20 Best Family Beaches in Florida – Book the Next Trip!

July 29, 2023

Florida is home to some of the most beautiful family-friendly beaches in the United States, offering a perfect vacation destination for those seeking a fun and relaxing time with their loved ones. With its crystal-clear waters, soft sandy shores, and a vast array of recreational activities, the best family beaches in Florida provide an ideal setting for memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking to build sandcastles, swim, go snorkeling, or simply soak up the sun, these beaches have it all.

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Discover the top-recommended family beaches in Florida and get ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

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Vero Beach is a top family beach destination in Florida, known for its pristine coastline, clear waters, and numerous family-friendly activities.
Panama City Beach offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including amusement parks, water parks, and miles of white sandy beaches.
Longboat Key is a tranquil and picturesque beach with calm waters, making it perfect for families looking for a peaceful beach getaway.
Cocoa Beach is renowned for its surf culture and offers fantastic opportunities for families to learn and enjoy various water sports, such as surfing and kayaking.
Amelia Island is a charming destination with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and family-friendly resorts, providing a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
Clam Pass Park is a hidden gem, featuring a stunning lagoon, scenic nature trails, and a secluded beach, ideal for families looking for a quiet and natural beach experience.
Key Biscayne offers a beautiful beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, along with numerous recreational activities for families, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
St. Pete Beach is a popular family destination, known for its powdery white sands, warm waters, and a wide range of water sports and other family-friendly activities.

20 Best Family Beaches in Florida

It’s time to discuss the beaches in detail. So, read on.

1. Vero Beach

With its pristine coastline and inviting waters, Vero Beach is a top contender among the best family beaches in Florida. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, Vero Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. The beach’s soft sand and gentle waves provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children to splash around in. As one of Florida’s hidden gems, Vero Beach is a destination that should not be missed when planning a family beach vacation.

In addition to its natural beauty, Vero Beach also offers a range of activities for families to enjoy. From beachside picnics to exploring the nearby nature reserves, there is something for everyone to experience. Families can also take advantage of the numerous water sports available, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, to add an extra level of adventure to their beach day.

With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Vero Beach provides a unique experience for families. The community is known for its friendly locals and family-oriented events, making it an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories. Whether it’s building sandcastles or enjoying a sunset stroll along the shoreline, Vero Beach offers a multitude of opportunities for families to connect and bond.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and beach toys for a fun-filled day at Vero Beach. The sun can be intense, so it’s important to protect your family’s skin while enjoying all that this beautiful beach has to offer.

2. Panama City Beach

Located in Florida, Panama City Beach is one of the best family-friendly beaches in the state. With its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and abundance of activities, it is the perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation.

Panama City Beach offers a wide range of attractions for families to enjoy. From water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding to amusement parks and mini golf courses, there is no shortage of entertainment options.

The beach is known for its beautiful white sand and emerald green waters, making it a picturesque and relaxing spot for families to soak up the sun and take in the natural beauty of the area.

For those interested in wildlife, Panama City Beach is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish. Snorkeling and diving opportunities are available for families to explore this underwater world.

In addition to its natural beauty, Panama City Beach also offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere. The area is filled with restaurants, shops, and nightlife options, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

With its stunning beaches, range of activities, and welcoming atmosphere, Panama City Beach is the ultimate family-friendly vacation destination. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore, engage in thrilling water sports, or explore the local wildlife, this beach has it all. It’s no wonder that Panama City Beach is considered one of the top family beaches in Florida.

3. Longboat Key

Longboat Key, known for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, is a scenic barrier island located on the Gulf Coast of Florida. With its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, it offers the perfect setting for a family vacation. The island is home to several upscale restaurants and shops, providing visitors with a wide range of options for entertainment and relaxation. Additionally, Longboat Key boasts a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. Its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

The following table provides some true and actual data about Longboat Key:

Category	Data
Location	Gulf Coast of Florida
Population	Approximately 7,000
Beach Length	12 miles
Average Temperature	72°F
Key Attractions	Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, Bayfront Park Recreation Center

In addition to its breathtaking beaches and vibrant attractions, Longboat Key offers visitors the opportunity to explore its rich history and cultural heritage. The island is home to historical landmarks and museums that shed light on the area’s past. Visitors can also take part in various water sports and activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, to make their stay even more memorable.

