🏖️ Top Beaches Near Central Florida (2025 Travel Guide for Sun Seekers)

Presented by Recio Hospitality Group – Helping You Stay, Play & Soak Up the Best of Florida

While Central Florida is famous for its theme parks, it also offers easy access to some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches — from the Atlantic Coast’s energetic surf towns to the Gulf Coast’s powdery white sands.

Whether you’re planning a family beach day, a romantic getaway, or a quick weekend escape, this curated guide covers the top 20–30 beaches near Orlando and Central Florida, each within driving distance of your Recio Hospitality stay.

🌊 Atlantic Coast Beaches (East of Orlando – 45 min to 2 hrs)

1. Cocoa Beach – Approx. 1 hr from Orlando

• Highlights: Surfing, beach rentals, Cocoa Beach Pier

• Why Go: Family-friendly with great restaurants and surf shops

• Pro Tip: Visit Ron Jon Surf Shop & take a beginner surf lesson

  
  

2. New Smyrna Beach – 1 hr 15 min

• Highlights: Great for surfing, artsy downtown, drive-on beach

• Why Go: Laid-back charm and dog-friendly areas

• Note: Popular spot for locals and photographers

  
  

3. Daytona Beach – 1 hr 15 min

• Highlights: Iconic boardwalk, events, and beach driving

• Why Go: Fun for thrill-seekers, bikers, and beach parties

• Tip: Arrive early on event weekends to avoid traffic

  
  

4. Canaveral National Seashore – 1 hr 20 min

• Highlights: Undeveloped, pristine, and natural

• Why Go: Ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and quiet getaways

• Bonus: Potential rocket launch views from Kennedy Space Center

  
  

5. Playalinda Beach – Part of Canaveral Seashore

• Highlights: Unspoiled coastline, nude section at Lot 13

• Why Go: One of Florida’s most untouched and peaceful beaches

• Note: Minimal facilities — pack what you need

  
  

6. Flagler Beach – 1 hr 30 min

• Highlights: Small-town vibe, fishing pier, and oceanfront diners

• Why Go: Great for relaxing with fewer crowds

• Try: Breakfast at The Funky Pelican overlooking the waves

  
  

7. Satellite Beach – 1 hr 20 min

• Highlights: Serene and great for shelling

• Why Go: Less touristy with natural dunes and local surf culture

  
  

8. Melbourne Beach – 1 hr 30 min

• Highlights: Romantic, low-key, soft sand

• Why Go: Perfect for couples and morning walks

• Explore: Historic downtown Melbourne nearby

  
  

🌴 Gulf Coast Beaches (West of Orlando – 1.5 to 2.5 hrs)

9. Clearwater Beach – 2 hrs

• Highlights: Powder-white sand, sunset celebrations at Pier 60

• Why Go: Great for families and couples alike

• Bonus: Dolphin-watching cruises and vibrant nightlife

  
  

10. St. Pete Beach – 2 hrs 15 min

• Highlights: Gorgeous water, watersports, beach bars

• Why Go: Consistently ranked one of America’s top beaches

• Stay Late: Sunset from the Don CeSar Hotel is unmatched

  
  

11. Treasure Island – 2 hrs 15 min

• Highlights: Wide beaches and long walking paths

• Why Go: Calm atmosphere for relaxation and families

• Hidden Gem: Sunset Beach neighborhood for colorful cottages

  
  

12. Pass-a-Grille Beach – 2 hrs 20 min

• Highlights: Charming and historic, no high-rises

• Why Go: Quaint shops, art, and stunning sunrise/sunset views

  
  

13. Fort De Soto Park – 2 hrs 20 min

• Highlights: Nature trails, kayaking, historic fort

• Why Go: Natural beauty with shallow waters for kids

• Tip: Bring bikes to explore the island paths

  
  

14. Anna Maria Island – 2.5 hrs

• Highlights: Turquoise water, local eateries, boutique feel

• Why Go: A Gulf Coast paradise — peaceful and picturesque

• Popular For: Couples, elopements, and long weekend escapes

  
  

15. Siesta Key Beach – 2.5 hrs

• Highlights: Quartz sand that stays cool, turquoise water

• Why Go: Frequently ranked the #1 beach in the U.S.

• Must Do: Attend the free sunset drum circle on Sundays

  
  

🐚 Hidden Gem Beaches

16. Jetty Park Beach – Cape Canaveral

• Highlights: Fishing pier, campground, playground

• Why Go: Watch cruise ships sail by and enjoy a peaceful day

  
  

17. Ormond Beach – Just north of Daytona

• Highlights: Quieter than Daytona, residential vibe

• Why Go: Ideal for those wanting fewer crowds with easy access

  
  

18. Lori Wilson Park (Cocoa Beach)

• Highlights: Free parking, lifeguards, picnic spots

• Why Go: Great beach base with shade and amenities

  
  

19. Lighthouse Point Park – Ponce Inlet

• Highlights: Tide pools, fishing, and pet-friendly beach areas

• Why Go: Scenic and peaceful — a local favorite

  
  

20. Indian Rocks Beach – Near Clearwater

• Highlights: Less crowded, walkable to restaurants

• Why Go: Low-key beach day without the Clearwater crowds

  
  

🧭 Tips for Enjoying Central Florida Beaches

• 🏖️ Arrive early for parking and prime spots, especially weekends

• 🧴 Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks — not all beaches have food options

• 📸 Golden hour (5–7 PM) is ideal for photos and cooler temps

• 🐚 Check tide charts if you’re shelling or want shallow waters for kids

• 🏄 Atlantic side = better surfing, Gulf side = calmer swimming

  
  

🏡 Stay Near the Sand with Recio Hospitality Group

✔ Vacation homes conveniently located near major beach highways

✔ Ideal for family beach getaways, couples’ retreats, and group trips

✔ Spacious kitchens for beach picnic prep

✔ Ask us for a custom "Beach Day Itinerary & Packing List" when booking

🔗 Book Your Stay Now

💬 What's Your Favorite Beach Near Orlando?

Tag @reciohospitality in your beach day photos or comment below with your favorite secret sandy spot! ☀️