Florida, with its vibrant plant life, curious creatures, and pristine water, draws many visitors annually from all over the world. From theme parks to water excursions, museums, and national parks, how can anyone decide which vacation to choose?
With over 8,000 miles of coastline, it’s hard to know which beach is the right spot for your next family adventure. But not all sand is created equal.
The Sunshine State is home to a plethora of spectacular sandy shores, many of which will make you feel as though you’ve eloped to foreign lands. From Pensacola to the Keys to the First Coast, here are a few around the state that can’t be missed.
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island
This quaint and quiet Northeast Florida town flirts with the Georgia line, only separated by the St. Mary’s River. Here, the beaches are expansive. Dig in the sand, fly a kite, or take a swim, the beach beckons for activities. Rent bikes to cruise around the old town or stroll lackadaisically through the main street.
Tour the Amelia Island Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1838 and is the state’s oldest lighthouse. Or while you’re in the area, fish from the shores or take a boat to sea.
Take a sunset cruise to scour the waters for manatees and dolphins. Kayak through the brackish mangroves and even venture to Cumberland Island National Seashore, where you’ll witness an elusive pack of feral horses grazing leisurely on the park grounds. Tour Fort Clinch and learn how it became a Union army foothold during the Civil War. Walk the scenic grounds to spot birds; this is actually one of the first stops on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
To get the day off to the best start, meander over to Amelia Island Coffee. Whether it’s a freshly brewed cup or a chilled espresso drink, these beverages will get you ready for a full day of play. Pair it with one of their scrambled avocado toasts or a pastry to keep the energy flowing.
The Salty Pelican is marina adjacent, serving delicious cuisine and impeccable service. It’s a great spot to watch any sporting event while you snack on some fan-favorite bites like tuna nachos, crab dip, and loaded potato spring rolls. Try the array of tempting tacos, burgers, and delectable entrees. For a relaxed yet delicious culinary experience, head to The Boat House, a building that was once a boat repair yard. This restaurant offers the best of land and sea in the cool of the air conditioning or outside in the breeze.
Opt for the quiet decadence of the Omni Amelia Island Resort or the Ritz Carlton Fernandina Beach. Both hotels offer views of the sparkling Atlantic and are a short drive from the bustle of the town.
Local inns, walkable to the downtown hub, include Amelia Schoolhouse Inn, Florida House Inn, and Amelia Island Williams House. The Hampton Inn and Suites is also a quick walk to the main street. Or check out one of the cozy bed and breakfasts like Hoyt House, Fairbanks House, and The Addison on Amelia Island, which also offers packages and unique area experiences.
St. Augustine
For history, culture, and unending fun, St. Augustine is the perfect spot to spend a family vacation. Beaches abound, from St. Augustine Beach to the inlet of Vilano Beach.
Your days will be bursting with adventure as new memories are created. Live music can be experienced at the outdoor venue the St. Augustine Amphitheater. Check out the unmatched reptiles at the Alligator Farm, even see them from above, gliding over the park’s zip lines.
Get close to critters at the touch pools or by feeding the sting rays (there’s a zipline here, too). Explore the long Spanish heritage when you visit the Castillo de San Marcos. Stumbled back in time as you wander down St. George Street. Learn about the indigenous populations of the Northeast coast at the Fountain of Youth.
St. Augustine has it all. Relax after a long day at the spa or pursue the local offerings at some of the many shops and boutiques. Play a round of mini-golf at Anastasia Mini Golf if you’re feeling up to it or are traveling with kids.
For beach-front properties in St. Augustine Beach, Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Oceanfront Resort is a perfect location, as is the Courtyard by Marriott St. Augustine. Both hotels are easy walking the water and close to restaurants and the pier.
Cocoa Beach
South of St. Augustine is the enticing Space Coast. Full of water activities, this region is also home to the Kennedy Space Center and Florida’s surfing history.
Grab a lesson and catch a wave. Try skimboarding or kite surfing. Walk through the rich biodiversity and habitats of Florida’s waters when you visit Cape Canaveral National Seashore. If you’re fortunate, you’ll catch a glimpse of the illustrious manatee or spot some lively dolphins. (Check out all the Space Coast has to offer in this breakdown).
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are also immensely popular in Cocoa Beach.
The Hilton Cocoa Beach is a perfect option for families who want to be in the mix with all the amenities onsite. With a heated pool, beach shack, multiple restaurants, and water access, it is easy to hop out to the ocean and back to the room for a quick change to enjoy some food.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach sets the stage for an all-encompassing vacation. Whether it’s tranquil sea breezes, bustling city vibes, or outdoor thrills that you seek, the Plam Beach area offers an all-access pass to history, excitement, and relaxation.
