13 Best Florida Family Vacations

Best Florida Family Vacations

From Florida Beach towns to vacation spots to theme parks, here are 13 of our top choices for Florida family vacations. There are several underrated and undiscovered destinations that make ideal Florida family vacations.

When planning a Florida family vacation, consider your budget. Miami, South Beach, Sarasota, Palm Beach, and the Florida Keys tend to be a bit pricier. Central Florida and the Gulf Coast tend to make for more affordable family vacations in Florida.

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Florida Family Vacations: Central Florida

Orlando: Theme Parks Galore!

Orlando, Florida is known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World” and is home to several world-renowned parks that attract millions of visitors each year. Orlando is ideal for Florida family vacations, being home to one of the largest international airports in the South.

Walt Disney World

The largest and most famous theme park in Orlando, Walt Disney World Resort consists of four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Each park offers its own unique attractions and experiences, ranging from classic Disney rides like Space Mountain and It’s a Small World to newer additions like Avatar Flight of Passage and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Universal Orlando

Another major theme park complex in Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort is comprised of two parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. These two parks feature popular attractions based on popular franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and The Simpsons, as well as thrilling roller coasters and interactive experiences.

SeaWorld Orlando

Known for its marine life exhibits and shows, SeaWorld Orlando also features thrilling rides like Mako, Kraken, and Journey to Atlantis. Visitors can also get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, and other aquatic creatures.

Don't miss a ride on Kraken at Seaworld, Orlando. Seaworld is ideal for Florida family vacations!

These are just a few of the parks in Orlando, Florida. Each park offers its own unique experience and caters to visitors of all ages and interests.

Family Friendly Places to Stay in Orlando that Won't Break Your Wallet

Disney’s All-Star Resorts

These value resorts are located on Disney’s property and offer affordable rates for families. They are themed after Disney movies and offer fun amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and food court.

Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa

This resort offers spacious suites with kitchens and living areas, perfect for families. They also offer a variety of activities, including a pool with a pirate ship and a free shuttle to the nearby theme parks, an arcade, fitness center, and spa for the adults.

Floridays Resort Orlando

This resort features two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens and washer/dryers. They also offer a large pool, a children’s play area, and a free shuttle to the theme parks. Jim and I have stayed at Floridays with another couple, and loved the way the suite was laid out; perfect for the four of us.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

This retro-themed resort offers affordable rates and is located within walking distance to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. They offer family suites with kitchenettes and two massive pools, a winding river, a bowling alley, arcade, and 8 dining options on property.

Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South

This hotel offers standard rooms and suites with kitchenettes at an affordable rate. They also offer a pool, a children’s play area, and a free shuttle to the nearby theme parks.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa:

This resort offers a variety of affordable accommodations, including studios, one-bedroom villas, and two-bedroom villas. The property features multiple pools, a water park, a mini-golf course, game room, and 5 resort dining options.

No matter where you choose to stay in Orlando, you can be assured it will be a great family getaway in Orlando!

Daytona Beach

There are many fun, family-friendly activities in Daytona Beach that won’t break the bank.

Spend the day on the beach! Daytona Beach is known for its beautiful beaches. Pack a picnic and spend the day swimming, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun.

Take a stroll on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier and enjoy the views of the ocean. You can also visit the the fishing pier for some fishing or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

Daytona Beach's Pier is a fun activity when you are in Daytona on a Florida family vacation! (photo credit: depositphotos.com/lunamarina)

Daytona Lagoon Water Park offers water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There’s also a mini-golf course, laser tag, and an arcade. Admission prices vary, but they offer discounts for Florida residents and military members.

The Museum of Arts and Sciences has a variety of exhibits, including a planetarium, a giant ground sloth skeleton, and a children’s science center. Admission is affordable, and children under six are free.

Marine Science Center offers interactive exhibits and live animal displays. There’s also a turtle rehab center where you can see sea turtles being rehabilitated before they’re released back into the wild. Admission is reasonable, and children under three are free.

Take a guided trolley tour of Daytona Beach on a trolley. You’ll see historic sites, beautiful homes, and other points of interest. Prices are reasonable, and they offer discounts for children and seniors.

Visit the farmers market on Beach Street on Saturdays for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. Admission is free.

The Halifax Historical Museum offers exhibits about the history of the Halifax area. Admission is affordable, and children under 12 are free.

The top attraction in Daytona is of course, the Daytona International Speedway! Don’t miss a tour of this amazing track, and if adrenaline is your thing, you can embrace your inner race car driver on the track!

