Best Family Resorts in Florida sets the stage for an epic adventure, featuring the top destinations that cater to families with kids, focusing on their beach activities, water sports, and child-friendly amenities. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront resort or a hidden gem in the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered.
From budget-friendly options to luxury getaways and nature escapes, we’ve rounded up the best family resorts in Florida that are sure to create lifelong memories. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the ultimate family vacation spot in the Sunshine State!
The Best Family Resorts in Florida for Beach Lovers
Florida is renowned for its stunning beaches, and finding a family-friendly resort that meets everyone’s needs can be a real challenge. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top 5 beachfront resorts in Florida that are perfect for families with children.
Florida’s coastline offers an endless array of beach activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and paddleboarding. But when it comes to family-friendly resorts, it’s all about having a wide range of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.
Family-Friendly Amenities
When it comes to family vacations, having a range of amenities is a must. Here are some of the top family-friendly resorts in Florida that offer everything from kids’ clubs to water parks and more.
– The Breakers Palm Beach: This luxurious resort offers a kids’ program with activities like scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and movie nights. There’s also a water park, a game room, and a range of child-friendly dining options.
– The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: This resort offers a kids’ program with activities like water sports, nature walks, and arts and crafts. There’s also a water park, a game room, and a range of child-friendly dining options.
– The Fontainebleau Miami Beach: This iconic resort has a kids’ program with activities like surf lessons, paddleboard rentals, and arts and crafts. There’s also a water park, a game room, and a range of child-friendly dining options.
– The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa: This resort offers a kids’ program with activities like water sports, nature walks, and arts and crafts. There’s also a water park, a game room, and a range of child-friendly dining options.
– The Waldorf Astoria Hollywood: This luxurious resort has a kids’ program with activities like surf lessons, paddleboard rentals, and arts and crafts. There’s also a water park, a game room, and a range of child-friendly dining options.
Beach Activities and Water Sports
When it comes to beach activities and water sports, Florida has it all. Here are some of the top resorts that offer a range of options for families.
– The Breakers Palm Beach: This resort offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also paddleboard and kayak rentals available.
– The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: This resort offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. There are also water sport rentals available, including kayaks and pontoon boats.
– The Fontainebleau Miami Beach: This resort offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also paddleboard and kayak rentals available.
– The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa: This resort offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. There are also water sport rentals available, including kayaks and pontoon boats.
– The Waldorf Astoria Hollywood: This resort offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also paddleboard and kayak rentals available.
Child-Friendly Amenities
When it comes to child-friendly amenities, it’s all about having a range of options to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the top child-friendly amenities at the resorts.
– Kids’ clubs: The Breakers Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, and The Fontainebleau Miami Beach all offer kids’ clubs with activities and amenities like arts and crafts, movie nights, and water sports.
– Water parks: The Breakers Palm Beach and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes both have water parks with slides, pools, and splash pads.
– Game rooms: The Breakers Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, and The Fontainebleau Miami Beach all have game rooms with pool tables, arcade games, and other entertainment options.
– Child-friendly dining options: All of the resorts listed above have child-friendly dining options, including buffets, restaurants, and snack bars.
Discover Hidden Gems: Family Resorts off the Beaten Path in Florida
Looking for a family resort that’s a cut above the rest? Florida has got you covered. From its beautiful beaches to its lush national parks, there’s no shortage of amazing spots to relax and have fun with your loved ones. But sometimes, you want to do something different, right? That’s where our hidden gems come in – three off-the-beaten-path family resorts that will make your Florida vacation truly unforgettable.
Located on the Gulf Coast, the following family resorts offer unique natural settings and plenty of outdoor activities to get the most out of your vacation.
Unspoiled Nature at Cape San Blas
Cape San Blas, located on the Panhandle of Florida, is a serene and untouched barrier island that’s an ideal destination for families seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway. With its pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and marshes, this resort offers endless opportunities for nature lovers.
You can take part in the following outdoor activities and experience it all:
- Wildlife viewing: Cape San Blas is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a multitude of bird species. Take a guided tour or rent a kayak to explore the coastline and catch a glimpse of these incredible creatures.
- Hiking and biking: Explore the island’s natural beauty on a bike or on foot. Cape San Blas has several trails that take you through scenic dunes, forests, and marshes.