Fun fact: Longboat Key was once a hideout for notorious pirate Jose Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla, who allegedly buried his treasure somewhere on the island. (Source: Travel Channel)

4. Cocoa Beach

Nestled along the eastern coastline of Florida, Cocoa Beach offers a vibrant and picturesque setting for families seeking a memorable beach getaway. With its stunning sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Cocoa Beach is a popular destination for beach lovers of all ages.

Playful Waves: Cocoa Beach boasts gentle waves that are perfect for swimming and water activities, making it an ideal choice for families with young children.
Surfing Hub: Known as the “East Coast Surfing Capital,” Cocoa Beach attracts surfers from around the world. Its consistent waves and surf breaks provide an exhilarating experience for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Pier Exploration: The iconic Cocoa Beach Pier is a must-visit attraction, offering stunning views, delicious dining options, and various entertainment activities. Stroll along the pier, indulge in a meal with an ocean view, or try your hand at fishing.
Nature Exploration: Take a break from the beach and explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Cocoa Beach. Visit the nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot various bird species, manatees, and even alligators.
Family-Friendly Amenities: Cocoa Beach is equipped with excellent facilities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for families.
Space Coast Adventures: As the closest beach to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach offers a unique opportunity to witness rocket launches and learn about space exploration. Embark on an educational journey and inspire young minds with the wonders of the universe.

Additionally, visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area of Cocoa Beach, which offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Embrace the relaxed beach town atmosphere and savor the flavors of local cuisine.

For a memorable experience, consider booking a beachfront accommodation that allows easy access to the shoreline and stunning panoramic views. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, beach toys, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re building sandcastles, catching waves, or simply basking in the sun, Cocoa Beach is sure to create lasting family memories.

5. Amelia Island

Amelia Island is a stunning coastal destination in Florida that offers an ideal beach getaway for families. Known for its pristine sandy shores and clear blue waters, Amelia Island provides a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to build sandcastles, swim in the ocean, or explore the island’s natural beauty, Amelia Island has it all. Additionally, the island offers various family-friendly amenities, including resorts, restaurants, and attractions, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. For a memorable family beach vacation, Amelia Island should be on top of your list.

One of the unique features of Amelia Island is its rich history and charming downtown area. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, where they can admire Victorian-era architecture, browse boutique shops, and dine at delightful restaurants. The island also hosts annual events, such as the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, which provide additional entertainment options for families.

6. Clam Pass Park

Clam Pass Park is a pristine coastal park located in Florida. It offers a range of activities and amenities for families to enjoy. Here are six key points about Clam Pass Park:

Beautiful Beach: Clam Pass Park boasts a stunning beach with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect setting for swimming and sunbathing.
Nature Trails: Explore the park’s nature trails that meander through mangrove forests, offering visitors a chance to observe native wildlife and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Boardwalk and Tram: To reach the beach, visitors can take a scenic ride on the boardwalk and hop on the park’s tram, providing convenient access for those who prefer not to walk.
Watersports: Clam Pass Park is an ideal spot for water-based activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, providing endless opportunities for fun and adventure on the water.
Picnic Areas: The park offers well-maintained picnic areas equipped with barbecue grills, allowing families to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the picturesque views of the beach.
Amenities: Clam Pass Park provides restrooms, outdoor showers, and a snack bar for visitors’ convenience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

Moreover, the park is home to unique details that make it stand out. Its pristine beach, combined with the surrounding natural beauty and exclusive amenities, sets Clam Pass Park apart from other family beaches in Florida.

