Living in Central Florida almost feels like cheating at life. You enjoy endless summer, a laid-back atmosphere, and the most beautiful beaches in the world (our humble opinion, of course). The Orlando area lets you easily access the clear calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico or the rad waves of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re new to central Florida, visit these beaches for unforgettable local getaways.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, known for its namesake stretch of soft, white sand, draws people to its calm waters. If you’re into jet-skiing, parasailing, or stand-up paddleboarding, you’ll love it here. On land, cyclists and rollerbladers can enjoy a ride on the beachfront boardwalk. But there’s way more to do, depending on your interests.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, named a top destination in America, is entirely dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating various marine animals.
You can practice for the next talk-like-a-pirate day on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise. A staple of the area for over 40 years, this two-hour tour keeps kids and adults entertained.
Ooo and ahh at the gorgeous sunsets from Pier 60. The pier also hosts a nightly festival with street performers and craft vendors.
Above all else, soak up the laid-back beach vibes at Clearwater Beach.
Siesta Beach
Farther down the Gulf coast, you’ll find more beautiful soft, white sand beaches where kids (and kids at heart) can collect seashells. Siesta Beach, located on Siesta Key, remains a favorite among residents and visitors alike. Its powdery soft sand, made almost entirely of quartz, stays cool under bare toes on even the hottest day. Again, you’ll find plenty of other activities to suit your interest.
Wildlife aficionados love the common sightings of dolphins, manatees, egrets, pelicans, seagulls, and other coastal birds.
Every Sunday evening about an hour before the sun goes down, music lovers gather near the Siesta Beach Pavilion for the weekly Siesta Key Drum Circle.
Plan your visit during the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival in the fall or the amateur sand castle contest in May.
New Smyrna Beach
On the Atlantic side, skip the madness of spring breakers at Daytona Beach and head a bit south to New Smyrna Beach. New Smyrna is known as a surf hub with reliable waves for expert and amateur surfers alike, and it is no more than an hour’s drive from Orlando.
Like most of the beaches in Volusia County, visitors can park on the beach! This provides a more enjoyable experience without having to struggle to find parking or lug your beach gear from a faraway parking lot.
But if hanging ten’s not your thing, you’ll find plenty of other things to do.
Canaveral National Shoreline offers the longest stretch of pristine coastline in the United States. Threatened and endangered species find refuge here, including sea turtles that nest on its shores.
The coastal Smyrna Dunes Park has multiple scenic overlooks with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian River, and Ponce de Leon Inlet. The park also features a handicapped-accessible fishing pier and dog-friendly swimming beach areas.
Central Florida Rentals
Central Florida continues to grow at a breathtaking pace, making it a great place to relocate and an excellent location for rental property investors.
Looking to rent in central Florida? The Realty Medics can help you find a place that meets your needs while keeping you close to the beach action. Check out our listing of available properties or complete our online form to learn more.
If you own investment properties (or want to) in central Florida, learn what to expect with The Realty Medics as your property management company. Call our office at 321-947-7653 or use our form to get in touch.
