Each of these five stellar beaches is about an hour from Orlando and has its own unique character and vibe, offering its own set of activities and amenities. Book your stayin Orlando and take a break from the city and theme parks to soak in the sun at the beach.

At Daytona Beach, one of Floridas most famous beaches, its impossible to have a dull moment. If you tire of swimming, surfing, paddle-boarding, parasailing, fishing, or just working on your tan, theres a water park down the shore. You can also venture a bit inland for go karts, pirate-themed mini golf, and even a flea market. When you get hungry, choose from many options including barbecue, Thai food, a microbrewery, and Pizza King on the boardwalk, where there is also a Ferris wheel and other fun. You can book your stay in the nearby city of Orlando using online booking apps and website and enjoy great deals.

Cocoa Beach has many famous features. You can fish from the 800-foot pier, which is lined with restaurants and shops and offers free musical entertainment. Cocoa is also home to the 52,000 square foot Ron Jon Surf Shop, known to surfers the world over. On the beach itself, surf, swim, or windsurf, with lifeguards watching over you between Memorial Day and the first week of August. Leave shore for a guided nature tour on an airboat or in a kayak.

If Daytona and Cocoa seem too busy for your tastes, Melbourne Beach is less crowded and evokes Florida from earlier times. Its all about the cinnamon-colored sand, lounging on the beach, water activities, and a dose of nature. Join Honest Johns Fish Camp to lure in some sea trout, or go for an airboat ride or golf nearby.

As a National Park, Canaveral National Seashore is the opposite of commercial. It has the longest stretch of unspoiled beach in Florida, actual campgrounds, and a mission to protect endangered sea turtles. Restrooms are the only amenities youll find, so bring your own bottled water, food, and anything else youll need.

Boating, fishing, and hiking the shoreline along the Turtle Mound Trail are possibilities, as well as seasonal waterfowl hunting. Airboats and jet skis are prohibited. Check the schedule for educational programs and photography opportunities. This is a beach geared toward those who want peace, quiet, and maximum nature.

Very close to Canaveral National Seashore is a whole other world in New Smyrna Beach. Its waves and white sand are well known to surfers, beachcombers, and surf fishermen. New Smyrna was voted Floridas best beach a number of times. You can drive on the beach in most areas, and you can bring your pet to some. If you feel hungry, a burger and seafood joint called Breakers is right on the beach. In the town nearby, there are many more eateries, along with a lively arts community.

Enjoy one or all of these Orlando-area beaches, depending on what appeals to you.

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The 5 best beaches near Orlando