There’s a reason Florida consistently lands itself in the top vacation destinations for families—its dreamy beaches, world-renowned theme parks, and kid-friendly cities make it a no-brainer for families with little ones. But Florida has plenty to offer beyond just Orlando and Miami. The Sunshine State is brimming with natural beauty, cultural hotspots, and yummy food scenes. You could spend weeks hopping from city to city, shifting climates, cultures, and lifestyles as you go. This is what makes trip planning overwhelming for so many families: with a state as large and diverse as Florida, most don’t know where to start.
Luckily, I have relatives all over the Sunshine State and have spent the better part of my childhood exploring its nooks and crannies. With that knowledge, and with the additional family travel expertise of our editors, I’ve crafted a list of the 15 best Florida destinations for families that aren’t Orlando or Miami. From beach getaways to historic gems, the cities on this list are located all over Florida and veer off the beaten path. Each of these hidden Florida spots offers affordable and diverse vacation options for families planning their 2026 travel.
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Why choose a unique Florida family vacation
I certainly don’t blame you if you plan to spend the bulk of your Florida vacation lounging in your new favorite bathing suit, reading the perfect vacation book, and watching your kids build sand castles. But staying in Florida’s most popular beach towns can mean large crowds, exorbitant prices, and stressful travel days. For parents who already have their hands full, factors like these can take away from the magic of a family vacation. That’s why staying in one of Florida’s hidden gems is the way to go—you get all the sunshine and vacation fun your family needs, without the added stress.
But Florida isn’t just white sand beaches. Despite its present-day fame for beach towns and theme parks, the Sunshine State has a lot to offer. For all the adventurous families out there, many of the vacation spots on this list offer diverse wildlife, gateways to state parks and springs, and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. Florida also has a rich and varied history. Many of the historical towns on this list provide a peek inside “Old Florida,” with museums and historical districts perfect for exploring with your family.
Florida Panhandle
- Pensacola Beach
- St. George Island
Northeast Atlantic Coast
- Amelia Island
- St. Augustine
North Central Florida
- High Springs
- Micanopy
- Ocala
Central Gulf Coast
- Cedar Key
- Crystal River
- Clearwater
- Anna Maria Island
Southwest Florida
- Sanibel Island
- Captiva Island
Southeast Atlantic Coast
- Boca Raton
Florida Keys
- Islamorada
Pensacola Beach
Located on the panhandle, Pensacola has a rich history as “America’s First Settlement.” It was once ruled over by Spain, France, and Britain. Now, it’s a perfect destination for history buffs who want to enjoy white sand beaches and sparkling emerald waters.
Best for: The entire family! The shallow, calm waters and quieter atmosphere—compared to the much busier Destin Beach—make it a great fit for younger kiddos (ages 3-10). Families will want to book a 3-5 day visit, leaving plenty of time for beach relaxation and water activities.
Where to stay: The Hilton Pensacola is a gorgeous beachfront property with a beautiful pool complex. For families looking for accommodations that are a little bit more out of the box, The Houseboats of Seville Harbor are steps from downtown and include spacious kitchens and living rooms.
Best things to do with kids in Pensacola Beach
For beach lovers, visit Opal Beach and Langdon Beach to take a dip in the warm, shimmering waters and—if you have time—book a dolphin cruise! Your little ones will love spotting the diverse wildlife. If you need a break from the beach, you can also visit the nearby Gulf Breeze Zoo, which has plenty of opportunities for up-close interactions with animals.
In the evening, explore Downtown Pensacola, a historic village with preserved buildings that speak to the city’s rich history. Palafox Street corridor, the city’s main strip of restaurants, shopping, and museums, is wide, walkable, and stroller-friendly, with lots of shaded areas for your little ones to rest their legs.
For beachside dining, Shaggy’s offers authentic seafood with plenty of kid-friendly options. While you’re downtown, check out Jaco’s Bayfront Bar and Grille for dinner and Maker’s Cafe for a quick morning coffee and pastry.
