Best Family Beaches Near Reunion Resort

Florida is a treasure trove of coastal delights, especially for families looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the surf. Just a stone's throw from the bustling city of Orlando and the charming town of Kissimmee, several beaches beckon families for a memorable day out. This article will guide you through the top six family-friendly beaches near Orlando, offering everything from serene shores to adventure-packed waters.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach, a mere hour's journey from Orlando, epitomizes the ideal family beach destination. This beach is famous for its soft, golden sand and relatively calm waters, making it an excellent spot for young swimmers and first-time surfers. The atmosphere here is lively yet relaxed, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their day. Whether your family is into building elaborate sandcastles, dipping toes in the gentle waves, or even taking a surfing lesson, Cocoa Beach caters to all ages and interests. The beach's clean, well-maintained facilities, including showers and restrooms, add to the comfort of your day out.

The Cocoa Beach Pier, a landmark stretching impressively into the Atlantic, is a hub of activity and entertainment. Here, families can enjoy various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants with stunning ocean views. The pier also offers an array of shops selling beach gear, souvenirs, and local crafts to pick up a keepsake. For those interested in fishing, the pier provides an excellent opportunity to cast a line. Its proximity to major attractions like the Kennedy Space Center further enhances the appeal of Cocoa Beach, offering the unique possibility of witnessing a spectacular rocket launch from your beach towel. This blend of beach fun and nearby attractions ensures that a day spent at Cocoa Beach is a place of joy, relaxation, and memorable experiences for the entire family.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH

New Smyrna Beach, a scenic drive north of Orlando, presents an idyllic blend of natural landscapes and active pursuits, ideal for families with a zest for adventure. This beach is celebrated for its expansive stretches of white sandy shores, providing ample room for families to spread out and enjoy various beach activities. It's an excellent locale for water sports enthusiasts, offering ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. For those who prefer land-based activities, the beach is a perfect setting for a family game of frisbee or volleyball. Moreover, the beach's vibrant yet unobtrusive local wildlife, including birds and sea turtles, adds an element of excitement and education for kids and adults alike.

One of the standout features of New Smyrna Beach is the Smyrna Dunes Park, located on its northern tip. This pristine area, accessible via boardwalks, allows families to explore the natural dunes without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. The park provides panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Ponce de Leon Inlet, and Indian River, offering a serene backdrop for a leisurely walk or a picnic. These boardwalks are a pathway through natural beauty and a means to teach children about coastal ecosystems and the importance of conservation. New Smyrna Beach's unique combination of engaging recreational activities and the opportunity to immerse in nature makes it an outstanding choice for a family day filled with fun and educational experiences.

CLEARWATER BEACH

Clearwater Beach, an award-winning destination about two hours from Reunion Resort, is a family favourite known for its stunning ocean views and many activities. The beach's soft, powdery sands and gentle, shallow waters make it an ideal playground for families with young children. Parents can relax on the beach, basking in the breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Mexico, while kids splash in the safe, clear waters. Adding to its allure, Clearwater Beach is regularly patrolled by lifeguards, ensuring a safe and stress-free environment for all. Beyond just sunbathing and swimming, the beach also offers a variety of water sports like parasailing and jet skiing, providing fun-filled experiences for the entire family.

Apart from its natural beauty, Clearwater Beach is bustling with family-centric activities. The area is renowned for its vibrant Pier 60, which becomes a hub of entertainment as the sun sets. The nightly Sunset at Pier 60 Festival features street performers, live music, and local artisans, creating a festive atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages. The nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another highlight, offering interactive exhibits and the chance to learn about marine life conservation. These attractions, combined with the beach's accessibility from Reunion Resort, make Clearwater Beach an excellent choice for families seeking a day of adventure, education, and relaxation by the sea.

DAYTONA BEACH

Daytona Beach, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings, is approximately an hour and a half drive from Reunion Resort, making it an accessible destination for a family day trip. Famous for its broad, hard-packed sands that stretch for 23 miles, the beach presents a picturesque setting with stunning ocean views, ideal for sunrise or sunset walks. The expansive shoreline offers ample space for beachgoers to relax and play and allows for one-of-a-kind activities like beach driving, a favourite among visitors. Families can enjoy the thrill of cruising along the coast, a rare experience that adds an adventurous twist to the traditional beach day. For those preferring to stay on foot, the smooth sands are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach sports, or simply lounging and soaking in the scenic beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

Daytona Beach is more than just a beach; it's a family fun and entertainment hub. The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier are central attractions, featuring an amusement area with classic arcade games, thrilling rides, and snack stands. This lively spot is ideal for families looking to mix beach time with amusement park excitement. The nearby Daytona International Speedway offers tours and events for an additional dose of adventure, adding a unique aspect to the Daytona Beach experience. Whether relishing the ocean views, indulging in beach activities, or exploring the local attractions, Daytona Beach is a perfect getaway for families seeking a day full of diverse experiences, all within an hour's drive from Reunion Resort.

CANAVERAL NATIONAL SEASHORE

Canaveral National Seashore, approximately an hour's drive from Reunion Resort, is a haven of untouched natural beauty, offering a serene escape from the bustling beach crowds. As you step onto this protected shoreline, the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean immediately captivate you. The long, unspoiled stretches of sand against the backdrop of the azure sea create a tranquil setting, perfect for families seeking peace and quiet. Here, the rhythmic sound of the waves and the scenic ocean vistas encourage relaxation and contemplation. The beach is an excellent spot for strolls, wildlife spotting, and simply basking in the natural splendour. The lack of commercial development preserves the beach's pristine condition, making it an ideal destination for families who appreciate the beauty of an unaltered coastline.

Aside from its breathtaking ocean views, Canaveral National Seashore is a treasure trove of family activities, particularly for those interested in nature and conservation. The seashore is home to diverse wildlife, including sea turtles, which nest on the beach during certain times of the year. The visitor center offers educational programs that provide insights into the local ecosystem and the importance of preserving such natural habitats. These programs are both informative and engaging for children and adults alike. The seashore's calm waters are perfect for a family swimming day, and its open spaces invite activities like beachcombing and kite flying. Its proximity to Reunion Resort makes it a feasible and rewarding destination for families interested in Florida's natural coastal beauty.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Orlando's vicinity to these fantastic beaches makes it a great starting point for families looking to enjoy Florida's coastal beauty. Each beach has unique charm and attractions, ensuring every family finds their perfect spot for a day there. Whether you're building sandcastles, exploring local wildlife, or just relaxing by the waves, these beaches near Orlando will create lasting memories.

Remember to pack your sunscreen, beach toys, and a sense of adventure as you embark on a beach day just a short drive from the heart of Orlando and Kissimmee!