Florida is one of the world’s most popular destinations for family holidays, with a whole host of locations to choose from. From theme parks, water parks, museums and shopping – the sunshine state has it all.
With the help of Alistair Brown International Real Estate, here’s their list of Florida’s top 10 family vacation destinations. Let’s dive in.
Orlando SeaWorld, Universal Studios
A thriving city for all of the family, Orlando houses all things Disney and much more.
Lake Buena Vista
Home to all of the Disney resort hotels, theme parks and waterparks, Lake Buena Vista is situated in the heart of Orlando. For a fun-filled Disney holiday, Lake Buena Vista houses Disney Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort and Animal Kingdom, to name a few.
A great location for a self-catering family holiday, Lake Buena Vista is located close to the other resorts within Orlando, including SeaWorld and Universal Studios.
International Drive
International Drive has a large selection of restaurants, including the world’s largest McDonald’s.
Main attractions such as SeaWorld, Madame Tussauds and Coca Cola Orlando Eye are all situated along International Drive along with outlet malls and designer discount stores. Take a journey along I-Drive on a famous I-Ride Trolly.
When it comes to accommodation, Orlando is truly spoilt for choice. Whether you’re searching for resort-style living, or perhaps more exclusive vacation homes near Disney World, there are a number of options available; no matter what your budget is.
Miami
Miami isn’t all hustle, bustle and parties. There are a wide range of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, whatever their interest.
South Pointe
South Pointe Park, known locally as South Pointe is a 17-acre urban park in the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach, Florida. Combing the greenery of a city park alongside a white sandy beach, South Pointe caters to every member of the family. Beachgoers can enjoy the sunshine or relax at one of the shaded pavilions enjoying a barbecue or picnic.
Adults can enjoy a spot of fishing or a scenic walk along the South Pointe Pier while children play in the ocean-themed water feature situated in the shaded area of the park. South Pointe frequently hosts a variety of events and festivals at the outdoor amphitheater.
Coconut Grove
Located east of Coral Gables, Coconut Grove is a firm favorite amongst families and holidaymakers with plenty to do for both adults and children alike. The waterfront neighborhood is home to a bohemian and laid-back community and is just a short drive into the main city of Miami.
From the Farmers Market and plenty of restaurants to choose from, Coconut Grove has lots of great food on offer. For something historical and child-friendly, the guided tour of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are a huge hit amongst families as well as the Barnacle Historic State Park, home to one of the oldest houses in Miami.
Coral Gables
Known as The City Beautiful, Coral Gables lures in travelers with its tropical gardens, remarkable theatre and iconic swimming venues.
Coral Gables is the perfect location for a family vacation. For a spot of live entertainment, The Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre will suit all members of the family. Visit the Coral Gables Museum and take part in their free Family Day. Take a guided tour around the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden or visit the Miracle Mile for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and dining.
Atlantic Coast
Florida’s Atlantic Coast offers a variety of different destinations – from the hustle and bustle at Palm Beach to the calm and secluded at Amelia Island and St. Augustine.
St. Augustine
Situated on the Atlantic Coast of Northeastern Florida and the oldest city in America, St. Augustine is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and tranquil beaches. The nation’s oldest city comes alive for the entire family, featuring a wide range of activities and attractions for the whole family.
If you’re looking for something educational and historical yet fun, explore the different centuries at the historic Colonial Quarter from the 35-foot watchtower. Take a sip from the Fountain of Youth or visit the Pirate and Treasure Museum. For a day of family fun, take a trip to the Alligator Farm Zoological Park or Marineland Dolphin Adventure. With 42 miles of beautiful beaches, pack a picnic and head to the children’s splash zone before heading to the sea turtle nesting site.
Amelia Island
With 13 miles of sandy beaches and clear blue waters, Amelia Island has been a well-loved family favorite for many years. Known for having an abundance of luxury resorts and golf courses, Amelia Island has a history of Spanish, French, British and American rule.
Amelia Island is the perfect holiday destination all year round. Experience nature at its very best in the Winter and watch the rare Atlantic right whales wander to the waters of the Island to give birth and nurse their young calves. In the spring, watch as sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.
Daytona Beach
Known for its many attractions, including the Daytona International Speedway and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, Daytona Beach is the perfect location for race fans, children and families.
It is impossible to get bored with so much to do here at Daytona Beach. Climb Florida’s tallest Lighthouse or head to the Marine Science Centre where children can pet a stingray and see a tank full of freshwater turtles. Visit the Boardwalk and Daytona Beach Pier to take in the views and play on the amusement park rides.
Gulf Coast
Tampa
Situated along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is a major business center. Known for its variety of cultural offerings, from museums to opera shows, there is plenty of fun to be had for the whole family.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach offers a variety of activities to suit everybody, on land and in the water. With awards as ‘Best City Beach’, Clearwater offers pristine beaches and calming waters.
For theatre fans, take a trip to the Capitol Theatre that hosts musical acts and classic films. Visit the dolphins, stingrays and sea turtles at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where biologists and veterinarians nurse wild sea creatures back to health to return them to their original home. Offering free admission, take a leisurely stroll through the Florida Botanical Gardens for the whole family to enjoy.
St. Petersburg
With award-winning beaches, fine dining and the world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum, this waterfront location is the perfect location for a family getaway. Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg is known for its year-long sunshine.
For a day of family fun in the sun, visit Fort De Soto Park. Offering many different activities from canoeing, kayaking and cycling to simply lounging around, there is something for everyone. Try the region’s finest and freshest artisanal foods at the 20,000-square-foot Locale Market.
