15 Best Family-Friendly Spring Break Destinations in Florida (2024)

Last Updated on April 21, 2024

Looking to escape the cold and enjoy sunny beaches and warm weather this Spring Break? Head to the Sunshine State for a vacation you won’t forget!

Florida features plenty of kid-friendly destinations, even during Spring Break. From pristine beaches to incredible state parks to fun theme parks, you’re sure to find the perfect Spring Break vacation spot for your family, away from the crowds and party scene.

Keep on reading to discover some of the best family Spring Break destinations in Florida that kids of all ages will love.

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Walt Disney World

By Kim from Adventures in Pixie Dust

Walt Disney World is the most visited attraction in all of Florida.It includes 4 theme parks and 2 waterparks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach.

It’s a must-visit destination to take your child at least once in their lifetime and Spring Break is the perfect time to visit “The Most Magical Place on Earth.”

During the spring, the weather is warm during the day with cool and pleasant temperatures early in the morning and at night.This makes it perfect for exploring the theme parks and swimming in your hotel’s pool.

There is plenty to do at Walt Disney World, no one will ever be bored.It has rides and attractions for the youngest baby and thrill rides for those adrenaline seekers.There are also spectacular night-time shows.

Walt Disney World also offers plenty of fun dining experiences including dining with your favorite Disney character or Disney princess.

Speaking of princesses, little girls will love getting pampered at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and getting transformed into their favorite princess.

When you want to take a break from the theme parks, visit Disney Springs. This is a huge shopping, dining, and entertainment area that is great for exploring.

Preparation and planning at Walt Disney World are key to having a great experience. Park reservations and hard-to-get dining reservations must all be made in advance.

Walt Disney World Dolphin is an excellent place to stay while visiting Walt Disney World.They offer complimentary transportation to all the theme parks and it’s also within walking distance to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

Destin

By Victoria from Florida Trippers

Easily one of the best Spring Break destinations in Florida for families, Destin is a popular spot that can be found on the emerald coast of the panhandle.

In particular, it’s an incredible destination for families since there are so many amazing things to do there that cater to children of different ages.

Also, because of the town’s epic location along the Gulf of Mexico, families can enjoy stunning beaches, awesome golf courses, and a wide array of wildlife that includes dolphins, sea turtles, and fish.

Plus, Destin is nicknamed the“Luckiest Fishing Village In The World,” So, you can easily charter a boat to take your family fishing, snorkeling, and more.

However, if you need even more inspiration then some of the other best things to do in Destin for families include visiting Henderson Beach State Park, walking along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, eating at Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill, and becoming a pirate for the day at Pirate’s Alley.

You can also get a bit of an adrenaline rush at Big Kahuna’s Water Park before signing up for a professional sandcastle-building lesson to help you create the sand sculpture of your dreams.

Then, when you’re ready to unwind for the night, spend the evening at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. After all, this resort is home to four unique golf courses and a kids club where children can engage in a wide array of activities.

Indian Rocks Beach

By Lanie from Make More Adventures

On Florida’s Gulf Coast, located between Clearwater Beach and the St. Pete Beaches, Indian Rocks Beach is calm, family-friendly, and easy to get around.

The number one thing to do on Indian Rocks Beach is the same as any other beach, though IRB (as it is known to the locals) isn’t as crowded as its surrounding beaches, and it has less of a party scene during spring break. Of course, the best thing to do on Indian Rocks Beach is to go to the beach.

With white sandy beaches and generally calm water, Indian Rocks Beach is the perfect beach to take the kids. Parking isn’t far from the water so you don’t have to lug your things too far. Surrounded by water, Indian Rocks Beach is only a few blocks wide.

If you want to get off of the beach, but still play outside, Indian Rocks Beach has a water park. Splash Harbor Water Park has waterslides, a lazy river, and a splash zone for younger kids as well as a large swimming pool.

