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Are you dreaming of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters? Look no further than Orlando’s surrounding beaches, where you’ll find your slice of paradise within easy reach of the city.
Located in the heart of Florida, the Orlando tri-county area spans 2,538 square miles and is home to over two million residents. This bustling metropolis is situated just 50 miles from the Atlantic Coast to the east and 75 miles from the Gulf Coast to the west, making it an ideal base for exploring the Sunshine State’s many attractions, including the beautiful beaches near Orlando.
However, what truly sets Orlando apart is its year-round mild weather, which has long been a major draw for tourists seeking a break from colder climates. As a matter of fact, Orlando was recently crowned as the largest travel and tourism city in the US for 2022. And while the city’s theme parks and attractions are world-renowned, its surrounding beaches are a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
From the sun-kissed Atlantic Coast to the tranquil Gulf of Mexico, beaches near Orlando offer warm waters and fun aquatic activities, from jet skiing to paddle boarding to snorkeling. And for those seeking a more laid-back experience, there’s no better way to soak up the sunshine than by lounging on the city’s sandy shores. After a day in the sun, you can check out the charming beach towns that dot Central Florida’s coast, where you’ll find plenty of unique shops and restaurants to explore.
Are you ready to trade the hustle and bustle of Orlando’s theme parks for the tranquil shores of its surrounding beaches?
If so, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and find your slice of tropical paradise on one of these stunning beaches near Orlando!
1. Canaveral National Seashore
Nestled on a barrier island approximately 50 miles away from Orlando, Canaveral National Seashore is a unique blend of ocean, beach, dune, hammock, lagoon, salt marsh, and pine flatland habitats. This diverse ecosystem is home to a stunning array of plant and animal life, with over 1,000 species of plants and 300 species of birds found within the park’s boundaries.
Here, visitors can see endangered species such as loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles. You can also spot West Indian Manatees, Southern Bald Eagles, Wood Storks, Peregrine Falcons, Eastern Indigo Snakes, and Florida Scrub Jays.
In addition to its natural wonders, Canaveral National Seashore offers a wide range of recreational activities year-round. Visitors who enjoy fishing, boating, canoeing, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, camping, and exploring nature and historical trails will have no shortage of activities to do. Walking the trails during the cooler winter months is particularly popular, providing stunning views of the local flora and fauna.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a place to relax and soak up the beauty of Central Florida’s coastline, Canaveral National Seashore is not to be missed.
Looking for a place to stay? Check out these vacation rentals near Canaveral National Seashore.
2. Clearwater Beach
Just a short two-hour drive from Downtown Orlando lies the ultimate tropical paradise of Clearwater Beach. With its sugar-fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, no wonder this tropical bliss was named the top beach in the country for two consecutive years.
Clearwater Beach offers plenty of fun and exciting things to explore. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun, explore the underwater world, or engage in watersports — this place has it all!
Of course, the beach is not only known for its unmatched scenic beauty, but it’s also one of the safest beaches for visitors with young children. With a full-time lifeguard on duty and a 300-foot-wide clear swim zone, parents can relax and let their children play in the warm, gentle waters without worry.
For your home away from home, explore these family vacation rentals in Clearwater Beach.
3. Cocoa Beach
A true gem on the state’s Atlantic Coast offering visitors six miles of pristine white sand beaches, Cocoa Beach is one of the most-visited beaches near Orlando. It boasts three oceanfront parks equipped with restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, providing a perfect spot for a beachside picnic with family and friends.
For those looking to stay active, Cocoa Beach also offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. It is home to a 27-hole public golf course on the Banana River, an outdoor heated and cooled 50-meter public swimming pool, and a state-of-the-art skate park. Children will absolutely love the numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the city.
But perhaps the most distinguishing feature of Cocoa Beach is its proximity to the Kennedy and Cape Canaveral Space Launch Centers. Visitors can watch space launches from the beach joining the many locals that come out to witness the spectacular views of day and night launches!
Dreaming of a beachside retreat? Discover your ideal stay among these delightful vacation rentals near Cocoa Beach.
4. Daytona Beach
Located on the Atlantic Coast, Daytona Beach is a true gem just an hour away from Orlando. Whether you’re traveling with family, with friends, or adventuring solo, Daytona Beach offers an endless array of things to do and see.
From its famous beaches and motorsports to its abundance of arts, culture, and history, you will never run out of things to do in this bustling paradise. You can take a leisure stroll on the beach, explore the vibrant arts scene, or hit the links at one of the many championship golf courses.
And for sports fans, Daytona Beach is a must-visit destination, with events like the Daytona 500 and Bike Week drawing visitors from all different parts of the world. One of the most iconic events in Daytona Beach is their series of summer concerts held at the Bandshell from May to September, where visitors can watch their favorite artists perform live and even witness spectacular fireworks displays.
Planning to stay a night or two here? Browse thousands of vacation rentals in Daytona Beach for your perfect home-away-from-home.
5. Flagler Beach
Nestled along Florida’s Atlantic Coast between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, Flagler Beach is another gem that only a few tourists have come to discover. This cozy town offers miles of sparkling beaches, fantastic fishing, beachside shops, waterfront restaurants, and natural parks that are perfect for exploring.
Flagler Beach also exudes a retro charm that captivates visitors of all ages. With friendly residents and open-air restaurants all around, the town sets the stage for a laid-back Orlando afternoon. You can walk through the eclectic shops, catch a wave while surfing or cast a line from the classic fishing pier. And with six miles of spectacular ocean views with free access to the beach, there are plenty of things to keep yourself preoccupied in this modern paradise.