St. George Island
This 22-mile barrier island, located off Florida’s panhandle, offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, fishing, and a quiet beach town for families in search of a getaway. To get to the island, fly into Tallahassee International Airport and rent a car.
Best for: Families of all ages in search of peaceful, uncrowded beaches their kiddos can enjoy safely! St. George Island is another quiet barrier island perfect for multigenerational travel with grandparents and cousins. Book for 3-5 days to give your family time to soak in the slow-paced, island way of life.
Where to stay: Similar to Anna Maria Island, St. George Island is desired for its small-town beach feel, meaning there are no high-rise hotels. Vacation rentals are probably your best bet, but small hotels like the St. George Inn are also excellent options.
Best things to do with kids on St. George Island
You’ll definitely want to visit St. George Island State Park, a haven for families who enjoy hiking, biking, or observing wildlife. For an afternoon adventure, take your little ones up the 92 steps to Cape St. George Lighthouse and enjoy the breathtaking view. If theyre’re feeling hungry (and tired) afterward, check out Blue Parrot Ocean Front Cafe or Paddy’s Raw Bar—seafood is the star of the show all over the island, but there are plenty of kid-friendly comfort foods.
Stargazing is also a must-do nighttime activity on St. George Island! The island’s secluded nature and minimal light pollution make for excellent visibility. Gather up plenty of blankets, beach chairs, and flashlights and head out to one of St. George’s many secluded beaches for a special, post-bedtime treat for your little ones.
Amelia Island
Draped in Southern hospitality and brimming with natural wonders, Amelia Island is a quiet barrier island in Northeast Florida. Fly into the Jacksonville airport and make the 30-40 minute drive to the island.
Best for: Kids of all ages, but little ones ages 6 and up will best be able to enjoy the horseback riding, biking, and water sports the island has to offer. Families will want to book a 3-5 day vacation to enjoy lots of beach time and outdoor activities.
Where to stay: Amelia Island offers a variety of accommodations for families, from luxury hotels like The Ritz Carlton and Omni Amelia Island Resort to charming and historic inns like The Addison on Amelia. I’d go the hotel route if you’re looking for more amenities, but you really can’t go wrong.
Best things to do with kids on Amelia Island
Make sure to visit Amelia Island State Park for gorgeous hiking trails, mesmerizing wildlife, and pristine white sand beaches—you can even go horseback riding on some of them! You also won’t want to miss the chance to rent bikes. A bicycle with a child seat is only $20/day. From downtown, you can hop on the Egans Creek Greenway, a network of trails with lots of chances to spot wildlife.
If you’re craving some time on the water, a guided kayak tour of the island with your olde kiddos and tweens will be a hit. Then, head to the Fernandina historic district for an afternoon of shopping and dining. The area is super stroller-friendly and crowds tend to be very manageable—you shouldn’t need any dinner reservations!
For dining, stay in the historic district and head to The Salty Pelican for a classic American dinner that will be a hit with the whole family. Leddy’s Porch is also an excellent choice for brunch or lunch.
St. Augustine
The oldest established city in Florida, St. Augustine is known for its storied history and coastal charm, offering a more unique family vacation. Jacksonville International Airport will have the most incoming flights. From there, families can make the one-hour drive to St. Augustine.
Best for: Families with school-aged kids (5-12) and teens who will appreciate exploring the history of the city through guided tours and interactive experiences. Most families will need 2-3 days to explore the city’s charming downtown district and beaches.
Where to stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton is a great way to cash in some hotel points while still getting beachfront access and close proximity to downtown shops and dining. Another beachfront home base with positive reviews and reasonable rates, The Saint Augustine Beach House features breezy rooms with kitchenettes and ocean-view balconies, as well as free breakfast and parking.