Families can stay at Holiday Inn and Suites Clearwater Beach South Harborside which is located at Splash Harbor Water Park and just a few minutes walk away from the beach.

Those who want can head to nearby Clearwater Beach for a larger variety of activities and restaurants, though there are plenty of things to do on Indian Rocks Beach with kids.

Mount Dora

By Kyleen from The Bonnie Traveler

Mount Dora, Florida is the perfect spot to base your family’s Spring Break vacation.This charming town is located 40 minutes north of Orlando and an hour from either coast.It is close to all the attractions but worth your time relaxing and exploring this little town.

Downtown Mount Dora is situated between Donnelly Park, filled with mossy oaks, and Lake Dora.

Families can experience the ‘real’ Florida by taking a boat tour of Lake Dora and the Dora Canal.The guided pontoon tours share the history and nature of the area.Guests will get to see turtles, herons, and possibly alligators in their natural habitat while cruising under the tree canopy of the Dora Canal.

Adventure seekers will love the unique experience of flying in a seaplane.These single-engine pontoon planes take off from the water and fly at low altitudes to give a bird’s eye view of the towns, lakes, and wetlands below.

Enjoy spring produce at the many local U-pick farms in Mount Dora. March and April are perfect for the strawberry and blueberry season. These farms host plenty of old-fashioned, family-friendly activities that make a perfect afternoon.

Take a step back in time and stay at the lovely Lakeside Inn.This historic hotel is situated right on Lake Dora with spectacular views from the pool.Head to the Goblin Market for a special cozy dinner. With walls filled with books and award-winning dishes, it is a Mount Dora gem.

Insider tip: Make sure to book Mount Dora hotels in advance during Spring Break.Mount Dora hosts some of the country’s best arts and crafts festivals in the spring.These incredible events bring thousands of vendors with beautiful art that the whole family will enjoy, but hotels can fill up fast.

Everglades National Park

By Karen from Travel Mad Mum

A major draw to the Everglades is its location in Southern Florida, with a favorable climate all year round.

Known for its wildlife, marshland, diverse bird life, and scenic hikes, the Everglades is a wonderful nature experience in the region.

The national park features some picturesque hiking trails, an ideal way to discover the flora and fauna within the region. The most family-friendly trails are Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail & Eco-Pond Trails. Exploring the park on foot offers a unique view of the park as the trails wind through the vast wetlands. It is not uncommon to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

Several boardwalks, namely, Pahayokee Overlook, Mahogany Hammock Trail, and West Lake Trail provide access to the park’s beautiful mangroves and other vegetation.

For the adventurous family, a kayak tour of the Mangrove Tunnel is a lovely way to explore the park with kids. It is the perfect alternative to an airboat which can sometimes disturb the animals.

Another great option for little ones is to join the junior ranger program. It comes with a backpack jam-packed with things to do for a day at Everglades National Park.

The visitor center is another top family activity. It offers a wide range of information about the park through educational displays, orientation films, and informational brochures.

Preparing when hiking in the Everglades National Park is essential. Wearing protective clothing, appropriate footwear, and carrying plenty of snacks to stay energized, a water bottle, insect repellent, and sunscreen for kids are essentials to have when visiting the Everglades. It can get quite hot and in some cases, there is very little shade.

It’s also worth reminding the kids to keep their distance from the wildlife.

Fairway Inn Homestead is a twenty-minute drive from the Everglades’ Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. Hotel facilities include family rooms, an outdoor pool, complimentary tea and coffee, and daily breakfast, making it a comfortable place to stay.

Orange City

By Alexandra from East Coast Contessa

Orange City, Florida is a popular place for travelers road-tripping through the Sunshine State. Once you visit, it’s easy to see why! Located an hour northwest of Orlando, it’s the perfect destination in Florida for a family Spring Break.

Home to one of the most popular freshwater springs in the U.S., Orange City is thriving with a vibrant history, museums, parks, and scenic nature trails.

