20 Best Family Beaches in Florida
"Sunshine, sandcastles, and smiles — that’s what Florida is all about!"
If you’re dreaming of sunshine, sandcastles, and family fun, Florida is the place to be! With its amazing beaches, this sunshine state is perfect for a day (or even a week) of family adventures. In this guide, we will dive into the best family beaches in Florida where you can relax, play, and make great memories!
Florida: The Sunshine State of Family Fun
So, why is Florida such a paradise for family vacations? Well, Florida isn’t called the Sunshine State for nothing. With over 1,300 miles of coastline, Florida has a beach for every type of family. Whether you’re looking for calm, shallow waters where toddlers can safely play or more adventurous spots for older kids and adults, the Sunshine State has you covered.
This sunshine state isn’t just about the beaches, it’s about creating unforgettable experiences with your loved ones. So, whether you’re building sandcastles, hunting for shells, or enjoying a sunset together, there’s always something special waiting at the family beaches in Florida.
And if you’re planning a family beach vacation, you’re in the right place! Keep reading because we’re about to dive into 20 of the best family-friendly beaches in Florida. Whether you’re after pure relaxation or an adventure-filled day, these beaches have it all.
Let’s explore!
20 Best Family Beaches in Florida
1. Clearwater Beach
First, let’s talk about Clearwater Beach. Crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and gentle waves, what more could you ask for? That’s Clearwater Beach in a nutshell. It’s perfect for families, with calm waters that are great for kids, plus plenty of nearby playgrounds and restaurants. Plus, Pier 60 hosts nightly festivals with street performers. So, it’s like having a beach and carnival all in one place.
2. Siesta Key Beach
Now, we have Siesta Key Beach, which is famous for its incredibly soft, powdery sand which is so soft, it feels like walking on clouds. The shallow waters are ideal for young swimmers, which is why it’s one of the most popular family beaches in Florida. The beach’s vibrant energy and spectacular sunsets make it a spot the whole family will love.
3. Destin Beach
Destin Beach, known as the “Emerald Coast,” is famous for its stunning emerald-green water and pristine white sands. Here, kids can safely splash in the gentle surf, while parents appreciate the wide range of family-friendly activities like boat tours and snorkeling. So, without a doubt, Destin’s beauty and variety make it one of the top family beaches in Florida.
4. Fort De Soto Park
If your family prefers a bit of adventure, Fort De Soto Park is the place to be. Because it is not just a beach, it’s an entire experience. This spot is perfect for active families who want a little more than just sun and sand. At this beach, you can explore the historic fort, bike along scenic trails, or let your furry family member run free at the dog beach. So, it’s a unique blend of history, nature, and beach fun that the whole family will enjoy.
5. Naples Beach
For families looking for a quieter vibe, Naples Beach is the answer. The soft white sand and warm, calm waters make it ideal for young kids to splash around safely. And if you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins playing in the distance. So, this beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere, making it one of the best family beaches in Florida for those seeking relaxation.
6. Anna Maria Island (Manatee Public Beach)
Manatee Public Beach is located on Anna Maria Island in Florida, specifically in Holmes Beach. This beach offers a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families looking to avoid big crowds. Plus, it has everything from picnic areas to volleyball courts, making it easy to settle in for a full day of fun.
7. Sanibel Island (Bowman’s Beach)
“Shells, shells, and more shells!“
So, that’s the vibe at Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island! It’s such a fun spot for families, especially for the kids who can hunt for all sorts of unique shells. While they’re on the treasure hunt, parents can just kick back and soak up the sun. The beach has a really nice, natural feel to it, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a day of shell collecting.
8. Fort Lauderdale Beach
On the other hand, Fort Lauderdale Beach is a family-friendly destination that offers a little bit of everything. With its palm-lined promenade, nearby amenities, and clear waters, it’s easy to spend the whole day here. Families can relax on the beach, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, or take a scenic walk along the shore. So, it’s definitely one of the best family beaches in Florida.