Best things to do with kids in St. Augustine
Downtown St. Augustine is lined with centuries-old buildings, and luckily, it’s super easy to tour with your little ones in tow. You won’t want to miss the massive Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fortress dating back to the 1600s that offers breathtaking views of the coast, or the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, which features real artifacts from the golden age of piracy. When those little legs need a break, hop aboard the Old Town Trolley, which stops at over 20 different stops throughout St. Augustine (and don’t forget to grab a gourmet ice pop for your kiddos from Hyppo).
History not your thing? Ocean Hammock Park offers trails and picnic areas to explore. The playground and splash zone at St. Johns County Ocean Pier are sure to be the highlights for little travelers. After a day in the sun, stop by The Columbia Restaurant, a Spanish eatery established in 1905. Or head to Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille.
High Springs
Known as the gateway to the springs, High Springs is famous for outdoor activities like paddling and snorkeling. Fly into the Gainesville airport and make the 30-minute drive to this outdoor oasis.
Best for: Families with kids ages 6 and up who are strong swimmers and comfortable wearing snorkel gear. Similar to Crystal River, High Springs is best enjoyed on the water, taking in the natural beauty and wildlife. Most of the main activities can be done in 1-2 days, but perhaps plan for three if anyone in your family wants to try scuba diving!
Where to stay: Smaller cabin retreats and bed and breakfasts are the way to go in High Springs. After all, most of your time will be spent outside exploring. Check out Grady House Bed and Breakfast, offering family rooms for a cozy, walkable spot. Or try glamping at Marriot Bonvoy’s Postcard Cabins.
Best things to do with kids in High Springs
A trip to High Springs isn’t complete without a visit to Ginnie Springs. You can camp there with your family, then take a dip in the crystal clear waters. If your family members have a diving license, be sure to pack your gear. Additionally, if you have older kiddos up for a long day spent outdoors, you’ll want to hike or bike through O’Leno State Park. You can also rent canoes and kayak to paddle the Santa Fe River.
High Spring’s downtown district is quaint and charming, and offers numerous dining options. The Great Outdoors is a classic American grill ideal for dinner, while Florida Creamery is nearby and the perfect spot for an after-dinner treat. The entire district is walkable and kid-friendly, with wide sidewalks that easily accommodate strollers. There’s even a spot for some after-dinner mini-golf and ice cream, if your kids are up for it.
Micanopy
Nicknamed “the town time forgot,” Minacopy is quintessential old Florida frozen in time. Just ten miles from Gainesville, the charming small town is easily accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages seeking a quiet day trip or weekend getaway. The town’s peaceful, dreamy downtown is stroller-friendly, and the nearby parks and nature preserves are perfect for kiddos who love playing outdoors.
Where to stay: The Herlong Mansion Bed and Breakfast is a historic home that once belonged to one of the original settlers of Micanopy. For a comfortable place to rest your head that is also imbued with history, book a stay there.
Best things to do with kids in Micanopy
Visitors to Micanopy should flock to Cholokka Boulevard, the center of town and home of countless antique shops, boutiques, eateries, and historic museums that offer tourists a glimpse into one of Florida’s oldest towns. Just a few miles north of Micanopy is Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where kids will love running around and exploring—wildlife is abundant! Families with little ones should also visit Coon Hollo Farm, where kiddos can enjoy tractor rides, corn mazes, and countless animals.
For dining, Blue Highway Pizzeria is nestled right in the downtown district and is sure to be a perfect fit for the whole family. The Pearl Country Store & Barbecue is another local spot right near downtown you’ll want to check out.
Ocala
Known for its stunning natural springs, charming historic downtown, and equestrian culture, Ocala is a city in central Florida that should be added to your newly updated Florida bucket list. Gainesville Regional is the closest airport, but Orlando is also within driving distance and generally has more flights.
Best for: Families with school-aged kids (5-12), tweens, and teens who love swimming, horses, and being outdoors! Visiting Ocala is all about floating in the springs and exploring the state parks. To get the most out of your vacation, visit for 2-4 days.
