7 Best Family Vacation Spots in Florida

Hey there my fellow traveling enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 7 best family vacation spots in Florida this year. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a little bit of both, look no further than the Sunshine State, which boasts a plethora of options for families of all ages and interests.

From theme parks, beaches, history or natural wonders, there are plenty of destinations to choose from for the perfect family vacation spot in Florida.

Map of Florida Family Vacation Spots

Use this map to identify the location of the best vacation spots in Florida for families below:

Best Family Vacation Spots in Florida

Here are some of the top Florida destinations for family vacations:

1. Orlando and Its Theme Parks

Orlando is known as the Theme Park Capital of the World, and for good reason. It’s home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and Legoland, among other attractions.

These parks offer something for everyone, from roller coasters and water rides to shows and character meet-and-greets. If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, be sure to check out the different parks and plan accordingly. An outline of the best theme parks in the area include:

1. Walt Disney World Resort
   • Magic Kingdom: Iconic for Cinderella’s Castle, this park is divided into themed lands such as Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Adventureland. It’s famous for classic attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.
   • EPCOT: Known for its giant geodesic sphere, EPCOT is divided into Future World (focusing on technological innovations) and World Showcase (featuring pavilions from different countries).
   • Disney’s Hollywood Studios: This park offers attractions based on movies and TV shows, including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
   • Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Combining a theme park and a zoo, it’s known for the Pandora – The World of Avatar area and the Expedition Everest roller coaster.
2. Universal Orlando Resort
   • Universal Studios Florida: This park is themed around movies and television, featuring attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and rides based on Minions, Transformers and The Simpsons.
   • Universal’s Islands of Adventure: Offers more thrilling rides and attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Jurassic Park and Marvel Super Hero Island.
   • Universal’s Volcano Bay: A water theme park with a tropical theme, featuring water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
3. SeaWorld Orlando
   • Known for its marine life shows, roller coasters and interactive experiences. Attractions include Mako, Kraken and Journey to Atlantis.
4. LEGOLAND Florida
   • Aimed primarily at families with children aged 2 to 12, this park features Lego-themed rides, shows and models.
5. Discovery Cove
   • An all-inclusive day resort where guests can swim with dolphins, snorkel among tropical fish and relax on sandy beaches.

Each of these parks offers a unique set of attractions, shows and experiences, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups and are major contributors to Orlando’s status as a world-class destination for family entertainment and adventure.

Check out these: Best Zoos in Florida

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2. Beach Destinations

Florida is famous for its beaches, and there are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from. Destin, Clearwater, and Miami are just a few of the destinations that offer beautiful white sand beaches, clear water, and plenty of activities.

Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or try your hand at water sports, there’s something for everyone. Here is an outline of each:

Destin Beach:

Destin Beach in Florida is a quintessential family-friendly destination, renowned for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear emerald waters. Destin offers a wide array of family-oriented activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding as well as dolphin-watching cruises that provide an exciting opportunity for families to observe marine life in its natural habitat.

For families seeking entertainment beyond the beach, Destin has plenty to offer such as Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, The Track – Destin and the nearby Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach. Accommodations in Destin are varied and cater to families, with many resorts offering kid-friendly amenities and dining options as well.

Clearwater Beach:

Clearwater Beach is another widely recognized for its pristine white sand beaches and sparkling clear waters, making it an ideal destination for families. The beach itself is the main attraction, offering a spacious and clean environment perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles and indulging in various beach activities. The gentle and shallow waters near the shore are particularly suitable for younger children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Beyond the beach, Clearwater Beach is bustling with family-friendly activities. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin from the “Dolphin Tale” movies, is a must-visit for families or for those seeking adventure, there are numerous boat tours available, including pirate ship adventures that are a hit with kids, and dolphin-watching tours that offer an opportunity to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Accommodation options in Clearwater Beach are plentiful and cater to families of all sizes. Many hotels and resorts offer family-oriented amenities such as kids’ clubs, pools with water slides, and family suites. Dining options are just as diverse, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood and kid-friendly menus, often accompanied by stunning views of the Gulf.

Miami Beach:

Often celebrated for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, Miami Beach also holds a special appeal for families looking for a dynamic vacation experience. The city’s famous South Beach is known for its picturesque coastline and the shallow waters near the shore are ideal for young swimmers, while the beach itself offers ample space for sandcastle building, beach sports and leisurely strolls.

Beyond the beach, Miami Beach caters to families with a variety of attractions including the Miami Children’s Museum that offers interactive exhibits that blend learning with fun. Jungle Island, another family favorite, provides close encounters with exotic wildlife and engaging animal shows, making it an educational and entertaining outing.

Accommodations in Miami Beach are diverse, with many family-friendly hotels and resorts that offer special amenities for children, such as kids’ clubs, family pools, and tailored activities. The dining scene is equally varied, with numerous restaurants catering to a range of tastes, including plenty of options for kid-friendly meals.

Check out these: Best Beaches in Florida for Families

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3. Historic St. Augustine

St. Augustine, Florida, renowned as the oldest city in the United States, presents a captivating blend of historical significance and contemporary attractions, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. The city’s rich history is showcased through landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., where families can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy stunning views.

For families who love the outdoors, St. Augustine Beach is celebrated for its soft sand and gentle waves, perfect for a relaxing family beach day and nearby Anastasia State Park provides not only beautiful beach access but also nature trails and opportunities for bird watching. The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is another highlight, offering a chance to climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the sea, as well as exploring exhibits that delve into the area’s maritime history.

The city’s appeal to families extends beyond its historical and natural attractions. St. Augustine also boasts a variety of family-friendly dining options and accommodations, ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to beachfront resorts, ensuring comfort and convenience for families of all sizes.

