7 Magnificent Florida Beaches Closest to Orlando

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Overview:

Are you looking for the seven awesome Florida beaches closest to Orlando? Then lucky for you, there are a plethora of beaches to choose from.

There really is no reason not to make the beach one of your top things to do while visiting Florida.

If you’re like most tourist who make Orlando their top destination, then you will happy to know beaches are nearby.

After visiting Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando, it is time to relax and enjoy the Floridian Sunshine near the water.

After all, you will need that relaxation time after walking around the busy parks all day.

Orlando is one of those cities that is luckily centered right in the middle of central Florida. With its easy access to both the Atlantic and the Gulf Coast, there are many reasons why you need to make a beach trip the top on you list.

Orlando is situated approximately an hour from the east coast. From the west coast, Orlando is found about an hour and a half depending on traffic.

The sweet spot of being in the middle of the state is that you can get a little of both worlds. If you have time then check out the Gulf Coast of Mexico and then the next couple days make it to the Atlantic coast.

Both coastlines are close to Orlando.

Seven Beaches near Orlando

So why seven? Because seven is a lucky number! Of course there are more than just 7 beaches near Orlando.

These top 7 are ones that will give you a great start!

Cocoa Beach

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A nice sunset view in Cocoa Beach

This beach is one of the closest beaches you can get to from Orlando. The distance from Orlando to Cocoa Beach is approximately 59 miles and one hour driving east.

The nicest thing about this beach is that you can literally take the state road 528 toll and it will be a direct route.

Because of its convenient location this beach has become one of the more popular beaches to check out near Orlando.

This beach is popular for a number of reasons. If you are visiting this place be sure to check out the Cocoa Beach pier.

There is parking directly behind it, but during peak hours it is best to arrive early so you can get a great parking spot.

The Cocoa Beach Pier has a couple restaurants where you can enjoy lunch when visiting, there is even a bar to enjoy drinks.

Even though you can’t walk the pier all the way to the end unless you find yourself fishing, it is still a nice place to eat food and relax.

Cocoa Beach is famous for other attractions such as Rons Jons Surf Shop and the Florida Surf museum located inside.

If you do have time be sure to check out the little downtown of Cocoa Beach since you can find a number of restaurants in there.

If you want to know of other attractions to check out then check out the Top Things to do in Cocoa Beach blog to get a good grasp of what to expect.

Canaveral National Seashore

This beach is also within distance of Orlando. Though it is different, the distance is about the same as Cocoa Beach.

Canaveral National Seashore is approximately about 55 miles away and a little over an hour driving distance.

This beach is one of those more quieter and unseen beaches you would want to go if you prefer nature over larger crowds.

The wildlife at this beach is just stunning. It is filled with wild birds and you can even find turtle nesting areas nearby. Some endangered species live here since its remote location is the perfect place to leave wildlife as is.

Because of the wildlife there are no cars allowed in the beach. It is miles of beach sand with secluded areas and there are no buildings blocking your view.

You do have to pay at the entrance of this beach road right after you pass the canaveral information station, so make sure you have some money ready.

If you want a private getaway then this beach may be what you are looking for. You can definitely do fishing at Mosquito Lagoon with or without a boat.

If you have more time to do other things be sure to include the hiking trail of turtle mound along with your adventures.

New Smyrna Beach

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Surfers at New Smyrna Beach

Located on the east coast of Florida and close to Orlando, you can make it a day trip. It is found about 55 miles northeast of Orlando and about an hour drive to get there (depending how traffic looks).

Avoid traffic by getting there extra early or driving during the work hours as it could take longer depending on the road.

New Smyrna Beach is one of those favorite beaches you need to check out! There is an amazing shopping area on Flagler Avenue that features all sorts of mom and pop shops along with restaurants, bars, boutiques and more!

There is an area called New Smyrna Dunes where you can bring your pet along with you. If you would rather walk the boardwalk then you can definitely find that here too since it was remodeled to make it extend all the way.

If you want to learn more about this beach such as where to find New Smyrna parking then check out this cheat sheet of New Smyrna Beach.

Flagler Beach

Also within a close enough distance to Orlando, you can find Flagler Beach northeast of central Florida. Distance wise it is about 76 miles far and about an hour 20 min away.

You can also definitely make this beach a day trip especially if you make time to leave early.

Flagler is one of those more quieter and secluded beaches with a lot more privacy. You definitely won’t find the boisterous noise you get from Daytona Beach.

Though in the summer you can definitely expect to find more crowds in the summer hanging out near the pier

The most beautiful thing about this beach is the color of the sand. Its hue red color gives it a perfect reddish glow. The sand is formed from coquina shells giving it that very cool looking color.

There are no high buildings near the beach so your view of the ocean waters will not be obstructed.

Even though the beach isn’t as  touristy, there is still so much you can do by the beach. You can walk the beach for miles on end or eat at some local restaurants near the beach.

Flagler Beach is really nice and quiet and perfect for any travelers get-away!

Ormond Beach

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A white pelican at Ormond Beach, Florida

Ormond beach is also within distance to the Orlando region and very close to its sistering beach of Daytona.