Where to stay: The World Equestrian Hotel offers family-friendly amenities like a large pool and several dining options. There’s also a golf course just off the resort property for any parents and kiddos hoping to practice their swing.
Best things to do with kids in Ocala
Explore Silver Springs State Park and Rainbow Springs State Park for glass bottom boat tours and crystal clear waters. Your kiddos will love peering into the waters and spotting manatees, turtles, and fish floating below. You can also rent tubes and float down the Rainbow River with your whole family—quite the photo opportunity.
As the horse capital of Florida, a tour of local horse farms is also a must-do in Ocala, along with a guided ride along the city’s gorgeous nature trails. If you’re in search of some adventure, older kiddos will love ziplining through the springs and national parks at Canyons Adventure Park. Then, end the day off with a visit to Ocala drive in theater! Kids of all ages will love curling up in the trunk with snacks and blankets and enjoying a nostalgic film.
For dining, head to the historic downtown district of Ocala. The streets are walkable and stroller-friendly, with tons of nearby parks for little ones to burn off some energy pre-dinner. The Braised Onion is an excellent family option with a mix of comfort food and locally sourced options.
Cedar Key
Tucked on the northwest coast of Florida in a region largely untouched by modern tourism, Cedar Key is a quiet island city located in the Gulf, known for its rustic atmosphere and immense natural beauty. Fly into Gainesville Regional Airport and make the approximately one-hour drive to the island.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages, particularly those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, biking, and kayaking. If needed, Cedar Key can be explored on a quick day trip—but a 2-3 day vacation is also a great way to enjoy all the outdoor activities the small town has to offer.
Where to stay: The Cedar Key community takes pride in keeping chain hotels and restaurants off the island, so you won’t find any high rises. Luckily, the entire town is very walkable, so any of the available vacation rentals should do. The Pirates Cove Cottages and Harbour Master Suites are fan favorites!
Best things to do with kids in Cedar Key
Fishing, hiking, and biking are the trinity of activities I recommend for Cedar Key. Speed limits on the roads are low, so biking to see the town is a fun (and safe) pastime in the sunshine. While you’re downtown, visit Cedar Key Arts Center for a taste of local art as well as hands-on workshops in painting and pottery that your kids will love. Finally, end the day with a sunset boat tour of the surrounding barrier islands with Tidewater Tours. Kids of all ages will love spotting dolphins and other wildlife in the water.
For dining, The Prickly Palm should be your go-to coffee and breakfast stop. The bubble gum pink exterior is adorable and impossible to miss. For lunch and dinner, Steamers Clam Bar and Grill is a must-visit, nestled right in downtown Cedar Key. Due to the town’s small and cozy nature, the walk over from where you’re staying shouldn’t be too bad (even for exhausted kiddos), but you can also drive. Street parking shouldn’t be too difficult to locate so as long as there are no events are happening downtown.
Crystal River
A coastal city situated on the west side of Florida, Crystal River is famous for being the “Manatee Capital of the World.” Its state parks and countless springs make for an adventurous family vacation.
Best for: Families with kids ages 6 and up, who are comfortable swimming and wearing snorkeling gear—Crystal River is all about the water and wildlife! To get the most out of the outdoor experiences, book a 2-3 day trip with your family.
Where to stay: The Plantation Resort offers family amenities like larger suites to accommodate parents and their little ones. The Paddletail Waterfront Lodge is another centrally located option that offers manatee swimming packages included with your stay!
Best things to do with kids in Crystal River
A trip to Crystal River isn’t complete without a dip in the spring-fed waters of Kings Bay alongside countless manatees. If your little ones already have their sea legs, you’ll want to book a guided tour to explore the springs, preferably from November-March, which is considered “manatee season.” Then, head to Crystal River State Park to explore one of the countless hiking trails—and don’t forget your bathing suit. The Three Sisters Spring is an ideal spot to enjoy crystal clear waters (and more manatees).
