Even though Orlando's tourist population tends to spend a great deal of time in theme parks and playing golf, many visitors find it difficult to justify a trip to Florida without seeing the beach. Those seeking the feeling of sand beneath their feet and salty water on their skin can venture to one of the Orlando area beaches that are 60- to 90-minute drives from the downtown area.
Whether looking for a surfing experience, a car friendly atmosphere, some history or just a lazy day in the sun, each of the popular beaches in the Orlando area provides a family-oriented atmosphere.
Approximately a one-hour drive east of Orlando, Cocoa Beach is the city's closest Atlantic Ocean beach. The family-friendly beach is open daily year round. Lifeguards staff a vast portion of the shores during the summer months. Beaches are unmanned from the day after Labor Day through Easter.
Cocoa Beach is a surfer's paradise, affording over 90 surfing areas. In keeping with the surfing theme, one of the area's main attractions is Ron Jon's Surf Shop. Restaurants, shopping and fishing areas line the Cocoa Beach Pier.
The history of the popularity of Daytona Beach begins in the early 20th century with car racing along the beachfront. Today, beach driving continues in designated areas all year, with shortened hours during sea turtle nesting season. Daytona Beach prides itself on being handicap friendly, offering free surf chairs, which are really wheelchairs for the beach so the physically challenged may freely move through the sand and water.
The Marine Science Center's kid-friendly atmosphere allows children to see live sea turtles in the Center's rehabilitation teaching lab. Those looking forward to a quiet day at the beach, should avoid Daytona Beach during special events like Bike Week and the Daytona 500 race, when visitors throughout the world come to partake in the festivities.
New Smyrna Beach tends to be the popular weekend destination beach for Orlando locals. The second oldest settled community in Florida, the area boasts a historic downtown area as well as antique shops. In addition to art fairs and festivals, many come to New Smyrna Beach to enjoy the 13 miles of beachfront.
Much of the beach is driving friendly and drivers can park on the sand for a fee. Restaurants and shops are located throughout both the beachfront and historic district.
Always know water conditions when visiting Orlando area beaches. Pay attention to lifeguard station flags and warnings. Don't panic if stuck in a rip current. Swim parallel to the shore to where there is a break in the current and then swim to shore.
The weather near Orlando can get quite hot. Wear a hat, apply a high number sunscreen and drink water to stay hydrated and avoid heat and sun damage. Florida often sees afternoon thunderstorms. To avoid lightening strikes, get out of the water and seek indoor shelter if a storm approaches.
