Orlando Beaches

After time spent in Orlando and its incredible theme parks, head off to enjoy nature's very own theme park: the beach!

Hop in a car and in 90 minutes from downtown Orlando you could be lazing on fine white sands and swimming in crystal clear waters. There is nowhere better to enjoy Florida's sizzling sunshine than on the beach, and Orlando makes a great base for exploring the coast - so be sure to make time in your busy itinerary for some days at the seaside.

If you're wondering where to go in Orlando to experience that quintessential beach vibe, fear not. Whether you want to experience the most popular beaches, where beachside towns are bursting with great accommodation, restaurants and entertainment, find a tranquil hideaway, or take part in beach activities, do a bit of trip planning and you will find the perfect spot.

Popular beaches

  • With its upmarket atmosphere and magnificent natural beauty, Vero Beach and its nature preserve are among the region's great treasures.
  • Just an hour from downtown Orlando is the world-famous Daytona Beach, where there's a lively seaside atmosphere thanks to summer concerts, a bustling boardwalk and lots of shops and restaurants.
  • Clearwater Beach is one great swathe of perfect white sand, where watersports, swimming or simply soaking up the Florida sun make for the perfect Orlando day trip.

Quiet Beaches

  • Low-key Ponte Vedra Beach has spa resorts, world class golf courses and family-friendly amenities. Be sure not to miss bird-watching in the GTM Research Reserve estuary.
  • Go back to basics at the Canaveral National Seashore, a delightful sanctuary where sea turtles nest on the sand and you can enjoy hiking, horse riding, swimming and kayaking.
  • For a slice of paradise and seclusion drive 2 hours from Orlando to Fort De Soto Park, where palm hammocks, mangroves and native wildlife await.

Beach Activities

  • Laidback Cocoa Beach is one of Florida's most famous surfing towns. Pros can ride the magnificent waves, while beginners can take lessons and learn what to do to stay upright.
  • Head to the pretty Madeira Beach where you can hop aboard a sunset cruise or spend an adventure-filled day deep sea fishing.
  • The quiet, wide sands of New Smyrna Beach are the perfect terrain for water activities in Orlando. You can even try riding mountain bikes in the surf.