Separated from the main peninsula by a lagoon, Palm Beach is an island destination with loads to explore, with 47 miles of coastline.
Railroad tycoon Henry Flagler built his mansion, Whitehall, in Palm Beach proper. Today, the 100,000-square-foot, 75-room estate serves as a museum paying tribute to Flagler’s contributions to the railway and the Sunshine State (it even hosts his personal rail car!).
Peanut Island is situated in the lagoon. It’s a favorite spot to seek out manatees, camp, and snorkel. Boating and water sports are also in demand at this location. Access to this niche location is provided by a shuttle boat. During peak season, definitely book in advance to guarantee your place.
For intriguing flora and fauna, visit Mounts Botanical Garden. The grounds encompass over 20 unique settings, including a Moai-inspired tropical installation, butterfly and rose gardens, as well as a focus on Florida’s native plants. Learn from master gardeners. Find the kids connecting with nature as they meander through the grounds with the treasure trek map. Mounts even has a kid’s maze.
The grounds are closed on Mondays and holidays. Entry is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, military, and college students (with ID), $7 for children ages 6 to 17, and free for kids five and younger.
Just north of Palm Beach is Juno Beach, a popular area for swimming and fishing, especially on the pier. Near the pier is The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a turtle hospital with interactive exhibits and tours dedicated to sea turtle conservation.
Jupiter Beach
Jupiter Beach is home to dog-friendly waters. Bring your pooch for a day on the sand; just please remember to clean up after them. It’s free to access the area. After a day of swimming and splashing, ascend the lighthouse stairs for sweeping coastal views.
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is open for visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Guided tours occur on weekdays at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Admission is free for kids five and younger, $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and veterans, and $6 for ages 6 to 18.
Avid hikers and equestrians will want to try the trails at Riverbend Park. Set inland, just 15 minutes from the beach, this park boasts 10 miles of interconnected paths and seven miles of trails for horseback riding.
Short trails in and around the rocks provide stunning sea views. Some of these pathways have become known as “hobbit tunnels” due to their densely packed, overhanging foliage, which creates a picturesque walkway. Pack a picnic for a beach day. Access to the rocks is $2 per person.
The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary was founded in 1983 to rehabilitate and release injured creatures. Today, it continues this mission, while also providing a home for seriously impaired animals and educating the public about Florida wildlife and conservation.
Tour the sanctuary to experience wildlife encounters and creature talks, or even reserve a spot to paint with an animal. For little animal lovers, the facility hosts Toddler Storytime each Wednesday. The sanctuary is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. While entry is free, donations are strongly encouraged.
Destin/Fort Walton Beaches
Snowy-looking sand from Appalachian quartz glitters against the jade tides. Due to the lush green waters, the area is known as the Emerald Coast. It spans 100 miles of the Gulf coastline from Pensacola to Panama City. These tranquil beaches are a hot spot for family fun, and kid-centric adventures are at the heart of the town.
Experienced swimmers can snorkel with the stingrays or dive down to search for sand dollars. When water sports have worn your family out, visit the family-owned Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. See sloths, kangaroos, and giraffes, as well as sea lions, dolphins, and penguins, with the Gulf waters sparkling in the background. For an adrenaline rush, speed over the wooden planks of The Track, which also has other rides and games to explore.
Make a splash on the water slide or float along the river at Big Kahuna’s water park. Then, dry off at the Adventure Park with a game of mini golf or one of the many rides, which is perfect for kids of all ages.
Henderson Park Inn is a charming local beach-facing property that shares amenities with Henderson Beach Resort. With lawn games, a spa, a kids club, and activities, it’s the perfect place where all ages can play. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is the ultimate family resort with a kids club, tennis facilities, dining options, and on-site events (and obviously golf).
Campgrounds are accessible in the area. RV resorts like Camping on the Gulf, Destin RV Beach Resort (which also offers condo rentals), and Destin West RV Resort provide pools, community amenity centers, and laundry facilities to make your stay comfortable. Henderson Beach State Park is home to 60 campsites with beach access. Make your reservations early, these spots fill up fast.
St. George Island State Park
St. George Island State Park is an ideal destination for families who want to escape into nature. For outdoor enthusiasts, this state park has it all. Dive into the Gulf of Mexico from the shores of St. George.
Pitch a tent beneath clear skies and see an abundance of twinkling lights when you stay at one of the 60 campsites. Cycle through the area or meander the paths, the best way to sneak some peaks at the diverse and plentiful wildlife.
