Top 10 Best Beaches in Florida for Families
Are you searching for the perfect beach getaway for the whole family, from toddlers to teens? Forget the long lines and crowded theme parks! While a trip to Disney World or Disneyland is an iconic kids’ vacation, nothing quite compares to the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine State. With its vast coastline, Florida offers a stunning variety of beaches, each with its own unique charm and a host of family-friendly features.
This guide will help you discover the 10 best beaches in Florida for families, considering safety, amenities, and fun-filled attractions. Whether you’re building sandcastles, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun, these beaches promise unforgettable memories. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towels, and get ready to find your family’s new favorite paradise!
Here are the Top 10 Best Beaches in Florida for Families
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the US, and for good reason. Its pristine, sugar-white sand is made of 99% quartz, which means it stays cool even on the hottest days, making it perfect for little feet. The calm, shallow, and crystal-clear Gulf waters are incredibly tranquil, providing a safe and inviting environment for even the youngest swimmers and toddlers. The beach is a vibrant hub of activity, with a lively pier and a bustling beachfront promenade that buzzes with energy day and night. It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty and urban convenience.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The tranquil waters here are a major draw for families with small children. The gentle waves make it easy for kids to splash and play without worry, and the soft sand is ideal for building sandcastles. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, adding an extra layer of safety. Beyond the beach itself, the area is packed with attractions and accommodations, including some of the best beach resorts in Florida for families, offering everything from kids’ clubs to beachfront pools. This makes planning a multi-day trip a breeze, as you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Head to Pier 60 for its nightly sunset festival, featuring street performers, artisans, and live music. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit, especially to see Winter the dolphin, star of the “Dolphin Tale” movies. You can also take a pirate ship cruise or a dolphin-watching tour to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat. For a little more adventure, try parasailing or jet skiing. The beachfront promenade is great for biking or a leisurely stroll with a stroller.
Facilities: Clearwater Beach offers a full range of facilities, including multiple public restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers. There are plenty of rental options for beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas. You’ll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops right on the beach, so you never have to go far for a snack or meal. Parking can be a challenge, so arrive early!
Pro Tip: Book a dolphin-watching tour early in your trip. The guides are often great at spotting marine life and it’s a thrilling experience for kids. You can also consider taking the Clearwater Ferry to avoid parking hassles.
Siesta Key Beach, Siesta Key
Renowned for having the “world’s finest, whitest sand,” Siesta Key Beach is a true gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, near Sarasota. Its sand is composed of 99% pure quartz, making it exceptionally soft, cool, and powdery. The expansive, wide shoreline provides ample space for everyone, even on busy days. The water is a stunning turquoise color, with a shallow and gentle entry that extends far into the Gulf, creating a perfect wading pool for little ones.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The calm, clear water and super-soft sand are a dream come true for families. It’s a particularly great option for toddlers and preschoolers who love to build sandcastles and play in the gentle surf. The beach’s sheer size means you’ll never feel too crowded, and there are designated lifeguard stations. The nearby Siesta Key Village provides a charming, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of shops and eateries to explore after a long day in the sun. This is a top contender for the best family beaches in Florida.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Beyond swimming and sandcastle building, the shallow water is perfect for skimboarding. You can rent a bike with a bike cart to explore the island, or take a free trolley to Siesta Key Village for a treat. Don’t miss the Siesta Key Drum Circle on Sunday evenings—it’s a lively, family-friendly event that’s a local tradition. Nearby attractions include the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota, which offers fascinating exhibits on marine science and conservation.
Facilities: Siesta Key Beach has excellent public facilities, including large restrooms, changing rooms, and shaded picnic pavilions. There are multiple concession stands for food and drinks. The large playground is a fantastic bonus for kids who need a break from the sand. Ample parking is available, but it fills up very quickly on weekends and holidays.
Pro Tip: Bring a sand sieve! The powdery sand at Siesta Key is fun to sift through and discover small shells and treasures. The sunsets here are legendary, so stay until dusk for a breathtaking view.
