Choose the Florida Beach Front Vacation That is Perfect For Your Family
Why is a Florida beach front vacation so popular with families? Florida offers many attractions for families, from the world-renowned beaches to the Everglades National Park. Families can find plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained during their Florida beach front vacation.
A big reason why a Florida beach front vacation is so popular with families is because of the weather. The climate is warm year round, it is easy to get to, it offers good value for your money, there are endless options for sightseeing and attractions for you family, lots of family friendly resorts and as mentioned, the beaches in Florida are numerous.
There is golf, dolphin watching, theme parks, pristine beaches and so much more.
Florida also happens to have some of the nicest beaches in the world. Several of these best Florida beaches regularly receive awards every year. The temperature of the water is warm compared to other areas of the USA, this makes is great for families.
The surf is usually higher on Florida’s Atlantic coast with not much surf on the Gulf coast. Since the west coast borders the Gulf of Mexico, the water there is warmer, as a rule, than the Atlantic waters on the east coast of Florida.
Average Annual Temperatures in the Sunshine State:
Summer:
80.5 (F) degrees (26.9 C) (North Florida)
82.7 (F) degrees (28.2 C) (South Florida)
Winter:
53.0 (F) degrees (11.7 C) (North Florida)
68.5 (F) degrees (20.3 C) (South Florida)
Be aware that the six-month hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.
The Best Florida Beach Front Vacation Areas for Florida Family Vacations Include:
Florida’s Panama City Beach Area including Panama City, Panama City Beach, Chipola, Youngstown

A favorite Florida beach front vacation for families, especially in spring and summer, Panama City Beach has a tremendous variety of attractions for young and old.
Check out Sirata Beach Resort: St Pete Beach Family Vacation Fun
There are amusement parks offering all kinds of rides, go-karting, paintball and laser tag, deep sea fishing, and so many other attractions in and out or the water – there are too many to count. Your kids will love Shipwreck Island Waterpark or maybe some Pirate’s Adventure Golf?
Also be sure to visit St Andrews State Park, it is very accessible and a fun spot for the whole family while visiting the Panama City Beach Area.
The beaches here are definitely some of the nicest in Florida, with beautiful white sand and clear water. The beach at Panama City is wide which is great for families because it provides plenty of room for activities without feeling too crowded.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Panama City Beach Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Panama City Beach Area : Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Panama City Beach Area: Find things to do
Florida’s Key West/Florida Keys Area including Florida Keys, Key West, Key Largo, Marathon

While the numerous beaches and resorts are primary focal points, there are lots of other family activities on this tiny island to keep everyone busy.
There are glass bottom boats, a Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, the Key West Aquarium, a number of parks and historical sites including the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a must see while you are in Key West. It has a nice beach, Civil War era fortifications, plenty of picnic tables and even a café. The snorkeling here is some of the best in the keys.
Dry Tortugas National Park is another great spot for families, although it is a bit of a journey to get there (ferry ride from Key West). Here you can explore the fort, go snorkeling, swim, bird watch or just relax on the beach.
From snorkeling to camping on the beach, your Key West/Florida Keys vacation is sure to be memorable. If your family love animals, there are enough animal encounters here to keep them satisfied. Check out the Turtle Hospital or the National Key Deer Refuge to start.
Then head to Key West where this gorgeous tropical paradise awaits you. As mentioned, check out the Key West Aquarium or the Key West Shipwreck Museum but do not miss the glorious sunset as you end your days.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Key West Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Key West Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Key West Area: Find things to do
Florida’s Gold Coast – Palm Beach Area including, Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Lake Worth, West Palm Beach and Boca Raton.
So what is there to do for your Florida beach front vacation? How about golf, polo, and a full spectrum of water sports including snorkeling, diving, swimming, surfing, boating and fishing which are all available all year round.
They say that Florida’s Gold Coast established its name from the gold Spanish coins that occasionally wash up on the beach shores and from the golden way of life in this beautiful area.
The Palm Beach area offers the ideal balance of family fun and you will find your choice of museums, waterparks and beaches. In Boca Raton, you could spend the whole day enjoying Sugar Sand Park! With its 12 acres of sugar-white sand, this is definitely a beach paradise for the kids (and adults, too).
Visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens or take an airboat ride through the Everglades – just two of the many activities available on your Palm Beach vacation.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Palm Beach Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Palm Beach Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Palm Beach Area: Find things to do
Florida’s Gulf Coast – Tampa Beach Area including Tampa, Brandon, New Port Richey, Plant City, St. Pete and Clearwater Beach
St. Pete / Clearwater Beach is nicknamed “Orlando’s Beach”, this affordable west coast area two hours from Orlando has nature outings, cultural gems, and miles of top rated beaches in this Florida beach front area. visit to the Dali Museum should definitely be on your agenda while you are here. The kids will also love the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where they can learn all about dolphins and sea turtles.