The most popular attraction in Orange City is easily Blue Spring State Park along the St. Johns River. In addition to beautiful nature trails, diving, and snorkeling activities, visitors also have a chance to catch a glimpse of the Florida manatee. In fact, it’s one of the best places to view manatees from mid-November to early March.

Inside Blue Spring State Park there is also the Thursby House. It’s a charming colonial house that offers a glimpse into the lives of the settlers that lived in Orange City during the 18th and 19th centuries. The park is open from 8 AM to sunset and costs $6 per vehicle.

After you’re done exploring the great outdoors at Blue Spring State Park, head to Family Fun Town for what the name implies: fun! This entertainment center features batting cages, go-karts, an arcade, and mini golf. It’s a perfect spot to host a birthday party, a group outing, or a family get-together.

If you want to stay at a family-friendly property in town, the Holiday Inn Express is a great option. Located off I-4S, it’s exactly halfway between Daytona Beach and Orlando. It offers free breakfast, free parking, a shuttle bus service, a gym, and a pool. If you want more options, look in Daytona Beach (32 minutes away), or Orlando (36 minutes).

Cedar Key

By Vicky from Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the best spring break destinations in Florida for families is Cedar Key, Florida. It has a laid-back attitude and it’s the perfect place to relax and have fun with your loved ones. There are a lot ofthings to do inCedarKey. Even though it’s relatively small, the town ofCedarKeyhas some great restaurants, shops, and museums.

It’s also a great destination if your family wants to spend time outdoors. CedarKeyis in North Central Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. Being on the water makes it perfect for those who love kayaking, canoeing, or going out on a boat.

There are also a few trails and parks around Cedar Key. Cedar Key State Park is especially popular. The Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge is also fun to explore, especially if you are a birder.

If you want to spend some time indoors, stop into the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum, which displays the history of the area.

Driving there is pretty easy since it’s literally at the end of Florida State Road 24. If you’re flying in, the closest airport toCedarKeywith commercial flights is the Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), which is about an hour away.

For your spring break getaway, consider staying at Seahorse Landing, they have condos near the water with great amenities.

Pompano Beach

By Pam from Our Adventure is Everywhere

Just north of Fort Lauderdale, is the quieter, more family-oriented Pompano Beach, Florida. Although often overlooked when planning a family trip to Florida, Pompano Beach is ideal, because it’s close enough to the action of the larger city if you’d like an afternoon or evening of excitement but far enough away to enjoy quality family time.

The weather is lovely any time of the year, and the beaches are especially nice from April through October.

When you need a break from the beach, there are plenty of fun things to do, a highlight being the water taxi. Pompano is often called the “Venice of America” due to the extensive network of canals. Purchase an all-day pass and explore the area from a different point of view, getting off and on the water taxis throughout the day. Kids who love boats will especially love this!

Hotels in Pompano tend to be a bit more laid back than the high rises of nearby Fort Lauderdale and Miami, so a terrific choice for families is the Club Wyndham Santa Barbara. With a great location, pool, hot tub, and condo-style rooms (with kitchens), it’s a perfect beach vacation property.

If a relaxing, true beach vacation is what you are looking for on your next family vacation, Pompano Beach should be one to consider!

Clearwater

By Candice from Exploring the Gulf

Clearwater, Florida is one of the best spring break destinations for families in the country! It’s a dreamy paradise for those who love the beach and water sports. For travelers looking for attractions beyond the beach, Clearwater offers high-end shopping and gorgeous golf courses. With so much to offer, even families with varied interests are bound to enjoy spring break in Clearwater.

There’s so much to see in Clearwater. Spend your spring break exploring Clearwater Beach, Honeymoon Island State Park, and Caladesi Island State Park. These are all great locations to slide into a kayak or jump on a jet ski.

There are lots of great resorts in Clearwater for families. If you’re looking for a great place to soak up the sun and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation, consider booking a stay with Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa. This beachfront, family-friendly hotel offers premium rooms and suites with striking views of the Gulf of Mexico. But best of all, the rooms also feature full kitchens, a huge advantage when traveling with a family over spring break!

