The 5 Best Beaches Near Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s resorts and theme parks might get most of the attention, but residents know that tourist attractions aren’t all there is to enjoy in this buzzing city. Centrally located in Orange County, Orlando is near some of the most beautiful beaches in America.
Naturally, Florida has some incredible coastal havens. While there aren’t beaches in Orlando, an easy drive will take you to sapphire waters, scenic boardwalks, and exciting surfing spots. You'll find it all if you take the time to visit these top spots.
What Are The Best Beaches Near Orlando?
From Orlando, you can easily head east to enjoy the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean or drive west to enjoy the Gulf Coast shores. If you’re longing for a bit of salt and sand, here are five beautiful beaches near Orlando, Florida.
Cocoa Beach (60 minutes by car)
The perfect getaway spot on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Cocoa Beach is just east of Orlando, a straight shot down the Martin Andersen Beachline Expressway. Take advantage of the easy access to great surfing and sea turtle nesting grounds. Enjoy fun on the historic boardwalk, dining spots on the beach or nightlife activities that run from cool jazz clubs to beachside cafes. Within a few miles, you’ll find cruise ships, deep-sea fishing boats, and more at Port Canaveral. Kennedy and Cape Canaveral Space Launch Centers are just a few miles to the north. It’s fun and educational!
New Smyrna Beach (60 minutes by car)
Quieter than Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach is further north along the East Coast. Like Cocoa Beach, the surfing is a big draw. From the pristine sand and unique shops to annual festivals, people love family-friendly New Smyrna Beach. Historic Flagler Avenue stretches from the Indian River to the beach, offering vibrant eateries and local shops. Wildlife abounds, too. Along with dolphins and manatees, New Smyrna Beach is home to alligators, turtles, and hundreds of species of birds. Anglers also know it is the “redfish capital of the world.” Great fishing spots are found in several locales.
Daytona Beach (60 minutes by car)
Daytona Beach has a great locale along the Atlantic. Miles of clean, white sand are easily accessible via I-4. Kids love the carnival feel of the promenade, while grownups enjoy being able to drive right onto the hard-packed sand (in designated areas). The unique restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and adventurous activities satisfy visitors of all ages. Daytona Beach offers an upbeat brand of southern hospitality, whether you’re enjoying a relaxing stroll on the beach or the raucous energy of international car racing. If you’re looking for fun, this is the place!
Canaveral National Seashore (60 minutes by car)
Located on a barrier island that includes ocean, beach, dune, hammock, lagoon, salt marsh, and pine flatland habitats, and overseen by the National Park Service, Canaveral National Seashore is just the spot for nature lovers. While 310 species of birds can be found here, no carnival rides or tailgating on this preserved stretch of the Atlantic coast. Instead, endangered species such as loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles, West Indian manatees, Southern bald eagles, wood storks, and peregrine falcons are the local denizens. Birdwatching, hiking, and fishing are popular activities at the Canaveral National Seashore.
Clearwater Beach (2 hours, 10 minutes by car)
If the sugary white sands of the Gulf Coast are calling, head for Clearwater Beach. It is a popular spot for watersports, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. Explore the busy promenade or set out on a fishing boat. Take the ferry to Caladesi Island. Then, enjoy the nightly Pier 60 festivities. Clearwater Beach is also developing into a wellness hub. Indulge in self-care and personal healing at a luxe spa, fitness retreat, or the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Whether you’re kayaking along the Intracoastal or finding your zen with beach yoga, Clearwater Beach has just the right vibe.
Honorable Mentions:
Vilano Beach - About 108 miles northeast of Orlando, this less touristy alternative to nearby St. Augustine is a favorite coastal town. Feast on local delicacies while overlooking the Tolomato River at Beaches at Vilano, then drive into nearby St. Augustine to catch the sunset at the 17th century Castillo de San Marcos.
Melbourne Beach - About 75 miles from Orlando, just south of Cocoa Beach, this town has a quieter feel. Explore oceanfront beach parks like Spessard Holland North Beach Park and Bonsteel Park. Check out the Indian River Lagoon or take a scenic stroll along the beach. Melbourne's historic downtown district is home to an array of quaint boutiques, quirky galleries, and outdoor eateries.
Vero Beach - Just 90 minutes from Orlando, this Atlantic coast town is serene and eco-friendly. With more of a tropical feel, Vero Beach’s downtown is dotted with unique cafes. Stop by the art galleries and antique shops that line the historic thoroughfare. The Environmental Learning Center offers active bee hives, touch tanks full of local aquatic life, and sunset pontoon boat tours.
Browse Our Communities in Orlando
Bella Collina | Montverde, FL
Gated, golf course community. Luxury single family homes from the mid $700s.
Cypress Park Estates | Haines City, FL
Charming community in the heart of everything. Single family homes from the low $300s.
Hamlin Pointe | Winter Garden, FL
A vibrant community in an idyllic setting. Bungalow-style homes from the low $500s.
Hamlin Ridge | Winter Garden, FL
Planned community nestled within Horizon West. Luxury townhomes from the mid $400s.
Hills of Minneola | Minneola, FL
15-acre master-planned community with great amenities. Single family homes from the low $400s.
Lakewood Park | DeLand, FL
Peaceful community surrounded by conservation areas & ponds. Single family homes from the low $300s.
Laureate Park | Orlando, FL
New phase in renowned Lake Nona area. Single family homes from the low $600s.
Palms at Windermere | Windermere, FL
Minutes from Disney World & Hamlin Town Center. Single family homes from the mid $800s.
Prairie Oaks | St. Cloud, FL
Charming & convenient community close to everything. Single family homes from the upper $300s.
Rivington | DeBary, FL
296-acre master-planned community with amenities near St. Johns River. Luxury townhomes from the mid $300s.
Serenade at Ovation | Winter Garden, FL
Located within fast-growing Horizon West. Bungalows, townhomes & single family homes from the upper $300s.
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