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You're finally on vacation at the most magical place on earth: Disney World.
The kids are thrilled to meet Mickey Mouse and see all the amazing rides and attractions.
But after a few days of nonstop fun, visiting Animal Kingdom with toddlers, you might be looking for a change of scenery.
If you're ready for a break, check out these 13 best family beaches near Orlando including the closest beach to Disney World.
Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your day trip to the beach.
Planning a Beach Day Trip from Disney World
Disney World is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world.
Families come from all over to experience the magic of the parks and take part in all the fun activities.
However, Walt Disney World can be a lot to handle with little ones and you might be wondering is Disney World worth it?
If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks, why not add a beach day to your itinerary?
Here are a few reasons why it's nice to include a beach day trip from Orlando:
- Saves money on park tickets for the day
- Gives your feet a break from walking
- Nothing to plan, and no reservations to get to
- Explore areas beyond Orlando
Planning a non-park day is essential on Disney World trips as it gives time to recharge while still on your vacation.
Not sure what a travel itinerary is? You'll want to have one for your Disney trip – especially if it's your first time to Disney World.
Checkout the beach options below which include approximate distances and drive time from the Disney World Transportation and Ticket Center.
The Closest Beach to Disney World
1. Cocoa Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 73 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 10min
Starting at the top of our list, with the closest beach to Disney World: Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Florida’s Space Coast Depending on traffic, you could reach the sand in just under an hour.
Situated on the Atlantic side of Florida, Cocoa beach is known for its surfing, fishing, and beautiful sandy shores.
Things to do
Cocoa Beach Pier: The pier is home to several restaurants and shops, as well as live entertainment. You can also rent bicycles to ride around the scenic Boardwalk.
Manatee Kayaking Tour: If you want to get up close and personal with some Florida manatees, take a kayak tour! This guided tour will take you through calm waters and put you in front of the gentle giants themselves!
Family-Friendly Restaurants
The Fat Snook: For delicious seafood with a view of the water, you can't miss the Fat Snook. The menu has something for everyone, and the kids will love watching the boats pass by while they eat.
Coconuts on the Beach: With two locations in Cocoa Beach, Coconuts is your go-to spot for delicious seafood with a Caribbean twist. With a super casual vibe and live music, everyone will enjoy their time – plus, they have a kid's menu!
Must Shop
Ron Jon Surf Shop: Ron Jon is THE place to go for all your beach needs, whether you're looking for swimwear, sunscreen, or souvenirs. The kids will love exploring the giant store, and you can find everything you need to make a day of it at the beach.
The Closest Gulf Beach to Disney World
2. Clearwater Beach
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 94 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 30min
Next on our list is Clearwater Beach. If you're looking for the closest beach to Disney World on the gulf side of Florida, Clearwater Beach is your spot. Known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, there are opportunities to relax on the beach, enjoy some water sports and explore this busy town.
Things to Do
Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour: Get up close and personal with some of the friendly dolphins that call Clearwater Beach home on a dolphin-watching tour. You'll be able to see them swimming and playing in their natural habitat.
Explore Pier 60: If you're looking for some family fun, head over to Pier 60 at dusk for a unique experience. This nightly sunset festival features live music, entertainment, arts and crafts and so much more. Kids will love playing at one of the largest beach playgrounds on the coast!
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Frenchy's Outpost Cafe: Craving some seafood? Frenchy's has you covered. Located right on the beach, this cafe is known for its fresh catch of the day, grilled fish sandwiches, and buckets of shrimp.
Clear Sky Beachside Cafe: For stunning views of the sunset with your meal, head to Clear Sky Cafe. They offer a huge variety of cuisines sure to please everyone in the family. From raw bar options to lo mein to build your own pizza, kids will have no problem filling up here!
Must Shop
Surfstyle: This shop has everything you need for a day at the beach, from swimsuits and coverups to sunblock and flip-flops. They also have a great selection of souvenirs and quality t-shirts if you're looking to bring some memories of your trip home with you.
Best Family Beaches Near Orlando
3. Melbourne Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 76 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 20 min
Continuing our list, Melbourne Beach is on Florida's Atlantic coast and is a great option if you're looking for a more laid-back beach for your day trip.
Brevard county's oldest beach community has plenty of history and fun while being one of the closest Atlantic-side beaches to Disney World.
Things to do
Barrier Island Sanctuary: Take a trip to the Barrier Island Sanctuary and explore over 70 acres of unique ecosystems. Families can take part in eco-tours, kayak tours, and bird watching. Kids will love learning about marine life and discovering new creatures during their visit.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Sand on the Beach: Check out this casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not only do they have a kid's menu, but amazing views of the water as well.
Must Shop
Catalyst: This classic surf shop offers everything you need for a day at the beach. From boards and wet suits to t-shirts and flip-flops, this store has it all! The shop now has 5 locations and tons of history to learn about.
