Looking for the best beaches near Orlando? We’ve got you the list of our top picks!

Although Orlando is primarily known for its thrilling theme parks, it has also got some serene beaches surrounding its periphery. And let us tell you, there are various of them which might make it a bit difficult for you to pick one. Hence, to ease down this task for you, here’s a well-curated list of the top 10 beaches in Orlando, Florida to plan your next vacation to.

Top Beaches in Orlando, Florida

1. New Smyrna Beach

If you want to spend a laid-back vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then New Smyrna Beach is for you. It is beautiful and uncrowded and the best part, gets you to witness those pookie dolphins right from the shore. You can park your drive right along Flagler Avenue to explore several restaurants and boutiques lining the beach. Meanwhile, don’t forget to try paddleboarding and kayaking for a thrilling experience.

2. Canaveral National Seashore 

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and relax all out in nature, Canaveral National Seashore Beach is your place to be. Herein, you’ll also get to witness many endangered species of Florida like alligators, sea turtles, manatees, and birds along with a wide range of plant species. Besides, you can spend a good time strolling through the beach, swimming in the warm water, and fishing to keep yourself entertained throughout.

3. Clearwater Beach 

Listed as the No. 1 beach in America, Clearwater Beach is known for its calm gulf waters and powdery soft sands. It is one of the few beaches wherein you’ll find lifeguards on duty all around the year – making it the best choice for families especially those with kids. To grab some delicious meals, check out the Ocean Hai, Frenchy’s Rockaway Grille or drive a little further down the beach to the Columbia for a historic dinner.

4. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is the World’s most famous beach that you must visit if you’re out on a trip to Florida. Covered with long miles of sugary white sand, it offers ample space to enjoy activities like jet skiing, volleyball, parasailing, and cycling. And if you’re a newbie in surfing, Daytona is the perfect place to hone your skills as the waves here are quite subtle yet consistent. Also, if you’re visiting anywhere between May to October, try attending the popular events held hereon like the Daytona 500 or Bike Week.

5. Madeira Beach 

Madeira Beach (also known as Mad Beach), is a beautiful beach town situated just 2 hours away from Orlando. It features a 2.5-mile-long stretch of powdery white sand perfect for lying, and basking in the sun. However, if you want to get into something exciting, try deep-sea fishing on a charter – you’re surely going to love this.

6. St. Pete Beach 

Situated just a 2-hour drive away from Orlando, St. Pete Beach is one of the best beaches in Orlando, Florida with pristine white sand and mesmerizing turquoise blue water. It is a full-service beach packed with restaurants, bars, cabana rentals, and water sports – all right at your access. More so, herein, you can also try some spine-chilling activities like speed boating, parasailing, and windsurfing. However, if you’re someone looking for a secluded experience, head over to Upham Beach north of St. Pete Beach.

7. Cocoa Beach 

Situated closest to the Orlando International Airport, Cocoa Beach is one of the most easily accessible beaches you’d come across in Finland. It’s quiet family friendly and offers a whole lot of fun and adventurous activities to engage yourselves in. If you’re someone who loves collecting sea shells, this place is made for you. And talking of the adventures, Cocoa Beach is widely famous for its sky-high waves, perfect for surfing.

8. Anastasia State Park 

Anastasia State Park is all about tidal marshes, nature trails, and endless miles of long pristine beaches. Herein, you get to enjoy everything from calm beaches, and shelling to several other options making for the perfect vacation. And if you are visiting anytime during the summer of Memorial Day to Labor Day, you’d often find a lifeguard on duty.

9. Melbourne Beach 

Melbourne Beach has got everything that you could expect on a fun beach vacation – long undeveloped stretches of sand, great water waves for surfing along with all the basic beach amenities. Being situated on a barrier island, Melbourne is also the second-largest nesting ground for sea turtles in America. So make sure to not disturb the sea turtle nests, if you come across any!

10. Vero Beach

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, Vero Beach offers you a 26-mile-long coastline to spend an exciting vacation with your loved ones. It’s a quaint seaside town where you can easily spot small sea turtles hovering during the summertime. Vero Beach also makes for a great place to collect shells.

Also Read : Best Vacation Spots in Florida 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. What is the nicest and closest beach to Orlando?

A. Cocoa Beach is one of the nicest and closest beaches to Orlando.

Q. Where is the clearest water near Orlando?

A. Clearwater Beach has the clearest water in Orlando.

Q. What is the best beach from Orlando Airport?

A. Cocoa Beach is the best and the closest beach near the Orlando Airport.

Q. What is the safest beach near Orlando?

A. Daytona Beach is the safest beach near Orlando.

Q. Is Orlando close to Miami?

A. Yes, Orlando is only 250 miles away from Miami.

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