Adventure in the Everglades at Everglades City Resort
The Everglades City Resort, situated in the heart of the Everglades National Park, is an exciting destination for families who want a taste of adventure. With its unique ecosystem, the Everglades offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. You can explore the vast wetlands, spot alligators and birds, and take part in the following activities:
- Kayaking and canoeing: Explore the Everglades’ calm waters by renting a kayak or canoe and paddling through the mangrove forests and sawgrass marshes.
- Fishing and bird-watching: The Everglades are renowned for their excellent fishing and bird-watching. Try your hand at catching a largemouth bass or spot a majestic bald eagle.
Nature and History at the Osceola National Forest
The Osceola National Forest is located near Jacksonville, Florida, and is an ideal destination for families who love history, nature, and adventure. This forest is filled with ancient trees, scenic hiking trails, and historic sites that showcase the region’s rich history. Take part in the following activities and experience the best of the Osceola National Forest:
- Hiking and biking: Explore the forest’s many trails on foot or by bike and discover the region’s natural beauty.
- Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species that call the forest home.
Budget-Friendly Options
Budgeting for a family vacation can be tough, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. These affordable family resorts in Florida will ensure your whole crew enjoys a fun-filled getaway without breaking the bank. From beach activities to exciting amenities, you’ll be surprised at just how much you can get for your hard-earned cash.
Budget-friendly family resorts in Florida offer a range of activities and amenities that cater to everyone’s needs and preferences. By making a little bit of planning and research, you can make the most of your stay at these affordable resorts.
Top 3 Budget-Friendly Family Resorts in Florida, Best family resorts in florida
From secluded beach getaways to lively destinations with plenty to do, here are our top 3 picks for affordable family resorts in Florida:
- Turtle Beach Resort in Sanibel Island
- Riviera Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale
- Beachwalk Resort in Madeira Beach
Each of these resorts boasts its own unique charm, making them perfect for families with kids, teenagers, and even grandparents. From water parks to boardwalks, and from lazy beaches to lively shopping districts, you’ll never find a dull moment.
Top Picks by Activity and Amenities
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, here are some of the top resorts in each category:
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Water Parks
If your crew loves getting wet and wild, look no further than:
- Turtle Beach Resort in Sanibel Island: Their water park features thrilling slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad for little ones.
- Riviera Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale: Enjoy thrilling water slides, a wave pool, and even a private beach.
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Shopping and Dining
Some resorts offer great opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Beachwalk Resort in Madeira Beach: Stroll along their beachfront promenade and enjoy shopping, dining, and live music.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
To get the most out of your stay at these budget-friendly resorts, here are some valuable tips:
- Plan ahead: Research and book your resort and activities well in advance to save on costs.
- Look for packages and deals: Many resorts offer combo packages, deals, or discounts that can save you money.
- Make the most of free amenities: Take advantage of free amenities like pools, play areas, and fitness centers to save on extra costs.
- Book early for peak season: Peak season often means higher prices, so book your stay early to save.
Luxury Family Getaways: Best Family Resorts In Florida
If you’re looking for a dreamy getaway that’s all about indulgence and making unforgettable memories with your loved ones, look no further! Florida’s got some of the most epic luxury family resorts that are perfect for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays. Imagine waking up to crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and opulent villas – sounds like a tropical paradise, right?
Luxury family resorts in Florida are designed to provide an unforgettable experience, with top-notch amenities and activities that cater to all ages. From private beaches and spas to gourmet dining and exciting excursions, these resorts offer the ultimate in comfort, relaxation, and entertainment. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or just need a break from the daily grind, these luxury getaways will leave you and your family feeling pampered and content.
Top Luxury Resorts for Weddings and Anniversaries
When it comes to planning a luxurious wedding or anniversary celebration, every detail counts. Here are three top luxury resorts in Florida that’ll make your special day truly unforgettable.
- The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort
- The Four Seasons Resort Miami
- The Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes
This 5-star resort in South Florida boasts stunning ocean views, luxurious villas, and world-class amenities. Their expert wedding planners will help you create a bespoke celebration that’s tailored to your unique style and preferences. With private beaches, upscale dining, and a luxurious spa, you and your loved ones will be treated like royalty.
Located in the heart of Miami, this iconic resort offers sleek, modern villas and unparalleled service. Their expert team will help you plan the perfect wedding or anniversary celebration, from intimate beachside ceremonies to galas and receptions. Enjoy stunning ocean views, gourmet dining, and luxurious spa treatments – you’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise!
This picturesque resort in Orlando combines luxury with adventure, offering private villas, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and gardens. Their expert planners will help you create an unforgettable wedding or anniversary celebration, complete with private events, gourmet dining, and exciting excursions.
