Beaches In Orlando Florida: Your Complete Guide To Sun And Fun

An image showing a view of Cocoa beach - one of the best beaches in Orlando Florida

Florida has many historical places, casinos, and theme parks; however, are you looking for beaches in Orlando Florida? As there aren’t beaches in Orlando, you can explore beaches near Orlando Florida, very popular with tourists and provide a great spot to relax by the ocean. The beaches are just a short drive from the city and offer many fun activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding and beachcombing. Whether you are looking to spend a great day with your family or want to take a break from your busy life, these beaches are a great way to enjoy the coast of Florida.

Top 10 Beaches Near Orlando Florida

Here is a list of the top 10 beaches in Orlando Florida you can explore with your family and friends, which will make your trip enjoyable.

1. Cocoa Beach

An image showing a view of Cocoa Beach, one of the best beaches to visit near Orlando, Florida

Photo: Shadowmeld Photography / Wikimedia Commons

Cocoa Beach is a famous tourist attraction near Orlando and is ideal for people looking for a sunny day out. This place is known for its relaxed vibe and sandy seashores and is a favourite spot for tourists and locals. Visitors love to surf here, and the gentle waves here make it an excellent place for beginner surfers. The historic Cocoa Beach Pier here is a must-visit place with cafes and gift shops, and it offers an amazing view of the ocean to visitors.

Things To Do: Surfing, beach volleyball
Location: Cocoa Beach, Florida
How To Reach: A 1-hour drive east of Orlando via Florida State Road 528 East

2. New Smyrna Beach

An image of a beach which resembles New Smyrna Beach - famous beaches in Orlando Florida

Photo: Kanenori / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

New Smyrna Beach is a secluded beach located near Orlando, Florida and is an excellent option for people who prefer a peaceful environment. It is known for its white sands, and clear waters and is different from the crowded beaches and offers a quiet setting to the visitors. The sunrise at this beach is gorgeous and has a pet-friendly area, welcoming tourists to enjoy the coastal scenery with their furry companions. The scenic beauty, less crowd, and the art galleries make New Smyrna Beach one of the best places to visit near Orlando.

Things To Do: Swimming, beach walks, exploring art galleries
Location: New Smyrna Beach, Florida
How To Reach: About 1 hour northeast from Orlando on Interstate 4 East

3. Daytona Beach

An image showing a view of Daytona Beach - popular beaches in Orlando Florida

Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons

Daytona Beach is a famous tourist attraction near Orlando in Florida, known for its hard-packed sand. This beach is a unique place where cars are allowed to drive in designated areas. Daytona Beach is very lively, and many events are hosted there, such as Bike Week and Daytona 500, attracting many visitors throughout the year. It is an excellent spot for people to boardwalk, which is filled with amusement rides, arcades and food stalls. Water enthusiasts can also engage in a variety of thrilling activities, further enhancing this coastal destination’s vibrant atmosphere.

Things To Do: Driving on the beach, playing arcade games, joining seasonal events
Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
How To Reach: Approximately 1 hour northeast of Orlando via Interstate 4 East

4. Canaveral National Seashore

An image of Canaveral National Seashore - popular beaches in Orlando Florida

Photo: Joneboi / Wikimedia Commons

Canaveral National Seashore is a nice place to visit near Orlando, having a natural, untouched shoreline provides a serene escape. This protected beach area is perfect for nature lovers, offering soft sand and clear, calm waters. It’s a popular spot for watching wildlife, with sea turtles and many bird species frequently seen. The seashore has walking trails through scenic landscapes which makes it ideal for a quiet day of exploration. Unlike crowded tourist beaches, Canaveral has no shops or restaurants, letting visitors fully immerse in the beauty of nature.

Things To Do: Wildlife watching, trail hiking, scenic photography
Location: Titusville, Florida
How To Reach: Around 1 hour east of Orlando via Florida State Road 50 East and U.S. Highway 1 North

5. Flagler Beach

An image showing a view of Flagler Beach, a famous place located near Orlando

Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons

Flagler Beach has a unique blend of coastal beauty and small-town quaint charm It is renowned for its pier, which is a great place for fishing and watching sunsets. It has a laid-back vibe with clean sands and gentle waves for swimming. On the other hand, the fine cafes and small local shops near the beach are excellent for unwinding and buying souvenirs. Flagler beach is an amazing place for people who want a quieter and more personal experience, making it a nice tourist destination near Orlando

Things To Do: Fishing at Flagler Pier, visiting cafes, and exploring small shops
Location: Flagler Beach, near Orlando Florida
How To Reach: Approximately 1.5 hours northeast from Orlando via Interstate 4 East

6. Vero Beach

An image showing a view of Vero Beach - one of the popular beaches in Orlando Florida

Photo: Rockerchi379 / Wikimedia Commons

Vero Beach is an appealing coastal town known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Vero Beach is unique for its vibrant arts scene and historic charm. Besides the white sandy shore, visitors can also explore the Vero Beach Museum of Art and various local shops. Soft waves and crystal-clear water make it ideal for families and friends to swim and have a picnic. Vero Beach is also known for its turtle nesting season, where you can witness sea turtles laying eggs along the coastline.