Visit the 77-foot-tall Cape St. George Lighthouse. With 92 stairs of wood spiraling to the top, this treasure is sure to get your heart thumping. Children six and under are free, while seven and older are only $5.
Several companies, like Houfy and Vacasa, offer beach rentals on the island. Camping is another convenient option at St. George Island State Park.
Siesta Key and Sarasota
Nestled between Fort Myers and Tampa, Sarasota is a quaint and idyllic destination offering an array of activities. From the sandy white shores that host countless water activities to the museums and culinary culture, options for intrigue are limitless.
Key Culinary Tours merges food with fun and history in its many offerings. For the cuisine enthusiasts, sink your teeth into the Historic Vence Culinary Tour or a downtown Sarasota lunch or dinner tour. Get a taste of how women impacted the region during the Wild Women of Sarasota Walking tour. Families can dive into the fun during the Lido beach or Sharks Teeth and More family adventure.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a favorite with families. The attraction has been welcoming visits since 1939, and there are many sights to see. Meet the keepers and see the shows to learn all about the diverse animals in the park.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The Circus King, as John Ringling came to be known, built a winter home in the city of Sarasota. As the Ringlings had no offspring, the estate and art collection was willed to the state of Florida. Today, the museum highlights the pinnacle of circus days, a favorite pastime, as well as the extensive art collection of John and Mable Ringling. Their home, known as Ca’D’Zan (House of John), has been restored to the family’s glory days and serves as an elaborate event space. It can also be toured for interested visitors.
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium endeavors to educate the public through continual research on aquatic life and ocean trends. The facility has been serving the Sarasota area since 1955. In addition to the aquarium, Mote also has two satellite campuses, one in the Keys and the other in East Sarasota County.
Myakka Elephant Ranch is home to Asian and African elephants. This sanctuary strives to educate the public about these gentle giants and the dangers they face in the wild. At the ranch, encounter reservations must be booked in advance and regularly sell out. Reservations can be made online.
St. Petersburg and Clearwater
The St. Petersburg area has shores for days, many of which have been repeatedly voted among the top beaches in America. These idyllic sands make an epic canvas for family beach days. Paddleboarding and kayaking through the region’s mangroves are another highlight, as are fishing excursions and dolphin and sunset cruises.
The area is also a bountiful entity for kid activities. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, visitors can opt for self-guided tours to see turtles, dolphins, sharks, sting rays, and more creatures of the deep, featuring numerous animal presentations. The aquarium also offers boat rides and guided tours through the bay and local estuaries.
Great Explorations is a hands-on environment for kids to stimulate their social and motor skills and flex their creative minds. Kids can immerse themselves in various, stimulating exhibits. From art activities to the imagination playground, the live on-air TV exhibit, and the STEAM station bubbling with experiments, it’s an indoor way to keep children inspired through play.
With fishing options, a splash pad, a playground, plus restaurants galore, St. Pete Pier puts other piers to shame. Tour the St. Petersburg Museum of History. Learn more at the Discovery Center and Wet Classroom. Walk along the scenic path or pack a picnic to enjoy. Pull up a chair and dig your feet in the sands of Spa Beach. It’s a full day of fun and sun, all in one place.
For art enthusiasts, the Dali Museum pays homage to celebrated artist Salvador Dali, featuring 2,400 of his works. Stroll leisurely through the exhibits to experience the impact of his craft. You can even engage the kids with the Dilldally with Dali program or the little surrealist’s tour.
Florida Keys
These barrier islands deserve a whole section for themselves. The region stretches from Martin County on mainland Florida and curves southwest for over 350 miles to the Dry Tortugas, an area only accessible by seaplane or boat. As such, aquatic adventures abound in the Southernmost region.
Various areas of the keys are ripe for favorite water activities: boat charters and fishing, sunset cruises and glass water boats, kayaks and paddling boarding, jet skiing, and diving. Discover true gems when you snorkel in the only coral reef in the United States.
Upper Keys and Biscayne National Park
This region is actually adjacent to the mainland, about 40 minutes south of Miami International Airport.
Biscayne National Park welcomes all sorts of water sports and boating activities. The park is 95% water, so dive in and have a great time. Exploring the park by watercraft is the best to revel in its dynamic natural beauty.
Key Largo and Islamorada
Why don’t you go to Key Largo? As the first town on the islands, Key Largo is a quick hop for locals seeking a getaway and for all tourists who craves time in the waves.
This destination is a sport fisherman’s paradise, making it ideal for chartering a boat and casting a line. Snuggled further into the islands, it’s a local hub and tourist hotspot with numerous restaurants and eateries, hotel resorts, and unknown stays.
