Best Family-Friendly Beaches Near Orlando: Where to Go and What to Bring

Key Takeaways

1. The best family-friendly beaches near Orlando are 1–2 hours away by car.
2. Clearwater, Cocoa, New Smyrna, Fort De Soto, and Daytona each offer unique perks for families.
3. Honest Sherpa provides convenient beach gear rentals — delivered right to your vacation rental.
4. Renting saves time, space, and adds comfort to your day trip.

When you’re vacationing in Orlando — surrounded by theme parks, excitement, and endless attractions — sometimes you crave a relaxing day by the sea. The good news? The best beaches for families near Orlando are only 1–2 hours away by car. Below, we’ve compiled the most popular best beaches near Orlando for families, ideal for a day trip with kids. Plus, we’ll cover what’s worth renting instead of packing — so your beach day is easy and enjoyable.

1. Clearwater Beach – The Perfect Family Day by the Gulf

Distance from Orlando: About 2 hours (115 miles)

Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. Powdery white sand, calm clear waters, and a wide shoreline make it ideal for families with kids of all ages.

The beach is well maintained with lifeguards, restrooms, and rental options for chairs and umbrellas. The famous Pier 60 offers daily street performances, vendors, and sunset celebrations that create a fun and safe environment for the whole family.

Family perks:

• Calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers
• Clean facilities with showers, restrooms, and lifeguards
• A spacious promenade with parks, dining, and entertainment
• Paddleboard and kayak rentals available

What to bring:

• Beach umbrella or canopy
• Cooler bag with snacks and drinks
• Sand toys and picnic blankets

💡 You can rent all of these items through Honest Sherpa and have them delivered directly to your vacation home before you leave.

2. Cocoa Beach – The Closest Beach to Orlando

Distance: 1 hour 15 minutes (60 miles)

If you’re searching for the best beach for family near Orlando, Cocoa Beach is your go-to. It’s the closest to the city, easily accessible, and famous for its surfing vibe.

The beach is expansive, with soft golden sand and moderate waves that remain safe near the shore. Ample parking, restrooms, and the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier — lined with shops, restaurants, and arcades — make it a lively destination for active families.

Kid-friendly features:

• Gentle waves and wide shoreline
• Fun boardwalk with food and shops
• Possible rocket launch views from nearby Cape Canaveral

Gear recommendations:

• Lounge chairs and sun canopies
• Beach tent for naps
• Games and beach toys (frisbees, balls, water gear)

3. New Smyrna Beach – Peaceful and Less Crowded

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes (75 miles)

This hidden gem is ideal for those who want a quieter, more relaxed beach day without sacrificing comfort. The beach is wide with fine, firm sand — great for walking, strollers, or building sandcastles.

Some zones allow cars on the sand, while others are vehicle-free and perfect for families. Nearby, you’ll find charming cafes, surf shops, and shaded parks ideal for a picnic.

Why families love it:

• Lifeguarded swimming zones
• Gentle water entry and soft bottom
• Nearby picnic parks and clean rest areas

Consider renting:

• Large beach umbrella or sun shelter
• Foldable picnic table and chairs
• Picnic accessories: thermoses, baskets, mats

4. Fort De Soto Park – Nature and Family Amenities

Distance: About 2 hours (125 miles)

Fort De Soto is more than a beach — it’s a natural oasis spread across multiple islands. Perfect for families who want to mix beach time with outdoor exploration.

The beach has dedicated kid-friendly areas with shallow entry and gentle waves. There’s also a historic fort to explore, scenic bike trails, and kayak rentals. Grills, shaded areas, and picnic tables make it easy to spend the whole day there.

Highlights:

• Shady picnic spots with BBQ grills
• Onsite playgrounds and restrooms
• Nature trails and cycling paths

What to bring or rent:

• Floaties and safety gear for kids
• Biking accessories (if bringing bikes)
• Cooler bags and a folding picnic table

5. Daytona Beach – Active Fun for All Ages

Distance: 1 hour 15 minutes (55 miles)

Daytona Beach is iconic — one of the few Florida beaches that still allows cars to drive and park directly on the sand. It’s especially convenient for families who don’t want to haul gear across long boardwalks.

With lively waves perfect for older kids, an adjacent waterpark (Daytona Lagoon), and plenty of food and entertainment nearby, it’s a favorite for families who like to stay active.

Things to do:

• Enjoy water slides and thrill rides nearby
• Visit Daytona Lagoon
• Watch a sunset with your toes in the sand

Helpful gear to rent:

• Small kiddie pool or inflatable splash mat
• Windproof umbrellas
• Portable speaker and powerbank

Family Beach Day Tips

• Leave early to grab a prime spot and avoid mid-day heat.
• Plan your snacks and hydration: consider pre-ordering cold drinks and snacks from local vendors.
• Use gear rental with delivery from Honest Sherpa to lighten your load and save on packing.
• Upgrade your comfort: rent umbrellas, beach chairs, cooling containers, and even toys — and enjoy a smooth, stress-free day.

Conclusion

Orlando isn’t just for theme park lovers. With some of Florida’s top family-friendly beaches within driving distance, you can plan the perfect seaside day trip without the stress. Whether you want waves and action at Daytona or a peaceful paddle at Fort De Soto, having the right gear makes all the difference.

Let Honest Sherpa handle your beach gear needs, so all you need to do is pack the sunscreen and enjoy quality time with your family.

FAQ

Q: What’s the closest beach to Orlando for families?
A: Cocoa Beach is the nearest family-friendly beach, just over an hour from downtown Orlando. It’s known for gentle waves, family amenities, and great access.

Q: Which beach is best for toddlers and small children?
A: Clearwater Beach and New Smyrna Beach are top picks. They offer calm, shallow water and soft sand — ideal for young kids.

Q: Can I rent beach gear instead of bringing my own?
A: Absolutely! Honest Sherpa offers beach umbrellas, toys, chairs, coolers, and more — all delivered directly to your vacation rental.

Q: Are these beaches safe and clean?
A: Yes. All listed beaches have lifeguards on duty and are well-maintained with clean restrooms and family areas.

Q: Can I park close to the water?
A: Daytona Beach allows cars to park directly on the beach. New Smyrna has designated drive-on areas. For others, public lots are nearby.

Q: Should I bring food or are there places to eat?
A: Most beaches have nearby restaurants, but for flexibility, consider packing a picnic or using a cooler with drinks/snacks.