13 Best Florida Gulf Coast Family Vacation Spots in 2024
RESEARCHING THE BEST FLORIDA GULF COAST FAMILY VACATION SPOTS?
We can help! We’ve been traveling as a family since 2015, and we have spent months living along Florida’s Gulf Coast. From Destin in the panhandle, along 30A, and all the way down to Marco Island, we’ve explored some of the best Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spots.
But which spot is right for your family? In this article, we’ll discuss the best places to stay on the Gulf Coast of Florida. We’ll cover everything from what to see to where to stay. This guide will make planning your Florida Gulf Coast vacation a cinch!
Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Spots
1. Destin
A family-friendly vacation spot for the ages, Destin has become a very popular destination for vacationing families. Located in the Florida panhandle, from sunny days on gorgeous beaches to long afternoons on the fishing pier, there’s something here for everyone!
We have spent a significant amount of time in Destin, and we always have a great time. The highlight for us, of course, is the beautiful beaches and delicious seafood. Plus, we love finding the ghost crabs on the beach at night.
What to See and Do
Take an adventure out to Crab Island for a party day out on the sand bar. Or enjoy the quieter side of town at Henderson Beach State Park. With such a striking landscape and limitless water activities, there are so many things to do in Destin kids will love.
Known as the luckiest fishing city, you can rest assured that this spot knows a thing or two about food. Your family will love sampling from the menus of Destin’s top places to eat.
Where to Stay
Florida Gulf Coast beachfront hotels in Destin are some of the most luxurious and wonderful places to stay during Gulf Coast family vacations. Henderson Beach Resort is one of the top Florida Gulf Coast resorts for families. It’s a lovely but fairly expensive place to stay.
Travelers who are looking to spend a little less on accommodations may have to trade in the beachside views for a more digestible price hotel rate. Nearby Fort Walton hotels offer similar comforts for a fraction of the cost.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Henderson Beach Resort
2. 30A
30A is a stretch of highway between Destin and Panama City. It’s most well-known for its exceptional beaches, but there are many fun places to explore along this route. This would be a fun gulf coast family vacation destination if you were interested in staying a few different towns, like Seaside, Prominence, or Alys Beach.
What to See and Do
The 30A stretch of highway is known for some of the best family-friendly beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast. It is the perfect spot to load up your beach tote with a good book and lots of beach toys.
Older kids will have a ball playing in the water on boogie boards or flying a kite along the beach, so be sure to bring your backpack beach chair along for ultimate comfort when you spend a day or two on the gorgeous 30A beaches.
Where to Stay
There are a variety of places to stay in the different communities as you make your way through the 30A stretch. The Pearl Hotel is one of our favorites, though!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Pearl Hotel
3. Panama City
If you’re taking kids to Florida, plan on hearing about dolphins. Maybe it’s something in the air, but everybody gets excited about spotting dolphins once they get to Florida.
Keep in mind, while deciding which Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spot is right for you, there are so many fun things to do in Panama City with kids. It’s one of the best places to spot dolphins from the shore and on tours.
Panama City is also home to one of the most magical beaches we have found – St Andrew’s State Park. We camped in this state park for almost two weeks. There is a beach with amazing seashells, and we saw dolphins off the coast almost every single day.
What to See and Do
Panama City is one of the most exceptional places to see dolphins along Florida’s Gulf Coast. We recommend booking a dolphin cruise for the best chance for your family to see these majestic creatures.
Florida’s national parks and state parks are some of the state’s top attractions to visit, especially if you’re a family of nature lovers. If Panama City ends up being your family’s vacation destination, be sure to check out St. Andrew’s State Park for lots of amazing fun in nature.
From tidepools to shelling, fishing, snorkeling, and so much more, St. Andrew’s is a worthwhile stop to consider.
Where to Stay
There are many Gulf Coast hotels on the beach, but Towneplace Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach Pier Park is one of the best for families in Panama City. We love the pool area and appreciate the tasty free breakfast each morning.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at TownePlace Suites Panama City Beach Pier Park
4. Clearwater
When it comes to great Florida vacation spots for families, Clearwater will always be at the top of our list. With a world-renowned stretch of beach and delicious restaurants at your fingertips, the adventures are limitless for a family in Clearwater.
Clearwater is one of our favorite spots in Florida. The beaches here are so great, and there are SO many fun, family-friendly activities in nearby Tampa, including Six Flags and the Tampa Zoo, one of our favorite zoos in the country.
What to See and Do
There’s a laundry list of things to do with kids in Clearwater. From playing on Clearwater Beach (considered one of the best family beaches on the Gulf) or taking to the water on a kayak or sunset cruise to exploring the marine life at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or taking a quick road trip to Tarpon Springs.
There’s plenty to do and keep the family entertained in Clearwater. Just make sure you stop by one of Clearwater’s yummy breakfast spots to fuel up before your long day of fun!
Where to Stay
Clearwater is one of the most excellent Florida family vacation spots for those traveling on various budgets. This city has beachfront hotels on the Gulf Coast of Florida if that’s what you’re looking for, along with more modest Clearwater motels and pet-friendly hotel options.
Clearwater is home to some of the best Gulf Coast beach resorts for families, and we love the comforts and amenities of Sandpearl Resort.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Sandpearl Resort
5. Tampa
Only 35 minutes from Clearwater, you’ll find the city of Tampa. Because they are so close, many visitors face the age-old Tampa vs. Clearwater debate when planning which city to visit.
Unlike Clearwater, Tampa has a real metropolitan feel. A family vacation to Tampa would center more on flashy attractions like amusement parks or sporting events versus water sports and beach days in Clearwater. Tampa does have beaches, but they aren’t meant for swimming.
What to See and Do
One of the best East Coast family vacation spots, Tampa is full of fun activities for the whole family. Spend a day at Busch Gardens for a thrilling adventure, or enjoy a slower pace at Zoo Tampa.
You can also learn much about the city on a downtown walking tour or a boat tour on the harbor. Be sure to stop by the Riverwalk for beautiful views of the city and lots of fun entertainment options.
Where to Stay
Because Tampa is one of the few full-fledged, rip-roaring cities on our list, there are a few different areas of town to consider when making hotel reservations. If you are flying directly into Tampa, it may make sense to stay at one of the several hotels near the Tampa Airport for ultimate travel convenience.
We love the up-and-coming Tampa Riverwalk. There’s always something fun going on here, and they have a slew of Tampa Riverwalk hotels, too. The Tampa Marriott Water Street location is wonderful if you’d rather stay closer to the fun.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Tampa Marriott Water Street
6. St. Petersburg
St. Pete is one of the most charming little beach towns you will ever come across. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back family vacation on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Not a flashy destination, this is the spot you would choose if you’re looking for a quiet trip to enjoy nature and truly enjoy your entire family without distraction.
What to See and Do
The best way to enjoy this city’s sweet charm is on foot or by bike. We love exploring downtown St. Pete. It’s beautiful, and the St. Pete downtown restaurants will knock your socks off!
Beach Drive is the perfect place to rent a bike and ride around. Stop by Vinoy Park for epic views of the waterfront and St Pete Beach.
If you’re traveling with small children or would rather not walk everywhere, you can get around this laid-back, chilled-out city in style via the Looper Trolley. The trolley stops all around the city, and best of all, it’s free!
Where to Stay
Hotels and resorts on the Gulf of Mexico can vary greatly in quality and price. Tru By Hilton St. Petersburg Downtown Central Ave is one of the best places to stay when traveling with kids in St. Pete. The property is clean and well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Tru By Hilton St Petersburg Downtown Central Ave
7. Sarasota
One of the more unexpected additions to our list, Sarasota is a town full of art and culture. From galleries to opera houses, this could be a great place for families with older children interested in the arts.
What to See and Do
Aside from the art scene, Sarasota has a very storied past. Once home to the Ringling Brothers, visitors can explore the 66-acre estate with an art museum, two circus museums, and beautiful gardens.
Also, enjoy an escape from the beach scene with a stroll through Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. It’s a wonderful place to explore and appreciate the nature of Sarasota.
Where to Stay
The Resort at Longboat Key Club is one of the best west coast Florida resorts. Families will love the private beach and outdoor pool. As well as the full-service spa, for the ultimate in rest and relaxation.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Resort at Longboat Key Club
8. Siesta Key
Siesta Key is an 8-mile-long island paradise, a true Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spot apart from the rest of the world. The quartz-sand beaches and unlimited water activities make it a top-tier vacation destination for families visiting the Gulf of Mexico.
The sand in Siesta Key is amazing, and one of our favorite beaches. My kids had such a great time playing in the sand and swimming in the warm Gulf waters.
What to See and Do
When it comes to the best Gulf Coast beaches for families, Siesta Key Beach is always at the top of the list. The soft white sand is perfect for castle building, and the shallow shore waters offer a comfortable place to swim or snorkel.
Families will also appreciate the opportunity to sit back and fish or take to the sky on a parasailing adventure!
Where to Stay
Tropical Beach Resorts is one of the best family resorts on the Florida Gulf Coast. The aparthotel set-up offers families everything they need, from staying rooms to living areas and a full kitchen.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Tropical Beach Resorts
9. Fort Myers
If your family isn’t crazy about beach vacations, Fort Myers is another great spot to consider. This city strikes a great combination and balance of history and nature, so you’ll surely find some fun stuff to do!
We have spent a couple of weeks exploring Fort Myers and had such a great time there. Places like Sanibel Island and Lovers Key State Park are places we loved hanging out at the beach and the pier is a fun place to hang out at night.
What to See and Do
Thomas Edison and Henry Ford once lived in Fort Myers during the cold seasons. Take a short walk back in time to tour their winter estates. If you’re looking for natural beauty, be sure to visit Centennial Park and check out the views of the Caloosahatchee River.
Where to Stay
Family resorts on the Gulf Coast don’t come better than Pink Shell Beach Resort! The decor of this beautiful resort carries the Floridian atmosphere throughout the entire property. Families will be excited about the free breakfast buffet and amazing swimming pools.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Pink Shell Beach Resort
10. Cape Coral
Are you a kayaking family? If so, Cape Coral is the perfect Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spot for you. Home to over 400 miles of canals, it’s a waterfront paradise you won’t ever want to leave!
What to See and Do
You can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities in Cape Coral. From fishing and kayaking to boating in the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve. Looking to spot some wildlife? Check out Rotary Park Environmental Center!
Where to Stay
Not anything to write home about, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cape Coral is everything travelers have come to expect in a basic hotel. Though it may not have the same flash as other Gulf beach resorts, the hotel rooms are clean and offer all the modern conveniences, like flat-screen TVs and free wi-fi.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cape Coral
11. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is one of the most perfect spots on Florida’s Gulf Coast for a peaceful and quiet getaway. Most known for its killer sunsets, a visit here will give you the opportunity to enjoy the Florida landscape and weather on your schedule and interests.
We had a great time exploring Sanibel Island during our last visit to the beautiful island. It had such a relaxed and chill vibe, perfect for enjoying a week at the beach. It has a small-town feel, which we really enjoyed.
What to See and Do
Sanibel Island is one of the top Florida destinations for shelling. So, take to the sand and see which of your family members can find. You’ll have a fun time seeing who collects the most shells or stumbles upon the most unique shades.
You can also enjoy fishing, boating, and paddling the Calusa Blueway in this sleepy beach locale.
Where to Stay
Sanibel Island Beach Resort is like its own mini-city on Sanibel Island. Trust us when we say you’ll be well taken care of over a stay at this West Coast Florida beach resort. With two restaurants, an outdoor pool, and shopping all on-site, you’re set for an epic stay.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Sanibel Island Beach Resort
12. Naples
Naples is a beautiful and affluent vacation destination along the Florida Gulf Coast. It’s a lovely place but not the most suited for young families. If your family is accustomed to sophisticated getaways, give Naples a look.
What to See and Do
Naples is a worldwide destination for high-end shopping and dining. Families with older children who can appreciate this sort of decadence, along with an amazing art scene, could have a great time in Naples.
Those looking for more outdoor adventures should consider visiting the Naples Zoo or taking the short drive to Everglades National Park. Take an exciting boat tour while you’re there to get the full ecotourism and wildlife experience.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Place Coconut Point is one of the best family resorts on the Florida Gulf Coast. A home away from home, this spot is fully equipped to take care of vacationing families with cribs available, not to mention a complimentary breakfast each morning.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hyatt Place Coconut Point
13. Marco Island
Marco Island is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands and an excellent place for a family vacation in Florida.
If you happen to be planning your vacation over winter break, it’s helpful to know that Marco Island is one of the best places in Florida to visit during the winter months. December and January bring wonderful weather and a fun chance to soak up the sun.
What to See and Do
Marco Island is known for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, crystal blue waters, and warm weather. Tigertail Beach is one of the best spots to visit to enjoy it all. Aside from sunbathing and playing in the water, it’s also an excellent spot to go shelling and check out the shorebirds.
When hunger strikes, you’ll be in good hands. Marco Island restaurants offer some of the boldest and most flavorful food on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Then, end the day with one of the best sunset viewings in the whole state.
Where to Stay
Florida Gulf Coast resorts on the beach are some of the most amazing places to stay. When looking for the best Marco Island resorts for families, keep Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa in mind.
This is one of our favorite Marco Island family resorts because it’s located right on the beach, which means you have amazing views and access to the water all day long!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa
FAQ: Florida Gulf Coast Family Vacation Spots
Some of the best Gulf Coast beaches in Florida include Panama City Beach, Destin, St. Pete Beach, and Siesta Key.
Fort Myers and Sanibel Island are often paired together as some of the best places to visit on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Both spots offer beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water.
The best beaches along the Florida Gulf Coast include Fort Myers Beach, Honeymoon Island State Park (near Clearwater), and Henderson Beach (near Destin).
Siesta Key Beach, Fort De Soto Park (near St. Petersburg), and Sand Key Park (near Clearwater) are some of the best beaches in Florida for young families.
Destin and Tampa are some of the most highly rated Flordia Gulf Coast family vacation spots. Each location offers a varied experience, from beaches to theme parks; you will have fun in both spots.
Saint Petersburg Beach is considered one of the most pretty beaches along Florida’s western coast.
Panama City and Destin are some of the best Florida Gulf Coast Family Vacation Spots.
The beaches surrounding Panama City and South Walton are thought to have the cleanest, clearest water in the United States.
Conclusion: Florida Gulf Coast Family Vacation Spots
There are many wonderful West Coast Florida family vacation spots to choose from. We hope this article helped offer you a snapshot of some of the best options and will assist you in deciding which of the Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spots is right for you. Wherever you end up, we hope you have the best time with your family.
Have you visited any of these places? If you were to make a list, which places to stay on the Gulf Coast in Florida would you include? Tell us in the comments!