The USS Spiegel Grove Ship Wreck is a sunken ship, now home to an array of coral, fish, and other creatures. Commissioned in 1956, the ship made its final voyage in 1989 before it was sunk to support the water ecosystem off the coast of the Florida Keys. Now, all 510 feet of length make for an unimaginable snorkel excursion. The best way to reach the wreckage is by a dive charter.
There are numerous ways to indulge in this reef adventure. Whether you love to dive deep into the waters or prefer to remain on a boat, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is an ideal excursion for the whole family. See the stunning scenery from a glass bottom boat, canoe through the park, or flick your fins for a submerged adventure, swimming with the sea life.
Founded in 1946, the Theater of the Sea is one of the oldest marine mammal facilities on the planet. They are dedicated to education, conservation, and memorable guest experiences. Here, they make dreams come true with animal interactions. Swim with dolphins, sharks, or sea lions. Meet sea turtles, alligators, or parrots. Cruise the lagoon in the glass bottom boat and take in one of the many animal shows. Throughout the park, learn about the creatures during animal talks. It’s the perfect way for any animal lover to spend a day.
For the porpoise lover or anyone seeking a personal encounter with a spectacular creature, Dolphin’s Plus is the place to be. Play, paint, or splurge on the premier family package, the options are endless and the artwork is exquisite. Dockside greetings complete with kisses are another great way to create memorable experiences.
Marathon
Approximately two hours from Miami Airport and an hour from Key West Airport, you’ll find the heart of the keys. Marathon is full of activities, accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.
As a working establishment, The Turtle Hospital strives to rehabilitate animals and release them back home to the sea. They are open for tours and educational sessions to learn more about aquatic life and how the hospital serves wild animals. For various reasons, some turtles cannot return to the open waters and thus can be “adopted.” Visiting the hospital includes an educational tour and discussion, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at the facility and its occupants. You may even find some of the turtles who have been patients make their permanent homes in other facilities right in the Keys.
The Dolphin Research Center is more than a research facility. While research is a top priority, education and animal enrichment programs are at the core of the establishment. Dolphins may be rehabilitated and released, or if in dire need, have a forever home at the center. Additionally, sea lions, parrots, tortoises, and other birds make their home here in and around the sea salt lagoons. Dolphin encounters are a popular experience. Have an intimate encounter with a dolphin or a family splash. After a day with these incredible creatures, cool off in the Sprayground water park.
It’s a hands-on experience at Aquarium Encounters. Stingrays, giant isopods (like roly-poly of the sea), seastar, and horseshoe crabs are just a few of the creatures you can get personal with as you witness them interact in natural-like habitats.
For more adventure, opt for an encounter with sharks or stingrays. These involve feeding and interacting with the animals at the direction of the biologist. It’s the ultimate animal excursion, all in one place.
For an incredible family stay, Hawks Cay has it all. Family pools and lagoons, restaurants, snack shops, tennis and pickleball, and even dolphin encounters on site! Oh, and there’s a spa for the ultimate space to destress. From family excursions to adult-only areas, it’s the best of everything.
Additionally, Hawks Camp is for children five to 12. Parents can enroll their child daily for three hours, or stop in to explore the rotating daily activities. Everybody wins!
Lower Keys and Beyond
Suppose your family likes a sea adventure and knows the ropes of sailboats; venture further west into the Gulf of Mexico. This is where water “rugged” adventures begin. Marquesa Keys are nestled 25 miles past the main thread of islands.
This uninhabited conglomerate of nine islands comprises connected mangroves and shimmering sands. There is limited access to where tourists can venture in order to preserve wildlife. The area is known for incredible fishing, yet motored boats and other water vehicles are not allowed. Sailing excursions are the best way to make the most of this location.
For the wild and wonderful seekers, 70 miles west of Key West is where Dry Tortugas National Park is. The 100-mile park is mostly water, making it an aqua lovers’ dream. Dive amongst the fish or kayak through the calm waters, the wildlife is unmatched. Burrow yourself fully in nature, as camping is the only means to stay at this location.
Wakulla Springs
Outside of Tallahassee is one of the most popular and historical locations. Wakulla Springs is home to the deepest spring, which has been the set of several movies. The region is bursting with majestic plant life, including the illustrious cypress tree. The area is rich with chronicles from indigenous persons who were the first to explore it.
Boat tours are a great way to learn about the region’s beginnings. Wakulla also has a beach area with a 22-foot dive tower for those daring to take the leap. The Lodge at Wakulla Springs is the best way to experience the region’s wonders. Founded in 1937, the hotel is rich with stories of days gone by and the secrets of the spring’s popularity.