4. Daytona Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 78 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 10min
Daytona Beach is one of the best beaches near Disney. Roughly an hour away, Daytona Beach is a busy area offering plenty of activities and attractions for a full day of fun.
Things to Do
Monument and Statue Trail: If you're looking for a little adventure, be sure to search for all of Daytona's famous statues. You'll find 11 statues in the Daytona area representing historical or cultural significance.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Hog Heaven Bar-B-Q: If you want something other than seafood, try Hog Heaven. About a block off the beach, this restaurant features a kid's menu and slow-smoked barbeque.
Must Shop
Salty Dog Surf Shop: The Salty Dog Surf Shop is the perfect place to stock up on all your beach essentials and top surf shop brands. They offer surfboard rentals as well!
5. New Smyrna Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 78 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 15min
Just south of Daytona you'll find New Smyrna Beach. This 17-mile stretch of shores features the Atlantic ocean as well as access to the Intercoastal.
With its sugar-sand beaches and quaint shops, you can see why this charming town is on our list of best family beaches near Orlando.
Things to Do
Smyrna Dunes Park: For a full beach experience, head to Smyrna Dunes. With a massive boardwalk, several beach access points, a fishing pier, and bird watching, you'll find plenty to keep the family busy.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
The Breakers: Look for the pink building at the end of Flagler Avenue. Specializing in burgers of ALL types, you're sure to find one you love. They have regularly been voted the best burgers in central Florida!
Must Shop
Flagler Avenue: Stroll down Flagler Avenue and pop into the unique shops lining the street. From charming boutiques to art galleries, there's something for everyone here.
6. Ormond Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 84 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 15min
On the Atlantic coast you'll find Ormond Beach just north of Daytona Beach. If you're looking for a small town feel in a resort town, Ormond is a great pick on our list of beaches near Disney World.
Things to Do
Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail: Explore a Florida scenic highway and National Scenic Byway on this 30 mile loop. Stop and enjoy access to the Atlantic Ocean as well as several parks along the way.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Charlie Horse Restaurant: If you're looking for the local-voted best restaurant, head to Charlie Horse. Known for steaks and seafood, they even feature kid-sized portions of sirloin and snow crab on the children's menu!
Must Shop
Gaslamp Gift Gallery: For one-of-a-kind finds, check out the Gaslamp Gift Gallery. This shop hand picks items and doesn't buy in bulk so you are sure to find a truly unique gift or souvenir.
7. Canaveral National Seashore
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 88 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 30min
One of 10 protected National Seashores, Canaveral is one of the best beaches near Disney. If you want a secluded, well-kept area, Apollo Beach is our pick.
Things to Do
Apollo Beach: While there are plenty of things to do in Cape Canaveral, the National Seashore is to be enjoyed in this location. Bring your sand toys, boogie boards and umbrellas for a full day at the beach. We recommend parking at beach access #1 as it is the largest lot. Keep in mind there are entrance fees.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar: For a full authentic seafood menu and raw Oyster bar, head to Rusty's. With outdoor dining, early bird specials, and a kid's menu featuring Mahi Mahi, crab legs, and shrimp, it's a great spot for the whole family.
8. Madeira Beach – Redington Beach – Indian Shores Beach
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 96 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 30 min
Located on Florida's gulf coast, you'll find a beautiful stretch of beaches between St. Pete and Clearwater.
These areas are less busy than other tourist-focused cities making them some of the best family beaches near Orlando. There's a good chance you can find beach access and have a nice stretch of sand to yourselves!
Things to Do
Kayaking: Take the family out for a kayaking adventure and explore some of the most beautiful ecosystems. Grab a rental from Rad Bikes, Beach, Surf and Rentals and walk down to the park for an easy kayak launch.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
PJs Oyster Bar & Seafood: This casual eatery serves up fresh seafood and authentic Florida dishes. From succulent oysters to steamed mussels, there's something for everyone at PJs Oyster Bar & Seafood.
Must Shop
John's Pass Village and Boardwalk: This popular shopping complex is the perfect place to find souvenirs for loved ones back home. With over 100 stores, restaurants and attractions, you're sure to find something for everyone.
9. St. Pete Beach
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 99 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 30min
St Pete Beach is a lovely gulf-side beach that is worth the drive from Orlando. Here, families can soak up some sun and take part in a variety of activities both on and off land.
If you're looking for a more secluded beach, Pass-A-Grille Beach is located at the southernmost point of St. Pete Beach and is known for its old Florida charm.
For a more lively atmosphere, check out Treasure Island Beach. Located at the northernmost point of St. Pete Beach, it is known for its great restaurants, bars and entertainment spots.
Things to Do
Dolphin Watching, Shelling & Snorkeling Tour: St. Pete Beach is a great place to explore the water. Check out this tour that includes a little bit of everything!