Daytona International Speedway hosts events other than races, including Bike Week (photo credit: depositphotos.com/felixtm)

There are plenty of other affordable things to do in Daytona Beach. Stop into the Daytona Beach Visitors Center and check out their brochures for more vacation ideas and discounts.

Where to Stay in Daytona Beach

There are several family-friendly accommodations in Daytona Beach, Florida. Here are some options:

Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort

This hotel offers direct beach access, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a variety of dining options.

Wyndham Ocean Walk

This resort features a lazy river, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a game room. It also offers easy access to the beach and is close to many family-friendly attractions.

The Shores Resort & Spa

This hotel features a kids’ club, a beachfront pool, and a variety of dining options. It also has a spa and is located near many family-friendly attractions.

Daytona Beach Resort and Conference Center

This oceanfront resort offers suites with kitchenettes and balconies, and features several pools, a lazy river, and an on-site restaurant. It’s a great option for families who want to be right on the beach.

Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort

This oceanfront resort offers one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchens, as well as several pools, a game room, and a restaurant. It’s a great option for families who want a bit more space.

Daytona Beach RV Resort

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider this RV resort, which offers campsites and cabins. The resort features a pool, a playground, and a game room.

Atlantic Ocean Palm Inn

This oceanfront hotel offers rooms with kitchenettes, as well as an outdoor pool and a picnic area. It’s a great option for families who want to be right on the beach without breaking the bank.

All of these options offer amenities and activities that are perfect for families with children, and they are located in convenient areas of Daytona Beach.

The Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. From beaches to museums, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy.

Head over to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Here, you can take a guided tour, see actual rockets and space shuttles, and even meet an astronaut. Don’t miss a visit to the Brevard Zoo to see animals from around the world.

Kennedy Space Center is a perfect stop to add when planning Florida family vacations.

With its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit to the Canaveral National Seashore, where you can go fishing, hiking, or kayaking. Head to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to see alligators, manatees, and other local wildlife. In Cocoa Beach, take a surf lesson at Cocoa Beach. End your day by watching the sunset over the Indian River Lagoon, where you might spot dolphins and sea turtles.

Families looking for a unique and educational vacation should definitely consider Florida’s Space Coast.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a vast 1.5 million-acre wetland preserve located in southern Florida. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including alligators, panthers, manatees, numerous species of birds, and the leatherback turtle, an endangered species.

Plan to stop at Everglades National Park on your Florida family getaway

This national park covers parts of Miami-Dade county, Monroe county (the Florida Keys), and Collier county (Naples), and is the largest subtropical wilderness area in the United States. To really get a feel for the Everglades, and learn it’s history, and ecological importance, I would suggest beginning with a guided tour.

The park’s unique ecosystem is characterized by a shallow river system that slowly flows through a broad, shallow river bed. The area is known as a “river of grass” and is dominated by sawgrass marshes, mangrove swamps, and cypress forests.

There are many recreational activities to enjoy in Everglades National Park. Visitors can hike the park’s numerous trails, take guided tours, and explore the park’s waterways by kayak or canoe. Fishing is also a popular activity, with the park’s rivers and lakes home to numerous species of fish.

Overall, Everglades National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural beauty of Florida and its unique ecosystems. The park offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.

Florida Family Vacations: The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of barrier islands that stretch approximately 120 miles off the southern coast of Florida. They are a popular vacation destination for families due to their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and wide range of activities for people of all ages.

One of the main attractions of the Keys is its natural beauty. Families can spend their days lounging on the beaches, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the many state parks and wildlife reserves that are located throughout the islands.

One of the top things to do on a visit to Marathon is to go charter fishing

Some popular parks include Bahia Honda State Park, which has a beautiful beach and offers opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is another must-visit destination, as it is home to the only living coral reef in the continental United States.

Don’t miss taking one of the many boat tours in the Keys on your family vacation! Opt for a boat tour that includes snorkeling or fishing, or perhaps a sunset sailboat tour is more to your liking. Whatever you choose, the Keys are calling.

In addition to its natural beauty, you’ll discover a variety of family friendly activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and galleries in the quaint towns that dot the islands, including Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West. With so much to see and do, the Florida Keys make for an unforgettable family vacation.

Here are 7 family-friendly and budget-friendly activities to do in the Florida Keys:

Bahia Honda State Park

This park offers white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. You can swim, snorkel, kayak, and hike, and it’s an affordable activity for the whole family.

