The top 5 beaches near Orlando

With over 800 miles of beautiful beaches, Florida is certainly one of the best places to head for a beach day! After a busy few days in the theme parks, it’s always a great idea to unwind on the beach for a day or two and relax in the Florida sunshine.

The closest beaches are located on the East Coast. West Coast beaches are a little further away from Orlando, but they do have warmer waters and whiter sands as they are on the Gulf of Mexico.

1. Cocoa Beach (East Coast)

Cocoa Beach is the closest beach to your villa in Orlando and is just over an hour away. It’s also called the Space Coast, as Kennedy Space Center is only a few minutes from here. This well-maintained beach is known for its great surfing conditions, with year-round free beach access. It’s great for the whole family, as it features an endless list of exciting activities to enjoy in the sun. Cape Canaveral, Florida’s fastest growing port, is not far from this beach as well.

Main Features: Beach rentals, Surfing, fishing, beach volleyball, live entertainment, 800ft pier, water sports

*Address:* Cocoa Beach Causeway East, FL 32931 (Cocoa Beach can be reached via Toll Road 528)

Driving Distance: 70 mins approx.

Find out more about Cocoa Beach >

2. Daytona Beach (East Coast)

This is one of the most popular beaches on Florida’s East Coast, and is just over an hour's drive northeast of Disney. At 23 miles long, Daytona Beach offers free access, and even allows you to drive and park on parts of it. It’s a great beach for a fun family day out.

Main Features: Beach rentals, Water sports, surfing, fishing, boat tours, arcades

*Address:* 126 E. Orange Avenue, FL 32114 (Daytona Beach is easily accessible from Orlando via Interstate 4 (I-4) East)

Driving Distance: 85 mins approx.

Daytona can get very busy when events like the Daytona 500 are on, so it’s best to check before you go, and avoid these days.

Find out more about Daytona Beach >

3. Canaveral National Seashore (East Coast)

If you’re looking for a more natural and tranquil beach, head to Canaveral National Seashore. It features 24 miles of untouched beach, sand dunes and a lagoon to explore. If you're lucky, you may witness some of the wildlife in the area, including dolphins, turtles and manatees. This beach offers some wonderful outdoor activities too, including Turtle Watch and Night Sky Exploration events.

Main Features: Boating, fishing, canoeing, surfing, guided boat tours, walking trails

*Address:* 212 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796 (Canaveral National Seashore can be accessed by taking SR 50 east to US1)

Driving Distance: 80 mins approx.

This beach is not far from Kennedy Space Center, and is a great place to watch a rocket launch!

Find out more about Canaveral National Seashore >

4. Clearwater Beach (West Coast)

Clearwater is the closest Gulf Coast beach to Orlando. The sand is brilliant-white and the sunsets are dazzling. It’s also a great beach to take the smaller children to because of its calmer waters. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium you can meet Winter, the world’s most famous dolphin. She has a prosthetic tail and stars in the film *Dolphin Tale*.

Main Features: Beach rentals, beach walk promenade, volleyball, water sports, aquarium

*Address:* 1 Causeway Blvd, FL 33767 (Clearwater Beach can be accessed via Interstate 4 (I-4) West)

Driving Distance: 95 mins approx.

If you have a bit of extra time, consider taking the 20-minute ferry ride to Caladesi Island, one of the prettiest beaches in the country.

Find out more about Clearwater Beach >

5. New Smyrna Beach (East Coast)

This lovely drive-on Atlantic coast beach is known for its laid-back attitude, and eclectic mix of history, culture, the arts and nature. Whilst you’re here take a stroll around the historic town of New Smyrna Beach and visit the quaint shops and cafés.

Main Features: Surfing, fishing, hiking, boat tours, on-beach parking

Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, FL 33767 (Clearwater Beach can be accessed via Interstate 4 (I-4) West)

Driving Distance: 85 mins approx.

Find out more about New Smyrna Beach >

Florida beach hints

• Many beaches have a no alcohol rule - please observe this.
• It may be possible to drive on the beach and park there all day. Don’t panic if you get stuck on the sand - there will always be plenty of help at hand.
• Buy some cheap beach toys from the supermarket before you go.
• It's also a great idea to take a big cool box picnic and 'tailgate' for the day.