With approximately 1,350 miles of coastline, Florida boasts some beautiful beaches, perfect for families seeking some fun in the sun. The Sunshine State lives up to its nickname, enjoying tropical climates throughout most of the year. Florida is home to exciting amusement parks and other family-centered attractions, and there’s no shortage of vacation rentals all over the state. Plan your next family vacation in one of these top 12 Floridian locations.
1. Tallahassee, Florida
As Florida’s capital city, Tallahassee offers plenty of activities to keep your family busy. Take a walk on one of the city’s winding trails to discover serene rivers and exciting wildlife, including turtles, otters, and birds. Car enthusiasts love the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, while the outdoorsy type can paddle, hike or ride to their heart’s content.
2. Orlando, Florida
In addition to other incredible attractions, Orlando is home to Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, Epcot and Magic Kingdom. If these places aren’t enough to keep the kids entertained, catch a glimpse of the aquatic life at SeaWorld Orlando or ride the Dragon Coaster at the nearby Legoland Florida Resort.
3. Tampa, Florida
The Tampa Bay area serves up a relaxing atmosphere that doesn’t skimp on culture or entertainment. Get your fill of shopping at the International Plaza and Bay Street Mall, then head to the Museum of Science and Industry, which features plenty of hands-on exhibits for the kids. When you’re ready to unwind, float your day away in the lazy river at Busch Gardens’ Adventure Island, a 30-acre waterpark.
4. Miami, Florida
It’s no mystery as to why Miami is one of Florida’s most bustling cities, as it serves up something for everyone in the family. From shopping malls and golf resorts for Mom and Dad to zoos and museums for the kids, Miami has it all, right near your vacation rental. Sports fans of all ages can delight in watching the Dolphins, Marlins, Heat or Panthers play.
5. Homestead, Florida
With its family run storefronts and quaint eateries, Homestead offers a pleasant small-town feel that’s perfect for families seeking some respite from the hustle and bustle. Take a 10-mile trip west to Everglades National Park to check out alligators, manatees, and panthers, or travel east to discover the coral reefs at Biscayne National Park. The Florida Keys are just a short trip to the South.
6. Hollywood, Florida
Hollywood’s beach is perfect for families. Walk, jog or bike the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a 2.5-mile oceanfront promenade with stunning views, and work up an appetite. Grab a bite at a local crab house or burger joint, then stroll the shops for some souvenirs to take home from your trip. The 55,000-square-foot Young At Art Museum offers hands-on adventures for the kids in each of its exhibition galleries.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
With gorgeous beaches and historic attractions, Fort Lauderdale is a relaxing vacation destination. Get up close and personal with the exotic life at Dolphin World, or pack up a picnic lunch at your vacation rental to enjoy at one of the local state parks. Riverboat cruises let you spend some time on the water with the ones you love. Don’t miss the chance to take in the sights as you stroll the Downtown Riverwalk District.
8. Boca Raton, Florida
Enjoy the slow pace of laid back life in Boca as you relax on the balcony of your vacation rental. Spend the day building sandcastles on the beach, or catch a round of golf. Streets lined with boutiques await evening shoppers. Catch a movie at the iPic theater in Mizner Park, or visit the Children’s Science Explorium at Sugar Sand Park.
9. West Palm Beach, Florida
The sandy beaches are just the tip of the iceberg at this family vacation destination, as West Palm Beach offers all the culture and attractions you desire in a fun-filled adventure. Snap some photos of the animals at the Palm Beach Zoo, and shop ’til you drop in CityPlace, the area’s premier shopping district. Marvel over the exhibits at the Norton Museum of Art, and make a splash at Rapids Water Park.
10. Cocoa Beach, Florida
A vacation rental in Cocoa Beach is a must for the family of adventurers. Pick up some fresh surfing gear at Ron Jon’s, the largest surf shop in the world, or take your little explorers to the nearby Kennedy Space Center for a real-life astronomy lesson. If prehistoric times are more their style, hit up the Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures.
11. St. Petersburg, Florida
If you want to spend your vacation relaxing on the gorgeous sand beaches, look no further than St. Petersburg. Sunny days are aplenty, and so is entertainment. Spend the afternoon at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum, whip something up for dinner at your vacation rental with all the ingredients you picked up at the 20,000-square-foot Locale Market, then head back out to the sand for an amazing sunset stroll.
12. Cape Coral, Florida
Sitting in the southwest of Florida, Cape Coral provides something for every adventurer in your family, from water sports and golf to fishing and boating. Take a sunrise sailing trip, or spend a day at Sun Splash Family Waterpark, which boasts over 14 acres of pools and slides.