Best Family Vacation Spots in Florida: Welcome to the Sunshine State! Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and family-friendly attractions, making it one of the best destinations for a fun-filled family vacation. From the excitement of Orlando’s theme parks to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys, there is no shortage of amazing destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an action-packed adventure, Florida has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best family vacation spots in Florida, from world-famous attractions to hidden gems that you might not have heard of yet. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in the Sunshine State!
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Best Family Vacation Spots in Florida
Find the best family vacation spots in Florida that both parents and kids of all ages are sure to love.
Orlando
Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation spots in Florida, and for good reason. The city is home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld, offering endless fun and excitement for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, meeting your favorite Disney characters, or experiencing thrilling roller coasters, there is something for everyone in Orlando’s theme parks. But the city has much more to offer beyond its theme parks, including museums, zoos, botanical gardens, and shopping centers. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities like airboat rides, kayaking, and zip-lining in the nearby Everglades. With a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as year-round warm weather, Orlando is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking adventure, magic, and endless entertainment.
Space Coast
If your family is interested in science, technology, and space exploration, then the Space Coast in Florida is the perfect vacation spot for you. Located on the east coast of Florida, the Space Coast is home to the Kennedy Space Center, where visitors can experience the history and future of space exploration through interactive exhibits, live shows, and even a chance to meet real-life astronauts. The Space Coast also offers beautiful beaches, where families can swim, surf, and relax. Families can also visit the Brevard Zoo, which features more than 900 animals, including giraffes, rhinos, and alligators. And for those who love outdoor adventures, the Space Coast offers opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and fishing in the nearby Indian River Lagoon. With a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as a unique blend of science and nature, the Space Coast is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a stunning tropical paradise located off the southwest coast of Florida. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredible wildlife, making it the perfect destination for families who love nature and outdoor activities. Sanibel Island’s beaches are famous for their abundant seashells, and families can spend hours collecting and admiring them. The island also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as hiking and biking trails through the island’s lush forests and wetlands. Families can visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, and features interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. And for those who want to learn more about the island’s history and culture, Sanibel Island offers several museums, galleries, and historical sites. With a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, as well as a wide range of accommodations and dining options, Sanibel Island is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway.
Tampa
Tampa is a vibrant and bustling city located on the west coast of Florida, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for families. The city is home to the world-famous Busch Gardens theme park, where visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, interactive animal exhibits, and live shows. Families can also visit the nearby Adventure Island water park, which features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Tampa is also known for its rich cultural heritage, and families can explore the city’s historic Ybor City neighborhood, which was once the hub of the cigar industry in Florida, and is now home to colorful buildings, vibrant street art, and delicious restaurants. The city also features several museums, including the Glazer Children’s Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art. And for those who love the outdoors, Tampa offers beautiful beaches, parks, and nature preserves, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. With a variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as year-round warm weather, Tampa is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking adventure, culture, and fun.
Clearwater
Clearwater, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, is the ideal destination for families looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. Known for its beautiful beaches with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, Clearwater offers endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Families can also enjoy a sunset sail or dolphin-watching tour, or take a stroll along the famous Clearwater Beach Walk, featuring outdoor art and entertainment. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to the famous Winter the Dolphin, is a must-visit attraction for families interested in marine life and conservation. In addition to its stunning beaches, Clearwater offers plenty of dining options ranging from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants serving fresh seafood. For families who enjoy shopping, the city’s downtown area features unique boutiques, galleries, and souvenir shops. With its laid-back atmosphere and a variety of accommodations ranging from beachfront resorts to cozy cottages, Clearwater is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a peaceful and enjoyable getaway.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine, located in northeast Florida, is the perfect family vacation destination for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied city in the United States, and families can explore the city’s rich history through its many museums, galleries, and historic sites. The city’s most famous attraction is the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that offers stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Families can also visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, which features interactive exhibits and a climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views. In addition to its historical attractions, St. Augustine offers plenty of outdoor activities, including beaches, parks, and nature trails. Families can enjoy a picnic in the Anastasia State Park, go kayaking in the Matanzas River, or take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city. With a variety of accommodations ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to beachfront resorts, as well as a wide range of dining options featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine, St. Augustine is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a unique and enriching experience.
Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach, located on the east coast of Florida, is the ultimate family vacation destination for those seeking a combination of sun, sand, and fun. The city is known for its wide, hard-packed beach, which is perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, and driving on the beach in designated areas. Daytona Beach is also home to the iconic Daytona International Speedway, where families can attend races, take a tour of the facility, and even drive on the track themselves. Families can also visit the Marine Science Center, which features interactive exhibits and a rehabilitation center for injured sea turtles and other marine animals. In addition to its many attractions, Daytona Beach offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine. The city also features several shopping areas, including the Oceanwalk Shoppes, featuring unique boutiques and souvenir shops. With a variety of accommodations ranging from beachfront hotels to vacation rentals, as well as plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, Daytona Beach is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a fun and exciting getaway.
Kissimmee
Kissimmee, located in central Florida, is the ultimate family vacation destination for those seeking theme parks, outdoor activities, and a touch of old Florida charm. Kissimmee is home to several world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando, making it the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled adventure. But Kissimmee is not just about theme parks. The city is also known for its natural beauty, with plenty of outdoor activities like airboat tours, hot air balloon rides, and nature walks in the nearby state parks. Families can also explore the historic downtown area of Kissimmee, with its charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Kissimmee also offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual family-friendly restaurants to upscale establishments serving gourmet cuisine. With a wide range of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts and vacation rentals, Kissimmee is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a mix of excitement, relaxation, and old-fashioned Florida charm.
Destin
Destin, located in the Florida Panhandle, is the ultimate family vacation destination for those seeking pristine beaches, clear emerald waters, and outdoor adventures. The city is known for its white sand beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Families can also enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, as well as fishing and boating in the Gulf of Mexico. Destin is also home to several state parks, including Henderson Beach State Park and Grayton Beach State Park, where families can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and nature walks. The city also features several family-friendly attractions, including the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, which features dolphin shows, sea lion shows, and a variety of marine life exhibits. Families can also explore the charming downtown area of Destin, with its unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Destin offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants serving gourmet cuisine. With a variety of accommodations ranging from beachfront hotels to vacation rentals, as well as plenty of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions, Destin is the perfect family vacation destination in Florida for those seeking a relaxing and fun-filled getaway by the beach