For an enhanced experience, consider bringing beach umbrellas, chairs, and a cooler filled with drinks and snacks. These suggestions will ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable time at Clam Pass Park. Additionally, make sure to arrive early to secure a prime spot on the beach, as it tends to get crowded later in the day.

7. Key Biscayne

Located in Florida, Key Biscayne offers an ideal family beach experience. With its pristine shoreline, crystal clear waters, and variety of outdoor activities, Key Biscayne is the perfect destination for a relaxing and enjoyable family vacation.

Scenic Beauty: Key Biscayne boasts picturesque beaches with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can soak up the sun, take walks along the sandy shores, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Water Sports: The island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Families can explore the vibrant underwater world or engage in thrilling water adventures.
Nature Exploration: Key Biscayne is home to Crandon Park, a natural oasis featuring lush vegetation, wildlife, and nature trails. Families can go hiking, biking, or have a picnic amidst the serene surroundings.

In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Key Biscayne also offers unique details such as diverse dining options, luxury accommodations, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can indulge in delicious seafood, experience top-notch hospitality, and create unforgettable memories together.

Furthermore, Key Biscayne has a rich history. The island was originally inhabited by the Tequesta Native American tribe and later became a coconut plantation. Today, it is a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a relaxing beach getaway with a hint of history.

Overall, Key Biscayne is a hidden gem in Florida, providing families with a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a touch of history.

8. St. Pete Beach

St. Pete Beach: Located on the west coast of Florida, St. Pete Beach offers a pristine coastal destination for families seeking a memorable beach vacation. With its soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a range of fun activities for all ages, St. Pete Beach is the perfect spot for a family getaway. This beach is known for its beautiful sunsets, vibrant beachfront restaurants, and a lively atmosphere that caters to both relaxation and entertainment.

St. Pete Beach guarantees an enjoyable experience with its wide range of water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Moreover, the beach boasts a number of spacious resorts and vacation rentals that provide comfortable accommodations for families. Let the charm of St. Pete Beach create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. Embark on a coastal adventure and discover the true beauty of this remarkable destination.

9. Clearwater Beach

Located on Florida’s west coast on a barrier island, Clearwater Beach is a postcard-perfect destination. Its fine, sugary white sands and warm Gulf of Mexico waters make it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, such as parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. As the sun sets over the horizon, be sure to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60.

10. South Beach (Miami Beach)

Situated in the heart of Miami, South Beach is the epitome of glamour and excitement. Known for its art deco architecture, trendy nightlife, and vibrant culture, this beach attracts visitors from all over the world. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, South Beach offers excellent opportunities for people-watching, shopping at upscale boutiques, and indulging in delicious cuisine at the many chic restaurants and cafes.

11. Siesta Key Beach

Just off the coast of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in the United States. Its powdery, flour-like white sand is unique and stays cool even on hot summer days. The tranquil turquoise waters provide a relaxing environment for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and beach volleyball courts add to the beach’s appeal.

12. Fort Lauderdale Beach

Often referred to as the “Venice of America” due to its extensive canal system, Fort Lauderdale is a popular beach destination on Florida’s southeast coast. The beachfront promenade, known as “The Strip,” is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Water enthusiasts can explore nearby reefs on snorkeling or diving excursions, while those looking for relaxation can simply soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal beauty.

13. Naples Beach

Located on Florida’s Paradise Coast, Naples Beach is a serene and sophisticated destination. The shoreline is graced with upscale resorts and condos, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the shore, collect seashells, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the Gulf waters. Sunset views over the Gulf are especially enchanting here.

14. Destin Beach

Nestled in the Florida Panhandle, Destin Beach is known for its emerald green waters and soft, quartz crystal sand. It’s a favorite spot for families, as the gentle waves and gradual slope of the seabed provide a safe environment for children to play. Fishing enthusiasts can charter boats for deep-sea fishing adventures, and thrill-seekers can try their hand at parasailing or jet skiing.

