Planning a trip to Orlando and want to make the most of your time? Here are 10 of the best beaches near Orlando, meaning they're all within driving distance! Perfect for a quick day trip, or even a weekend getaway, check out these top spots to relax, soak in the sun, or play in the waves.
Ponce Inlet Beach
Just over an hour drive from Orlando will get you to the soft, white sands of the Ponce Inlet. This beach is known for its small crowds and laid back atmosphere. It's the perfect place for a romantic sunrise or sunset with your partner. If history and sightseeing are your thing, you'll have to check out the picturesque lighthouse and museum before you go. Winter Haven Park is one of the most popular beachfront parks in the area, and includes private restrooms, showers, grills, and free admission!
Daytona Beach
Several miles up the shore from Ponce Inlet Beach, putting it about an hour from Orlando as well, is the famous Daytona Beach. Popular for its spring break crowds and vibrant atmosphere, the city is home to the Daytona International Speedway, where one of the most prestigious NASCAR races takes place. The beach itself is wide and sandy, providing a perfect setting for various water activities, sunbathing, and beach sports. The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier offer a mix of entertainment, shops, and restaurants. Free concerts are common during the summer and the city offers a lively nightlife scene. Visit their website to get more information on local events and attractions.
New Smyrna Beach
Just an hour outside of Orlando, along the east coast of Florida, is New Smyrna Beach, in a charming coastal community known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and rich history. The city boasts a 13-mile stretch of pristine sandy shores, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and surfers. The town also features a hub for shopping and dining.
Ormond Beach
Ormond Beach, situated just north of Daytona Beach and an hour from Orlando, is a charming and laid-back community known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. This family-friendly beach offers a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere than other beaches in the area. The town is also home to the Tomoka State Park, providing nature lovers with hiking trails, birdwatching, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing along the Tomoka River if you're looking for other things to do. Ormond Beach also has a golfing tradition with several golf courses attracting enthusiasts to the area.
Flagler Beach
Flagler Beach lays just over an hour away from Orlando. It's a popular destination for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed beach experience. The town is characterized by its scenic stretch of unspoiled beach, where visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. It's been known as a top location to collect shells and shark teeth. The town's pier, Flagler Beach Municipal Pier, is a prominent landmark and a popular spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. The downtown area offers a quaint and friendly atmosphere, with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Satellite Beach
An hour away from Orlando and a bit to the south will take you to Satellite Beach. Known for its relaxed beach town atmosphere, Satellite Beach offers residents and visitors a mix of residential neighborhoods, beach access, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is part of the Space Coast region and is situated near the Kennedy Space Center. Characterized by its pristine beaches, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as surfing and fishing. The city has several nearby parks and nature reserves, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and barbecuing. One of the parks even features a fenced-in, off-leash park for your furry friends.
Cocoa Beach
An hour from Orlando is Cocoa Beach, also known as the surf capital of Florida. The city is renowned for its long stretches of sandy shoreline, making it a popular destination for sunbathing, fishing, surfing, and other water sports. Cocoa Beach Pier is a prominent landmark, featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, providing a classic beachside experience. The city has a strong connection to space exploration, with the Kennedy Space Center located nearby, and visitors often enjoy watching rocket launches from the beach.
Playalinda Beach
Playalinda Beach is located on the eastern coast of Florida, an hour from Orlando, within the Canaveral National Seashore. It is known for its natural beauty, pristine shores, and unspoiled surroundings. The beach is part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife and offering visitors a chance to experience nature in its raw form. It's a prime location to spot wildlife like dolphins, manatees and sea turtles, or go on bioluminescent clear kayak boat tours. Visitors often appreciate the natural and uncrowded setting, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the serenity of the coastline and tranquil escape for nature lovers and beachgoers seeking a more secluded and unspoiled coastal experience.
Indian Harbor Beach
Indian Harbour Beach is a small coastal city located along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its peaceful and residential character, the city is situated on a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean. It offers a laid-back lifestyle with access to beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy beachcombing, sunbathing, and water sports in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. The city has parks, walking trails, and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor leisure. The community values its coastal charm and is appreciated for its more relaxed pace of life.
St. Augustine Beach
A little further than our other options, at an hour and a half from Orlando, sits St. Augustine Beach on Florida's northeast coast. It's a charming coastal community known for its historic significance, beautiful beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. The area boasts wide sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, providing a scenic and tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities. St. Augustine Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing and offers panoramic views of the glittering waters and the coastline. Away from the waters is a military fort and a lighthouse for more sightseeing.
We hope you enjoy your time in Orlando! Let us know if you found any of these recommendations helpful!
-Â The Couples Adventures Team