Blue Spring
What makes many of these waters immeasurably special is the presence of Manatees. Florida manatees, affectionately referred to as sea cows, generally live most of the time in salt waters. However, many migrate to brackish estuaries or freshwater areas, particularly during the colder months. Blue Spring State Park is one such place where manatees congregate, making it a special environment to see these gentle beasts in the wild.
Blue Spring is an easy drive from many locations and an ideal destination for a day trip (only 90 minutes from St. Augustine and Cocoa Beach and 40 from Orlando and Daytona).
The calm, crystal waters are soothing, providing a scenic backdrop for hiking, bird watching, swimming, or tubing. Snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding are also popular. For adventure seekers and critter investigators, camping within the park is a wonderful way to be immersed in nature. Reservations can be made at the park’s website.
Hotels are also in close proximity. Choose from local options like the Alling House and Tropical Resort and Marina or well-known brands like Holiday Inn Express or Courtyard by Marriot.
Note there is an entry fee to Blue Spring even for a day visit and rates depend on the type of vehicle and the number of guests.
Crystal River and Homosassa Springs
When you visit Crystal River and Homosassa Springs, the world is your oyster — er, perhaps your scallop. On the west coast of Florida, scalloping is one way to experience the Gulf waters. Travel down the river until you reach the salty sea, then dive in. Tours from Manatees and More and Blue Heaven River Tours offer this adventure along with other excursions like sunset cruises and dolphin tours.
Manatee encounters also abound in the Springs area. Many companies offer guided river outings plus the opportunity to splash with the sea cows. Fun 2 Dive provides semi-private and small group manatee tours in Crystal River. Learn about the majestic creatures, then dive in with your gear while the guide assists.
Florida Cracker Riverside Resort offers 54 rooms in close proximity to the springs. The hotel is full service complete with a general store and on-site restaurant. There’s even a pool as well as kayak, boat, and paddleboard rentals.
Nature’s Resort hosts RVs and tents for camping. Amenities include a heated pool, a clubhouse with a game room, laundry facilities, and basketball and volleyball courts. The resort also regularly hosts events and cookouts for the community to gather. The springs are only 90 minutes from the Tampa area making it an easy day trip.
Everglades
Spanning 1.5 million acres, the Florida Everglades is some serious grounds that require plenty of planning. Its allure is quite remarkable, as the numerous ecosystems provide habitats for a plethora of plants and animals unlike anywhere else in the world.
In the 1800s, the lands were drained to accommodate houses and to develop farmland, which nearly devastated the area and the various life forms it supported. By 1947, the region was officially designated as a national park.
Today, this reinvigorated gem can be explored by boat, bike, tram, or hike at the direction of expert guides or trekked through independently. Shark Valley Tram Tours specializes in guided expeditions by tram and bike. The trail is a 15-mile loop through the various niches of the park which takes about two hours to complete.
The naturalist will highlight flora, fauna, and wildlife within the grounds, fusing sightseeing with education while detailing specific spectacles only found in the Everglades. Biking the path can be done in a leisurely fashion without guided support.
Gliding over the river waters is a way to be immersed in nature yet maintain a safe distance from notorious reptiles. Reserve a seat on the craft or schedule a private outing. Gator Park, Cooperstown Airboats, and Everglades Safari Park are recommended by National Park services for both styles of boating.
Orlando
Experience the magic and more. Theme parks take center stage in this city, whose name is synonymous with abounding family fun. In fact, seven of the 10 most popular amusement parks are found in Orlando.
Walt Disney World is a famously popular attraction in the area, featuring notable options like Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom for unbeatable options to quell the anticipation of thrills and frills. Legoland, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld can fulfill many fantasies, too. Meet your favorite characters. Watch majestic creatures. Enjoy rides and games. Besides all these amusements, there are a plethora of water parks to keep you refreshed in the heat of summer.
What makes Orlando an ideal vacation destination is its proximity to numerous outside excursions. It’s only two hours from Tampa Bay and historic St. Augustine and an hour from the coastal tides of Daytona and Cocoa Beaches.
Maybe you’ve seen the sights, taken the “can’t miss” tours, and been to all the theme parks one human can handle. It’s time to expand these escapades and go beyond the coast. Since Florida is ever-so-close to many Caribbean destinations, it serves as a launch point to foreign lands. Start at Cape Canaveral and cruise through the Caribbean waters, hopping from port to port to experience cultural nuances.
Use one of the many international airports to soar to Puerto Rico, where no passport is required (for US citizens). Only have one day to explore? Opt for a hop to Bimini, Bahamas by ferry or seaplane. Regardless of the adventures you seek, Florida has a way to make dreams come true.