Famous as the ” Sunshine State”, Florida takes it tag seriously with its wide array of world famous beaches that boast of white sand, clear crystal waters, and a year-round subtropical climate that suits tourists of all ages. These make Florida one of the most inviting destinations for the family beaches in the United States.
Key West, a city composed of 3 adjacent islands famously known as the Florida Keys (Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key), is considered by many as the most promising city for vacations in Florida. Being surrounded by waters, it has a warm climate that remains considerably constant throughout the year. Located here is Key Largo, known as the “Dive Capital of the US.
South of Key Largo is Islamorada, where children can swim with sea lions and rays, or watch animal shows courtesy of these friendly creatures. At Robbie’s, kids may enjoy a hand-feeding session wit the tarpons. They may also swim with the dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key.
Another notable beach in Key West is the Bahia Honda State Park. Families will surely enjoy camps and picnics on its white sand. South of the island are mangrove tunnels that families can trek. Other activities offered are boat charters, kayaking diving in the wrecks of Looe Key Reef.
The most distinguished key of all three is the Siesta Key in Sarasota, where children can watch dolphins, collect shells from the beach or visit the Ringling Museum and Jungle Gardens. Siesta Key is said to have one of the widest, finest, most powdery white shores in the whole of Florida. Its sands are made of quartz so its temperature doesn’t rise up even if the sun is. It is home to a quieter crowd, especially up in the Northern part. It has gradual slopes and gentle waters and waves that are perfect for children.
For a glimpse of real, live marine life, families may visit Mote Aquarium or Key West Aquarium, both of which hold guided shark feeding. Other attractions include the Pirate Soul Museum, the Dry Tortugas National Park and the historic Fort Jefferson.
Vero Beach is a twenty-mile long stretch of fine sand along the Atlantic coast. It is tagged as the premier art town of America, with a myriad of art-dedicated shows at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Every year, the Museum hosts exhibitions, art classes, workshops, cinema, and a Summer Art Camp for kids ages 3-15. In addition to this, the island boasts of miles beautiful beaches, estuaries and woodlands in the Indian River County. Various activities are available for all ages like kayaking, turtle quests and surfing.
A notorious hangout for spring breakers, Daytona Beach is not to be underestimated by those looking for clean fun. The Mainstreet Pier offers a mini-amusement park by the sea, with arcades, rides and nice boardwalks. Near the Marine Science Center is the historic Ponce de Leon Inlet House, where children can race up to 203 steps above the lighthouse and get a nice view of the Halifax River.
Inside Daytona USA is the Daytona International Speedway that is home to NASCAR, one of the world’s most watched perennial race sports. Parasailing is also available for those who want to spot dolphins and sea turtles above water.
Being a highly regarded family state, Florida definitely lives up to its name.