Luxury Family Fun for Milestone Birthdays
Whether it’s a 30th, 40th, or 50th birthday, celebrating a milestone birthday deserves an unforgettable celebration. Here are three luxury resorts in Florida that’ll make your special day truly special.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
- The Breakers Palm Beach
- The Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Located on the pristine beaches of Amelia Island, this elegant resort offers luxurious villas, world-class amenities, and breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy private beachside celebrations, gourmet dining, and exciting excursions, like kayaking or paddleboarding.
This iconic resort in Palm Beach has been a favorite among luxury travelers for decades. Their expert team will help you plan an unforgettable birthday celebration, complete with private events, gourmet dining, and luxurious spa treatments. Enjoy stunning ocean views, a world-class pool, and private beach access.
This vibrant resort in Miami Beach combines luxury with entertainment, offering upscale villas, world-class amenities, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy private beachside celebrations, gourmet dining, and exciting excursions, like snorkeling or surfing.
Ultimate Luxury Family Experiences
Each of these luxury resorts in Florida offers a unique and unforgettable experience that’s perfect for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays. Whether you’re looking for private beach celebrations, gourmet dining, or exciting excursions, these resorts have everything you need to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Nature Escapes
If your fam is all about gettin’ up close and personal with the wild, you’re in luck! Florida’s got some amazin’ nature escapes that’ll make you feel like you’re in a real-life safari. From animal feedings to guided tours, we’ve got the scoop on the best family resorts in Florida where you can connect with wildlife.
These resorts are set amidst nature reserves, zoos, or wildlife refuges, offering a chance to experience the natural world like never before. Imagine wakin’ up to the sounds of birds chirpin’ and spendin’ the day explorin’ the great outdoors with your crew.
From spotting dolphins in the wild to feedin’ adorable animals at a petting zoo, these resorts offer a plethora of wildlife encounters that’ll create memories for a lifetime.
Wildlife Encounters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Located in Tampa, Florida, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a 335-acre animal theme park that’s part of a larger wildlife sanctuary. As a family resort, it offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury suites to campsites.
Wildlife Encounters:
• Animal Feedings: Get up close with animals like giraffes, elephants, and lions during the park’s animal feedings.
• Guided Tours: Join a trained guide for an in-depth tour of the park’s animal habitats, learnin’ about the importance of conservation and wildlife preservation.
• Petting Zoo: Let the little ones get their hands dirty at the park’s petting zoo, where they can interact with friendly farm animals.
Wild Adventure at Gatorland
Just outside Orlando, Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve that’s home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles. This family resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to RV rentals.
Wildlife Encounters:
• Swamp Walk: Take a guided tour through the park’s alligator-populated swamp, where you might even catch a glimpse of a gator baskin’ in the sun.
• Animal Encounters: Get up close with a variety of animals, including birds, turtles, and snakes.
• Gator show: Watch in awe as the park’s expert trainers work with the gators, performin’ daring stunts and tricks.
Everglades National Park’s Flamingo Lodge
Located within the vast Everglades National Park, the Flamingo Lodge is the ultimate nature escape. This family resort offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to bungalow-style cabins.
Wildlife Encounters:
• Guided Tours: Join a park ranger for a guided tour through the Everglades, spot-tin’ a variety of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles.
• Airboat Tours: Take a thrilling ride through the Everglades on a high-speed airboat, gettin’ a bird’s-eye view of the unique landscape.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spend the day explorin’ the park’s many trails and waterways, spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
Other Family Resorts with Wildlife Encounters
For more options, consider:
• The Florida Hotel & Conference Center in Lake Buena Vista, just outside Orlando, which offers a wildlife viewing area with alligators and birds.
• The Hampton Inn & Suites in Naples, near the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where you can spot dolphins and marine life.
• The Best Western Plus in Pensacola, close to the National Naval Aviation Museum and the Gulf Breeze Zoo, offering animal exhibits and feedings.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Welcome to the ultimate guide to family fun in the sun! Florida is a paradise for families, offering a wide range of attractions and activities that are sure to delight kids of all ages. In this section, we’ll focus on the best family resorts in Florida that feature on-site water parks or offer exclusive access to nearby water parks.
Water Park Resorts
If your kids love splashing down water slides and swimming with the dolphins, a resort with a water park is the perfect choice. We’ve identified three top-notch family resorts in Florida that fit the bill.