If you need a break from the water, Faith Haven CRC’s Florida Tree Top Adventure is a ropes course adventure designed for families with older kids, teens, and tweens. It isn’t ridiculously challenging, but is still a nice opportunity for your kiddos to build some confidence and cooperate with their siblings and parents!
The downtown district offers charming shopping and dining alongside classic old Florida charm. The wide, paved sidewalks are stroller-friendly and walkable in a single evening. You’ll want to stop by Vintage on 5th for dinner—they have excellent beef and fish dishes and quite the wine menu.
Clearwater
Just half an hour from Tampa, Clearwater is the perfect family-friendly beach destination. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, the gorgeous beaches and water activities will offer something for the whole family.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages in search of a fun beach vacation! Tweens and teens will also love the lively, walkable scene in the downtown and around Pier 60. Families looking for a longer getaway can stay up to four days, but Clearwater can also be enjoyed in 1-3 days, if needed.
Where to stay: Opal Sands Resort & Spa—located at the southern end of Clearwater—offers a luxurious beachside stay with all the amenities your family will need. If you’re looking to cash in some loyalty points, you also can’t go wrong with the centrally located JW Marriott.
Best things to do with kids in Clearwater
No trip to Clearwater is complete without visiting either Clearwater Beach or Sand Key Park. Not only are the gulf waters calm and warm, but many of the beaches offer access to water slides, trampolines, and activities like paragliding and jet sking (sure to be a hit with any adventurous little ones). Make sure to also stop by Pier 60 for their daily sunset celebration. Adults will enjoy the taste of local art and food while little ones can play on the nearby covered playground! Then, close the night out with dinner at Palm Pavilion.
Clearwater is also home to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, famous for Winter the dolphin, who had a prosthetic tail and was featured in the 2011 kids’ movie Dolphin Tale. Though Winter has passed, tourists can still visit the aquarium and enjoy viewing their countless other wildlife. The staff offer a multitude of guided tours and hands-on experiences for your kiddos!
Anna Maria Island
This barrier island is famous for its white-sand Gulf beaches and charming small town vibe. The closest airports are Tampa International and Sarasota-Bradenton—the island is easily reached by bridge from either of these locations.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages who want a laid back, home-away-from-home beach getaway. For families on a time crunch, a long weekend offers plenty of time to explore the island. But if you can, book for 5-6 days to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and slow pace of life.
Where to stay: Anna Maria Island doesn’t have high rises or hotel franchises. In fact, you’ll need to drive at least a few miles from the island to find a hotel at all. Most families who visit rent a house on Airbnb or Vrbo property and spend their getaway soaking up the island life.
Best things to do with kids on Anna Maria Island
For families looking for some adventure, you can rent bikes on Anna Maria Island for only $14/day. You can also do guided kayak tours with Happy Paddler, a great fit for older kiddos who love to be out on the water. If you’re just looking to enjoy a peaceful beach day with your family, head to Bean Point Beach, a quieter stretch of sand brimming with natural beauty and wildlife—keep an eye out for floating manatees and dolphins!
Another pro tip—to feel like a local, rent a golf cart. There are eight passenger carts available, which are perfect for big families and can transport you and your kids all over the island! Once your beach day is over, pack the family up into the golf cart and drive to dinner at Vinnie’s Italian Kitchen, a locally owned eatery with all the pasta and pizza your little ones could need.
Sanibel Island
Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast—not too far from Fort Myers—Sanibel Island is a premier vacation destination known for its lush wildlife habitats and first-class beaches. Fly into the Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. Then, either make the drive or catch a shuttle across the Sanibel Causeway.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages, particularly toddlers and little kids, due to the island’s gentle gulf waters (perfect for swimming) and kid-friendly nature preserves. Sanibel Island has a lot to offer, so families visiting for the first time should plan for a 5+ day trip!
Where to stay: The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and Shalimar Beach Resort offer all the amenities a large family could need, including an impressive pool complex and pristine beachfront. For a larger space (and smaller price), check out The Island Inn, which offers spacious condos.