15. Hollywood Beach

Situated between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood Beach offers a delightful balance of relaxation and entertainment. Its iconic beach boardwalk, named the “Broadwalk,” stretches for over two miles and is perfect for biking, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. Enjoy live music, al fresco dining, and boutique shopping along the boardwalk.

16. Pensacola Beach

On Florida’s northwest Gulf Coast, Pensacola Beach boasts stunning white sands and emerald-green waters. The beach offers a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Take a walk along the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier or explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore for an even more unspoiled shoreline.

17. Delray Beach

Located just north of Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach is a charming coastal town with a vibrant arts scene. In addition to its beautiful beach, the town features numerous art galleries, boutiques, and stylish restaurants. Visitors can spend their days sunbathing, kayaking, or exploring the nearby Wakodahatchee Wetlands, a haven for birdwatchers.

18. Fort Myers Beach

Situated on Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach offers a mix of natural beauty and urban amenities. The beach provides ample opportunities for shelling, as the Gulf waters deposit an array of seashells along the shore. Nearby Lovers Key State Park is a haven for wildlife, and visitors may spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

19. Anna Maria Island

Tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem offering a relaxed and laid-back beach experience. This unspoiled barrier island is known for its pristine beaches, picturesque sunsets, and charming small-town atmosphere. With no high-rise buildings and an abundance of public beach access points, visitors can enjoy a sense of seclusion and natural beauty.

20. Grayton Beach State Park

As part of the Florida Panhandle’s Emerald Coast, Grayton Beach State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The beach is bordered by magnificent sand dunes, coastal forests, and rare coastal dune lakes. These rare dune lakes provide a unique opportunity for both freshwater and saltwater activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The park’s unspoiled beauty and abundant wildlife make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Five Facts About 20 Best Family Beaches in Florida [With Travel Tips]:

Vero Beach offers oceanfront hotels and easy access to restaurants and attractions like Waldo’s Restaurant and Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum.
Panama City Beach is known for its calm waters, ideal for splashing in the shallows, and offers activities like sunset dolphin cruises and tours to Shell Island.
Longboat Key features beautiful and calm Gulf Coast beaches, perfect for families, and offers accommodations with full kitchens and gulf-front barbecue areas.
Cocoa Beach is a popular destination for families due to its proximity to Cape Canaveral for rocket launches, sea turtle walks at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, and surf lessons.
Amelia Island, located just north of Jacksonville, offers 23 miles of dedicated cycling lanes, remote beaches at Fort Clinch State Park, and a range of accommodations from luxury to budget-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Now let’s get to know about some common questions on this topic.

What are some family-friendly beach destinations in Florida for vacations?

Some family-friendly beach destinations in Florida for vacations include Vero Beach, Panama City Beach, Longboat Key, Cocoa Beach, Amelia Island, Clam Pass Park, Key Biscayne, and St. Pete Beach.

What are the advantages of staying at an oceanfront hotel during a family vacation?

Staying at an oceanfront hotel during a family vacation offers the advantage of easy access to the beach, where you can enjoy activities like swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach games. It also provides stunning views of the ocean and convenient proximity to beachfront restaurants and attractions.

Are there any secluded sandy escape beach destinations in Florida?

Yes, there are secluded sandy escape beach destinations in Florida. Key Biscayne, for example, offers a more serene and tranquil beach experience compared to the bustling Miami Beach. There are also secluded stretches of sand at St. Andrews State Park and Clam Pass Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful beach getaway.

Takeaway

Florida is home to some of the best family beaches in the world. These beaches offer a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to families of all ages. From the pristine sands to the crystal-clear waters, Florida’s family beaches provide a perfect backdrop for creating lifelong memories with loved ones.

The family-friendly beaches in Florida provide a host of amenities and attractions that make them ideal for families. With playgrounds, picnic areas, and lifeguard stations, parents can relax knowing their children are safe and entertained. The beaches also offer a variety of water sports activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, ensuring that there is never a dull moment for the whole family.