Florida’s shining start is of course Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, and guests love to stay either on resort or in the surrounding areas of these epic theme parks. Though not the closest, Clearwater beach is only a 1.5-hour drive from the theme parks and it is well worth the journey! This Gulf Coast beach is home to turquoise blue (shallow) water, pillow soft sands, a huge playground, a Beach Front Promenade and is a magnet for families who want to relax on the beach. Clearwater can easily be a day trip from Walt Disney World or Universal Studios, but you may want to consider staying the night at one of the fabulous beachfront hotels: the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa is a great choice that also offers guests 2 pools, multiple restaurants, and a kids club!
If you have loved Clearwater Beach but are wanting to experience somewhere a bit more private, then you absolutely have to visit Caladesi Island State Park off the Gulf Coast. The island is one of the last remaining untouched barrier islands in Florida and is only accessible by boat from Honeymoon Island. This island is a haven for wildlife: sea turtles live without human interruption, shore birds flock to the isle and mangrove forests bloom. There are a few amenities on the island for tourists, but we advise bringing your own packed lunch. There are plenty of walks, kayaking routes, and swimming areas for fun too!
Moving further away from one of Florida’s most popular destinations to another: South Beach, Miami. South Beach, Miami is one of the state’s most infamous beaches with a reputation for flashy cars, skimpy bikinis, Art Deco architecture and sun-kissed locals. And though its reputation precedes it, South Beach, Miami is a wonderful golden sand beach that stretches for 2.2 miles and offers guests luxurious relaxation. If you’re visiting Miami, staying beachfront is a must: the W South Beach is an upmarket hotel with a vibrant nightlife scene to really soak up the Miami lifestyle.
Fort Lauderdale is another area of Florida that is famed for its beaches. White sands, sparkling blue water, and upscale hotels, Fort Lauderdale beaches offer an alternative to Miami’s beloved ones that will be a little less crowded. Pompano Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise water with a long pier jetting out into the ocean. The area is home to 18 shipwrecks and is beloved by diving enthusiasts. The nearby restaurants, Beach House Pompano, is a great option for lunch where you can sample the freshest seafood in the area! For a less crowded option, try visiting Dania Beach – a narrow stretch of beach that is beloved by fishermen. Quarterdeck Restaurant on the pier is a great option to try here too.
The Florida Keys are another amazing destination if you are looking for a beach holiday – though they are separate to the mainland so will require either a plane or boat transfer. If you want to have an adventure during your beach holiday to Florida, why not visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo. This State Park was the first of its kind in America and is home to an array of coral reefs you can snorkel on. There are various items marked by buoys from shipwrecks – these make for excellent dive and snorkel locations. The park also offers glass-bottom boat trips, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Whilst swimming about, be sure to look out for the underwater statues too!
All in all, Florida is a fabulous destination for a beach holiday. Even if you are planning on exploring Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, be sure to save enough time to visit at least one of Florida’s fabulous beaches!