Just down the road from Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach. This is one of Clearwater’s most treasured attractions and definitely a spot to add to your spring break itinerary. Pier 60 features a 1,080-foot pier and one of the gulf coast’s largest beach playgrounds. It’s heaven for all ages. Visit at sunset to witness the pier come to life with crafts and entertainment.

Make this spring break one you will remember forever. Enjoy the beauty and adventure of Clearwater!

Naples and Marco Island

By Lori from Naples Florida Travel Guide

When a spring break vacation for the family is just around the corner, look no further than Naples and Marco Island on southwest Florida’s Paradise Coast. Spring is the dry season in southwest Florida. With no daily storms or rain showers, the humidity is low and the daily temperatures are warm and comfortable.

This is a great time of year for family and kid-friendly outdoor activities. The beaches are still relatively uncrowded and the gentle Gulf waters are refreshing and warm. Rent a boat in Naples or Marco to take the family sightseeing or book a dolphin and manatee tour to see these amazing creatures in the wild.

Naples and Marco both have jet ski and kayak rentals as well as stand-up paddle boards. Two favorite activities families will love include taking a boat tour to Keewaydin Island for its remote beaches and native wildlife, and a sunset catamaran cruise out into the Gulf of Mexico.

Naples boasts some of the top-rated beaches in Florida including those at Lowdermilk Park, which offers watersport rentals and a concession stand.

For a unique kid-friendly experience nothing beats the soft white sand and hunting for seashells at Tigertail Beach on Marco Island, where getting to the beach ishalf the fun. The adventure begins by wading waist-deep across a shallow lagoon from the inner beach to the Gulf. The lagoon beach has paddling rentals, a great bird-watching tower that’s easy to climb, a concession stand, outdoor showers, and restrooms.

There is a long list of accommodations in both cities, and an equally long list of places to eat. Two family favorites are the Naples Grande Beach Resort with one of the best kid-friendly pools in Naples, and the HiltonMarco IslandBeach Resort & Spa.

Anna Maria Island

By Nikki from She Saves She Travels

If you’re looking for the best kid-friendly spring break destinations in Florida, look no further than Anna Maria Island, Florida. This sleepy beach town is the perfect island getaway if you’re looking for laid-back beach vibes and sunshine.

Anna Maria Island is located about an hour away from Sarasota, Florida. Grab flights to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, then a rental car to get to the island. With extremely limited public transportation on the island, a rental car is your best bet for getting around.

One of the most popular activities for spring break is hitting the beach. After all, the beaches on Anna Maria Island are some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast! With crisp, white sand and bright emerald water, they’re perfect for relaxing, swimming, or water activities.

The downtown area is quaint and has just what you’ll need for spring break. Visit the historic Bridge Street Pier, visit the farmers market, do a little shopping, or grab some food. Don’t forget ice cream at the Small Town Creamery!

Spring is an especially delightful time in Anna Maria Island because the manatees are really active. Bean Point is a great location to try to spot them. If you’re up for more nature and an adventure, try kayaking through mangrove trees down the island in Lido Key. Such a fun experience for spring break!

Amelia Island

By Stephanie from History Fangirl

Amelia Island is a family-friendly destination in northeastern Florida, just forty-five minutes away from Jacksonville. However, it might be another world. The pace is slower, so leave plenty of time to meander around town, relax on the beach, and lounge by your hotel’s pool.

For families looking to mix recreation with a bit of education, there’s a ton here for young travelers to learn, making an Amelia Island weekend or week the perfect opportunity to mix learning with fun.

Amelia Island has played an outsized role in American history many times over. In fact, eight different nations and rulers have hoisted their flags over the island. You can learn all about it on the Eight Flags tour, or you can learn more at the Amelia Island Museum of History.