Family-Friendly Restaurant
The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant: This local eatery is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant offers up fresh seafood and even has a children's menu to ensure everyone can enjoy their meal with a view of the gulf.
Must Shop
Corey Area Shopping District: For some great shopping and unique finds, head to the Corey Area Shopping District. You'll find tons of boutique shops along Corey Avenue with plenty of outdoor cafes and restaurants.
10. Vero Beach
- Coast: Atlantic
- Distance from Terminal: 105 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 30 min
Located on the Atlantic side of Florida, Vero beach is a unique spot to visit. While it's not the closest beach to Disney World, you'll find plenty to do and a small-town feel.
Things to Do
McKee Botanical Garden: This 18-acre tropical garden is home to a variety of plants from around the world, as well as some native species. You can explore winding pathways and admire the unique foliage – don't forget to stop at the children's garden!
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Ocean Grill: If you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite in Vero Beach, try Ocean Grill. Literally on the sand beach, the views are amazing and the menus are sure to please.
Must Shop
The Beached Whale: If you're looking for resort wear at an affordable price, stop by The Beached Whale. From swimwear and sunscreen to gifts and beach toys, you're sure to enjoy this stop.
11. Anna Maria Island
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 111 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 50min
This beautiful barrier island in northeast Florida is a lengthy drive but absolutely one of the best beaches for families near Disney. Amelia Island is the perfect place to spend a day swimming, playing in the sand, and exploring.
Things to Do
Go shelling: The beaches of Anna Maria Island are known for their shells, and it's definitely worth spending some time combing the shoreline in search of these treasures. Don't forget to bring a bucket or bag to carry them in!
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Sandbar Seafood & Spirits: The Sandbar focuses on sustainable and locally sourced meals. If you're in the mood for tacos, peel-n-eat shrimp, or steak, you'll enjoy the menu. The kid's menu offers several classic options as well!
Must Shop
Q's Creations: An eclectic shop that sells upcycled and repurposed items and furniture. You're sure to enjoy seeing all the creations and find something unique to bring home.
12. Siesta Key Beach
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 124 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 50 min
Siesta Key Beach is located just south of Sarasota on the gulf side of Florida. It's known for its white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and laid-back atmosphere. While not the closest beach to Disney World, it's one of the best family beaches near Orlando.
Things to do
Kayak the Key: While Siesta Key Beach is located just off of Sarasota, you'll want to check out the beaches above all else. This kayak tour takes you to a beach only accessible by boat – and you may even see a manatee!
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Captain Curt's Crab & Oyster Bar: Looking for a casual spot to grab a bite? Captain Curt's has you covered with delicious seafood dishes at budget-friendly prices. Voted best family restaurant on Siesta Key by the Travel Channel, you'll have to try the calm chowder!
Must Shop
Gidget's Coastal Provisions: If you're not sure what you're looking for, stop by Gidget's. For a huge range of home decor, trinkets and apparel, you'll be sure to find the perfect souvenir or gift.
13. St. Augustine
- Coast: Gulf
- Distance from Terminal: 126 miles
- Approximate time from TTC: 1hr 50 min
Finally, St. Augustine beach rounds out our list of best family beaches near Orlando. This beautiful area is known for its historic district and Spanish architecture, making it a great spot to explore. There's plenty of things to do both on the beach and off – you won't be disappointed!
Things to Do
Take a Boat Tour: Enjoy the views from the water with a boat tour around St. Augustine. You can view the local wildlife as well as some of the historical landmarks of the city.
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Salt Life Food Shack: From Poke bowls to street tacos to seafood broils, this menu is truly diverse! If your mouth is watering, head to this surf-themed hangout because they didn't forget the “first mate's” menu!
Must Shop
Tom's: This classic souvenir shop has all your basics alongside hammocks, local sauces and soy candles. With all the essentials you need as well as great gift ideas, you'll be sure to find something special here!
The Closest Beach to Disney World and More
If you’re looking to take a break from the parks and enjoy a day at the beach during your Disney World vacation, there are plenty of great options nearby.
While Cocoa Beach may be the closest beach to Disney World, there are many more great beaches near Disney that it can be hard to decide which one to visit first!
Whether you're looking for a day of adventure or just want to relax in the sun, there's sure to be a beach town that's perfect for you.
So pack your sunscreen and your swimsuit and get ready for some fun in the sun!
For more Disney World vacation tips, check out these posts:
- 6 Things to Know Before Going to Disney World for the First Time
- Disney World Stroller Rules: What You Must Know Before You Leave
- Choosing the Best Double Stroller for Disney
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom with Toddlers: 13 Can’t Miss Things To Do
- Animal Kingdom or Epcot for Toddlers: Which Park is Best for Your Trip
- Visit Tusker House for the Best Breakfast in Animal Kingdom
- Is Disney World Worth It? Costs, Crowds, Heat, and Memories
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