smyrna Beach: Islander Beach Resort – New Smyrna Beach

5. Canaveral National Seashore

S Washington Avenue
TitusvilleFL 32796
(321) 267-1110
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Canaveral National Seashore is a barrier island in Titusville.

It is about 55 minutes away from Orlandomaking it the nearest beach spot on this list.

As far as nice beaches gothis island has some of the most stunning ones in Florida.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Experience the pristineundeveloped beauty of the Floridian coastline when you visit Canaveral National Seashore.

It will feel like the sandy shorefront just stretches on forever.

While you’re hereyou can go swimmingsurfingkayakingand boating.

You can even try back-country camping if you’re up to it.

Expert Tip

A popular beach activity in the park is viewing rocket launches done by the Kennedy Space Center.

So make sure to check their schedule to see if one coincides with your trip.

Recommended Hotel Near Canaveral National Seashore: Best Western Edgewater Inn

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Orlando

6. Satellite Beach

Florida A1A & Park Avenue
Satellite BeachFL 32937
(321) 773-6458
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Satellite Beach is 1 hour and 6 minutes away from Orlando by car.

It’s easy to schedule weekend beach trips from Orlando to this coastal city.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Located on a barrier islandthe small seaside community of Satellite Beach is picturesque.

You’ll have spectacular views of both the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean when you’re here.

While you can go swimming and surfing in the watersyou can also spend the day playing on the playground and beach volleyball courts in the area.

Expert Tip

There aren’t many beaches in Orlando and in the surrounding area that are as dog-friendly as the one you’ll find in Satellite Beach.

The Canova Beach Park has 10 acres of oceanfront that your leashed dog can enjoy splashing in with you.

Recommended Hotel Near Satellite Beach: Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort

7. Ponce Inlet

5000 S Atlantic Avenue
Ponce InletFL 32127
(386) 236-2150
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It is located south of Daytona Beach.

Ponce Inlet in Volusia County is about 1 hour and 10 minutes away from Orlando.

Why We Recommend This Beach

If you’re looking for quiet and small-town vibesthen Ponce Inlet can offer you the best beach vacations from Orlando.

Ponce Inlet has scenic beaches that are fantastic for walking and jogging.

You can also go shelling when you’re here.

Expert Tip

One of the town’s most well-known attractions is the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse.

It is the state’s tallest lighthouse at 175 feetand you can climb up its 203 steps if you want.

Recommended Hotel Near Ponce Inlet: The Riverview Hotel – New Smyrna Beach

Also See:
Nearest Beach to Gainesville
Beaches Near Crystal River
Beaches Close to Clearwater

8. Indialantic

Wave Crest Avenue & 5th Avenue
IndialanticFL 32903
(321) 723-2242
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The town of Indialantic in Brevard County is about an hour and 14 minutes away from Orlando by car.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Swimming and wading in Indialantic Beach’s waters are enjoyablebut that’s not all that there is to do here.

Young kids can play in the playground.

You can even watch a game of beach volleyball in the stadium.

Or you can try to spot sea turtles while you’re here.

Expert Tip

When in the areayou should also visit the Indialantic Boardwalk.

It offers incredible views of the beach while making sure you won’t get wet.

Recommended Hotel Near Indialantic: Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront

Related: Things to Do Near Orlando

9. Melbourne Beach

Atlantic Street2847983
Melbourne BeachFL 32951
(321) 724-5860
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Melbourne Beach in Brevard County is about 1 hour and 17 minutes away from Orlando.

It is beside the town of Indialantic.

Why We Recommend This Beach

When you’re in the areayou can go to two beach towns at once.

The oceanfront in Melbourne Beach is just a 30-minute walk (5-minute drive) to Indialantic Beach.

As one of the favorite beaches in the stateMelbourne Beach is visited by many tourists and locals.

So you’ll really feel the social vibe while surfing and relaxing under your beach umbrella.

Expert Tip

Make sure to visit the historic Melbourne Beach Pier when you’re nearby.

It’s an excellent spot for fishing or just waiting for the sunset (or sunrise).

Recommended Hotel Near Melbourne Beach: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront

10. Flagler Beach

S Ocean Shore Boulevard
Flagler BeachFL 32136
(386) 517-2000
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Flagler Beach is an oceanfront city that’s about an hour and 11 minutes away from Orlando.

Why We Recommend This Beach

The cinnamon-colored sands of Flagler Beach is a huge draw for most visitors.

You can choose to lounge around on the pretty sand or take a chance with the waves.

Flagler Beach is also an excellent spot for surfing and swimming.

Expert Tip

If you’re not up to get wetyou can always spend the day fishing in Flagler Beach.

Stay on the surftake a spot on the pieror even go boating.

Recommended Hotel Near Flagler Beach: Flagler Beach Motel and Vacation Rentals

11. Ormond Beach

215 Seminole Avenue
Ormond BeachFL 32176
(386) 677-0311
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Ormond Beach in Volusia County is a 1 hour and 3-minute drive away from Orlando.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Have you been wanting to experience that peacefulsmall-town vibe?

You can always go to Ormond Beachwhich is located just north of the ever-popular Daytona Beach.

Stillwith views on the beautiful Atlantic Ocean with the Tomoka River on the other sideyou can do tons of water activities here.

From hunting for shells to surfingyou’re sure to have tons of fun.

Expert Tip

While you’re heremake sure to visit Tomoka State Parkwhich is along the river.

You can spend the day boatingfishingand paddling.

Or you can choose to hike or bike the trails in the area.

Recommended Hotel Near Ormond Beach: Coral Sands Inn

12. Sebastian Inlet State Park

9700 South Highway A1A
Melbourne BeachFL 32951
(321) 984-4852
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Sebastian Inlet State Park is about 1 hour and 36 minutes away from Orlando.

