12 of The Best Family Beaches in Florida

The Sunshine State, Florida, is home to a vast array of remarkable beaches. With more than 800 miles of beautiful  coastline, it offers an abundance of sun-soaked, sandy retreats that cater to every taste. From the bustling Atlantic Coast to the tranquil Gulf of Mexico shorelines, all the way down to the Florida Keys – there’s a beach for every family. This guide will unveil the best family beaches in Florida that offer the perfect mix of sun, surf, and family-friendly activities.

1. Vero Beach: A Treasure Trove of Family Fun

Vero Beach, located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, offers an ideal setting for a family vacation. Its proximity to oceanfront restaurants and attractions makes it a hit with families. You should definitely try a local meal delivery at Vero Beach while having fun in the area.

Beachfront Bliss

The beachfront Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa offers a range of perks including beach cruiser bikes, paddle boards, and sea kayaks. After a day building sandcastles, families can stroll to nearby restaurants like Waldo’s Restaurant, Mulligan’s Beach House, and The Lemon Tree.

Pirate Booty Hunting

In line with its Treasure Coast name, Vero Beach offers something unique – treasure hunting. Rent a metal detector from Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum and head to the sandy shorelines to look for pirate treasure.

2. Panama City Beach: A Perennial Favorite

With its serene white-sand beaches and calm waters, Panama City Beach is a much-loved destination for families.

Dolphin Cruises & Shell Island Tours

Offering sunset dolphin cruises in the Gulf of Mexico and tours to the undeveloped Shell Island, Panama City Beach provides unique experiences for the whole family.

Family-friendly Entertainment

For a more urban vibe, visit Pier Park for a range of stores, restaurants, and an IMAX movie theater.

3. Longboat Key: Calm Beaches and Condo Comforts

Located just west of downtown Sarasota on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Longboat Key offers some of the most serene beaches in the state, paired with a variety of family-friendly accommodation options.

Condominium-style Resorts

Resorts like Sand Cay Beach Resort offer full kitchens and gulf-front barbecue areas which make family stays comfortable and convenient.

Marine Life Exploration

For a break from the beach, visit the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to spot manatees and sea turtles.

4. Cocoa Beach: Surf, Space, and Sea Turtles

Cocoa Beach presents a unique blend of beach fun, space exploration, and wildlife.

Surf Lessons and Space Launches

The beach offers surf lessons and the opportunity to witness rocket launches at the nearby Cape Canaveral.

Sea Turtle Walks

During the summer months, families can witness sea turtles nesting at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

5. Amelia Island: Active Adventures

Located just north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island offers a plethora of activities for active families.

Cycling and Downtown Exploration

With 23 miles of dedicated cycling lanes, families can explore the remote beaches of Fort Clinch State Park and the picturesque downtown Fernandina Beach.

A Range of Accommodations

From the luxurious oceanfront Ritz-Carlton to the conveniently located SpringHill Suites Amelia Island, accommodations are varied and cater to different needs.

6. Clam Pass Park: Naples’ Family Favorite

Known for its picturesque and calm sands, Clam Pass Park is a favorite among families visiting Naples.

Access via Golf Cart Tram

Access to the beach is made easy with a complimentary golf cart tram ride along a shaded boardwalk.

Kayaks, Canoes, and Beach Camping

Families can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the mangroves or simply set up camp on the sand for a fun-filled beach day.

7. Key Biscayne: Miami’s Mellow Beach Escape

If you’re looking for a mellower beach within striking distance of downtown Miami, Key Biscayne is the spot.

Historic Lighthouse and Ritz Kids Club

The Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers a historic lighthouse and the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne offers a fun-filled Ritz Kids club.

Offshore Adventures

Venture offshore into Biscayne National Park for snorkeling excursions and family-friendly boat trips.

8. St. Pete Beach: Where City and Beach Coalesce

St. Pete Beach, located in the Tampa Bay area, offers the perfect blend of city life and beach relaxation.

Gulf-front Pools and Bikes

Stay at The Don CeSar and enjoy the hotel’s free bikes and two gulf-front pools.

Downtown Exploration

Explore the nearby downtown St. Pete where the St. Pete Pier offers a marine-themed playground and a rooftop tiki bar restaurant.

9. Naples: Upscale Gulf Town with Family Amenities

Naples is a wonderful family beach destination known for its upscale ambiance and family-friendly amenities.

In-room Glamping and Sandcastle-building

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort offers in-room glamping set-ups and sandcastle-building toys for kids.

Nearby Attractions

Visit the nearby Naples Train Museum, historic Naples Pier, or Naples Zoo for a break from the beach.

10. New Smyrna Beach: Small-town Vibe near Orlando

For a beach vacation with a pleasant small-town vibe, head to New Smyrna Beach.

Beach Cruising and River Stays

This beach is perfect for a casual beach cruiser ride and offers a variety of accommodations along the Indian River.

Eco-tours and Airboat Rides

Off-the-beach activities include airboat tours along the St. Johns River and eco-tours to spot manatees and dolphins.

11. St. Augustine Beach: History and Beach Fun

St. Augustine Beach offers a unique blend of history and fabulous beach activities.

America’s Oldest City

Explore America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, and its majestic fort, the Castillo de San Marcos.

Gentle Waves and Ocean Hammock Park

St. Augustine Beach offers gentle waves for beginner surfers and the beautiful Ocean Hammock Park for family exploration.

12. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Key West’s Best Family Beach

One of the best family beaches in the Florida Keys is located in Key West at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

Picnic and Snorkeling

Pack a picnic and your snorkeling gear to enjoy Key West’s best swimming beach.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

The nearby Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a great family stop to learn more about local habitats and creatures.

From the treasure hunting adventures at Vero Beach to the historic charm of St. Augustine Beach, the best family beaches in Florida offer an array of experiences that cater to every family’s preferences. Whether you prefer a bustling beachfront with numerous attractions or a secluded sandy escape, you’re guaranteed to find your perfect beach destination in the Sunshine State.

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a lengthy vacation, keep in mind that these beaches are just a handful of the family-friendly beaches in Florida. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect beach that ticks all your boxes, making your family vacation a memorable one. From the best family beaches in the Florida Gulf Coast to the best family beaches in South Florida, the Sunshine State has it all.

So pack your beach bags, load up on sunscreen, and get ready for a fun-filled beach vacation at the best beaches in Florida for a family vacation. Florida’s welcoming shores are waiting for you!