With its sugar-soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and plentiful sunshine, Florida is a beach lover's paradise. But with so many beaches to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones are the best for families. We've done the research for you and rounded up the top 5 best Florida beaches for families.
When choosing a beach for your family, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. First, consider the age of your children. Some beaches are better suited for toddlers and preschoolers, while others are more appropriate for older kids. You'll also want to think about the activities you're interested in. Some beaches offer a variety of water sports, while others are more laid-back.
No matter what your family's needs and preferences are, you're sure to find the perfect beach in Florida. So pack your sunscreen, beach towels, and snacks, and get ready for a fun-filled day at the beach!
Best Florida Beaches for Families
Soft sand, clear waters, endless activities.
- Clearwater Beach
- Siesta Key Beach
- Fort Lauderdale Beach
- Panama City Beach
- Destin Beach
- St. Pete Beach
- Naples Beach
Something for everyone, from toddlers to teens.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a perennial favorite among families visiting Florida. With its soft, white sand, clear waters, and gentle waves, it's the perfect place for kids to splash and play. The beach is also home to a variety of activities and attractions, including a playground, a splash pad, and a fishing pier. And when you're ready for a break from the sun, you can take a stroll along the scenic pier or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the beach.
One of the best things about Clearwater Beach is that it's very family-friendly. The lifeguards are vigilant, and there are plenty of restrooms and changing facilities. There are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear.
If you're looking for a fun and safe beach day with your family, Clearwater Beach is a great option. Here are a few more details about what makes Clearwater Beach so special:
- Pier 60: This iconic pier is a great place to take a stroll, fish, or watch the sunset. It's also home to a nightly sunset celebration, which is a fun and festive way to end your day at the beach.
- The Clearwater Marine Aquarium: This aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. It's a great place to learn about the local marine environment and see some amazing creatures up close.
- The Beach Walk: This scenic walkway stretches for 1.5 miles along the beach. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or rollerblade.
With its beautiful beach, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of activities, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place for a fun and memorable beach vacation.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and head to Clearwater Beach today!
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach is another great option for families looking for a beautiful and safe beach. Located on a barrier island just south of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach is known for its sugar-white sand, which is made up of 99% pure quartz. This gives the sand a unique, powdery texture that's soft and gentle on your feet.
Siesta Key Beach is also known for its calm waters, which are perfect for swimming, wading, and kayaking. There are also a number of lifeguards on duty, so you can relax and enjoy your day at the beach knowing that your family is safe.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Siesta Key also offers a variety of activities and attractions for families. Here are a few ideas:
- Visit the Siesta Key Village: This charming village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It's a great place to browse, shop, and dine.
- Take a boat tour of the mangrove tunnels: This is a great way to see the local ecosystem and learn about the different plants and animals that call Siesta Key home.
- Visit the Sarasota Jungle Gardens: This botanical garden is home to a variety of plants and animals, including monkeys, lemurs, and tropical birds.
- Go for a bike ride on the Siesta Key Bike Trail: This scenic trail winds through the island, offering beautiful views of the beach, the mangroves, and the Gulf of Mexico.
With its beautiful beach, calm waters, and variety of activities, Siesta Key Beach is the perfect place for a fun and relaxing family vacation.
So pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and head to Siesta Key Beach today!
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is a popular destination for families looking for a lively and exciting beach vacation. With its wide, sandy beach, clear waters, and variety of activities, there's something for everyone at Fort Lauderdale Beach.
One of the best things about Fort Lauderdale Beach is its lifeguards. They are vigilant and well-trained, so you can relax and enjoy your day at the beach knowing that your family is safe. There are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a number of other activities that you can enjoy at Fort Lauderdale Beach. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a walk or bike ride on the Fort Lauderdale Beach Walk: This scenic walkway stretches for 2.5 miles along the beach, offering beautiful views of the ocean and the city skyline.
- Visit the Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: This park is home to a variety of amenities, including a playground, a splash pad, and a fishing pier.
- Go for a boat ride or jet ski tour: There are a number of companies that offer boat and jet ski rentals. This is a great way to see the coastline and get a different perspective of Fort Lauderdale.
- Visit the Broward Center for the Performing Arts: This performing arts center hosts a variety of shows and events, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and dance performances.
With its beautiful beach, variety of activities, and lively atmosphere, Fort Lauderdale Beach is the perfect place for a fun and exciting family vacation.
So pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and head to Fort Lauderdale Beach today!
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is another great option for families looking for a fun and affordable beach vacation. With its wide, sandy beach, clear waters, and variety of activities, there's something for everyone at Panama City Beach.
- Beautiful beach: Panama City Beach has a beautiful, white-sand beach that stretches for miles. The sand is soft and powdery, and the water is clear and blue. It's the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles.
- Variety of activities: In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a number of other activities that you can enjoy at Panama City Beach. You can go parasailing, jet skiing, or banana boating. You can also take a dolphin tour or go on a fishing trip. And if you're looking for something more low-key, you can take a walk along the beach or visit one of the many shops and restaurants.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Panama City Beach is a family-friendly destination. There are a number of lifeguards on duty, and there are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear. There are also a number of family-friendly attractions in the area, such as Gulf World Marine Park and Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- Affordable prices: Panama City Beach is a relatively affordable beach destination. There are a number of budget-friendly hotels and restaurants in the area. And if you're looking to save even more money, you can pack your own lunch and snacks.
With its beautiful beach, variety of activities, family-friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices, Panama City Beach is the perfect place for a fun and memorable family vacation.
Destin Beach
Destin Beach is a popular destination for families looking for a beautiful and relaxing beach vacation. With its sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters, and variety of activities, Destin Beach is the perfect place to create lasting family memories.