Beautiful colorful sunset with broken bridge at Bahia Honda state park in the Florida Keys, a must-do in Marathon

Visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

This interactive museum showcases the unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys. Admission is free, and there are plenty of hands-on exhibits for kids.

Explore Key West on foot or by bike

Key West is a small island that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. You can walk or cycle along the waterfront, visit historic sites, and check out local shops and restaurants.

Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

This indoor tropical paradise is home to hundreds of butterflies, birds, and plants. It’s a magical experience for all ages, and tickets are reasonably priced.

Visit the Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a great place to learn about sea turtles and their conservation. You can take a guided tour and see injured turtles being rehabilitated.

Go fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in the Florida Keys, and there are plenty of affordable options for families. You can go on a charter boat or fish from shore, and there are plenty of species to catch, including snapper, grouper, and tarpon.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys for a Family Getaway

The Florida Keys offer a plethora of accommodations for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation. Here are some of the best places for families to stay in the Florida Keys:

Hawks Cay Resort

This luxurious resort in Duck Key is perfect for families, with its kid-friendly amenities and activities. It features a private beach, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a variety of water sports. There are also family-friendly dining options available, as well as spacious villas and cottages that can accommodate larger groups.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Located in Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge & Spa is another excellent choice for families. The resort boasts a 1,200-foot private beach, an oceanfront golf course, and a full-service spa. Families can enjoy a variety of water sports, as well as tennis, fishing, and biking. There are also plenty of dining options available, including a kids’ menu.

Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort

This beachfront resort in Marathon is a great option for families looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. It features two swimming pools, a private beach, and a variety of water sports. The resort also offers spacious two and three-bedroom beach houses that can accommodate larger families.

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

Located in Key West, the Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a tropical oasis that is perfect for families. The resort features four swimming pools, a kids’ splash area, and a variety of water sports. There are also on-site dining options available, as well as spacious villas that can accommodate larger families.

Amara Cay Resort

This beachfront resort in Islamorada offers a peaceful and relaxing environment for families. It features a private beach, a swimming pool, and a variety of water sports. There are also family-friendly dining options available, as well as spacious guest rooms and suites that can accommodate larger families.

Overall, the Florida Keys offer a variety of accommodations that are perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a more laid-back atmosphere, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.

Florida Family Vacations: South Florida

Miami

Miami is a fantastic destination for families looking for fun and exciting family vacations in Florida. With beautiful beaches, awesome attractions, and unique culture, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

You can spend your days lounging on the beach, playing in the sand and surf, or exploring the many parks and outdoor spaces around the city.

Colorful Lifeguard Tower in South Beach, Miami Beach, Florida

There are plenty of family fun and friendly things to explore including the Miami Children’s Museum, Jungle Island, and the Miami Seaquarium, one of the top-rated aquariums in Florida. Don’t miss the Patricia Frost Museum, which is a science museum with a planetarium and aquarium! Another fascinating stop is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Another family vacation fun activity is exploring Biscayne National Park.

The food in Miami is definitely worth a mention! From traditional Cuban to fresh seafood, you can find it all in Miami!

South Beach, Miami Beach

Located in Miami Beach, South Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and art deco architecture, South Beach is a place that has something for everyone.

One of the main draws of South Beach is its beautiful beaches. With white sand and crystal-clear water, the beaches in South Beach are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun or take a dip in the ocean, South Beach’s beaches are the perfect place to do it.

This area of Miami Beach is known for its art deco architecture. With many of the buildings in the area dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, South Beach is a unique blend of old and new. From the pastel-colored buildings on Ocean Drive to the stunning Art Deco Welcome Center, South Beach is a feast for the eyes.

MIAMI,USA - MAY 20,2014 : Famous art deco hotels and traffic at Collins Avenue on a sunny day at Miami Beach

In conclusion, South Beach is a friendly and vibrant destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or admire the area’s stunning architecture, South Beach is a must-visit destination in Florida.

Palm Beach County

Plan a day trip to Palm Beach while you are on vacation. Start your day with a visit to the Palm Beach Zoo. This zoo is home to over 550 animals, including tigers, monkeys, and koalas. There are also interactive exhibits and a petting zoo where children can get up close with some of the animals.

Take a stroll down Worth Avenue, a famous shopping district known for its high-end boutiques and designer stores. While the shopping may not be suitable for all ages, the architecture and scenery is worth the visit.

Finally, end your day with a visit to the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum. This museum is located in the former mansion of railroad magnate Henry Flagler and showcases the history and culture of Palm Beach. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits and gardens.