Be sure to check out The Top 5 Tampa Family Hotels You Can Visit
Caladesi Island State Park is a great spot for swimming, shelling, kayaking, or just relaxing on the beach. There is also a visit to the Florida gulf Coast wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Busch Gardens. This African-themed park features rides, shows, and animal encounters that the whole family will enjoy.
Tampa Bay is excellent for sightseeing cruises, swimming with the manatees, taking in a baseball game, exploring the Lowry Park Zoo and Adventure Island waterpark are just some of the things that you can do while vacationing in Tampa.
Again here you will see stunning sunsets and the beaches in this area are said to have the softest sand and clearest waters. In Clearwater you will enjoy the amazing beaches and be sure to take the family to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Tampa Beach Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Tampa Beach Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Tampa Beach Area: Find things to do
Florida’s Emerald Coast Area including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, Niceville
Together with Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, Destin is part of a 24-mile stretch of silky white sand beach in Northwest Florida known as the Emerald Coast.
There are 5 superb beachfront parks some with pavilions, picnic tables, playgrounds and more. They all feature the signature silky white sand and emerald green waters. There are lots of family friendly restaurants and resorts in this area.
Be sure to take a stroll on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk with your family. You can also take a glass bottom boat or para-sail over the crystal clear waters. You could also visit one of the many championship golf courses in the area or take a deep sea fishing charter.
So, if you are looking for an affordable family beach vacation with plenty of things to do, then Destin is the perfect spot for you.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Destin Beach Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Destin Beach Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Destin Beach Area: 3 Day Itinerary and things to do
Florida’s Daytona Beach
For families, this Florida beach front vacation area has is only one hour away from Walt Disney World so you can have the best of both worlds. There is no shortage of fun or beaches in this area.
With over 23 miles of spotless sandy beaches and gorgeous aquamarine ocean waters, you will want to spend lots of time at the beach but there are tons of other family activities to do also. Adventures beyond the beach abound as well. You can climb Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, pet stingrays at Marine Science Center and go on a dolphin and manatee boat tour.
Families will enjoy Daytona Lagoon waterpark with its wave pool, go-karts, arcade games, and Raging Rapids Adventure River. Head to Tuscawilla Park and gear up for an aerial adventure that involves several obstacles and ziplines. This activity is suitable for all ages.
And families can find plenty of affordable beachfront hotels and motels and beachfront rentals in the Daytona Beach area. There are also many restaurants catering to families with kids. So, if you are looking for a fun-filled Florida beach vacation, then Daytona Beach is the perfect place for your next family vacation.
- Recommended Family Resorts in Daytona Beach Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Daytona Beach Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Dayton Beach Area: 3 Day Itinerary & things to do
Florida’s Space Coast Area
Less than a one hour drive from Orlando theme parks and a 3 hour drive from Miami is Florida’s Space Coast. What can be found here? Try miles and miles of gorgeous beaches and the Kennedy Space Center.
The Kennedy Space Center can tour the launch pads and see where some of America’s greatest space accomplishments happened. You can also meet a veteran astronaut or take a simulated space shuttle mission. Make sure you get your tickets ahead of time.
The beaches in this area are all unique and different from each other. There is Cocoa Beach with its surfing, fishing, and sand volleyball. Then have Playalinda Beach which is a secluded beach that is only accessible by hiking or boat.
Or take the family to the Banana River where you can go kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or take a leisurely pontoon boat ride.
There are also many restaurants and shops in this area for the whole family to can find many affordable beachfront hotels and rentals in this area as well. The Brevard Zoo is another kid favorite, with more than 800 types of animals and kayaking through the zoo.
There are many options for eco-tours and airboat rides as well. And don’t forget to take the kids to see an IMAX movie at the IMAX Theater or to one of the many miniature golf courses in the area.
Younger kids can get their water fix at the Palm Bay Aquatic Center. See manatees, go camping and, of course, build sandcastles at any of the excellent beaches along the coast. Your kids will love it here.
So, if you are looking for a Florida beach vacation with plenty to see and do, then the Space Coast is the perfect spot for your next family vacation. You will need a few days to take in all the attractions here – or stay for the week!
- Recommended Family Resorts in Space Coast Area: Book your hotel
- Recommended Family Vacation Rentals in Space Coast Area: Book your rental
- Recommended Family Activities in Space Coast Area: Top Things to Do on Florida’s Space Coast
So, whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or one packed with activities, the Florida Gulf Coast is the perfect Florida beachfront vacation spot for your next beach vacation in Florida is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to enjoy the sun and the waves. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect spot for your next vacation.