One of the best things about Destin Beach is its lifeguards. They are vigilant and well-trained, so you can relax and enjoy your day at the beach knowing that your family is safe. There are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a number of other activities that you can enjoy at Destin Beach. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a walk or bike ride on the Destin Beach Boardwalk: This scenic walkway stretches for 1.5 miles along the beach, offering beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline.
- Visit the Henderson Beach State Park: This park is home to a variety of natural features, including sand dunes, coastal forests, and wetlands. There are also a number of hiking trails and picnic areas.
- Go on a dolphin cruise: There are a number of companies that offer dolphin cruises from Destin Beach. This is a great way to see these amazing creatures up close.
- Visit the Big Kahuna's Water Park: This water park is a great place to cool off and have some fun. It has a variety of water slides, pools, and other attractions.
With its beautiful beach, variety of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Destin Beach is the perfect place for a fun and memorable family vacation.
So pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and head to Destin Beach today!
St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach is another great option for families looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation. With its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and variety of activities, St. Pete Beach is the perfect place to create lasting family memories.
- Beautiful beach: St. Pete Beach has a beautiful beach with white sand and clear waters. The sand is soft and powdery, and the water is perfect for swimming, wading, and playing in the waves.
- Variety of activities: In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a number of other activities that you can enjoy at St. Pete Beach. You can go fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. You can also take a boat tour or go on a dolphin-watching cruise. And if you're looking for something more low-key, you can take a walk along the beach or visit one of the many shops and restaurants.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: St. Pete Beach is a family-friendly destination. There are a number of lifeguards on duty, and there are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear. There are also a number of family-friendly attractions in the area, such as the St. Pete Pier and the Florida Aquarium.
- Affordable prices: St. Pete Beach is a relatively affordable beach destination. There are a number of budget-friendly hotels and restaurants in the area. And if you're looking to save even more money, you can pack your own lunch and snacks.
With its beautiful beach, variety of activities, family-friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices, St. Pete Beach is the perfect place for a fun and memorable family vacation.
Naples Beach
Naples Beach is a beautiful and relaxing beach destination that is perfect for families. With its soft, white sand, clear waters, and gentle waves, Naples Beach is the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles.
One of the best things about Naples Beach is that it is very family-friendly. There are a number of lifeguards on duty, and there are also a number of beach rental shops where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear. There are also a number of restaurants and snack bars located right on the beach, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink without having to leave the beach.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a number of other activities that you can enjoy at Naples Beach. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a walk or bike ride on the Naples Beach Boardwalk: This scenic walkway stretches for 1.5 miles along the beach, offering beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding coastline.
- Visit the Naples Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants. It's a great place to learn about different animals and see them up close.
- Go on a boat tour: There are a number of companies that offer boat tours from Naples Beach. This is a great way to see the coastline and get a different perspective of Naples.
- Visit the Naples Pier: This historic pier is a popular spot for fishing, walking, and taking in the views. It's also a great place to watch the sunset.
With its beautiful beach, variety of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Naples Beach is the perfect place for a fun and memorable family vacation.
So pack your sunscreen and beach towels, and head to Naples Beach today!
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Florida:
Question 1: What is the best time to visit Florida?
Answer 1: The best time to visit Florida is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when the weather is still warm but the crowds are smaller.
Question 2: What are the must-see attractions in Florida?
Answer 2: Some of the must-see attractions in Florida include Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Miami Beach, Everglades National Park, and Kennedy Space Center.
Question 3: What are some of the best beaches in Florida?
Answer 3: Some of the best beaches in Florida include Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, Panama City Beach, Destin Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Naples Beach.
Question 4: What are some of the best things to do in Florida with kids?
Answer 4: Some of the best things to do in Florida with kids include visiting the many theme parks, water parks, and museums. You can also take your kids to the beach, go on a boat tour, or visit one of the many zoos or aquariums.
Question 5: What are some of the best places to go shopping in Florida?
Answer 5: Some of the best places to go shopping in Florida include the Mall at Millenia in Orlando, Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, and Dolphin Mall in Miami.
Question 6: What are some of the best restaurants in Florida?
Answer 6: Some of the best restaurants in Florida include The Boathouse in Disney Springs, Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Joe's Stone Crab in Miami Beach.
Question 7: What are some tips for saving money on a trip to Florida?
Answer 7: Some tips for saving money on a trip to Florida include visiting during the shoulder seasons, taking advantage of discounts and promotions, and packing your own food and drinks.
Closing Paragraph: I hope this FAQ section has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
Now that you know more about Florida, here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip to Florida:
Tip 1: Plan your trip during the shoulder seasons.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are the best time to visit Florida. The weather is still warm, but the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.
Tip 2: Take advantage of discounts and promotions.
There are many ways to save money on your trip to Florida. You can find discounts on hotels, theme park tickets, and other attractions. You can also sign up for email alerts from your favorite airlines and hotels to be notified of special deals.
Tip 3: Pack light.
The weather in Florida is warm year-round, so you don't need to pack a lot of clothes. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, and sunscreen.
Tip 4: Rent a car.
The best way to get around Florida is by car. This will give you the freedom to explore the state at your own pace. You can rent a car at the airport or from a local car rental company.
Closing Paragraph: I hope these tips have been helpful. By following these tips, you can save money and have a more enjoyable trip to Florida.
Now that you know more about Florida and have some tips for planning your trip, it's time to start packing your bags and getting ready for your adventure!
Conclusion
Florida is a beautiful and diverse state with something to offer everyone. From its world-famous theme parks to its stunning beaches, Florida is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your family.
In this article, we've covered some of the best beaches in Florida for families, as well as some tips for planning your trip. We hope this information has been helpful and that you're now ready to start planning your Florida vacation.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Florida has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the Sunshine State!
Closing Message: We hope you have a wonderful time in Florida! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.