Disney World may be the star attraction in Orlando, Florida, but this sunshine state has much more to offer! Just a short drive away from the theme park extravaganza, you’ll discover pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets.
This blog post guides you on a journey to the 9 closest beaches to Disney World and Orlando, offering a magical escape that combines the thrill of Disney with the blissful tranquility of Florida’s stunning coastline.
Dive in to explore our top picks, each section teeming with insider tips, must-see sights, and the unique charm that each beach has to offer. Pack your sunscreen, beach towel, and adventurous spirit as we set off on a journey to discover the best beaches near Disney World- just a short drive away from the heart of Orlando.
9 Closest Beaches Near Disney World & Orlando With Families
1. Cocoa Beach (1-hour drive)
I have to kick off this list with the beach that is practically synonymous with the Orlando area – Cocoa Beach. Just a quick 60-minute drive east of Disney World, it’s the perfect spot to take a day break from Mickey and friends and soak up the real Florida sun.
Cocoa Beach is known for its stellar surf scene. It’s the home of the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop and the Florida Surf Museum. There are multiple surf schools in the area, making it the perfect place for beginners to catch their first wave or for the seasoned surfer to hang ten.
But the magic doesn’t stop with the surf. This beach is located near the Kennedy Space Center, giving it a unique space-side charm. The awe of watching a rocket launch from the beach is an experience your family will never forget. You might even decide to take a break from the beach to visit the space center itself, an educational and entertaining experience that rivals the Magic Kingdom.
2. Daytona Beach (1-hour, 15-minute drive)
Just north of Cocoa Beach, about a 75-minute drive from Disney World, is Daytona Beach. Known for the Daytona International Speedway, this beach city is filled with high-octane excitement. It’s the only place I know where you can watch a race in the morning and build sandcastles by the afternoon.
Daytona Beach’s hard-packed sand has been attracting visitors since the early 20th century when it became a mecca for motor racing. The tradition continues with the Daytona International Speedway, the home of the Daytona 500. You can take a tour of this famous raceway or, if you’re feeling adventurous, even get behind the wheel yourself.
Despite its racing roots, Daytona Beach offers plenty of seaside fun. The historic Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk is a bustling spot for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Here, you can treat the family to delicious seafood, pick up a souvenir or two, and even enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel.
3. Canaveral National Seashore (1-hour, 20-minute drive)
If you’re after a more tranquil beach day, Canaveral National Seashore might be your pick. It’s about an 80-minute drive from Disney World, but the natural beauty is well worth the journey.
Canaveral National Seashore is a protected national park, making it one of the most pristine beaches in the state. The park stretches for 24 miles, offering a host of wildlife, quiet beaches, and historical sites.
You’ll be sharing the park with more than just other beachgoers. The national seashore is a haven for wildlife, including sea turtles, who come ashore to nest. With a bit of luck, you might even see one of these magnificent creatures during your visit.
The park is also steeped in history. The Timucuan and Ais tribes once called this area home, and their shell mounds can still be seen today. And if you’re a history buff like me, you’ll love the opportunity to explore these ancient sites.
4. New Smyrna Beach (1-hour, 20-minute drive)
Just a stone’s throw north of Canaveral National Seashore is the vibrant New Smyrna Beach, where creativity flows as freely as the ocean waves. This artistic haven, a breezy 80-minute drive from Disney World, is bound to captivate your heart and senses with its unique charm.
New Smyrna Beach isn’t just about sun, surf, and sand. This place is alive with the arts. Its downtown, known as Canal Street Historic District, houses a thriving art scene. Art galleries, studios, and boutiques line the streets, making it the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir.
But the artistic vibes don’t end on the streets. The beach itself is a canvas at New Smyrna. Thanks to the compact, drivable sand, you can create your own beach art. I’m talking sandcastles, drawings, even beachside picnics – the beach is your oyster here.
And don’t forget about the sea turtles! New Smyrna Beach is another important nesting site for these majestic creatures. In season, you can join a guided turtle walk – a magical experience that’s sure to inspire and educate your family.
