Florida Family Vacations
Florida Resorts
An overview of resorts for family getaways in many different regions in Florida, at beaches and inland.
Florida Family Vacations Overview
Some families beeline to Orlando in central Florida to have fun at its many theme parks; others head to one of Florida's many many beautiful beach areas. Check out a number of getaway ideas, moving roughly clockwise around the state.
Walt Disney World
In a class of its own as a family vacation destination, Disney World has four giant theme parks, two major water parks, and over twenty themed resorts. Start here to find tips about where to stay, what to do, and how to have the best possible time when visiting the theme parks.
Family Spring Break in Florida
Check out some specific suggestions for family spring break getaways in Florida.
Spring Break... at a Florida Beach?
Most school-age kids get a nice break in March or April, and Florida's beaches make lovely getaways. But spring break at Florida beaches is known for partying by college spring-breakers. What's a family to do?
Florida Hurricane Season - Overview for Travelers
Every year, families visit Florida during the official hurricane season that stretches from June to November. The vast majority of visitors enjoy fine weather and in fact summer is a peak tourist season in Florida. Still, every year brings dozens of named hurricanes in the Atlantic region, so it's good to know some background before visiting.
Florida Family Vacation Ideas (Clockwise): Amelia Island
Amelia Island -- in northeast Florida, a twenty minute drive from Jacksonville -- is a great spot for family getaways. Visitors can enjoy nature walks and boat tours, and can visit the beautifully restored Victorian town of Fernandina Beach and a nearby historic fort. Two outstanding resorts are th 1350-acre Omni Amelia Island Plantation and the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island.
Space Coast
Just 45 minutes east of Orlando is Florida's Space Coast, the launching point for the space shuttles and the spacecrafts that went to moon. The big attractions in the area are the Kennedy Space Center and the beautiful beaches. Less well-known are the possibilities for eco-tours that explore the 72 miles of shore on the Space Coast and its...
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami Florida
This unusual attraction in Miami is located just across the street from the Miami Science Museum: combine the two for an afternoon of family sightseeing.
Everglades National Park
The legendary Florida Everglades are a wonderful place to visit. Families can easily enjoy an "education vacation" as kids learn about this unique ecosystem while having fun.
Paradise Coast, Florida
This area of southeast Florida includes miles of quiet coastline, mangrove estuaries and preserved natural areas, Marco Island with beautiful beaches, and part of Everglades National Park.
Sanibel Island
Off the coast near the southern end of Florida are Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, two beautiful islands for nature lovers. The beaches here are famous for shelling, and several resorts welcome families.
Clearwater Beach / St. Petersburg
This excellent Florida vacation destination is often combined with a trip to Orlando's theme parks, which are just two hours away. Clearwater Beach offers miles of beaches, fun boat outings, dolphin-spotting, a pirate cruise, a nightly sunset festival, affordable prices, and some excellent museums to visit in nearby St. Petersburg.
Salvador Dali Museum
Here's an unexpected opportunity in St. Petersburg: families with older kids should seize the chance to visit the Salvador Dali Museum. A top collection of the works of this celebrity artist includes giant surrealistic canvasses that will impress even the most art-allergic teen.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
This 335-acre theme park has thrill-ride roller coasters, excellent water-rides, lovely grounds, attractive African theming, and opportunities to view elephants, rhinos, giraffes, etc. This is a fun and pretty theme park that's manageable to visit in one day.
Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge
In the Panhandle area of northeast Florida near Tallahassee is one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs. Visitors will find a State Park with swimming, hiking, boat rides, and more. Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Swim with Manatees in Florida
Here's a unique activity that can be enjoyed in Florida: swim in a natural habitat with these gentle giants.
More Ideas for Florida Vacations
About.com's Guide for Florida Travel covers more regions, plus beaches, theme parks, maps, photos, and general trip planning.