Overall, Palm Beach, Florida is a great destination for a family-friendly day trip. With its beautiful beaches, fun activities, and interesting cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Delray Beach

Delray Beach, Florida is a fantastic destination for family-friendly vacations in Florida. Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Delray Beach boasts miles of pristine beaches, a charming downtown area, and a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Del Ray Delray beach in Florida USA baywatch tower

One of the biggest draws is its stunning beaches. The soft, white sand and clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beaches are well-maintained and offer plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and lifeguards.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, there is a vibrant downtown area that is filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can stroll along Atlantic Avenue and take in the charming architecture while sampling some of the area’s delicious cuisine. There are also plenty of activities for families, such as the Delray Beach GreenMarket, which offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music.

Florida Family Vacations: Gulf Coast

Sarasota

Sarasota is a great choice for a family getaway to Florida due to its mix of activities that appeal to people of all ages. One of the main draws of Sarasota are its beautiful and pristine beaches, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Families can spend their days lounging on the beach, swimming, building sandcastles, and playing beach volleyball. Some of the best beaches in Sarasota include Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach, and Turtle Beach.

In addition to the beaches, the beach town of Sarasota has a variety of family-friendly attractions. One of the most popular is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, which features exhibits on marine life, sea turtles, and shark encounters. Families can also visit the Ringling Museum of Art, which has a collection of art and artifacts from around the world, as well as a circus museum that showcases the history of the Ringling Bros. Circus.

Sarasota is such a great Florida family vacation destination! One of the best attractions is the Ringling museum complex In Sarasota. It was built by circus magnate John Ringling in 1924. (photo credit: YAY images)

Another highlight of Sarasota is its outdoor activities. Families can rent bikes and explore the Legacy Trail, a 12.5-mile path that winds through parks, nature reserves, and historic sites. They can also go kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters of Sarasota Bay, or take a nature walk through the Myakka River State Park, which has trails, birdwatching opportunities, and airboat rides.

Overall, Sarasota makes a choice for great Florida family vacations due to its combination of beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the local culture and nature, Sarasota has something for everyone in the family.

Siesta Key

Siesta Key is one of Florida’s barrier islands located in Sarasota County, Florida, known for its stunning white sand beaches and clear blue waters. The barrier island also is a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. Siesta Key is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and snorkeling.

One of the most notable features of Siesta Key is its beaches, which have been ranked among the best in the world. The island’s main beach, Siesta Beach, is known for its crystal beach with powdery white sand, which is made up of 99% quartz and stays cool to the touch even on the hottest days.

In addition to its beaches, Siesta Key also offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The island has a laid-back, beachy vibe, with plenty of casual restaurants and bars serving up fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

With its stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Siesta Key is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast, one of the best choices for Florida family vacations.

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is another of Florida’s barrier islands located in the Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Florida. With its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s an ideal destination for families looking for a relaxing beach vacation. Here are a few reasons why Anna Maria Island is a great choice for family vacations.

The barrier island also offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. From fishing and kayaking to biking and hiking, there are plenty of outdoor activities that families can enjoy together. Additionally, there are many parks and playgrounds, as well as water parks and mini-golf courses, that provide hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.

Anna Maria Island is a great choice for families looking for a fun, relaxing, and memorable vacation. With its beautiful beaches, family-friendly activities, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder that it’s become one of Florida’s most popular destinations for family vacations.

Where to Stay in Sarasota

Sarasota, Florida is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and diverse family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, there are plenty of great places to stay in Sarasota that offer a comfortable and enjoyable family vacation experience.

Hyatt Regency Sarasota

One of the top family-friendly accommodations in Sarasota is the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. This hotel is located right on Sarasota Bay and features a wide range of amenities for families, including a heated outdoor pool, a private beach, a playground, and a game room. The hotel also offers a variety of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year, such as movie nights and scavenger hunts.

Resort at Longboat Key Club

Another excellent option for families is the Resort at Longboat Key Club. This luxurious resort is located on a private beach and features an array of amenities for guests of all ages, including a children’s pool, a kids’ club, and a variety of sports and recreational activities. The resort also offers spacious accommodations that are perfect for families, including two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens and living areas.

Hampton Inn Sarasota I-75 Bee Ridge

For families looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Hampton Inn Sarasota I-75 Bee Ridge is a great choice. This hotel is located just a short drive from Sarasota’s top family attractions, such as the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and the Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The hotel also offers comfortable and spacious accommodations that are perfect for families, as well as a complimentary hot breakfast each morning.

Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach

Finally, the Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach is another popular family-friendly accommodation in Sarasota. This beachfront resort offers a wide range of amenities for families, including a large outdoor pool, a children’s play area, and a variety of water sports and beach activities. The resort also offers spacious accommodations that are perfect for families, with options ranging from standard hotel rooms to two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes.

Overall, there are many great places to stay in Sarasota that are perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly hotel, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your entire family on vacation in Sarasota.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands

Captiva Island and Sanibel Island are two neighboring islands in Southwest Florida. They both offer lots of family-friendly activities for visitors of all ages. From shelling on the beach to exploring nature preserves, there’s something on captiva island for everyone to enjoy.

First and foremost, the beaches are a must-visit destination. Sanibel’s beautiful beaches are known for their abundance of shells, making it the perfect spot for beachcombing and shell collecting.

Sanibel is a top draw for Florida family vacations with all of the outdoor activities available.

Captiva’s gorgeous beaches are equally stunning, with crystal clear water and soft white sand. Pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing on the beach, or rent kayaks and explore the shoreline.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel island is a great spot for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The refuge is home to hundreds of species of birds, as well as alligators, manatees, and other wildlife. Captiva’s South Seas Island Resort offers a variety of activities, including fishing charters, parasailing, and jet ski rentals.

Finally, no visit to Captiva and Sanibel would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Seafood is a specialty in this area, with fresh catches of grouper, snapper, and other local fish served in many of the restaurants.

Captiva and Sanibel are ideal destinations for families looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. From beaches and wildlife preserves to outdoor activities and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready for a fun-filled family vacation!

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a retro Florida beach spot with small-town vibes. The area is known for its crystal clear waters, soft white sands, and abundance of family-friendly activities. With its calm waters and gentle waves, Clearwater is an ideal spot for families to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other water-based activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.

One of the biggest draws ofor families is the variety of entertainment options available. The beach is home to Pier 60, which offers daily sunset celebrations, free movies on the beach, and live music. Additionally, there are many shops, restaurants, and cafes along the beach, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while enjoying the stunning views.

With it's prime location on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater is a great Florida family vacation destination.

For families with younger children, Clearwater Beach also boasts a number of family friendly attractions, such as the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is home to Winter the Dolphin, the star of the hit movie “Dolphin Tale.” The aquarium offers educational programs and interactive exhibits, providing an exciting and educational experience for kids of all ages.

Overall, Clearwater Beach is an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy a fun-filled vacation in a beautiful, family-friendly location. With its gorgeous beaches, ample entertainment options, and variety of family-friendly attractions, Clearwater Beach is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Florida Family Vacations: The Panhandle

Panama City Beach

Panama City is a popular beach destination located in the Florida Panhandle. With its white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to this area year-round. Panama City Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages. From water sports like parasailing and jet skiing to amusement parks and mini-golf courses, there is no shortage of things to do in Panama City. And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of opportunities to simply soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Coast.

Panama City consistently rates as one of the best beaches in Florida, so it's no surprise it's tops when it comes to planning Florida family vacations (photocredit: depositphotos.com/ RobHainer)

In addition to its beaches, Panama City also offers a number of cultural attractions. The Panama City Center for the Arts is a must-see for anyone interested in visual or performing arts. The center offers rotating exhibits of local and regional artists, as well as concerts and performances throughout the year. The Bay County History Museum is another great option for those interested in learning about the history of the area. Housed in a historic building in downtown Panama City, the museum features exhibits on everything from the Civil War to local maritime history.

Where to Stay in Panama City Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach – This resort offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including a kids’ club, game room, waterpark, and multiple pools. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar and grill.

Marriott’s Legends Edge at Bay Point – This resort offers spacious villas with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families. The resort also offers multiple pools, a children’s play area, and easy access to nearby family-friendly attractions, such as Gulf World Marine Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark.

No matter where you head for Florida family vacations in the sunshine state there are plenty of fun activities for every member of the family. From fresh seafood to beautiful beaches and history galore, Florida is a great choice for a family friendly fun-filled vacation!

Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE FLORIDA VACATION PLANNER! This vacation planner has kept me sane when planning our Florida explorations!

To help you plan your next Florida Vacation, don’t forget to grab your copy of the Ultimate Travel Planner For A Florida Vacation

More Florida Family Vacation Ideas:

couple in convertible at sunset

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