Florida Beaches Close to Orlando
No vacation to Orlando is complete without a fun-filled day at some of the world’s best beaches in Florida!
Discover the stunning beaches within a 2.5 hour drive from Orlando, FL.
Experience the vibrant surf culture at Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic Ocean coast to the pristine shores of Clearwater Beach on the west coast of Florida.
Here are the top 10 beaches near Orlando, Florida, all within about a 2.5-hour drive that we’ve personally visited and a little highlight about each beach town.
1. Cocoa Beach
Directions: About 1 hour drive (60 miles)
Highlights: Total beach vibe, surfing culture, Cocoa Beach Pier, and close proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.
2. Daytona Beach
Distance: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes drive (55 miles)
Highlights: Hard-packed sand allowing beach driving, and home to Daytona International Speedway.
3. New Smyrna Beach
Distance: About 1 hour and 10 minutes drive (55 miles)
Highlights: Laid-back atmosphere, excellent surfing conditions, and a charming downtown area.
4. Canaveral National Seashore
Distance: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes drive (60 miles)
Highlights: Pristine, undeveloped beach with abundant wildlife and a natural setting.
5. Clearwater Beach
Distance: About 2 hours drive (110 miles)
Highlights: White sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and a vibrant beachside community.
6. Vero Beach
Distance: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes drive (95 miles)
Highlights: Quieter beach town with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural scene.
7. Flagler Beach
Distance: About 1 hour and 30 minutes drive (80 miles)
Highlights: Old Florida charm with a small-town feel, uncrowded beaches, and unique local shops and restaurants.
8. Ormond Beach
Distance: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes drive (70 miles)
Highlights: Quieter alternative to Daytona Beach, beautiful sandy shores, and the scenic Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail.
9. Melbourne Beach
Directions: About 1 hour and 16 minutes drive (74.9 miles)
Highlights: Family-friendly atmosphere, great for surfing and fishing, and home to the Brevard Zoo nearby.
10. Siesta Key Beach
Distance: About 2.5 hours drive (140 miles)
Highlights: Renowned for its powdery white sand, clear blue waters, and vibrant nightlife.
These Florida Beaches provide a variety of experiences, from bustling beach towns to serene natural seashores, all within a convenient driving distance from Orlando.
