Florida Beaches
Florida is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. We have two distinct coasts, the Gulf of Mexico on the west coast, and the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast. Both of which are equally perfect for relaxing and enjoying the tropical sun and various outdoor activities. Fortunately, you're just a short drive away from experiencing a few of these popular family friendly beach towns. We know you are primarily in Orlando for the Theme Parks, or may be in town for business at a conference, but take some time out of your stay and visit one of our great beaches if you are able. A beach visit will add extra magic to an already wonderful Disney-Themed vacation.

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Daytona Beach Daytona Beach is the perfect place for active young adults to daybreak to. Daytona rests about 45 minutes to the east of Orlando, on the Atlantic Ocean between St. Augustine to the north and Cocoa Beach to the south. A rarity in Florida, beachgoers can drive directly onto the beach strand and pop-a-tent for the day. After a long day of beach-side sunbathing, head over to one of the popular local bars or nightclubs for a high energy evening. This beach is also home to the Daytona 500 race of NASCAR, and motorcycle enthusiasts will hold rallies in early March and late October.

Cocoa Beach Cocoa Beach is about an hour's drive from Orlando, although some claim to have completed the trip in less than 50 minutes. It is located on the east coast of Florida, just south of Daytona Beach. Enjoy close-up views of the cruise ships at Cape Canaveral as you cruise into town to pick the perfect spot at the beach! Surfing is a big local tradition here, so it's not uncommon to find groups of surfers catching waves while you enjoy time out on the strand. If you're lucky enough during your beach visit, you may be able to see a rocket launch from nearby Kennedy Space Center from the comfort of a beach chair.

Clearwater Beach Clearwater Beach on the west coast of Florida offers a wide, white sandy shore with crystal clear ocean water. Although you'll see less wave action on this coast, the calm of the Gulf of Mexico offers excellent conditions for lounging on a raft and floating all your worries away. Paddle boarding and parasailing are popular water sports in Clearwater. Wide, sandy beaches are perfect for beach-side games such as Frisbee and Bocce. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also a great stop-over, as the whole family can take advantage of fun activities and learn about Florida's ocean animals.

St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach is located about a two hour's drive to the north east of the Orlando area, just south of Jacksonville. As you are still on the east coast where the Atlantic Ocean is, there will be sizable waves for those who would like to try surfing while on vacation. The bright sun shining on the shells actually make the beach sand appear slightly pink, unlike other east coast beaches. Ponte Vedra Beach is the perfect family beach. Crowds tend to be smaller here, as the beach is more preserved and less developed. Grab a bite at one of the small-town restaurants and visit historical spots in St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States.