For families wanting to check out more recent history, head to American Beach and the A. L. Lewis Museum, which documents American Beach’s time as one of the most important African American beaches during the era of Jim Crow.

Of course, there are also a myriad of outdoor activities available, including kayaking, birdwatching, and looking for dolphins out on the Amelia River. An Amelia River cruise to see the wild horses on Cumberland Island is also a favorite among young tourists.

If you looking for a great place to stay during your trip, check into the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, a new three-star oceanside hotel.

Dunedin

By Destiny from Guided By Destiny

If you’re looking for a unique Spring Break vacation spot for the whole family, then Dunedin, Florida is a perfect choice! Situated on the west coast of the Sunshine State, this beautiful city is packed with things to see and do that make it an ideal family getaway. Youwill fall in love with its range of beaches, parks, shopping areas, and outdoor activities.

To start off your trip, why not head down to the charming downtown area to enjoy some shopping, dining, and sightseeing? Along with its range of boutiques, restaurants, and attractions, there’s also a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing or having a picnic.

Next up is to visit Honeymoon Island, a serene and peaceful island known for its bird sanctuary, a wide array of walking trails, and a wealth of stunning beaches and nature spots. Here, families can have fun by playing or taking part in some beachcombing – but do remember to bring your sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

At the DunedinCauseway, you can rent sailboats, kayaks, or paddleboards for various time frames. You can rent for as little as an hour, but if you rent for any amount over two hours, you are able to take your rental over to Caladesi Island and explorethe pristine waters around the island.

Finally, if you’re looking for the ideal hotel for a family-friendly vacation, I suggest staying at the Hyatt Place in Clearwater, which is only minutes away from Dunedin. With its comfortable and contemporary rooms, on-site swimming pool, and handy location close to lots of attractions, it’s a great option for those wanting a convenient stay.

Key West

By Jolayne from Just Wander More

While you are enjoying the sun and beach of the Florida Keys, discover a variety of family-friendly activities in Key West. Spring Break is the perfect time to visit, especially if you’re coming from a snowy climate.

There are plenty of places to stay with stunning views in Key West. The Reach Key West, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, boasts a pristine private beach and a central location.

Some of the best things to do include:

• Take pictures at the Southernmost Point in the US
• Discover the history and sites of Key West on a scavenger hunt
• Play at the beach
• Shop along Duval Street
• Take pictures at sunset
• Enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking excursions
• Try Key Lime pie

If you have time for a day trip, Bahia Honda State Park is a short drive from Key West. The sand and sun are perfect ingredients for a family day at the beach. Add in a snorkel tour, and memories are sure to be made.

Dry Tortugas National Park

By Patricia from Ze Wandering Frogs

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote national park located in the Gulf of Mexico, about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The park is well-known for its crystal-clear water, gorgeous beaches, and exciting heritage. Any South Florida itinerary that takes you from Miami to Key West should include a visit to Dry Tortugas.

Visit Fort Jefferson, constructed in the middle of the nineteenth century, to learn more about the park’s past. Snorkeling in the island’s pristine seas and taking in abundant marine life is one of the best things to do in the Dry Tortugas.

Another well-liked pastime is bird viewing, where you may see frigates and brown pelicans. A fantastic option to take in the magnificent scenery and the warm seas around Dry Tortugas is to sail around the island.

There are no accommodations on Dry Tortugas. However, primitive camping is permitted in dedicated areas. Unfortunately, water is not available on the island. Thus anyone planning to spend the night there must be completely independent and self-reliant.

Key West International Airport (EYW) is the nearest airport to Dry Tortugas National Park. There are alternative possibilities, such as Miami International Airport (MIA), even though Key West is three to four hours distant from that airport. Dry Tortugas can only be reached from Key West by seaplane or boat.

Temperatures in Dry Tortugas often range from 55°F to 65°F thanks to its subtropical climate. However, in summer, they can reach above 90°F, making Spring Break an ideal time to visit.

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