Day Trips from Orlando
← All Orlando day tripsDay Trips from Orlando: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Orlando, FL. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near Orlando
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
North Palm Beach, FL 33408
Just 2 hrs 25 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 3,324 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lakefront Park Marina
St Cloud, FL 34769
Just 35 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Ponce Inlet Beach
Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Just 1 hr 13 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 224 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kissimmee Lakefront Park
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Just 30 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 9,271 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Waterfront Park
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Just 1 hr 15 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 862 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
North Shore Park
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Just 1 hr 44 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 2,310 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lighthouse Point Park
Ponce Inlet, FL 32127
Just 1 hr 14 min from Orlando, rated 4.8 stars by 1,623 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lakefront Park
St Cloud, FL 34769
Just 35 min from Orlando, rated 4.7 stars by 5,500 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Dunnellon, FL 34432
Just 1 hr 34 min from Orlando, rated 4.7 stars by 10,836 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Al Weeks Sr. North Shore Park
Ormond Beach, FL 32176
Just 1 hr 9 min from Orlando, rated 4.7 stars by 854 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lakefront Beach
FL 34769, USA
Just 35 min from Orlando, rated 4.7 stars by 1,232 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Romano Beachfront Park
Ormond Beach, FL 32176
Just 1 hr 8 min from Orlando, rated 4.7 stars by 4,248 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Orlando
What are the best beaches near Orlando, FL?
The best beaches near Orlando include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of Orlando?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Orlando have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Orlando?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Orlando. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from Orlando?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
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