They are wonderful places to relax in the sun and swim in the warm waters of the Atlantic or Gulf of Mexico. It’s not uncommon for families to spend their vacation in one of Florida’s many beach towns.

Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling are just some of the many outdoor pursuits available in Florida’s state parks.

BEST FAMILY BEACH VACATIONS IN FLORIDA

Vacationing with the family in a Florida beach town is a great idea. There are a wide variety of destinations to choose from in Florida, including those on the Atlantic coast, the Gulf coast, and the islands. Some of the finest Florida beaches suitable for families are included below.

CLEARWATER BEACH

First, let’s check out Clearwater Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and known for its glistening Gulf waters. Sandcastles can be constructed, snorkeling can be done, and there’s room for other family beach activities like walking the boardwalk along Pier 60 or taking an evening cruise on a “pirate” ship, going parasailing, and more.

Beach hotels that cater to families with young children are also plentiful. The popular film Dolphin Tale was shot at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is located on Clearwater Beach. It’s a must-do on any Florida vacation with the kids.

Here are some helpful hints for planning the perfect vacation in Florida:

FORT DE SOTO STATE PARK 

This state park in Florida combines the beach with the natural environment, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in the Sunshine State. More than 300 species of birds and loggerhead turtles make their home in Fort DeSoto State Park’s 1,110 acres of mangroves and other natural habitats.

Featuring fishing piers, bike rentals, easy hiking trails, and miles upon miles of white sand beaches, Fort DeSoto State Park is the perfect destination for a family vacation.

The beaches of Florida are a popular vacation spot. You can find some of Florida’s finest family-friendly beaches listed below.

PANAMA CITY BEACH

The 27 miles of the Panhandle’s Gulf Coast are home to some of the state’s most stunning stretches of white sand beach.

Kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and sunset cruises in Panama City Beach’s glistening waters are just a few of the many water-based activities available to visitors.

There are many beachfront resorts that welcome families in Panama City Beach, making it an ideal destination for a beach vacation.

FORT MYERS BEACH 

Fort Myers Beach is a beach town located just north of Naples, Florida, with a long strip of family resorts, plenty of shopping on its boardwalk, and easy access to the beach for building sandcastles.

Snorkeling, swimming, and parasailing are just a few of the many daytime watersports available to families. Enjoy the region’s stunning sunsets while eating ice cream on the boardwalk or sailing the harbor.

SANIBEL ISLAND

Visit Sanibel Island Beach, just a short drive from Fort Myers Beach. In order to reach the relatively isolated Sanibel Island, visitors must pay to use one of two toll bridges. There’s not a lot of space for cars at this beach. You should rent a bike and pedal around the boardwalks unless you’re staying on Sanibel Island.

The white sand beach at this family vacation spot is a great place to go seashell hunting. A historic lighthouse can be seen from the new boardwalks that have been built through the surrounding mangroves and other natural habitats. Carry a packed lunch and eat it at one of the many available picnic tables.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH 

In Orlando, Walt Disney World is a must-see for any family vacationing in Florida. You should check out New Smyrna Beach, which is located on Florida’s east coast, while you’re in the area. It is about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive.

Swimming, sunbathing, and water sports are all available on this long stretch of Florida beach, making it one of the state’s more relaxing and less crowded family beaches.

Picnic on the over 70 acres of nature at Smyrna Dunes State Park, reached via a short walk to the 1.5 mile long boardwalk.

AMELIA ISLAND 

Located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northeast coast of Florida is the barrier island of Amelia. The island is great for outdoor activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, as well as other sports like horseback riding and exploring its miles of unspoiled wilderness.

Amelia Island Plantation has a long and interesting history, and there are daily programs for kids to teach them about it. In Fort Clinch State Park, the whole family can enjoy the outdoors together. Resorts on Amelia Island cater to families and offer activities for kids while their parents relax. If you’re visiting Amelia Island with kids, be sure to inquire about the many fun activities available at the various beachfront hotels.

SIESTA KEY

One of the best things about Siesta Key is the abundance of fun things to do there with the kids. Watersports like snorkeling and paddleboarding can be enjoyed on Siesta Key’s white-sand beaches, which are only a short drive from Sarasota, Florida. This picturesque beach community centers on a quaint village with a variety of retail and culinary options.

MIAMI’S SOUTH BEACH

There are plenty of family-friendly beaches in Florida, but South Beach in Miami might not be one of them. However, South Beach in Miami has a lively atmosphere perfect for a family vacation, and there are many hotels that cater to families. Day or night, visitors to Miami will find plenty to do thanks to the city’s exciting culture and stunning architecture.

DESTIN BEACH VACATION

Destin, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida’s Panhandle, is a popular vacation spot for families. This coastal town is a popular destination for families looking for a beach vacation thanks to its convenient location, proximity to the popular Crab Island sandbar, and the Gulfarium, where kids can swim with and learn from dolphins.

Destin hotels are very cheap if you travel in the off-season (i.e., not during spring break). Destin has a large number of condos available, and there are also many private rentals listed on sites like Airbnb and VRBO. Read on for our list of the top ten attractions in Destin, Florida.

With this guide, you can select one of the best beaches in Florida, where you and your loved ones can enjoy a wide variety of fun-filled pursuits. If we return to Florida, tell us about any beaches that your family recommends.