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Picture this: you’ve spent the past few days at Walt Disney world resort Orlando, experiencing all the magic and wonder the theme parks has to offer.
But as much as you love the thrill of roller coasters and the excitement of character meet-and-greets, you’re ready for a change of pace.
What better way to take a break from the theme park hustle than by spending a day at one of the many beautiful beaches?
With several gorgeous beaches located just a short drive from Disneyworld Orlando, you can soak up the sun, feel the white sand between your toes, and dive into the waves for a refreshing break. So, grab your sunscreen and towels, and get ready for a day of fun in the sun at the best beaches near Disneyworld Orlando!
As you are most likely aware Disneyworld is located in central florida so you can access both coasts.
Here we explore the two sides of what Florida has to offer the Gulf of Mexico coast and the Atlantic ocean side.
Let’s start our adventures on the west coast of Florida which is on the Atlantic ocean. Here we have listed some of the popular beaches on the Atlantic coast with easy access from Disneyworld these are possibly the closest beaches for you.
Cocoa Beach
Location: – Atlantic ocean
Distance from Disney world :- 60 miles, one hour.
Cocoa Beach is a popular beach town located on Florida’s Space Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, great surf breaks, and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. The town has a laid-back vibe with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Cocoa Beach is located about an hour drive east of Disney World, making it a great option for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The beach is wide and sandy, offering plenty of space for sunbathing and playing in the waves. Surfing is also popular here, with several surf shops and schools offering lessons and equipment rentals. It is also home to the famous ron jon surf shop. The nearby Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing, dining, and entertainment. Overall, Cocoa Beach is a great place and relaxing destination for all the family.
Daytona Beach
Location – Atlantic ocean
Distance from Disney world – 65 miles, 1 hour 30 mins.
Daytona Beach is a well-known and popular beach destination located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, about 1 hour and 30 minutes northeast of Disney World. Daytona beach is arguably one of the most famous beaches in the whole of Florida.
This beach is a perfect spot for anyone. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the waves. The beach is also famous for its hard-packed sand, which allows cars to drive on it.
some things that Daytona is famous for:
Daytona International Speedway: This iconic racetrack is home to the Daytona 500, one of the most prestigious and well-known NASCAR races.
Beach Driving: Daytona Beach is one of the few beaches in Florida where cars are allowed to drive on the sand. This unique feature makes it a popular destination for car enthusiasts.
Biketoberfest and Daytona Bike Week: These two annual events draw motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world to Daytona Beach.
Surfing: Daytona Beach is also a popular destination for surfing, with several surf shops and schools offering lessons and equipment rentals.
Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier: This popular attraction features carnival rides, games, restaurants, and shops, and offers easy access to the beach.
The boardwalk also offers easy access to the beach and is a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset. Overall, Daytona Beach offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun and is a great day trip option from Disney World.
Ormond Beach
location – Atlantic ocean
time to disney:- 56 miles around an hours drive.
Ormond Beach is a charming and laid-back beach town located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, northeast of Disney World. The town is known for its beautiful, uncrowded beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Ormond Beach is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Tomoka State Park and the Bulow Creek State Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The beach at Ormond Beach is wide and sandy, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the waves. There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Visitors can also stroll along the Ormond Beach Scenic Loop and Trail, which offers scenic views of the Halifax River and the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ormond Beach also offers plenty of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and accommodations. Overall, Ormond Beach is a great destination for those looking for a more peaceful and laid-back beach experience, and is easily accessible from Disney World.
Vero Beach
location– Atlantic ocean
time to disney one hour & 45 minutes 113 miles.
Vero Beach is a charming and upscale beach town located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, about 1 hour and 45 minutes southeast of Disney World. The town is known for its beautiful, unspoiled beaches, as well as its cultural and recreational activities.
The beach at Vero Beach is wide and sandy, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the waves. The beach is also known for its excellent surf breaks, attracting surfers from around the world. Visitors can also explore the Vero Beach Museum of Art, which features a collection of over 800 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Vero Beach also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The Indian River Lagoon, which borders the town, is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Vero Beach also offers a variety of upscale dining and shopping options, as well as a range of accommodations, including resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals. Home to Disney’s very own beach resort disney’s vero beach resort Overall, Vero B
each is a great destination for those looking for a more upscale and sophisticated beach experience, and is easily accessible from Disney World.
Clearwater Beach
location – Gulf Coast
Time to disney – 110 miles 2 hours
Clearwater Beach is a beautiful and popular beach town located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, west of Disney World. The town is known for its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise calmer waters, and lively atmosphere.
The beach at Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the many water sports available, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also take a stroll along the famous Clearwater Beach Walk, a scenic promenade that runs along the beach and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Clearwater Beach also offers plenty of attractions and activities beyond the beach. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a popular spot for families, featuring interactive exhibits and presentations with dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. Visitors can also explore the nearby Caladesi Island State Park, a pristine barrier island with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a marina.
In addition to its attractions, Clearwater Beach offers a range of dining and shopping options, as well as a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to beachfront vacation rentals. Overall, Clearwater Beach is a great destination for those looking for a lively and fun beach experience, and is easily accessible from Disney World.
Anna Marie Island
location gulf coast
distance to Disneyworld: 108 miles , 2 hours.
Anna Maria Island is a charming barrier island located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 2 hours south of Disney World. The island is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and old-world charm. The island is seven miles long and offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors, including swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and fishing.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Anna Maria Island offers a range of unique and quaint shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can also explore the island’s historic landmarks, such as the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum and the Old Anna Maria Jail, which was built in 1927 and now serves as a popular tourist attraction.
The island also features several parks and nature preserves, including the Coquina Baywalk, a boardwalk that winds through mangroves and offers beautiful views of the bay. Visitors can also take a scenic bike ride or stroll along the island’s 6.5-mile paved trail.
Overall, Anna Maria Island is a great destination for those looking for a quiet and laid-back beach experience, and is easily accessible from Disney World. The island’s small-town charm and beautiful beaches make it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
St Pete Beach
Location – Gulf Coast
Time to Disney – 96 miles 1 hour 30 mins
St. Pete Beach is a picturesque beach town located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 2 hours west of Disney World. The town is known for its stunning white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere.
The beach at St. Pete Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a range of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Visitors can also take a stroll along the historic Corey Avenue, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
St. Pete Beach is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Pass-A-Grille Beach and the Fort De Soto Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The town also boasts several cultural attractions, including the Salvador Dali Museum and the Chihuly Collection.
In addition to its attractions, St. Pete Beach offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to beachfront vacation rentals. The town is also home to a range of dining and shopping options, as well as several annual festivals and events, including the St. Pete Beach Bike Fest and the St. Pete Beach Seafood Festival.
Overall, St. Pete Beach is a great destination for those looking for a relaxed and laid-back beach experience, and is easily accessible from Disney World
New Smyrna Beach
location Atlantic ocean
Time to Disney – one hour and 30 mins. – 75 miles
New Smyrna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Volusia County, Florida, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The city is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the warm weather, abundant outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. New Smyrna Beach offers a wide range of attractions and amenities, from surfing and fishing to art galleries and museums. Visitors can also explore the city’s historic district, which is home to charming boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, enjoy some water sports, or soak up the local culture, New Smyrna Beach has something for everyone
Florida can be made even more special with a visit to the beautiful beaches that line its coasts. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day of water sports or a relaxing day of lounging in the sun, there are plenty of beaches to choose from on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The Atlantic side boasts iconic destinations like Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, while the Gulf coast is home to popular spots like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. These beaches offer a break from the theme parks and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Florida. So, if you’re planning a trip to Orlando, be sure to add a beach day to your itinerary for a truly unforgettable vacation.
**please note that all drive times are approx and can vary depending the time of day.