Additionally, the city hosts numerous family-oriented events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its charm and making it a dynamic destination for a family vacation.

Book your trip to Florida here!

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4. Amelia Island

Amelia Island, nestled in the northeastern corner of Florida, is a serene and picturesque destination that holds a special charm for family vacations. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, the island is a haven for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.

The beaches here are a major draw, with miles of soft, sandy shores and gentle waves, ideal for children to play and families to enjoy leisurely beach days. The waters are also perfect for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a range of activities for all ages.

Beyond the beach, Amelia Island is rich in history and culture. The historic downtown of Fernandina Beach, with its charming Victorian-era architecture, offers a delightful backdrop for family strolls, shopping and dining. The island’s history can be further explored through attractions like Fort Clinch State Park, where families can step back in time and experience a well-preserved 19th-century fort, complete with re-enactments and scenic nature trails.

And for families interested in outdoor adventures, the island’s natural landscape is ideal for biking, hiking and horseback riding, with numerous trails offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Eco-tours and boat tours are also popular, providing families with the chance to explore the island’s rich ecosystems and perhaps even spot dolphins or manatees.

Check out these: Best Spots in Florida for Fishing

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5. Florida Keys

The Florida Keys, a picturesque chain of tropical islands stretching about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida, present a unique and enchanting destination for a family vacation. The lure of the keys for families lies in their natural offerings as the clear, shallow waters surrounding the islands are ideal for snorkeling and discovering vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Families can also engage in various water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. And additionally, the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon provides an opportunity to learn about and interact with dolphins in a responsible and educational setting, a highlight for many family trips.

Beyond the water, the Keys are dotted with nature trails and state parks, such as Bahia Honda State Park, offering beautiful beaches and opportunities for picnics, hiking and bird watching. The laid-back vibe of the islands extends to the dining scene, with many family-friendly restaurants serving fresh seafood and local delicacies in casual, welcoming settings.

Accommodations in the Florida Keys range from beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, many of which cater to families with amenities like pools, kids’ clubs and family suites. The scenic Overseas Highway, connecting the islands, makes island-hopping easy and adds to the adventure, with stunning ocean views along the way.

Check out these: Best Family Resorts in the Florida Keys

Book your trip to Florida here!

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6. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, situated on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is a renowned destination that offers an appealing mix of activities and attractions for a family vacation. Famous for its hard-packed sandy beaches that allow for driving and parking directly on the beach in designated areas, Daytona Beach provides a unique experience that families often find intriguing and convenient.

The beach itself is vast and expansive, offering plenty of room for sunbathing, sandcastle building and beach games, while the gentle surf is suitable for swimming and water activities, making it ideal for families with children of all ages.

Beyond the beach, Daytona Beach is rich in attractions that cater to a variety of interests including The Daytona International Speedway, home to the famous Daytona 500, which offers tours that are a thrill for racing fans in the family.

Additionally, for those interested in science and adventure, the Marine Science Center provides interactive exhibits and a sea turtle rehabilitation facility, offering educational fun for kids. Additionally, the Daytona Lagoon water park, with its water slides, wave pool, and lazy river, is a hit among families, especially during the warmer months.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are numerous parks and trails as well such as the Tuscawilla Park, which offers a zipline adventure course and nature trails.

Dining in Daytona Beach is family-friendly too, with a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes, many of which offer stunning ocean views. Accommodations range from beachfront hotels and resorts with kid-friendly amenities to vacation rentals suitable for larger families, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

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7. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, located on Florida’s southeastern coast, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it an appealing destination for a family vacation. Known for its picturesque beaches, the city provides a perfect setting for families to enjoy sunbathing, swimming and a variety of water sports.

The beaches are well-maintained, with gentle waves that are suitable for children, and the famous Fort Lauderdale Beachfront promenade is ideal for leisurely strolls and bike rides as well.

Beyond the beach, Fort Lauderdale is rich in family-friendly attractions. The Museum of Discovery and Science is a highlight, offering interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about science, technology, and the natural world. And for outdoor enthusiasts, the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, nestled between the beach and the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a natural retreat with activities like hiking, canoeing,and wildlife viewing.

The city’s extensive network of canals and waterways has earned it the nickname “Venice of America,” and exploring these waterways through a boat tour can be a delightful experience for families. These tours often provide a unique perspective of the city and an opportunity to see luxurious yachts and waterfront homes.

Fort Lauderdale also caters well to families when it comes to dining and accommodations and offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants, many of which are family-friendly and offer diverse menus to cater to all tastes. In terms of lodging, there are numerous family-oriented hotels and resorts, many of which are located along the beachfront, providing easy access to the beach and other attractions as well.

Planning Your Florida Family Vacation

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide where to go and what to do. Fortunately, Florida offers plenty of family-friendly vacation spots that cater to travelers of all ages and interests.

When planning your Florida family vacation, consider the different generations that will be traveling with you. You want to choose a destination that offers something for everyone, from young children to grandparents. Florida is home to many theme parks, beaches, museums and other attractions that are perfect for families.

One of the best things about vacationing in Florida is the dining options. From elegant restaurants to casual cafes, there are plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. You can try the local cuisine, such as fresh seafood, or indulge in international flavors from around the world.

When it comes to accommodations, Florida has many options to choose from. You can stay at a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a family-friendly hotel. Consider your budget and your preferences when choosing your accommodations.

Overall, Florida is one of the best family vacation spots in the United States. With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and endless attractions, it is no wonder why so many families choose to vacation here. So start planning your Florida family vacation today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs

Conclusion

There you have it, my 10 family friendly vacation spots in Florida. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here or if there are any other must do activities that I need to add.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul