Florida is a dream destination for families seeking sun, sand, and an abundance of adventure. From the world-renowned theme parks of Orlando to the tranquil beaches of the Florida Keys, the Sunshine State offers a large variety of experiences for every family’s unique preferences.
Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts, charming beachfront escapes, or accommodations with convenient access to Disney magic, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we explore the top family-friendly destinations across Florida, each promising unforgettable moments and cherished memories for you and your loved ones. Get ready to discover your ideal Florida family retreat!
Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are an excellent family travel destination due to their unique natural beauty and abundant water activities like snorkeling and boating. Families can explore vibrant coral reefs, enjoy pristine beaches, and learn about marine life in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The Keys also offer a rich history and culture to discover, especially in Key West. Its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly events make it a great place to explore. With a tropical climate, the Keys are perfect for year-round outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Hawks Cay Resort
Hawks Cay Resort is a luxurious and family-friendly resort located on Duck Key in the Florida Keys. Here are some key features and highlights of Hawks Cay Resort:
Accommodations: The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and private villas. These lodgings are spacious, well-appointed, and often feature beautiful water views.
Family-Friendly: Hawks Cay Resort is particularly family-oriented. It offers a kids’ club with supervised activities, a pirate ship-themed pool, and a game room. There are also activities for teenagers, making it an ideal destination for families of all ages.
Water Activities: With its location in the Florida Keys, the resort provides excellent access to water-based activities. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even swimming with dolphins.
Dolphin Connection: Hawks Cay Resort is known for its Dolphin Connection program, allowing guests to have close encounters and interactive experiences with these intelligent marine mammals.
Pools and Spa: In addition to the family pool, there is a tranquillity pool for adults and a full-service spa for relaxation.
Dining: The resort has several restaurants and bars, providing a range of dining options, from casual to fine dining, featuring fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Marina: The marina is well-equipped and provides access to boating and water sports. It’s a convenient starting point for exploring the Keys.
Wildlife: The resort’s location allows for wildlife encounters. Guests often spot manatees, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is an excellent choice for families due to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. The city’s beaches have calm waters, making them ideal for children. Fort Lauderdale also offers a variety of water activities, such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and boating, especially in the extensive canal system. Families can explore educational and interactive attractions like the Museum of Discovery and Science, providing an enriching experience for kids of all ages.
Ritz Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale is a luxury beachfront resort located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While it is primarily known for its upscale and elegant amenities, it can also be a good choice for families due to several reasons:
Beachfront Location: The resort is situated right on the beautiful Fort Lauderdale beach, offering families easy access to the sun, sand, and sea. This provides an ideal setting for beach activities, swimming, and building sandcastles with the kids.
Family-Friendly Services: The Ritz-Carlton offers special services and amenities tailored for families, including children’s menus at on-site restaurants, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services, ensuring that both children and parents have an enjoyable stay.
Spacious Accommodations: The resort provides spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites that can comfortably accommodate families. Many rooms offer stunning ocean views, and some even feature separate living areas.
Activities for All Ages: While the resort exudes luxury, it also offers a range of family-friendly activities. Families can enjoy the heated oceanfront pool, water sports, and beach games. Nearby, you’ll find attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Museum of Discovery and Science, both of which are engaging for kids and adults.
Dining Options: The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale boasts a variety of dining options, including kid-friendly menus and casual dining venues. Families can savor delicious meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ritz Kids: The Ritz-Carlton’s Ritz Kids program offers a range of educational and entertaining activities for children, designed to enhance their vacation experience and allow parents some downtime.
Check out more of the Best Hotels for Families in Fort Lauderdale HERE.
Orlando
Orlando is renowned as the “Theme Park Capital of the World.” Families flock to Orlando to experience world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and many other theme parks. Beyond the parks, families can enjoy water parks, dinner shows, and a vibrant entertainment scene suitable for all ages.
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a luxurious and family-friendly resort located within the Walt Disney World Resort complex in Orlando, Florida. It offers an exceptional family vacation experience for several compelling reasons:
Proximity to Disney: The resort’s prime location within the Walt Disney World Resort area provides easy access to the theme parks, making it convenient for families to explore the magical world of Disney.
Spacious Accommodations: Four Seasons Orlando offers well-appointed rooms and suites with ample space, making it suitable for families of various sizes. Many rooms come with views of the Disney fireworks at night.
Family-Focused Amenities: The resort offers a wide range of amenities tailored to families, including children’s menus at the restaurants, in-room childproofing, and the complimentary Kids For All Seasons program, which provides supervised activities for kids.
Incredible Water Park: The resort boasts a stunning five-acre water park called Explorer Island, complete with a lazy river, waterslides, splash zones, and family pools. It’s an aquatic playground that kids will absolutely love.
Golf and Sports: While it’s a family-friendly resort, it also caters to parents’ interests with a championship golf course and a tennis center, allowing adults to enjoy their favorite activities.
Recreation and Activities: The resort offers a plethora of recreational activities for all ages, from wildlife experiences to evening s’mores by the fire pit, ensuring families stay engaged throughout their stay.
Dining Options: With numerous on-site dining options, including casual and fine dining, the resort provides a variety of culinary experiences suitable for families. Kid-friendly menus are available, and the in-room dining service is convenient for families with younger children.
Transportation: The resort offers complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks, which simplifies family travel to and from the attractions.
Hilton Bonnet Creek
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is a family-friendly resort located within the Walt Disney World Resort area in Orlando, Florida. It’s known for its combination of convenience, comfortable accommodations, and family-oriented amenities, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy the magic of Disney and beyond.
Here are several reasons why Hilton Bonnet Creek is an excellent family resort:
Location: The resort is conveniently located close to Walt Disney World, and it provides scheduled shuttle service to the Disney parks, making it easy for families to access the theme parks.
Spacious Rooms: The resort offers a variety of room types, including family suites, with plenty of space for families to relax and unwind after a day at the parks. Many rooms feature views of Disney fireworks at night.
Family Amenities: Hilton Bonnet Creek provides numerous family-focused amenities, including a zero-entry pool, lazy river, and a water slide, all of which are perfect for kids and parents alike.
Recreation: The resort offers a wide range of recreational activities for families, such as arts and crafts, poolside games, and a kid’s club with supervised activities.
Dining Options: With several on-site dining options, including kid-friendly menus, the resort caters to families’ dining needs. Plus, there’s a convenience store for snacks and quick meals.
Golf: For families who enjoy golf, the resort shares a golf course with its neighboring Waldorf Astoria Orlando, and tee times can be arranged.
Special Offers: The resort often features special packages and offers that include Disney theme park tickets, providing extra value for families.
Nearby Attractions: In addition to its proximity to Disney, the resort is also close to other popular Orlando attractions, such as SeaWorld and Universal Studios, providing families with a wide range of entertainment options.
Waldorf Astoria
The Waldorf Astoria Orlando is a luxurious resort located near Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. While it is known for its upscale and elegant offerings, it can also be a good choice for families for several reasons:
Proximity to Disney: The resort is conveniently located near the Walt Disney World Resort, offering easy access to the theme parks. A complimentary shuttle service is available, making it convenient for families to explore the magic of Disney.
Spacious Accommodations: The Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers a range of spacious and beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many with private balconies. These accommodations can comfortably host families of various sizes.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort provides a variety of family-oriented amenities, such as a family pool with a zero-entry area and a lazy river, creating a welcoming atmosphere for children and parents alike.
Recreation and Activities: Families can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including a golf course, an exquisite spa for parents, and organized activities for kids, such as scavenger hunts and poolside games.
Dining Options: With multiple on-site dining choices, including family-friendly menus and options for in-room dining, the resort caters to families’ culinary needs.
Complimentary Transportation: The Waldorf Astoria offers complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks, making it easy for families to get to and from the attractions.
Kids’ Club: The resort features a supervised kids’ club with a variety of engaging activities, allowing parents to have some downtime while knowing their children are well cared for.
Nearby Attractions: In addition to its proximity to Disney, the resort is also close to other popular Orlando attractions, like SeaWorld and Universal Studios, providing families with a wealth of entertainment options beyond the Disney parks.
Special Packages: The resort often offers special packages and deals that may include Disney theme park tickets, providing added value for families.
Grande Lakes
Grande Lakes is a sprawling resort complex in Orlando, Florida, consisting of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, both of which are part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Grande Lakes is a fantastic family resort for various reasons:
Proximity to Attractions: Located in close proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, Grande Lakes offers easy access to some of Orlando’s most popular family-friendly attractions. The resort provides shuttle services to select theme parks.
Spacious Accommodations: Both The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott at Grande Lakes offer spacious, family-friendly rooms and suites, often with scenic views and balconies, providing ample space for families to relax.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort provides a variety of amenities tailored for families, including supervised kids’ programs, family pools, water slides, and lazy rivers. The family pool area at JW Marriott is particularly inviting for children.
Recreation: Grande Lakes offers numerous recreational activities suitable for families, including golf, eco-tours, and bike rentals. Families can engage in various outdoor activities and explore the resort’s lush natural surroundings.
Dining Options: The resort features a diverse range of dining options, from fine dining to casual restaurants with kid-friendly menus. In-room dining is also available, providing convenience for families with young children.
Eco-Tours and Nature Activities: Grande Lakes is known for its eco-friendly initiatives and offers guided eco-tours, giving families the opportunity to explore the resort’s natural landscapes and learn about local flora and fauna.
Special Offers and Packages: The resort frequently provides special offers and vacation packages that may include theme park tickets or added benefits, enhancing the value for families.
Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is home to a diverse range of resorts, each offering unique theming, accommodations, and amenities to cater to the preferences of Disney guests. Here’s a brief overview of each resort category at Walt Disney World:
Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: This elegant resort offers Victorian-inspired architecture and luxury amenities. It’s known for its fine dining options and proximity to the Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Located just steps away from the Magic Kingdom, this modern hotel features iconic A-frame architecture and the Disney monorail running through the lobby.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: A South Pacific-themed resort with lush landscaping, tiki torches, and great views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Inspired by the national park lodges of the Pacific Northwest, this resort offers a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Guests can enjoy the sights of African wildlife from their rooms or public areas. It’s known for its authentic African cuisine.
Deluxe Villa Resorts
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: Inspired by an upstate New York retreat, this resort features spa facilities and golf.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort: This laid-back resort is reminiscent of the Florida Keys and offers spacious villas.
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas: Located along Disney’s BoardWalk, this resort offers a lively and nostalgic atmosphere.
Disney’s Beach Club Villas: Part of Disney’s Beach Club Resort, it shares Stormalong Bay, one of the best hotel pools at Disney.
Disney’s Riviera Resort: Inspired by the Mediterranean, this resort offers elegant accommodations and unique dining experiences.
Moderate Resorts
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and French Quarter: These sister resorts offer the charm of the Deep South with a touch of New Orleans flair.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: Themed around Mexican, American Southwest, and Spanish influences, it’s known for its convention facilities and the Gran Destino Tower.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: Guests can enjoy a tropical island atmosphere with themed villages.
Value Resorts
Disney’s Pop Century Resort: Celebrating the decades of the 20th century, it’s a colorful and budget-friendly option.
Disney’s All-Star Resorts: These three resorts—Sports, Music, and Movies—feature larger-than-life icons and are affordable choices for families.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort: From themed family suites to detailed courtyards, Disney’s Art of Animation lets you and your family become a part of your favorite animated stories.
Campgrounds
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort: This offers a rustic camping experience with modern amenities, including cabins.
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Universal Studios
Universal Orlando Resort offers a variety of accommodations for guests looking to experience the theme parks and attractions. Here’s an overview of the resort’s hotels and resorts:
Premier Hotels
Hard Rock Hotel: This upscale hotel offers a rock ‘n’ roll theme and is just a short walk from the Universal Orlando theme parks. Guests enjoy exclusive benefits, including Universal Express Unlimited access.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Themed around the South Pacific, this hotel provides a tranquil and exotic escape with lush landscaping. Guests receive exclusive perks, such as early park admission and water taxi transportation to the parks.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Inspired by the Italian seaside village of Portofino, this luxurious hotel offers a stunning harbor, cobblestone streets, and exceptional dining. Guests enjoy early park admission and water taxi service to the parks.
Preferred Hotels
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: This Caribbean-themed resort is known for its serene atmosphere, a lagoon-style pool, and proximity to the parks. It also offers early park admission.
Prime Value Hotels
Universal’s Aventura Hotel: A contemporary and affordable option, it offers great views from its rooftop bar, Bar 17 Bistro. Guests receive early park admission.
Value Hotels
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Inspired by the retro charm of the 1950s and 60s, this budget-friendly resort features two massive pools, a lazy river, and family suites.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: This value resort offers affordable accommodations, including family suites, and easy access to the parks.
Destin
Destin, situated in the Florida Panhandle, is a family paradise. The city’s white sand beaches and emerald-green waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating, providing hours of family fun. Nearby state parks, like Henderson Beach State Park, offer hiking and picnicking opportunities. Families can also embark on dolphin-watching cruises in the Gulf of Mexico.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort
The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a popular family resort located in Destin, Florida, known for its beautiful beachfront setting and family-friendly amenities. Here are several reasons why it’s a great choice for families:
Beachfront Location: The resort is situated right on the pristine beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, providing easy access to the sandy shores and calm waters, ideal for swimming and water activities for the whole family.
Spacious Accommodations: The Hilton Sandestin offers a variety of room and suite options, including family-friendly accommodations. Many of the rooms provide breathtaking views of the Gulf or the Choctawhatchee Bay.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort offers a wide range of amenities suitable for families, including a children’s pool and a seasonal kid’s club that provides supervised activities and entertainment for young guests.
Multiple Pools: The resort features several pools, including a zero-entry pool, a heated indoor pool, and a seasonal beachfront pool, ensuring that families have a variety of options for water-based fun.
Water Sports and Activities: Guests can enjoy various water sports and activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing, all available right at the resort.
Tennis Courts and Golf: Tennis enthusiasts and golfers will appreciate the on-site tennis courts and championship golf courses, offering opportunities for family-friendly sports and activities.
Dining Options: The resort provides a variety of dining options, including beachfront restaurants, casual eateries, and in-room dining services, making it easy to satisfy different tastes within the family.
Family Recreation: The resort offers a host of recreational options, including biking, nature trails, and eco-tours, allowing families to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Spa and Fitness: While parents can indulge in spa treatments and fitness facilities, children can enjoy the outdoor playgrounds and basketball courts.
Friendly Service: The staff at the Hilton Sandestin is known for their warm and accommodating service, ensuring that families have a comfortable and memorable stay.
Nearby Attractions: Destin has a variety of family-friendly attractions, including water parks, mini-golf, and the charming Destin Harbor Boardwalk.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is known for its upscale and family-friendly resorts, providing an array of amenities and activities for all ages. The city’s wide, sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles and swimming in the gentle waves. Families can explore nature preserves and go on wildlife-spotting adventures in this beautiful destination.
The Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach is a luxurious and historic resort situated in the heart of Palm Beach, Florida. While it’s known for its opulence and upscale offerings, it can also be a good family resort for several reasons:
Beautiful Beachfront Location: The resort is located right on the stunning Palm Beach coastline, offering families access to a pristine private beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and water sports.
Family-Friendly Accommodations: The Breakers features a variety of well-appointed rooms and suites that can comfortably accommodate families. Some even have multiple bedrooms and living spaces for added comfort.
Family Pool and Water Activities: The resort has a dedicated family pool area with a water playground, complete with slides and fountains. Additionally, guests can enjoy water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Family Entertainment: The Breakers offers a range of family-friendly entertainment, including movie nights, live music, and themed events suitable for children and parents.
Family Dining: The resort provides a variety of dining options, including kid-friendly menus and casual dining venues, making it easy for families to find suitable dining options.
Family Activities: The Breakers offers activities like tennis, golf, a kids’ club, and a wide range of recreational opportunities to ensure that guests of all ages are engaged.
Special Packages: The resort often offers special packages and deals that may include family-friendly perks, such as complimentary breakfast and resort credits.
Nearby Attractions: Palm Beach offers various family-friendly attractions, including the Palm Beach Zoo and the Norton Museum of Art.
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