5. Vero Beach (1-hour, 45-minute drive)
Looking for a beach that’s a little off the beaten path? Then set your GPS to Vero Beach. A hidden gem on Florida’s Treasure Coast, it’s a 105-minute drive from Disney World. But I promise you, the longer drive is worth every minute for the slice of paradise that awaits.
Vero Beach is a prime spot for those seeking a more luxurious beach experience. With high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and world-class spas, you can pamper yourself in between your beach escapades. As a fan of the finer things in life, I can vouch for the restorative power of a good spa day!
But there’s more to Vero Beach than just luxury. Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon, home to a wealth of marine life, including manatees and dolphins. And let’s not forget the main attraction – the beach itself. With its soft sand, gentle waves, and crystal-clear water, Vero Beach is the epitome of Florida beach perfection.
6. St. Augustine Beach (1-hour, 50-minute drive)
A visit to St. Augustine Beach isn’t just a beach trip; it’s a journey into the past. Located just under a two-hour drive from Disney World, this historic city offers a beach experience like no other.
As the oldest city in the U.S, St. Augustine is steeped in history. Exploring the Spanish colonial architecture of the Old City is like stepping back in time. The ancient Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., is a must-see.
The beach itself is a beauty to behold. With white sand and warm water, it’s perfect for a family beach day. Plus, the historic St. Augustine Pier adds a unique charm to your beach photos.
And, if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll appreciate the diverse dining scene. From fresh seafood to Spanish tapas, St. Augustine’s gastronomy is as rich and diverse as its history.
7. Clearwater Beach (2-hour drive)
Heading west from Disney World, we find ourselves at one of Florida’s most cherished jewels – Clearwater Beach. Widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the U.S., Clearwater is well worth the 2-hour drive. Its smooth, sandy shores, sparkling waters, and lively atmosphere make it a crowd favorite.
Bathing in the sun on Clearwater’s broad sandy expanse, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise. This beach isn’t just for lounging, though. With warm, calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and other water sports. The beach also hosts a variety of beachside activities, including volleyball tournaments, sandcastle contests, and live music performances, making it an active and vibrant place to spend the day.
As the sun begins to dip, an extraordinary spectacle unfolds. Clearwater Beach is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. As the sky paints itself in hues of orange, pink, and gold, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. Many visitors gather at Pier 60 to watch this daily spectacle and enjoy the ‘Sunsets at Pier 60’ festival that features artisans, crafters, and street performers.
8. Siesta Key Beach (2-hour drive)
Next on my list, is the gorgeous Siesta Key. About a 2-hour drive southwest from Disney World, this award-winning beach is known for having some of the whitest, most powdery sand in the world.
The sand here is composed of almost pure quartz, which gives it a cool touch – a blessing on those hot Florida days. But the sand isn’t the only thing that makes Siesta Key special. The Gulf waters here are calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Siesta Key is also home to a thriving wildlife scene. From dolphins to sandpipers, you’re likely to encounter some fascinating creatures during your visit. And if you stay till dusk, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset, a perfect end to your beach day.
9. St. Pete Beach (2-hour, 10-minute drive)
Just a few minutes further from Clearwater, you’ll find the serene and beautiful St. Pete Beach. This slice of heaven is less crowded than its neighboring beaches, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil escape.
St. Pete Beach is known for its soft, sugar-white sand and clear, tranquil waters, making it ideal for a relaxing swim or a peaceful stroll. For those of you who enjoy wildlife, you might be lucky enough to spot dolphins frolicking in the surf from the shore.
Nearby, the historic Don CeSar Hotel, also known as the Pink Palace, adds a touch of glamour to the beach. This luxury resort has been a landmark since the 1920s and offers splendid views of the Gulf of Mexico. If you feel like indulging, you might even book a spa treatment or enjoy a gourmet meal at one of its restaurants.
For a little bit of adventure, you can visit the Shell Key Preserve, accessible only by boat. This uninhabited barrier island is a haven for birdwatchers and shell collectors. The preserve also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including sea turtles and manatees.