Top Beaches near Orlando
Last Updated on August 9, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Just an hour away from Orlando and its world-famous theme parks, are some of Florida’s coolest beaches. The closest one, Cocoa Beach, is appreciated for its proximity to the NASA Space Station, while in Daytona Beach, you can watch as locals drift their cars on the shore, a tradition that celebrates the city’s great sportscar racing heritage. Let’s explore some of the best beaches near Orlando, where you can enjoy sun, sand, and surf as a perfect complement to your theme park adventures.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach, just an hour’s drive east of Orlando, is a quintessential Florida beach town. Its surf culture, its famous Ron Jon Surf Shop; but the coolest thing about this beach, visitors can see rocket launches from it. Cocoa Beach Pier provides fishing opportunities and beachside dining. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby Lori Wilson Park, featuring boardwalks through coastal hammocks and dunes.
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Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach’s unique tradition of allowing vehicles on the beach dates back to the early 1900s, when the hard-packed sand served as a racetrack for land speed records. Eventually this passion shared by oil-loving sports carmen evolved the famous Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Cheer on the cars drifting on the beach from the safe distance of your boat rental and enjoy being at the birthplace of NASCAR.
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New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach, located about an hour northeast of Orlando, is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent surfing conditions. The beach features 13 miles of white sand and clear waters. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The nearby Canaveral National Seashore offers pristine, undeveloped beaches and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sea turtle nesting sites during the summer months.
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Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, about two hours west of Orlando on the Gulf Coast, is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming and water sports. Book a boat and join Pier 60’s unique nightly sunset celebration. Enjoy the entertainment provided by street performers and artisans.
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Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore, about an hour east of Orlando, offers a more natural beach experience. This protected area features 24 miles of undeveloped beach, diverse wildlife, and historic sites. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. The seashore is also a crucial nesting area for sea turtles. Nearby, the Kennedy Space Center provides a unique opportunity to combine beach relaxation with space exploration education.
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From the surf-friendly shores of Cocoa Beach to the pristine sands of Clearwater Beach, there’s a perfect coastal getaway for every preference. These beaches near Orlando offer a refreshing contrast to the theme park experience, allowing visitors to unwind and enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. To enhance your beach adventure, consider boat rentals in Orlando. With a rented vessel, you can explore coastal waters, discover hidden coves, and create lasting memories along Florida’s beautiful shorelines.
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