Best Beaches Near Orlando

The closest and best beaches to Orlando, Florida. All within a 1-2 hour drive from the theme parks.

All Beaches | Best Beaches Near Orlando

Taking a break from the theme parks? Orlando is surprisingly close to some of Florida's best beaches. Within 1-2 hours you can go from roller coasters to ocean waves. Here are the beaches worth the drive, sorted by distance from downtown Orlando.

18 Beaches near Orlando

Beaches Near Orlando

New Smyrna Beach
Quiet

Atlantic Coast

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is known as the surfing capital of Florida, offering consistent waves and a charming small-town atmosphere. This artistic coastal community combines world-class surf breaks with a historic downtown and pristine 13 miles of beach.

Families Quiet

43 miles from Orlando

Cocoa Beach
Moderate

Atlantic Coast

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is Florida's premier surfing destination and gateway to the Space Coast, combining excellent waves with rocket launch viewing opportunities. This laid-back beach town centers around the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop and offers authentic surf culture.

Families Snorkeling

49 miles from Orlando

Daytona Beach
Popular

Atlantic Coast

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is famous for its hard-packed sand that allows cars to drive right onto the beach, combined with a rich NASCAR heritage and 23 miles of wide, beautiful shoreline. This iconic destination blends motorsports history with classic Florida beach fun.

Families Surfing

51 miles from Orlando

Vero Beach
Quiet

Atlantic Coast

Vero Beach

Vero Beach epitomizes the Treasure Coast's upscale yet relaxed character with pristine beaches, excellent shopping and dining, and a thriving arts scene. This sophisticated coastal town offers natural beauty and cultural amenities in an uncrowded, Old Florida setting.

Families Quiet

87 miles from Orlando

St. Augustine Beach
Moderate

Atlantic Coast

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach offers pristine Atlantic coastline just minutes from America's oldest city, combining historic charm with excellent surfing and family-friendly amenities. This laid-back beach community provides the perfect complement to exploring St. Augustine's colonial heritage.

Families Shelling

91 miles from Orlando

Caladesi Island
Quiet

Gulf Coast

Caladesi Island

An unspoiled barrier island state park accessible only by boat or ferry, offering three miles of pristine natural beaches that consistently rank among America's best.

Families Quiet

94 miles from Orlando

Honeymoon Island
Moderate

Gulf Coast

Honeymoon Island

A natural barrier island state park featuring four miles of beautiful beaches, world-class shelling, and abundant wildlife just minutes from Dunedin.

Families Snorkeling

94 miles from Orlando

Clearwater Beach
Popular

Gulf Coast

Clearwater Beach

Consistently ranked America's #1 beach, Clearwater Beach offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the famous Pier 60 sunset celebration.

Families Sunsets

95 miles from Orlando

Indian Rocks Beach
Quiet

Gulf Coast

Indian Rocks Beach

A laid-back residential beach community beloved by locals, offering a quieter alternative to busier neighboring beaches while maintaining excellent access and amenities.

Families Quiet

100 miles from Orlando

Madeira Beach
Moderate

Gulf Coast

Madeira Beach

A vibrant beach town centered around the popular John's Pass Village boardwalk, offering excellent fishing, waterfront dining, and a perfect blend of beach relaxation and entertainment.

Families Snorkeling

100 miles from Orlando

St. Pete Beach
Popular

Gulf Coast

St. Pete Beach

A classic Florida beach destination featuring the iconic pink Don CeSar hotel, powdery white sand, and a vibrant beachfront scene perfect for families and sunseekers alike.

Families Sunsets

100 miles from Orlando

Pass-a-Grille Beach
Quiet

Gulf Coast

Pass-a-Grille Beach

A historic, quiet beach town at the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, offering Old Florida charm, a quaint downtown area, and uncrowded beaches perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Families Quiet

101 miles from Orlando

Fort De Soto Park
Moderate

Gulf Coast

Fort De Soto Park

A sprawling 1,136-acre county park featuring award-winning beaches, historic fort, extensive campgrounds, and the area's most popular dog beach at North Beach.

Families Snorkeling

104 miles from Orlando

Anna Maria Island
Moderate

Gulf Coast

Anna Maria Island

A charming seven-mile barrier island that preserves Old Florida character with a strict ban on high-rises, offering pristine beaches, quaint shops, and a relaxed island lifestyle.

Families Snorkeling

108 miles from Orlando

Longboat Key
Quiet

Gulf Coast

Longboat Key

An exclusive 12-mile barrier island resort destination featuring upscale resorts, championship golf courses, and pristine beaches perfect for a luxurious Gulf Coast getaway.

Families Quiet

111 miles from Orlando

Lido Key
Moderate

Gulf Coast

Lido Key

An upscale barrier island just south of downtown Sarasota, featuring pristine Lido Beach, the famous St. Armands Circle shopping district, and easy access to cultural attractions.

Families Snorkeling

112 miles from Orlando

Siesta Key Beach
Popular

Gulf Coast

Siesta Key Beach

Famous for its 99% pure quartz sand that stays cool in the sun, Siesta Key Beach consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful beaches.

Families Snorkeling

113 miles from Orlando

Venice Beach
Quiet

Gulf Coast

Venice Beach

Known worldwide as the Shark Tooth Capital, this charming beach town offers exceptional fossil hunting, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming downtown area with Old Florida character.

Families Quiet

119 miles from Orlando

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest beach to Orlando?
The closest beach to Orlando is New Smyrna Beach, approximately 43 miles away. It's a popular choice for a quick day trip from the city.
How many beaches are within driving distance of Orlando?
There are 18 beaches within 120 miles of Orlando, giving you plenty of options for a day trip or weekend getaway.
What's the best beach near Orlando for families?
New Smyrna Beach (about 43 miles from Orlando) is an excellent family-friendly option with calm waters and good amenities.
Is it worth driving from Orlando to the beach for a day trip?
Absolutely! With beaches as close as 43 miles away, a day trip from Orlando is very doable. We recommend arriving early to make the most of your beach day.