Want to see everything this secluded beach has to offer? These vacation rentals in Flagler Beach make the perfect basecamp for your sunny getaway.
6. Fort de Soto
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Fort de Soto is a much-loved county park that covers five islands and 1,136 acres of serene, sandy shoreline. With miles of beautiful beaches to explore on land or water, there’s no shortage of fun at this popular destination.
One of the park’s biggest draws is the Spanish-American War-era fort, which offers visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich history. And if you’re traveling with your furry friend, you’ll be happy to know that the park has designated dog-friendly areas where you can splash around with your pup at the water’s edge.
Finally, no trip to Fort De Soto would be complete without spending time soaking up the sun on the beach. It may be a two-hour drive from Downtown Orlando, but we promise that the journey is well worth it!
Find a cozy place to stay for you and your pup among these beautiful pet-friendly properties in Fort De Soto!
7. Melbourne Beach
Set beside the Indian River Lagoon along Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne Beach offers plenty of outdoor activities, including stunning beaches, fishing, golf, and snorkeling. Bask in the sunshine on miles of unspoiled beaches during the day, and take a romantic moonlit walk at nighttime, complete with the cool tropical breeze.
For those who prefer non-beach activities, Melbourne has a lot of options, too! You can check out the historic downtown area for shopping and dining, or head to the Brevard Zoo, which features lush, open-air habitats that are home to over 900 animals from around the world.
And if you’re interested in space exploration, Melbourne is an easy drive from the Kennedy Space Center, making it a great destination for science and history buffs alike. The city also hosts several annual festivals, including the Independent Filmmaker’s Festival, Arts Festival, Aviation Day, and Oktoberfest.
Searching for a cozy spot? Look no further than these charming vacation rentals near Melbourne Beach.
8. New Smyrna Beach
Just another quick drive away from Orlando, New Smyrna Beach is a hidden gem that boasts a 17-mile stretch of white sandy beaches. This tranquil beach is a surfer’s paradise, offering some of the finest wave action on the east coast with wave breaks suitable for expert and amateur surfers alike.
Aside from its pristine beach, New Smyrna also offers a variety of unique attractions. You can catch sight of gentle Florida manatees or dolphins playing in the river, enjoy the thrills of racing, or watch locals perform plays at the theater. You can even take a cruise and enjoy natural Florida along the Indian River– a maritime highway that offers a relaxing way to experience nature.
Consider any of these cozy vacation homes near New Smyrna Beach that provide the perfect backdrop for your much-awaited getaway.
9. Ormond Beach
Located just north of Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach is also one of the best beaches near Orlando that offers a unique blend of laid-back beach town charm and a first-class resort experience. With a rich history that includes millionaire John D. Rockefeller among its earliest settlers, Ormond Beach retains an air of elegance and grace, making it a favorite destination for visitors looking to relax and unwind.
Bordering the Tomoka River on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east, Ormond Beach offers a wide range of water activities, from boating and fishing to swimming and surfing. Visitors can enjoy miles of pristine beaches and take in the natural beauty of the Tomoka State Park, which boasts over 2,000 acres of forests and marshes, as well as a variety of hiking and biking trails.
In addition to its natural attractions, Ormond Beach also offers visitors a variety of cultural and recreational events throughout the year, including art shows, music festivals, and food fairs. The county’s historic downtown area along Granada Boulevard is a must-visit for tourists, with its charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience.
Want to be close to the beauty of this tranquil spot? Take a look at these incredible vacation rentals in Ormond Beach.
10. Vero Beach
Nestled along the Atlantic Coast of Florida, Vero Beach is a small tranquil city that offers a wealth of outdoor activities, museums, and cultural events. Located just about 1.5 hours from Orlando, you can make an easy day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway to this beautiful city.
It is also renowned for its pristine beaches, which are uncrowded and perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The sea turtles that frequent these shores are a major attraction for nature lovers, and visitors may have the opportunity to see hatchlings emerge from their nests or watch adult turtles swimming in the ocean.
In addition to its stunning shoreline, Vero Beach also offers a variety of other outdoor activities such as golf, water sports, and fishing. The Indian River Lagoon is a particularly popular spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing, while the local golf courses offer some of the best greens in Florida.
Culture and history buffs will appreciate the city’s museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks, such as the Vero Beach Museum of Art and the Hallstrom Farmstead. With its mix of posh resorts, unique boutiques, and upscale eateries, Vero Beach is a haven for those who would love to experience the finer things in life during their stay in the Sunny State.
To get more bang for your buck during your stay, check out these awesome vacation rental deals in Vero Beach.
Find Your Dream Vacation Home Along The Beaches Near Orlando
With so many amazing beaches near Orlando, which one will you visit first?
Will it be the lively and bustling Daytona Beach, or the serene and peaceful Flagler Beach?
Or perhaps you’ll opt for the retro town of Fort De Soto or the elegant Vero Beach.
Whichever you choose, Rent By Owner is here to help you find the best vacation rentals available in Orlando. Whether you want a beachfront property or a cozy apartment in the city, we have thousands of options for you to choose from. You can even go beach-hopping if you want!
Don’t just dream about dipping into these stunning beaches near Orlando. Make it a reality and plan your next getaway with Rent By Owner!
TLDR
Florida’s Atlantic Coast is home to some of the best beaches in the country, each with its unique charm and attractions. From the serene, sandy beaches of Fort De Soto and Vero Beach to the lively boardwalks of Daytona Beach and Clearwater Beach, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, fish, or simply relax in the sun, these beaches are a must-visit on any trip to Florida.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the Sunshine State’s stunning coastline. And don’t forget to book the perfect vacation rental with Rent By Owner for the ultimate beach getaway!