If you have loved your Florida beach front vacation so much and you have ever considered buying a Florida vacation home, learn about a vacation home mortgage.
Beach House Vacation Rental in Florida

When planning your Florida vacation, why not rent a vacation home instead of staying in a hotel? You will have much more space, privacy and amenities by renting a vacation home. Florida vacation rentals come in all shapes and sizes to fit any budget. You can find vacation rentals near all of the major attractions or in more rural areas.
There are many websites that list beach house vacation rentals in Florida, but the best way to find a vacation rental is through a reputable vacation rental company (we have list below). A good vacation rental company will have a wide selection of vacation rentals to choose from, and they will be able to answer any questions you have about renting a vacation home.
When looking for a Florida beachfront rentals, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- First, decide what type of vacation rental you want. There are condos, villas, single-family homes, and even townhouses available.
- Second, decide what amenities you want in a vacation rental. Some people prefer to have a pool, while others want a private beach. Popular amenities in Florida for perfect vacation rental include: heated pool, private pool, hot tub, beach access, pet friendly, sun loungers, internet access, cozy cabins, close to kids play area or park and walking distance to activities, beaches or restaurants.
- Third, think about how many people will be staying in the vacation rental. You will need to make sure there is enough space for everyone.
- Fourth, consider your budget. Vacation rentals can range in price, so you will need to find one that fits your budget. Finally, read the reviews of the beachfront vacation rentals before you book it. This will help you make sure that you are getting what you expect.
Florida is a great place to vacation with your family. There are many Florida vacation rentals available, from beach houses to apartments. No matter what your budget is, you can find Florida vacation rentals that suits your needs. Florida vacation rentals are also convenient because they are usually located near the beach or other attractions.
This means that you can spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time driving around. Florida is a great place to vacation with your family and friends, and you can find the perfect beachfront vacation rental for your group. Just remember to read the reviews before booking so that you get the best rental possible!
Best Rental Sites Similar to Airbnb:
- Best Overall: VRBO
- Best for Quality Control: Plum Guide
- Best for Big City Vacations: Sonder
- Best for Hotel-Level Service: Vacasa
- Best for Small House Renters: Getaway House
- Best for Multi-Stop Trips and RVs: Outdoorsy
- Best for a Splurge: Marriot Homes & Villas
- Best for Combining with Car Rentals and Flights: Priceline
- Best for Also Planning Activities: TripAdvisor
- Best for Any Type of Lodging: Booking.com
- Best for a Home on the Road: RV Share
FAQ’s Florida Beachfront Vacations
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Florida?
A: In Florida, visitors can experience the perfect combination of sunny skies and warm temperatures during spring (April-May) or fall (October-November). Avoiding both extreme heat and cold rainstorms, these seasons offer mild weather with south regions boasting hot climates.
Whether hitting up resorts in tropical Miami Beach or taking a hike around Gainesville’s nature paths, travelers have ideal conditions to explore everything that makes this state unique! The northern regions will be cooler. The south has the best combination of sunny skies, warm waters, and hot temperatures especially in the summer months.
Q: How much does a Florida beach vacation cost?
A: The cost of a Florida beach vacation depends on many factors, such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you stay in – hotel, motel beachfront rental, beach house rental etc and whether you book any activities or attractions. Generally speaking, a Florida beach vacation will cost between $1,000 and $2,000 per person.
Save more : The Best Tips for Saving Money on Family Beach Vacations
Q: What should I pack for a Florida beach vacation?
A: You should pack light-weight clothing, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. You will also need to bring any food and drinks that you want, as well as any beach gear you need, such as chairs, umbrellas, and towels.
Q: Are there any beaches in Florida that allow dogs?
A: Yes, there are many beaches in Florida that allow dogs. However, you will need to check with the specific beach before you visit to make sure that they allow dogs and to find out any rules or regulations that apply.
Q: What is the best way to get around Florida?
A: The best way to get around Florida is by car. This will give you the most flexibility and allow you to see the most of the state. If you are staying in one area, such as Orlando, you may be able to get by without a car.
Q: What are some must-see attractions in Florida?
A: Some of the must-see attractions in Florida include the Daytona International Speedway, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, and the Kennedy Space Center.
Q: What are some recommended restaurants in Florida?
A: Some of the recommended restaurants in Florida include The Pancakery (Destin and Panama City Beach), 4 Rivers Smokehouse in Orlando, and HarborWalk Village in Destin but it isn’t a restaurant it’s a whole district with lots of restaurants to choose from. Don’t forget to try some local seafood while you are here!
Q: What is the best way to experience the Everglades?
A: The best way to experience the Everglades is on an airboat tour. This will allow you to see the wildlife up close and get a feel for the size and scope of the Everglades.
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