It is near Melbourne Beach and Vero Beach.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Besides walking along the beautifulundeveloped beaches in the parkyou can do tons of other water activities.

You can go swimmingsnorkelingand evening scuba diving under the clear waters.

For more active enthusiastsyou can even go paddling and surfing.

Expert Tip

If you’re looking to relax during your visityou can hunt for shellsgo bird watchingor enjoy fishing on the beach.

You can also choose to hike or camp around the park.

Recommended Hotel Near Sebastian Inlet State Park: The Inn at Capt. Hiram’s

13. Vero Beach

Ocean Drive
Vero BeachFL 32963
(772) 978-5151
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Vero Beach is a coastal city overlooking the Atlantic Ocean that’s an hour and 47 minutes away from Orlando by car.

Why We Recommend This Beach

There are many beaches and parks in Vero Beach that offer stunning views of the waters when you’re in the area.

Depending on which beach you chooseyou can go swimmingsnorkelingand even scuba diving.

Some beaches are better for surfing than others.

Expert Tip

Some of the beaches in Vero Beach are known to be favorite spots for sea turtles.

Don’t be surprised if you see nesting turtles or a few of them swimming in the waters during your visit.

Recommended Hotel Near Vero Beach: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa

14. Caladesi Island State Park

1 Causeway Boulevard
DunedinFL 34698
(727) 469-5918
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Caladesi State Park is a 1 hour and 54-minute drive away from Orlando.

It is near Clearwater City and just off the Gulf Coast.

Why We Recommend This Beach

The untouched beaches of Caladesi Island are reason enough for you to visit here.

Nature lovers are sure to enjoy walking along the sand dunesstaying under the treesand just looking out for shorebirds and sea turtles.

Expert Tip

If you’re feeling more adventurous and are up for a bit of exerciseyou can always do the kayak trails through the mangrove trees inside the park.

Recommended Hotel Near Caladesi Island State Park: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

15. Fort de Soto

3500 Pinellas Bayway S
Tierra VerdeFL 33715
(727) 582-2267
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Fort de Soto in Pinellas County is found in five different offshore keys connected by a bridge.

It is about 1 hour and 52 minutes away from Orlando.

Why We Recommend This Beach

Some of the best beaches near OrlandoFLcan be found in the islands inside Fort de Soto Park.

Enjoy looking at different views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay when you’re here.

You can go swimming with your dogs off-leashenjoy paddling around and looking for turtlesand have fun splashing around tidal pools.

Expert Tip

There are tons of other things to experience in Fort de Soto Park.

History buffs will love going to the historic fort and museum.

Active people will enjoy bikingrollerbladingor hiking the nature trails.

You can even try waterfront camping if you’re feeling adventurous.

Recommended Hotel Near Fort de Soto: Pass-a-Grille Coconut Inn

Related: Best Beaches in Tampa

Related: Best Beaches in Florida

Beachgoer Guide 

Comparing Beaches: Which One Is Right For You?

Before going to a beach destinationknowing each place’s pros and cons is vital.

It is also essential to pick the perfect places that will fit your preferences and the activities you want to experience with your family.

The amenities and cost must also be considered.

Cocoa Beach is a popular beach destination for its wide range of water activitiessuch as surfing.

But there are occasional marine wildlife sightingsso it is important to be aware while swimming and surfingespecially with kids.

Clearwater Beach has beautifulpowdery white sand and crystal clear watersmaking it a picturesque destination.

With its calm watersit’s also an ideal location for parasailingpaddleboarding and jet-skiing.

Howeverthe cost of its amenities and these water activities is more expensive than other beaches.

MeanwhileDaytona Beach has a spacious area full of attractions for every guest. 

It also sits near a bunch of arcadesrestaurants and venues that hosts occasional concerts and live events.

If you’re a racing enthusiastyou can watch out for racing events here.

But despite thatit can still get crowded during peak seasons.

If you want to visit a more affordable alternative with a less-crowded atmosphereNew Smyrna Beach is an excellent choice.

But this beach is further from the Orlando area compared to other placesso it may require a longer drive.

How I Picked The Beach Spots 

As an experienced travel writer and a beach enthusiastI’ve explored a lot of beach destinations near Orlando.

Throughout the yearsI have visited them for work and a weekend getaway with my family.

And my first-hand experience lets me share my thoughts and create in-depth reviews of these beaches.

In additionI did in-depth research on credible travel sites. 

And I chatted with locals and guides who shared their personal picksunbiased reviewsand favorites.

Other tourists also offered some of their experiences and feedback about each beach I listed here.

Our Beach Rating Method

I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:

• Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion. 
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach. 
• Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach.  Is it equipped with restroomsshowersand changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach. 
• Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Nicest Beach Near Orlando?

The nicest beach near Orlando is Cocoa Beach.

What Is The Closest White Sand Beach To Orlando?

The closest white sand beach to Orlando is Clearwater Beach.

Conclusion

While each beach destination has unique featuresall of these beaches offer unique experiences to each traveler.

Clearwater Beach is one of our family’s favorites.

Its enticing blue waters are breathtakingespecially when the waves crash on the white sands.

And here’s a fun fact: the pristinepowderyand picture-perfect sand is made of crushed quartz from the Appalachian Mountains.

We also enjoyed Daytona Beach’s nearby entertainment attractions and New Smyrna Beach’s peaceful settingwhich is ideal for a relaxing day at the beach.

But among the best beaches near OrlandoFLCocoa Beach offers the most unforgettable beach experience.

We love Cocoa’s blend of adventureentertainmentand relaxation.

We also enjoyed watching surfers gliding and sliding on Cocoa’s great waves.