Though you will not find the crowds here that you can find at Daytona Beach, this beach is one of those beautiful beaches you must check out.

Ormond beach is found approximately 65 miles away from Orlando and about a little over an hour driving.

Of course, it depends where in Florida you are staying, but more or less expect some traffic.

Ormond beach has a smaller beach town than Daytona Beach and you will not find towering buildings taking over the beachfront.

There is some sporadic condominiums throughout the beachfront you can rent, but overall it is a nicer and quieter beach.

The sand of Ormond Beach has a unique reddish tint that you wouldn’t typically see in the gulf side.

Indian Shores 

Both of these beaches are west of Orlando and very close to each other.

Though Clearwater beach is one of those more popular beaches known, it can draw more crowds than usual and has a tendency to become busier throughout summer.

On the other hand, a nice quiet coastline called Indian Shores is just as amazing if not more.

Distance: you can find Indian Shores Beach a little over 2 hours in driving depending on traffic and also about 112 miles if you plan on taking the I-4 freeway.

Though most of the west coast beaches of Florida are a little bit further away because of the central location of Orlando, it is still worth visiting.

One of the nice things about Indian Shoes and Indian Rocks is that you can definitely have a lot of space to spread out and play and put down your umbrella. There are also condos for rent on the beach if you would rather rent.

There is a lot of wildlife to see such as birds and you can even catch dolphins splashing in the waters. Be sure you check out the sunsets as they are amazing!

Lido Beach

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Beautiful white sand of Lido Key Beach.

These beaches found on the Gulf Coast of Mexico are very beautiful. They have become more popular with time due to its soft crystal quartz sand and blue aqua waters.

They are both within driving distance near Orlando, with about a 140 miles distance wise and a little over 2 hours of driving depending on traffic.

The popularity of this gulf side beach has grown over the years with a lot more yearning to visit them with time. If you are vacationing in central Florida then be sure to make these your top priority if you plan to come!

This beach is also very close to St. Armands Circle where you can find shopping, restaurants, drinks and local mom and pop shops.

The wildlife here is also amazing, most locals claim that they often spot manatees and dolphins splashing in the water.

Although last month, unfortunately these beaches were hit with red tide and were inaccessible during the time.  

Do your research before you come as sometimes red tide hits unexpectedly.

The Lucky 7 beaches near Orlando Florida

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A pelican bird dipping in the waters of New Smyrna Beach

One of the most conveniently amazing things about traveling to Orlando Florida is that you have the glorious access to the west and the east coast all while enjoying the most famous theme parks in the world!

The distance from Orlando gives you the access to choose as you wish. Both coastlines are different, but unique in its own way.

Having the ability to see both the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic Ocean will definitely bring you a sense of gratitude for an unforgettable experience!

You will be shocked how different but similar these two coastlines can be.

If you cannot make all seven magnificent beaches near Orlando then pick your top three and you will not be disappointed.

Don’t be caught off-guard like many others. Equip yourself with our top favorite 5 essential beach must-haves and avoid common beach pitfalls! 🏖️🌞🌊

1. YETI Wheeled Cooler: Keep your drinks and snacks chilled under the sun.

2. Kelty Tent: Seek refuge from the sun with a lightweight, easy-to-set-up beach tent.

3. BeachBub Umbrella: Stay cool and protected with a durable, stylish UPF beach umbrella.

4. Trailhead Chair: Sit back and relax with a comfortable and sturdy beach chair.

5. CGear Sand-Free Mat Sand Blanket: Keep the sand at bay and stay comfortable with a sand-resistant blanket.

Plan to spend anywhere from a full day to three days max to really get a good grasp of what Florida’s beaches offer.

If you do have a full day to enjoy the Floridian waters, also be sure to check out the local beach towns since each downtown is unique as well.

Take time to swim, relax, and enjoy the water on your vacation! What beach would you like to visit?

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a beautiful beach to relax on after spending the day at one of Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, look no further. We’ve listed seven of the best beaches near Orlando, so pack your swimsuit and sunscreen and get ready for some fun in the sun! Have you visited any of these beaches? Let us know in the comments below.

Jess-and-Jeanette-at-the-beach

Jess & Jeanette

Jess and Jeanette, two sisters who founded Unseen Beaches, were inspired by their family’s beach vacations while growing up.

Their passion lies in guiding you toward the most remarkable beach destinations across the U.S., while also protecting and preserving these beautiful coastal treasures! 🌊❤️

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Don’t be caught off-guard like many others. Equip yourself with our Top Favorite 5 Essential Beach Must-Haves and avoid common beach pitfalls! 🏖️🌞🌊

1. YETI Wheeled Cooler: Keep your drinks and snacks chilled under the sun.

2. Kelty Tent: Seek refuge from the sun with a lightweight, easy-to-set-up beach tent.

3. BeachBub Umbrella: Stay cool and protected with a durable, stylish UPF beach umbrella.

4. Trailhead Chair: Sit back and relax with a comfortable and sturdy beach chair.

5. CGear Sand-Free Mat Sand Blanket: Keep the sand at bay and stay comfortable with a sand-resistant blanket.

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