LEGOLAND Water Park at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Located in Winter Haven, the LEGOLAND Water Park is a 150,000-square-foot aquatic playground that’s part of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The park features a Lazy River, a Splash Safari Wave Pool, and several slides, including the infamous Twin Chasers, a racing slide where kids can compete against their friends.
Some of the water park attractions at LEGOLAND include:
- The Big Wave Racer, a four-way racing slide that sends riders zooming down a 300-foot-long track.
- The Splash & Play area, a designated zone for younger kids with interactive water features and play structures.
- The Wave Pool, a large pool that generates waves perfect for bodysurfing or simply playing in.
But it’s not all about the water park – the LEGOLAND Florida Resort also offers:
“Themed hotel rooms, a LEGO-themed mini-golf course, and a variety of dining options on-site.”
Walt Disney World’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
Located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Blizzard Beach is a 66-acre water park that’s themed around a ski resort. The park features several unique attractions, including the Summit Plummet, a 120-foot-tall slide that sends riders plummeting down a near-vertical drop.
Some of the water park attractions at Blizzard Beach include:
- The Melt-A-Way Reef, a zero-entry pool perfect for younger kids and families with strollers.
- The Cross Country Creek, a lazy river that winds its way through the park and features interactive elements.
- The Teamboat Springs, a whitewater raft ride that’s perfect for families with multiple kids.
But it’s not all about the water park – the Walt Disney World Resort also offers:
“A variety of themed hotels, over 20 on-site dining options, and four theme parks to explore.”
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Located in Orlando, the Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a fun, retro-themed hotel that features its own private water park, the Cabana Bay Beach Resort Pool. The pool area includes a lazy river, a wave pool, and several slides, including the iconic Cabana Bay Beach Resort water slide.
Some of the water park attractions at Cabana Bay include:
- The lazy river, a relaxing way to spend the day floating around the resort.
- The wave pool, a fun way to cool off and play in the water.
- The water slides, a variety of options for kids of all ages.
But it’s not all about the water park – the Cabana Bay Beach Resort also offers:
“A range of on-site dining options, a bowling alley, and movie theater.”
Create Lasting Memories
When it comes to planning a family vacation, the goal is often to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. And what better way to do that than with unique activities that are fun for the whole family? From stargazing to fishing and horseback riding, Florida has plenty of resorts that offer one-of-a-kind experiences that are sure to create lifelong memories.
Stargazing and Outdoor Adventures
For families who love the outdoors and are interested in stargazing, consider staying at the Caladesi Island State Park Resort in Clearwater. This resort is situated on a barrier island that is only accessible by boat, giving you the chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other. The resort offers guided nature walks and outdoor adventures, including stargazing sessions on the island’s pristine beaches.
- Guided nature walks through the island’s scenic trails
- Stargazing sessions on the beach under the night sky
- Outdoor adventures like kayaking and paddleboarding
The Caladesi Island State Park Resort has been a favorite among families for years, and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Fishing and Water Sports
For families who love the water and want to spend their days fishing and trying out various water sports, consider staying at the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort in St. Pete Beach. This resort offers a range of activities, including fishing charters, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can also rent bikes and explore the nearby beach town, which is full of shops and restaurants to discover.
- Fishing charters to the Gulf of Mexico
- Paddleboard and kayak rentals
- Bike rentals to explore the nearby beach town
The TradeWinds Island Grand Resort has been a top choice for families for years, and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning ocean views, abundance of water activities, and relaxing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Horseback Riding and Farm-to-Table Dining
For families who love animals and want to experience the great outdoors, consider staying at the Horseback Riding and Farm-to-Table Dining resort in Ocala. This resort offers guided horseback rides through the scenic countryside, as well as farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the best of Florida’s local produce.
- Guided horseback rides through the scenic countryside
- Farm-to-table dining experiences featuring local produce
- Opportunities to interact with the resort’s animals, including horses and livestock
The Horseback Riding and Farm-to-Table Dining resort has been a hidden gem for years, and it’s definitely worth considering for your next family vacation.
Final Summary
So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket to one of these incredible family resorts in Florida and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just plain fun, we’ve got the perfect destination for you. See you in Florida!
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Florida’s family resorts?
June to August is the peak tourist season, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to October).
Which Florida family resort has the best water park?
The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is a clear winner when it comes to water parks. Their private beachside water park features a lazy river, water slides, and a splash pad for kids.
Which Florida family resort offers the best wildlife encounters?
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort offers an unforgettable animal experience, including a private safari, animal encounters, and a guided tour of the resort’s very own wildlife habitat.
