Orlando’s great and all, but one can only take so much of Disney and massive tourist hordes. That’s why we put together a few of our favorite beach towns that deserve a weekend road trip. If you give these beach towns and their natural preserves, museums, historic sites and, of course, great beaches a chance, you can thank us later.
Atlantic Beach
2 hours and 37 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it:Historians believe Atlantic Beach to be the first year-round Native American settlement in North America. This is a dog-friendly beach, so bring your furry child with you. A new local town center supplements the area with a variety of restaurants and other places of interest. Check out the Hanna Park campgrounds for more than 20 miles worth hiking and biking along the northern border of the small city. Fill up with some worthwhile eats at Ragtime Tavern & Seafood Grill.
Beaches to check out: Atlantic Beach, Circle Regional Beach, Tom Doe Memorial Beach
Photo via Adobe StockCedar Key
2 hours and 16 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it: The Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, part of Florida’s Big Bend Estuary, is home to a variety of bird species. Visit the historic 1854 lighthouse at Seahorse Key. Tony’s Seafood Restaurant is a known and loved spot for fishy grub, but there are plenty more options to explore.
Beaches to check out: Cedar Key Beach, Cedar Key Museum State Park, Atsena Otie Key, Seahorse Key
Photo via Adobe StockCocoa Beach
1 hour from Orlando
What’s great about it: Cocoa Beach is a well-known beach zone boasting 72 miles of Atlantic shoreline. It’s one of the only beaches where you can legally drink alcohol, so you can keep your discreet coozy at home if it matters. There’s plenty of nightlife locations to top off a day spent on the sand, like Coconuts on the Beach. If you’re up for more seafood, pop into Jazzy’s Mainely Lobster and Seafood Company.
Beaches to check out: Lori Wilson Park, Shephard Park, Playalinda Beach, Cocoa Beach
Photo via Adobe StockDelray Beach
2 hours and 45 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it: In 2012, USA Today rated Delray Beach as the best small town in America, and for good reason. Atlantic Avenue in Downtown is full of adventures, especially at night, and parking at the municipal beach is pretty cheap at $1.50 an hour. Check out the Cornell Art Museum or the Sandoway Discovery Center for some interactive nature exhibits. If you’re down for some comfort food and a good happy hour, enjoy Latino dishes at Cabana El Rey.
Beaches to check out: Sarah Gleason Park, Sandoway Park, Anchor Park, Atlantic Dunes Park
Photo via Adobe StockSiesta Key
2 hours and 31 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it:Other than gaining even more popularity because of the MTV show, Siesta Key is genuinely a prime spot to kick back and relax. There are three beaches along the city’s 8 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, equipped with snorkeling at the Point of Rocks and a local music venue at The Beach Club. Check out the Oyster Bar for happy hour specials and seafood fare, plus draft beer and more live music.
Beaches to check out: Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach
Photo via Adobe StockFernandina Beach
2 hours and 45 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it:Found on Amelia Island, this small city is also home to the 1,400 acres of Fort Clinch State Park, which dates back to the Civil War. You can view wildlife or camp and hike the natural trails. You can explore the historic district and check out the Museum of History in particular, which used to be a jail. There’s also the Amelia Island Light, a historic lighthouse that requires reservations in advance. Timoti’s Seafood Shak is your one-stop shop for satisfying your marine desires, or stop by The Crab Trap for crab legs.
Beaches to check out: Fernandina Beach
Photo via Adobe StockSanibel Island
3 hours and 32 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it:At Sanibel Island, you can hit a nature tour trail, take a diving tour at a sunken U.S. Navy Ship, or kayak through the coastal waters and Lee County’s inland tributaries through The Great Calusa Bluesway. One of the first lighthouses of Florida’ Gulf Coast lives on the island. The Mad Hatter Restaurant is a popular waterfront spot for dining, but you can also check out the Lazy Flamingo for daily happy hour specials.
Beaches to check out: Bowman’s Beach, Tarpon Beach, Lighthouse Beach
Photo via Adobe StockJuno Beach
2 hours and 30 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it: The beach is fairly close to the Juno Dunes Natural Area, as well as the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. There’s also the Ocean Cay Park if you’re into having a picnic or grilling out in the sun. If you’re in the mood for fishing, there’s a pier waiting for you, but it’ll cost you a buck or two. This is another dog-friendly beach, but only in some parts so check in advance. For food, Thirsty Turtle Seagrill & Market will hopefully satisfy your needs for beers and laidback pub grub.
Beaches to check out: Juno Beach, Loggerhead Park, Ocean Cay Park
Photo via Adobe StockPass-A-Grille Beach
2 hours and 9 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it: Found at the southernmost point of St. Pete, Pass-A-Grille is a historic beachside town packed with local shops and activities. The Island Ferry takes you on an excursion to Anna Maria Island, or you can view dolphins and other wildlife with the sunset as your backdrop. Rent a speedboat or try paddleboarding. If you want to try your luck with fishing, stop by the famous Merry Pier. As far as food options, you might be set with Paradise Grille’s American fare oceanside, but you could also give Sea Critters Cafe’s seafood a shot.
Beaches to check out: Pass-A-Grille Beach
Photo via Adobe StockNew Smyrna Beach
1 hour and 3 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it:New Smyrna is a favorite spot for surfers and has been named one of the best surf towns in the country. A variety of water activities await you, like fishing and kayaking, but there’s more to do. Highlights include the Black Heritage Museum and the Atlantic Center for the Arts. For foodie heaven, hit up Third Wave Cafe down Flagler Avenue, or people-watch at the bar beachside at Breakers.
Beaches to check out: New Smyrna Beach, Disappearing Island, Lighthouse Point Park, Smyrna Dunes Park
Photo via atlanticcenter/InstagramSanta Rosa Beach
5 hours and 44 minutes from Orlando
What’s great about it: This one is a bit of a job, but it’s worth it. Walton County’s Santa Rosa Beach sits along northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast, offering a quiet getaway for those seeking a low-key beach spot. Camp Helen State Park, home to one of the largest freshwater coastal dune lakes in the world, boasts a local legend of a sea monster that haunts the area. The park is a great spot for prime beach access, though, but once you start feeling hunger strike, hit up The Red Bar for grub and live music.
Beaches to check out: Santa Rosa Beach, Dune Allen, Seaside Beach, Grayton Beach
Photo via Adobe Stock
