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These are the top springs and beaches within driving distance from Orlando

By Orlando Weekly Staff on Fri, Mar 22, 2024 at 2:44 pm

Florida may be known for its beaches (and the spring breakers who really break them in each year), but they certainly aren't the only splash pads around. Florida's home to hidden-gem watering holes, manatee-filled natural springs and serene sand-lined shores — many just a short drive from the City Beautiful.

Spring is in full gear the summer heat is fast approaching, so admire the manatees, rent a kayak, pack a cooler or simply show up ready for sun. Here are the 31 top springs and beaches near Orlando.

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Photo via Adobe

Caladesi Island

2 and a half hours from Orlando
One of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island is only accessible by boat. But the view is always worth it, as well as the nature trails winding through the island’s interior.

Photo via Anastasia State Park/Facebook

Anastasia State Park

2 hours from Orlando
There are more than 1,600 acres of beaches at Anastasia State Park. The ancient sand dunes make this destination captivating, with wildlife flourishing and birdwatchers rejoicing. And if you're looking to extend your stay, there are more than 130 campsites located just a short stroll from the beach.

Photo via Cocoa Beach/ Visit Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach

1 hour from Orlando
Cocoa Beach is a classic Florida beach town with picturesque waters and miles of sand. Visit the pier during sunset for a bite to eat and walk around to enjoy the east coast Florida sky.

Photo via Daytona Beach/Facebook

Daytona Beach Pier

58 minutes from Orlando
Aside from its made-for-spring-break beaches and allure to international bikers, Daytona Beach offers an active pier for springtime strolling. There's plenty to see, eat and drink on this strand of very Florida fun in the sun.

Photo via Fort De Soto/Pinellas County

Fort De Soto

3 hours from Orlando
Fort De Soto offers a pet-friendly beach for those pups who love the water. Humans can also hang out by the shoreline and catch some rays, or take a peek around the large tidal pool while searching for sand dollars. You'll find pristine clear waters paired with its soft, white sand, as well as nearby historic sites, such as a Spanish American War-era fort.

Photo via Silver Springs/Facebook

Silver Springs

1 hour, 30 minutes from Orlando
This beautiful blue water is great for snorkeling and swimming alongside aquatic wildlife. You can also walk or ride the scenic 15-mile forest trail. And there's no need to stress-pack sandwiches, because Silvers Springs' very own Springside Restaurant sits right on site. To achieve the ultimate experience, check out their guided glass-bottom kayak tours and paddle the 5-mile river.

Photo via Rock Springs’ Kelly Park/Twitter

Rock Springs’ Kelly Park

30 minutes from Orlando
Described as Orlando’s own natural lazy river, Rock Springs' Kelly Park is the perfect opportunity to relax as you let the river show you around. With the option of kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding, there are several nooks and crannies to explore at Rock Springs, not even including the various nature trails.

Photo via Manatee Springs/Florida State Parks

Manatee Springs

2 hours, 15 minutes from Orlando
Offering its cool waters for more than 10,000 years, this first-magnitude spring is a sight you can’t skip. Manatee Springs offers more than 8 miles worth of nature trails that take you through majestic cypress swamps and sinkhole ponds. Always keep an eye out when swimming, you never know when you'll see a manatee poking around.

Photo via Adobe

Satellite Beach

1 hour from Orlando
This beach is most known for its surfing; many locals learn to surf specifically at Satellite Beach. The laid-back beach offers weekly sea turtle “talks & walks,” where guests can learn all about sea turtles. The beach is convenient to Palm Bay, Melbourne and Titusville.

Photo via Boneyard Beach/Florida State Parks

Boneyard Beach

2 hours, 30 minutes from Orlando
Located on Big Talbot island, this is the place if you’re looking to switch up your typical beach experience. Ditch swimming for the day (this is a no-swimming beach) and instead explore the huge trunks of sun-bleached driftwood that replicates the eerie appearance of abandoned “bones.” They lie scattered all over the shoreline, giving the spot its name.

Photo via Anna Maria Island Chamber/Instagram

Anna Maria Island

3 hours from Orlando
The laid-back feel of Anna Maria Island makes it the perfect place for a relaxed weekend getaway. With calm waves and beautiful soft, white sand, this 7-mile beach is a perfect spot for families. There are activities for all to enjoy, such as bike and scooter rentals, eco-tours, kayaking and horseback riding on the beach.