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Orlando, Florida, is one of the nation’s top vacation spots. Millions of visitors come here every year to experience its world-renowned theme parks and attractions. However, beyond these bustling city limits lie stunning beaches waiting to be discovered.
No matter your style of travel, from St. Pete Beach’s soft white sand and crystal-clear water to Daytona Beach’s lively boardwalk, there’s a beach near Orlando that caters to everyone. Whether you’re searching for an idyllic escape, an exciting family vacation, or a stellar beach party, one of these stunning spots will surely meet all your needs.
If you’re looking for a beach getaway near Orlando, you’re in luck – Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and we’ve rounded up the best of the best to help you plan your next seaside adventure.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is an exciting beach town situated along Florida’s Space Coast, just a short drive from Orlando. Renowned for its long stretches of pristine white sand beaches and world-class surfing, Cocoa Beach has become a sought-after destination for beachgoers, surfers, and space aficionados alike.
Cocoa Beach is well renowned for its surfing scene. The town boasts numerous surf shops and schools, as well as the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier which provides various water sports activities like surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. With consistent waves and warm water temperatures year-round, Cocoa Beach makes an ideal destination for surfers of all abilities.
New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is an idyllic seaside town just a short drive away from Orlando, known for its expansive, soft sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It’s popular among surfers, beachgoers, and anyone seeking to escape city life.
One of the major draws of New Smyrna Beach is its world-class surfing conditions. With consistent waves and warm water temperatures year-round, it’s no wonder why there are numerous surf shops and schools here. Whether you’re an experienced pro or just starting out, anyone can catch a wave and experience the rush of surfing at New Smyrna Beach.
Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach is one of America’s favorite beaches. It boasts an expansive shoreline and vibrant boardwalk filled with restaurants, bars, and shops – not to mention Daytona International Speedway which hosts the iconic Daytona 500 race annually. If you’re in search of an exciting party atmosphere – Daytona Beach has got it all!
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, Florida’s Gulf coast, is just two hours from Orlando and known for its crystal-clear water and soft white sand. Surrounding this popular beach town are plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions – you can even take a dolphin-watching cruise or go on a fishing charter while you’re here!
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a picturesque island situated about two and a half hours from Orlando, known for its stunning beaches lined with charming beach cottages and towering palm trees. The atmosphere on the island has a relaxed small-town vibe – making it the ideal place for those seeking quiet relaxation. You can a kayak tour through its waterways or go on an evening sailboat cruise at sunset to take in all that this peaceful island has to offer.
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach is located on Florida’s Gulf coast, two and a half hours from Orlando. It’s known for its soft white sand, which is actually made up of 99% pure quartz. Surrounding Siesta Key is an energetic beach town that offers plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment – not to mention thrilling watersports. While here, don’t forget about taking advantage of some exciting watersports like parasailing or jet skiing as they are some of the best things to do in the Sarasota area.
St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach is located on Florida’s Gulf coast, also two and a half hours from Orlando. It’s known for its wide, sandy beach as well as stunning sunsets. Surrounded by an inviting beach town that offers plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Specifically, they have incredible dolphin-watching activities. So be sure to take a dolphin cruise or go even fishing for a big tuna while you’re here!
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is a stunning 1,136-acre park situated along the Gulf of Mexico, only minutes away from Orlando. It’s one of Florida’s most popular beach destinations for good reason – its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and abundant wildlife make it one of Florida’s premier beach destinations.
For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, North Beach in the park is ideal. This secluded stretch boasts calm waters and soft white sand that make it an ideal spot to lounge in the sun or take a refreshing swim. South Beach on the other hand provides more excitement with clear blue waters and plenty of space for water sports and beach games.
Canaveral National Seashore
Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, Canaveral National Seashore offers visitors a more tranquil beach environment. Miles of undeveloped shorelines make this spot ideal for swimming, fishing, surfing, and birdwatching; plus there are plenty of hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas within the park as well.
Ponce Inlet Beach
Situated just south of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet Beach offers visitors a relaxed yet visually stunning environment. Here you’ll find soft white sand and clear turquoise water as well as incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse! It is Florida’s tallest lighthouse and a fascinating adventure while you enjoy the beach.
Flagler Beach
Flagler Beach located an hour and a half north of Orlando offers a hidden picturesque town. It is known for its long pier with excellent fishing opportunities as well as stunning views of the coastline. Plus you can explore all the shops, restaurants, and galleries in town before taking a leisurely walk along the shoreline to watch the sunset over the sea. Perfect for a romantic getaway!
Jetty Park Beach
Jetty Park Beach, just south of Cape Canaveral, offers visitors a fun and family-friendly beach experience. This beach park features picnic areas, playgrounds, fishing piers, and a campground. Plus you can explore its numerous nature trails or take an enjoyable walk along the shoreline while watching ships come and go from the nearby ports. Meaning you can spend more time outdoors with lots of amenities.