Some fascinating destinations to tour and unwind in include natural parks, historic sites, and sandy shores.
Below, you will find a hand-picked list of the 6 best Florida beaches near Orlando, that travelers can visit during holidays and weekends to have a good time.
1. New Smyrna
Just an hour’s drive from the city lies this beautiful shore. It occupies 13 miles on the Atlantic coast. Travelers can get to the shore using private vehicles; however, they are charged a user fee for driving to the shore.
There is a wide range of activities people can enjoy there. The high waves, coastal architecture, and personality make the coastline a prime location for surfers. It is also appropriate for travelers who desire a relaxed destination with hidden adventures.
Biking is also possible along the fine well-packed coastal sand — individuals who want to have more fun cycle into the waves. The immaculate sand is also ideal for sunbathing and horseback riding.
A visit to this shore can never be boring. Travelers can visit the neighboring Sugar Mil Ruins during their stay at the beach and they can dine at the pleasingly old-fashioned cafés in ruins.
Pet owners can come along with their furies, too. Dogs enjoy splashing in the waters and relaxing on the sand. The owners will also love playing on the shore with them.
While exploring, travelers shouldn’t miss dining at the available eateries. The restaurants have local seafood that stands the test of time.
2. Daytona
Visitors find this beautiful coastline in central Florida on the northeastern side of the Atlantic fascinating. It’s fun-filled and lively, although unsuitable for people who want quietness and tranquility. Individuals can use cars and drive along highways that offer scenic beauty while getting to the shore.
This coastline is historically recognized for its hard-packed sand that easily facilitates access to restricted areas by motorized vehicles. The sand has made the area a mecca for motorsports. Over the years, numerous road course races have been held here.
Among the incredible activities there, individuals enjoy here are biking and hiking. There are clear trails from the shore to the ocean. Vacationers will also love the eco-tours as they view the beautiful marine life.
Other family fun activities include parasailing and surfing facilitated by the calm waves. Daytona is actually a great spot to learn to surf. In addition, the crystal clear aquamarine waters are suitable for swimming. Deep sea fishing is also possible on the seashore.
Resorts and restaurants along the coastline serve all seafood and ethnic cuisines. In addition, some hotels provide perfect places to stay for families and group gatherings. These places ensure travelers are close to golf excursions and shopping sprees.
3. Flagler
This shore was named after an oil tycoon and railway developer Henry Flagler. This destination sits between Daytona and St. Augustine and makes an island of a small beach town under the same name. Both tourists and locals have free access to the coastline.
Due to its connection to intercostal waterways, the coastline is suitable for paddleboarding. Also, there are decent surf conditions that make Flagler ideal for surfers.
Visitors are allowed to get cozy with a coastline bonfire. However, they are supposed to follow the local guidelines and time frames. They should use the specified tools after obtaining a permit from the fire department.
The destination has ample space that provides enough parking area. In addition, it offers affordable wedding venues by the water. The coastline is less crowded; thus, individuals can have the whole shore for themselves.
Travelers can enjoy ocean view dining at the numerous eating joints with patios that sit directly to the seashore. The restaurants serve fantastic seafood such as fried shrimp and kid-friendly dishes like corn dogs. Local wines accompany the meals.
The beachside shops sell handcrafted treasures made by local artists. Visitors can purchase these items as souvenirs to act as material reminders of their trip to this great destination.
4. St. Augustine
Along Florida’s historic coast, travelers will find this shore. Vehicle access to the shore is allowed for people with private cars.
The place offers everything needed for a remarkable coastline vacation. Families enjoy relaxing on the coastline with bright sunshine and the waves caressing the seashore. They can also stroll along the shore as they view the spectacular landscape.
During the day, people enjoy various activities. There is a large pavilion and enough space where individuals play different games including volleyball. In addition, bikers enjoy cycling along the shore in the evening.
Swimming is allowed if individuals don’t go 400 feet within the impressive fishing pier nearby. Safety in the waters is guaranteed because lifeguards are stationed along the coastline. Other fun things vacationers can enjoy include surfing and paddleboarding.
There are excellent seaside resorts and restaurants where people can grab meals and snacks. The destination offers comfortable stay rooms including hotels and condos where large groups or solo travelers can stay for extended periods.
5. Melbourne
It’s a secluded coastline on a barrier island beside the Indian River. There are no crowds to bother visitors there, thus it is ideal for solo travelers looking for a slice of serenity. People can use a bus, shuttle, or car to reach the shore at affordable rates.
The shore is popularly known for its swimming activities and a special no-boat zone. Also, the destination is rich in everything recreational desired in a trip. It has activities for everyone, from kids to adults.
People enjoy spending time on the beachside or in the waters using ski jets or boats. They will love watching the adventurous aquatic life on a guided kayak tour. This allows them to connect with nature and the environment.
Melbourne’s coastline is also rich in culture and art. It hosts a theater show where individuals meet various artists. In addition, it has a local museum for people who want to learn about the culture of Melbourne and Florida at large.
Travelers don’t have to stress because this destination will make them feel at home. There is a wide range of hotels where they can sleep and wake up to a beautiful sunrise on the seashore. Additionally, the restaurants serve local and international cuisines prepared using local ingredients.
6. Cocoa
For travelers looking for the closest shore to Orlando, this seashore is about an hour’s drive from Orlando. It’s a family-friendly destination on the magnificent Space Coast. Individuals can access the beach by road using ride-shares or travel on water using motorboats.
The coastline is famous for its surf history. It has produced the 11-time world surfing champion, Kelly Slater. In addition, it has shallow waters with calm and consistent waves, which make it ideal for novice and experienced surfers.
Moreover, it hosts the world’s largest surf shop, approximately 52000 square feet. It’s a major attraction that is usually open 24 hours a day. Visitors can purchase everything they need for a comfortable seashore lifestyle, like bikinis and surfboards.
Other activities include fishing excursions and strolling along the sandy coastline. Travelers also love outdoor activities like golfing on the beaches’ spectacular courses. Or kayaking as they view the beautiful marine life.
Cocoa shore has plenty of amenities to make an individual’s stay comfortable. For instance, there are numerous dining spots where they can enjoy seafood and tasty meals. Moreover, they serve tropical drinks with fresh salads and sandwiches.
After a long day on the shore, visitors can have a restful good night’s sleep in the nearby hotel rooms. Nightlife lovers are not left out, either. There are side cafés with clubs where they can relax with excellent jazz music.
Why visit Orlando?
This city offers a wide range of entertainment opportunities for everyone, from solo travelers to group visitors. It has various attractions and natural beauty, from pristine coastlines to themed parks. People need to tour Orlando to experience the beauty the city has to offer.
The above destinations are perfect choices for individuals looking to spend their vacations in a sea setting. Consider scheduling a trip for the next holiday with family and friends to bond and rejuvenate.