Best things to do with kids on Sanibel Island
Any beach on Sanibel Island will be gorgeous (you may even spot frolicking dolphins!), but if you’re looking for a more serene stretch of sand away from the hotels, check out Bowman’s Beach—it’s a shell collector’s paradise. For the animal lovers, head over to J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can bike, kayak, fish, and observe the wildlife around you. You can also visit The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). The section for visitors allows up-close viewings of alligators and turtles, an activity sure to be a hit with your little ones.
To wind down in the evening, check out Periwinkle Palace, a shopping and dining center at the heart of the island. The complex offers ample parking, so if your little ones are walked out and exhausted, you can drive over from your hotel or rental. Inside the complex, The Blue Giraffe Island Bar and Grill is a great family-friendly dinner option.
Captiva Island
Accessed via bridge from Sanibel Island, Captiva Island is a smaller barrier island featuring scenic white beaches and breathtaking sunsets. You’ll want to fly into Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers and make the drive over.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages, but particularly those with kids aged 4-12, who enjoy wildlife and the outdoors. The island’s quiet pace and variety in activities also make it a great fit for a multigenerational trip! 5-7 days on the island allows for a mix of relaxation and active days.
Where to stay: For a higher-end option, South Seas Island Resort offers everything you could need on its campus—likely due to its more remote location, so keep that in mind. ‘Tweens Waters Inn & Marina is another charming option with both rooms and cottages, if your family wants more space.
Best things to do with kids on Captiva Island
A trip to Captiva Island with your kiddos is best spent on the water. Captiva Cruises offers a multitude of guided boat tours that include dolphin watching and fishing lessons. You’ll also want to carve out a day to spend on the beach. For a break from the crowds, head to Turner Beach Park, a quieter stretch of sand with calm, twinkling waters and shady picnic spots. The beach offers outdoor showers, drinking fountains, bike racks, and plenty of parking—everything you’ll need for a smooth, stress-free beach day.
In need of some time on land? Older kiddos will love renting bikes and exploring the island on a self-guided tour. Make sure to stop by the Captiva Island Historical Society and check out of some of the island’s most notable landmarks, like the historic beach cemetery and the Chapel by the Sea.
For dinner, head to the Mucky Duck, a long-standing historic restaurant on the beach with a variety of family-friendly options. Old Captiva House offers more upscale dining options with a sunset view.
Boca Raton
For those in search of a high-end, beach-front city that isn’t Miami, Boca Raton is your best bet. Located on Florida’s southeastern coast, Boca Raton is aptly nicknamed “The Beverly Hills of Florida” and is known for its pristine golf courses and gorgeous beaches.
Best for: Families of all ages looking for a luxury, beach town feel! Tweens and teens will especially enjoy the city’s bustling downtown, as well as the multitude of water activities and on-land sports like golf. Most of the main sights and beaches can be seen in 2-4 days.
Where to stay: Boca Raton offers everything from luxury resorts to cozy beachside bungalows. The Beach Club at Boca Raton offers all the luxury accommodations any family could need. But the Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn offer similar amenities for far lower prices!
Best things to do with kids in Boca Raton
For shopping and dining, check out Mizner Park, as well as the Town Center at Boca Raton, one of South Florida’s top luxury shopping destinations. For families visiting with toddlers and little kids, stop by Sugar Sand Park, where kids can enjoy a vast playground and even explore the Children’s Science Explorium. If you’re in need of a relaxing beach day, head to Red Reef Park, a large beach with walking paths, picnic areas, plenty of public restrooms, and gorgeous off-beach snorkeling.
You also won’t want to miss visiting the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, where you can explore Florida’s diverse wildlife with your little ones (sign up for Turtle Walks if visiting in the summer!)
For dining, visit Max’s Grille in Mizner Park for a classic American lunch and dinner menu—it’s been a Boca Raton favorite for years. Boca’s natives also love their coffee shops, and Tartelette Patisserie is perfect for a quick coffee and bite in the morning.
