Paradise Coast
Photo courtesy of Naples Marco Island Everglades CVB.
Sanibel Island and Captiva Island
Photo credit: VISIT FLORIDA.
On the Gulf Coast and near the bottom of the Florida peninsula are Sanibel Island and Captiva Island: two beautiful islands for nature lovers. No beach pollution; visitors find miles and miles of beaches perfect for kids because of the gentle waves and shallow shoreline. The islands are famous for shelling, too. Several family-friendly resorts have activities, watersports, and miles of beach to explore.
St. Pete / Clearwater Beach
Dubbing itself "Orlando's Beach", this affordable west coast area two hours east of Orlando has nature outings, miles of top-rated beaches, and some cultural gems in St. Petersburg. Fun outings include dolphin-spotting, shelling, Pirate Cruise.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
This theme park has thrill-ride roller coasters, great water-rides, lovely landscaped grounds, attractive African theming, and opportunities to view elephants, rhinos, giraffes, etc. A fun, pretty park that's manageable to do in one day.
Swim with Manatees: Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
75 miles north of St. Petersburg is one of the best places to see-- and even swim with-- these large gentle creatures in a natural habitat. (November to May are the best months.)
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Emerald Coast
This giant 2400-acre resort has a beach side on the Emerald Coast (Gulf of Mexico) and also a bay side, with many activities: kids' sailing, kids' tennis, kayaking, putting course, Jolee Island Nature Park with pirate-ship playground, and a Kidzone with programs for ages 4-6 and 7-12. Watersports include body-surfing and Boogie boards (complimentary). Kids might also enjoy the Junior Golf Academy, with excellent instructors. Best way to get around this huge giant resort is on bikes. The centre of gravity of this huge resort is the picture-perfect Village of Baytowne Wharf.
Wakulla Spring
In a state park in the "Panhandle" near Tallahassee is one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Swim or snorkel in the natural pool above the spring; see alligators on a river boat tour; or do a glassbottom boat ride; dine and/or stay at a historic lodge; take nature hikes.
More Fun on Florida Family Vacations: Ideas A to Z
Our About.com Guide for Florida Travel has 26 suggestions, from Astronaut Encounters to Zip Up Your Saddlebags (- horsey fun in Ocala.) You'll be surprised at the variety.