Sanibel Island, Southwest Florida
Known as the “Seashell Capital of the World,” Sanibel Island is a serene and natural paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Unlike many commercialized beach towns, Sanibel focuses on preserving its natural beauty, with no high-rise buildings and an emphasis on wildlife and conservation. The beaches here are famous for their abundant and unique shell finds, thanks to the island’s east-west orientation, which acts as a scoop for seashells.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: If your family loves nature, collecting shells, and a more relaxed pace, Sanibel Island is the ideal spot. The gentle waves and warm, shallow waters are safe for kids, and the main activity—shelling—is a free, screen-free activity that can keep children entertained for hours. It’s the best beach for shells in Florida, hands down. The relaxed vibe and focus on the natural world make it a truly unique and enriching experience for families.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Shelling is the primary attraction, so bring a bucket and a mesh bag! The “Sanibel Stoop” (the act of bending over to look for shells) is a local pastime. Visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for a scenic drive or kayak tour to see wading birds, manatees, and alligators. You can also bike along the island’s many miles of paved bike paths, which are a safe way to explore.
Facilities: Facilities vary by beach access point. Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach Park offer restrooms and parking, but they are more primitive than those at larger public beaches. There are no large concession stands directly on the beach, so you’ll need to pack your own snacks and water. This is part of the island’s charm, encouraging a more natural, self-sufficient beach day.
Pro Tip: Go shelling at low tide or after a storm for the best finds. The best time is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Renting a bicycle is the best way to explore the island and find hidden spots.
Anna Maria Island, Bradenton
Anna Maria Island is a seven-mile-long barrier island that feels like a step back in time. With its charming, Old Florida vibe, no chain restaurants, and a strict no-high-rise policy, it offers a laid-back, uncrowded alternative to more bustling destinations. The white-sand beaches and calm, turquoise waters are simply stunning and perfect for a peaceful family escape.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The relaxed atmosphere and lack of large crowds make Anna Maria Island a stress-free environment for families. The water is calm and shallow, ideal for little kids to splash around safely. The island’s free trolley service makes it easy to get around without a car, and you can hop from beach to beach, each with its own character. It truly feels like a hidden gem among the best beaches in Florida.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Explore the different beaches, such as Coquina Beach with its picnic tables and tree-lined dunes, or Manatee Public Beach with its playgrounds. Take a boat tour to spot dolphins, or try paddleboarding and kayaking in the serene waters. The island’s charming main streets, such as Pine Avenue in the city of Anna Maria, are great for a stroll to find unique shops and delicious local eateries.
Facilities: Manatee Public Beach and Coquina Beach have excellent amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, playgrounds, and picnic areas. You’ll find concession stands at the public beaches, but many of the more secluded spots require you to bring your own supplies.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the free trolley to explore the whole island. Visit the Rod and Reel Pier for a casual, classic Florida dining experience and a chance to see people fishing.
St. Augustine Beach, St. Augustine
Located on Anastasia Island, just east of historic St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach offers a fantastic combination of wide, expansive beaches and rich history. The beach is known for its hard-packed sand, which is perfect for biking, and its rolling waves that are great for boogie boarding and surfing. It’s a great choice for families who want to combine a beach vacation with cultural and educational activities.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The beach’s vast size ensures there’s always plenty of room to spread out. For older kids and teens, the waves provide a fun opportunity to try surfing or boogie boarding. For younger kids, the calmer parts of the surf near the shore are still great for splashing. The biggest advantage here is the proximity to the nation’s oldest city, offering a break from the sand with a wealth of historical attractions. It’s an ideal option for families looking for more than just sun and surf.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Head to the St. Johns County Ocean Pier for fishing and stunning views. Kids will love exploring the historic Castillo de San Marcos fort, climbing the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and visiting the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. The beach is also a fantastic place to ride bikes, with many rental shops available nearby.