Islamorada
For a family vacation nestled in the Florida Keys between Key Largo and Key West, Islamorada spans six islands and is known for its unique blend of relaxed island life and cultural history. To get to the Keys, fly into Miami International Airport, rent a car, and make the breathtaking drive.
Best for: Families with kids of all ages looking for a laid-back beach vacation. The island’s low-key, quiet atmosphere will be more baby and toddler-friendly than larger keys like Key West or Key Largo. Families want to book a 4-5 day vacation on this island to enjoy all the beaches, fishing, and snorkeling the key has to offer.
Where to stay: The Cheeca Lodge and Spa is a beachfront resort with luxurious accommodations and countless fine dining options. For a more budget-friendly stay, The Amara Cay Resort offers several affordable packages.
Best things to do with kids on Islamorada
Snorkeling is a must-do on Islamorada. I would recommend a half-day snorkeling and sandbar experience, ideal for all ages. Children 3 and under ride for free and will still enjoy taking a dip in the clear, warm waters with their parents, minus the snorkeling gear. As far as beaches go, any will do, but Anne’s Beach is a tranquil spot that offers excellent off-beach snorkeling. You can relax with your book and drink while your kiddos play in the water and build sandcastles.
For more hands-on water experiences, Islamorada is famous for its guided fishing tours. Seasoned boat captains will teach your kiddos how to catch their own dinner correctly and safely. Gear is provided on the boat, and your little ones will get to take a picture with their catch!
In the afternoon and evening, explore the Morada Ways Art District for galleries and boutiques. It’s easy to navigate with a stroller. Then, head to dinner at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, a widely-loved local spot right on the beach.
FAQs
Yes! There are tons of hidden gem destinations all over Florida. Along the panhandle, St. George Island and Pensacola Beach are quieter beach vacation options for families looking to soak up some sun away from the crowds. Northern Florida destinations like St. Augustine, Amelia Island, and High Springs offer a mixture of white-sand beaches, state parks, and history that is kid-friendly and affordable. Hidden gems in central and southern Florida include Clearwater Beach and Anna Maria Island, while Islamorada is a great option nestled amongst the Florida Keys for families who who want a laidback, quieter option.
What are less crowded Florida beach towns for families?
Less crowded beach towns in Florida include southern Florida destinations like Sanibel and Captiva Island, central Florida spots like Clearwater Beach, and northern Florida beach towns like Amelia Island. These vacation destinations feature all the sparkling blue water, pristine white sand, and warm temperatures visitors want when they come to Florida, without the crazy crowds and exorbitant pricing of Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
What are the most unique things to do in Florida with kids?
Despite being famous for its beaches, Florida has lots of unique activities to offer for kids of all ages. Visit Ocala or Crystal River in Central Florida so that your kiddos can take a dip in Florida’s gorgeous natural springs—and even swim with manatees! If a traditional beach town is more up your alley, spots like Anna Maria Island and Sanibel Island still have tons of unique activities to offer, like visiting wildlife preserves and animal hospitals, or renting kayaks for an afternoon paddle with your family.
Where in Florida is best for toddlers and little kids?
Quiet beach town destinations like Islamorada, Captiva Island, and Sanibel Island will be best for toddlers and little kids. Beaches in these locations are calm and safe for younger kiddos to explore and swim. They also have kid-friendly activities like playgrounds and wildlife centers, as well as multiple dining options that will suit the entire family.
Where in Florida is best for older kids and teenagers?
While beach towns are a great travel destinations for everyone, unique Florida vacation spots like Crystal River, High Springs, Ocala, and St. Augustine are well-suited for older kids and teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and snorkeling. Older kids will also enjoy bustling cities like Boca Raton and Clearwater for their large downtowns and variety of water activities—ziplining and paragliding are always a hit!
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Intern
As editorial intern, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content, and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented by contributing to The Everymom.
Images in map graphics credited to Megan Kemp, Roberta Correia, Tinsley Krisp, and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