9. Panama City Beach
If you’re looking for the quintessential Florida beach experience, Panama City Beach is one of the most iconic family beaches in Florida. It boasts soft sand, turquoise waters, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. From waterparks to dolphin-spotting tours, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family.
10. Amelia Island (Main Beach Park)
Amelia Island’s Main Beach Park is another fantastic beach in Florida for families, offering soft sand, calm waters, and even a playground to keep the kids entertained. Plus, there are picnic areas too, so pack lunch and enjoy a beach day that’s as relaxed or adventurous as you want it to be.
11. Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach is one of the top picks for the best family beaches in Florida. It offers sugar-white sands and gentle surf that are perfect for young swimmers. So, whether you’re playing frisbee on the beach or simply relaxing under the sun, this beach promises a memorable day out for the whole family.
12. New Smyrna Beach
For those seeking a relaxed, classic beach vibe, New Smyrna Beach offers a friendly atmosphere that makes it ideal for families. It’s great for boogie boarding, building sandcastles, or just splashing around in the surf. Plus, with beachfront restaurants just a short walk away, it’s easy to turn a beach day into a full family outing.
13. St. Augustine Beach
Looking for a bit of history?
So, for a mix of beach fun and history, St. Augustine Beach is the perfect destination. The wide, soft sands and shallow waters make it great for families, while the nearby pier offers opportunities for fishing. Plus, after a day in the sun, you can take a short drive to explore the historic town of St. Augustine.
14. Marco Island
If your family is looking for a peaceful retreat, then Marco Island’s beach is one of the best family beaches in Florida. This beach is known for its clean, wide beaches and calm Gulf waters, it’s an ideal spot for families who want to relax. Additionally, for a little adventure, you can take a boat tour to explore the nearby mangroves and spot wildlife.
15. Venice Beach
Venice Beach isn’t just for swimming and sunbathing, it’s also the Shark Tooth Capital of the World. Here, kids will have a blast searching for fossilized shark teeth while enjoying the sun. Therefore, it’s a beach day and treasure hunt all in one.
16. Fort Walton Beach
When it comes to family beaches in Florida, Fort Walton Beach is a classic choice! With its stunning white sand and clear waters, it’s perfect for a fun day out. There are plenty of family activities nearby, like miniature golf and aquariums, to keep everyone entertained. Additionally, it has got that small-town charm with big beach vibes. So, it’s hard to beat a day of sun, sand, and family fun there!
17. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is another most famous family beaches in Florida, known for its surf culture and family-friendly environment. It’s a great spot for beginners to try their hand at surfing. Moreover, the Cocoa Beach Pier is packed with shops, restaurants, and activities, making it a full day of fun for everyone.
18. Key Biscayne (Crandon Park ‘s Beaches)
For families seeking a laid-back beach day with a touch of education, Crandon Park in Key Biscayne is just perfect! This lovely park boasts soft sandy beaches and calm waters, making it a safe spot for young children to play. Plus, the nearby nature center is a great opportunity to learn about local wildlife. It’s the ideal place for families looking to enjoy both relaxation and a bit of learning together.
19. Bahia Honda State Park
If you’re looking for a more natural setting, Bahia Honda State Park is the place to go. It offers beautiful beaches and a variety of outdoor activities. Families can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and hiking along scenic trails that highlight the area’s natural beauty. These beaches are less crowded, and its clear, shallow waters make it perfect for families to swim and snorkel. Plus, the views are simply spectacular.
20. St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach is a classic Florida favorite, with wide stretches of soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of amenities. It’s perfect for a family day in the sun, and there’s no shortage of restaurants and shops to explore afterward.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Florida is a true beach lover’s paradise, especially for families. With its wide variety of family-friendly beaches, there’s something for everyone, from peaceful retreats to exciting, activity-packed shores. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach gear, and head out to explore the beautiful family beaches in Florida. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, collecting shells, or building sandcastles, these beaches promise unforgettable family adventures.
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