If you’re ready to take a break from work and home life, few better places for a family vacation are better than Florida, with its wealth of options. If you’re looking for ideas, check out our guide to the best summer getaway spots in Florida for families.
St. Augustine
America’s oldest city has tons to offer visiting families. Of course, there are beaches to fill the days with surf and sun. You’ll also find fun attractions such as the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, where you can see real, live alligators up close—but not too close! Stroll the city and see some of its incredible historical landmarks, such as the 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. And no trip to St. Augustine is complete without visiting its famous Fountain of Youth. Try it yourself and see if you feel any younger!
Delray Beach
Delray has been voted the most fun small town in America, and for good reason. This quaint beach town is bursting with charm and culture. There are plenty of beach options to soak up the sun, or you can stroll through the gorgeous Murakami Museum and Japanese Gardens to get a glimpse of a culture from halfway around the world. Or visit the Avenue, the central downtown hub that’s filled with boutique shops and delicious dining options.
Marco Island
If your family is all about beach fun, few places in Florida are better for families than Marco Island. Nestled on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island has numerous beaches for you to enjoy, such as:
- Tigertail Beach
- Barefoot Beach
- Naples Beach
- Delnor-Wiggins State Park
For a change of pace, check out the Sun-N-Fun Lagoon and relax by the pool while the kids slide down some waterslides!
Alys Beach
When it comes to picturesque beach towns, few in Florida can compare to the charming Alys Beach. Located along the 30A coastal stretch between Panama City and Destin, Alys Beach has gorgeous beaches and things to do for the whole family. Visit one of the many nearby golf courses, shop for treasures at the various boutiques, or spend the day catching some rays on its beautiful beach. Stop by the Alys Beach Amphitheatre to see a show or to dance to some live music!
Tampa
It’s no accident that Tampa has been a premier destination for family vacations for seemingly forever. It’s home to not only many beaches and resorts to relax at but also some of the country’s best amusement and water parks. Busch Gardens also features thrilling rollercoasters that’ll make your heart skip a beat, and the Adventure Island water park offers a fun-filled day in the water!
Planning a family vacation isn’t easy, so we hope our list of summer getaway spots in Florida for families has given you some inspiration. Which place will your family visit first: the pleasant beaches of Marco Island or the exhilarating theme parks of Tampa?