Things To Do: Swimming, visiting the art museum, exploring nearby parks
Location: Vero Beach, Florida
How To Reach: Around 1.5 hours southeast from Orlando via Florida State Road 60 East

7. Melbourne Beach

An image showing a view of Melbourne Beach, one of the popular beaches in Orlando Florida

Photo: njbateman526 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Melbourne Beach’s proximity to Sebastian Inlet State Park makes it an ideal spot for fishing, boating, and seeing local wildlife. The quiet atmosphere of Melbourne Beach is perfect for those who prefer silent and peaceful beaches. You can sunbathe here, walk up and down the shore, or visit trails nearby. Melbourne Beach is a perfect place for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking for a smooth beach day and an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Things To Do: Fishing at Sebastian Inlet, nature walks, swimming
Location: Melbourne Beach, Florida
How To Reach: About 1.5 hours southeast from Orlando via Florida State Road 528 East

8. Ponce Inlet Beach

An image of Ponce Inlet Lighthouse located on Ponce Inlet Beach near Orlando in Florida

Photo: Gary J. Wood / Wikimedia Commons

Historical significance, natural beauty, and outdoor activities make Ponce Inlet an ideal beach for history buffs and nature lovers. Ponce Inlet Beach is known for its historic lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, which offers amazing views from the top. People interested in historical or cultural sites can visit the lighthouse, constructed in the 19th century and is an important part of the region’s maritime history. There is a Marine Science Center near the Beach, which is a great place to learn about the ocean and its creatures such as sea turtles, fish, and various birds.

Things To Do: Climbing the lighthouse, exploring the Marine Science Center, and beach picnics
Location: Ponce Inlet, Florida
How To Reach: About 1 hour northeast from Orlando via Interstate 4 East and Florida State Road 44 East

9. Ormond Beach

 An image showing a view of Ormond Beach, a famous tourist spot located near Orland

Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons

Ormond Beach is a fantastic choice for a laid-back coastal outing. Known for its expansive shoreline and gentle waves, it’s perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature at a slower pace. Many families and friends visit here to swim, build sandcastles, or collect seashells at the shore. The Ormond Scenic Loop also provides scenic routes for biking and walking nearby, giving tourists chances to see native wildlife and historic sites. This wonderful place represents an ideal spot to enjoy the Florida coast in a laid-back setting, making it a hidden gem for tourists.

Things To Do: Beachcombing, swimming, scenic biking and walking
Location: Ormond Beach, near Orlando, Florida
How To Reach: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes northeast of Orlando via Interstate 4 East

10. Bethune Beach

An image of Bethune Beach, a famous beach to visit near Orlando in Florida

Photo: BernhardJaeck / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Bethune Beach is a hidden gem near Orlando, located just south of New Smyrna Beach. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, Bethune Beach is ideal for those looking to escape the busier tourist spots. This beach is excellent for dolphin and manatee spotting, as they often swim close to the shore. Visitors enjoy picnics at the beach park, walking along the shoreline, and watching the local wildlife. Bethune Beach Park also has basketball and tennis courts, so it’s a great place to visit near Orlando for families wanting more than just a beach day.

Things To Do: Wildlife watching, beach walks, paddleboarding, playing basketball or tennis
Location: Bethune Beach, Florida
How To Reach: About 1 hour and 15 minutes northeast of Orlando via Interstate 4 East

The nearby beaches in Orlando Florida, are a wonderful way to get a break from the busy city. They offer calm places to unwind and take in the ocean views. Each beach has something special, giving visitors plenty of choices. Whether you are interested in water activities, beautiful scenery, or a quiet day by the shore, these beaches offer you a serene environment. Book your trip with TripXL for a fantastic experience.

Cover Photo: T M / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most beaches near Orlando, such as Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach, offer parking facilities. Some may have free spots, while others may charge a small fee.
Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach have accessible ramps and pathways, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to access the beach areas.
Beaches like Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach offer restroom and shower facilities for visitor convenience.
Many beaches, including Flagler Beach and Bethune Beach, provide shaded picnic areas or pavilions where visitors can relax away from the sun.
Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach have rental shops nearby where visitors can rent umbrellas, chairs, surfboards, and other beach gear.

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