Facilities: The area around the pier is well-equipped with public restrooms, a splash park, and volleyball courts. There are numerous restaurants and shops within walking distance of the beach. You can also drive and park on certain sections of the beach for easy access.
Pro Tip: Rent fat-tire bikes to explore the beach. The hard-packed sand makes for a smooth and fun ride for the whole family. Be sure to check the tide chart, as driving is only permitted during low tide.
Cocoa Beach, East Central Florida
Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, Cocoa Beach is the perfect choice for families who want to combine a theme park vacation with a relaxing beach escape. This iconic beach is known for its consistent waves, making it a hotspot for surfing. It’s a lively and energetic beach town with a classic, fun-in-the-sun atmosphere.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: Its proximity to Orlando and the Kennedy Space Center is a huge plus. The surf is generally manageable for beginners, making it a great place to take a family surf lesson. The town has a casual, welcoming vibe, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. It’s one of the most accessible best beaches in Florida from a major city.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Take a surf lesson at the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, which is a massive store in itself and a landmark attraction. Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier for arcade games, fishing, and dining. Don’t miss a trip to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a truly awe-inspiring experience for all ages. On certain days, you can even watch a rocket launch from the beach!
Facilities: The beach is well-equipped with restrooms, showers, and rental options for chairs and umbrellas. The pier offers numerous dining options and souvenir shops. Lori Wilson Park is a great spot with restrooms, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the rocket launch schedule. Seeing a rocket launch from the beach is a truly unforgettable experience. Visit Lori Wilson Park for a quieter beach experience with great facilities.
Pensacola Beach, Pensacola
Nestled on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola Beach is a breathtaking stretch of the Emerald Coast known for its brilliant white sand and crystal-clear, emerald-green water. The sand here is composed of fine quartz crystals, which originated from the Appalachian Mountains and were washed down by the rivers, giving it a unique powdery texture and brilliant shine. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of lively and laid-back, offering something for everyone.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The calm, shallow Gulf waters are ideal for children of all ages to swim and play safely. Lifeguards are on duty during the season, adding to the peace of mind for parents. The expansive shoreline ensures there is plenty of room to set up your spot without feeling crowded. The vibrant beachfront area provides easy access to food, fun, and entertainment, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for the whole family. This is a premier choice among the best beaches in Florida for families.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Walk along the Pensacola Beach Pier for great views and a chance to see people fishing. The area is fantastic for snorkeling and paddleboarding in the clear waters. Take a dolphin cruise or a pirate ship tour for an unforgettable experience on the water. Just a short drive away, you can explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a pristine, undeveloped area perfect for nature walks and spotting local wildlife. You can also visit Fort Pickens, a historic military fort that offers a fascinating look into the area’s past.
Facilities: Pensacola Beach offers excellent public facilities, including restrooms, showers, and shaded pavilions. There are numerous restaurants and shops right along the beach, so you can grab a bite without having to leave the sand. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are widely available. Parking can be found in designated lots, but it’s best to arrive early during peak season.
Pro Tip: Bring a small sand bucket and shovel for the kids—the fine sand is perfect for building elaborate sandcastles. For a quieter experience, head away from the main pier area toward the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Panama City Beach, Florida Panhandle
Located on the “Emerald Coast,” Panama City Beach is famous for its 27 miles of dazzling white sand and stunning emerald-green water. While it’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, it has evolved into a premier family vacation destination with a wide array of activities and attractions.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The calm, clear water and soft sand are perfect for swimming and playing. The sheer length of the beach means you can always find a spot to yourself, and the town is packed with fun things to do when you need a break from the sun. It’s a fantastic option for families with older kids and teens who want more than just a quiet beach day.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Go to Gulf World Marine Park for dolphin and sea lion shows. Visit Pier Park, a huge shopping and entertainment complex with restaurants, a movie theater, and a giant Ferris wheel. For a unique adventure, take a shuttle to Shell Island, an undeveloped barrier island, for a day of nature and shelling. You might even spot a playful pod of dolphins on the way!
Facilities: Panama City Beach has a wide range of facilities, from public restrooms and showers to countless restaurants and shops. Many best beach resorts in Florida are located here, offering direct beach access and incredible amenities like water parks and kids’ clubs.
Pro Tip: Take the Shell Island Shuttle from St. Andrews State Park for a day trip to the undeveloped barrier island. It’s a great opportunity for shelling and a more rustic beach experience.
Hollywood Beach, South Florida
Hollywood Beach is a lively and charming beach town with a unique, family-friendly atmosphere. Its main attraction is the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a 2.5-mile-long brick promenade that runs parallel to the beach. It’s perfect for walking, biking, and rollerblading. The sand is soft, and the ocean is a beautiful turquoise color.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The Broadwalk is the star of the show. It creates a safe and fun environment for families to stroll, bike, or eat at one of the many beachfront cafes and restaurants. It separates the beach from the bustling A1A, so you don’t have to worry about traffic. The beach is well-patrolled, and the waves are generally gentle, making it a great spot for a relaxing day.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Rent a bike or a surrey to ride along the Broadwalk. There are several playgrounds right on the sand for kids. You can also visit the Anne Kolb Nature Center to explore a mangrove ecosystem. The beachfront restaurants and live music create a fun, festive atmosphere in the evenings.
Facilities: Plenty of public restrooms, showers, and changing rooms are available along the Broadwalk. There are countless restaurants, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores. Rentals for beach chairs, umbrellas, and bikes are readily available.
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekend to experience the vibrant atmosphere and live music along the Broadwalk. Renting a surrey bike is a must-do family activity!
Destin Beach, Florida Panhandle
Often referred to as the “Emerald Coast,” Destin is famous for its stunning, sugar-white sand and emerald-green waters. The beaches are absolutely breathtaking and offer a perfect backdrop for a family vacation. The sand is soft and cool, and the water is incredibly clear, making it a favorite for swimming and snorkeling.
Why This Beach Is Great for Families: The calm, clear water is excellent for kids. The gently sloping shoreline allows for a safe entry into the water, and the sand is perfect for building epic sandcastles. The town of Destin is a major tourist hub with a huge variety of entertainment and dining options, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Recommended Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions: Go on a fishing charter from the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Take a dolphin cruise or a pirate ship excursion. Visit the Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park for water slides and a lazy river. The HarborWalk Village offers zip-lining, live music, and excellent restaurants with waterfront views.
Facilities: Destin’s beaches offer great public facilities, including restrooms and showers. The area is home to some of the best beach resorts in Florida with fantastic amenities for families, from lazy rivers to kids’ clubs.
Pro Tip: Bring a snorkel and mask to explore the clear water! You’ll often see small fish near the shore. Consider a sunset dolphin cruise from the harbor; it’s a magical experience for everyone.
Tips for Your Family Beach Vacation
- Pack Smart: In addition to the basics, bring a pop-up beach tent or umbrella for shade, a small cooler with snacks and drinks, and a first-aid kit.
- Sun Safety is Key: Apply and reapply sunscreen frequently, and consider rash guards or UV-protective clothing for the kids.
- Stay Hydrated: The Florida sun can be intense. Bring a refillable water bottle for each family member.
- Consider a Beach Resort: Staying at one of the best beach resorts in Florida can make your vacation much easier, with amenities like pools, kids’ activities, and on-site dining.
- Be Mindful of Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and birds, but remember to observe them from a safe distance.
Start Planning Your Family’s Florida Beach Adventure!
Now that you’ve discovered the best family beaches in Florida, it’s time to choose your perfect destination. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful shelling paradise or a lively beach with endless activities, Florida has a beach for every family.
Ready to book your trip? Browse our exclusive deals on the best beach resorts in Florida and start building sandcastles with your family today!
