If you are in Orlando, there are several local beaches to choose from nearby, whether you like a quiet spot where you’re more likely to see birds than people or a lively strip where the waves and people are always moving. Because of Orlando’s convenient location, visitors may quickly go to the Atlantic or Gulf coasts in search of spectacular beaches.
There are beaches with different themed parks and other attractions. Orlando is situated in the middle, making it a perfect area to start looking for beaches perfect for a seaside book reading or sunbathing. Here are the top beaches near Orlando we’ve compiled for you!
11 Beaches Near Orlando
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is the closest beach in Orlando. However, it’s worth the hour-long drive east to this stunning Florida’s Space Coast location for its closeness to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
If you’re into astronomy and the beach, you should get to this area immediately. There is fun for the whole family, from sandcastle building, water sports, and cafe hunting. Cocoa beach is for everyone to enjoy!
New Smyrna Beach
This beautiful beach is sometimes referred to as the “local beach” of Orlando because of its proximity to the theme park capital. It’s one of the best beaches near Orlando for tourists and locals who want to escape the busy city.
You may explore the eclectic shops and diverse eateries along Flagler Avenue’s historic stretch and go kayaking to pass the time.
Ormond Beach
Ormond Beach, which can be found just north of Daytona, is a great place to take the family if you’re looking for a beach not too far from Orlando. This dune-backed beach is more natural and rustic than other neighboring beaches, yet it’s only 60 miles northeast of the city, just north of Daytona Beach. It’s also calmer and quieter, which is excellent for individuals trying to wind down and be one with nature.
Canaveral National Seashore
An hour and a half northeast of Orlando, Canaveral National Seashore is a beautiful natural area. This place is a natural habitat for bald eagles, sea turtles, and manatees.
Canaveral National Seashore is also great for astronomy lovers because you can see NASA shuttles blast off into space without leaving your beach blanket. After that, you can visit Kennedy Space Center and take pictures!
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater beach is considered one of the safest due to the presence of a permanent lifeguard and an open swimming area measuring around 300 feet in width. You may take comfort in knowing that the waters at this beach live up to their label of “Clear and Clean.” This is perfect for families with children, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers.
Daytona Beach
It will only take one hour and fifteen minutes and will get you from Orlando to Daytona Beach on the Atlantic coast. You may go for a swim and relax on the beach, but there’s much more to do here! This city hosts some of the country’s most exciting auto races and boasts some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
There is a boardwalk right here by the water, and it’s packed with unique stores, cafes, and even an arcade making early morning and afternoon walks fun!
Indialantic Beach
Families can engage in several enjoyable activities together at the beach, from burying each other in the sand to stand-up paddleboarding offshore to having a picnic on the beach.
Indialantic, in contrast to other well-known beaches, is rarely crowded, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the water. In addition, the vast and reasonably priced metered parking, the spotless and well-located amenities, and the abundance of nearby restaurants and cafes make spending hours basking in the Florida sun enjoyable.
Flagler Beach
Tourists and beachgoers who want to swim, sunbathe, and surf without jostling through crowds will appreciate Flagler’s beach’s fine golden sand and mild surfing waves. However, you won’t encounter tacky souvenir shops on your journey to the beach, only the picturesque downtown, cafes, and boutiques.
Vero Beach
Over 300 years ago, the area gained its current name when Spanish ships transporting gold and silver were wrecked off the coast. The Treasure Coast of Florida includes Indian River County, St. Lucie County, and Martin County, where Vero Beach is situated. In Vero Beach, tourists often hunt for lost silver coins and, if you’re lucky, gold pendants and coins!
Melbourne Beach
Melbourne beach is known for its peace and quietness. The rates of the nearby restaurants and stores are relatively inexpensive compared to other beaches like in Miami. You can also find a gorgeous wooden pier into the lake, making it an excellent spot for fishing and sunset viewing.
Sebastian Inlet State Park
This barrier island has a wide variety of water-related activities to offer its guests, like swimming, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, and shell-hunting. In addition, the trip from Orlando will only take a two-hour journey making it an excellent destination for tourists who want to travel quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous beach near Orlando?
The most famous beach near Orlando is Daytona Beach. Traveling from Orlando to Daytona is taking I-4 through the middle of Orlando. Daytona beach is very popular because of its clear blue waters and a long stretch of golden sand.
What is the closest beach near Orlando FL?
Cocoa Beach is the closest. It takes less than an hour’s drive from Orlando making it a popular destination for ecotourists, deep-sea hobbyists, and beach getaways.
What is the clearest beach near Orlando?
Clearwater Beach, located in a resort area on the Gulf of Mexico, is a magnificent stretch of white sand beach with blue seas perfect for swimming and deep diving.
What beach is better, Cocoa or Clearwater?
Cocoa Beach is stunning; however, Clearwater Beach has been ranked as the best beach in the United States by Trip Advisor on two separate occasions, and it is the only Florida beach to reach the Top 25 Beaches in the World list.
Why is Cocoa Beach so famous?
Cocoa beach is popular among tourists because of its watersports and cheaper than other beaches.