Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is a top destination for family vacations—and for good reason! With its sandy beaches, world-famous theme parks, and countless outdoor adventures, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, explore nature, or enjoy all-day entertainment for kids, Florida has an abundance of family-friendly resorts that cater to every need.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best family-friendly resorts in Florida, highlighting their amenities, unique features, and why they’re perfect for an unforgettable family getaway.
1. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Orlando
1.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Located within Walt Disney World, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa combines luxury with family fun. This iconic resort is just a monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom, making it a top choice for families wanting to stay close to the Disney magic.
1.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Proximity to Theme Parks: Quick access to Magic Kingdom via the monorail or boat.
- Themed Pools: Enjoy the beach-style zero-entry pool with a waterslide and splash zones for kids.
- Character Dining: Meet beloved Disney characters while dining at 1900 Park Fare.
- Enchanted Rose Lounge: A Beauty and the Beast-themed lounge for parents to unwind after a long day.
1.3. Insider Tips
- Book a room with a view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks for a magical end to your day.
- Take advantage of Disney’s resort perks, like early park entry and complimentary transportation.
2. LEGOLAND Florida Resort – Winter Haven
2.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Designed specifically with kids in mind, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a paradise for little builders and adventurers. It’s located right next to LEGOLAND Theme Park and Water Park, so your family can go from playing to resting in no time.
2.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Themed Rooms: Stay in Pirate, Kingdom, LEGO Friends, or Ninjago-themed rooms.
- LEGOLAND Perks: Early park access and exclusive park activities for hotel guests.
- Interactive Play Areas: The hotel lobby features a LEGO play pit and nightly entertainment for kids.
- On-Site Dining: Kid-friendly buffets and plenty of LEGO-themed snacks.
2.3. Insider Tips
- Look out for “treasure hunts” in your hotel room—it’s a fun surprise for kids.
- Book packages that combine park tickets with your stay for added savings.
3. Hawks Cay Resort – Duck Key
3.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Nestled in the Florida Keys, Hawks Cay Resort offers a tropical escape with activities tailored for families. From water sports to dolphin encounters, this resort combines relaxation with adventure.
2.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Kids’ Club: Coral Cay Activities & Adventures provides supervised fun, including crafts, scavenger hunts, and splash pad play.
- Saltwater Lagoon: A shallow lagoon perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
- Dolphin Connection: Guests can interact with dolphins in a natural ocean setting.
- Multi-Bedroom Villas: Spacious accommodations for larger families.
2.3. Insider Tips
- Book a dolphin encounter experience early—it’s one of the resort’s most popular attractions.
- Bring bikes or rent them to explore the beautiful resort grounds.
4. TradeWinds Island Grand Resort – St. Pete Beach
4.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Located on the stunning Gulf Coast, TradeWinds Island Grand Resort offers endless activities for families, including a giant waterslide and oceanfront fun.
4.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Floating Water Park: An inflatable obstacle course right on the Gulf of Mexico.
- High Tide Slide: A three-story inflatable slide that’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Family Pirate Shows: Interactive pirate-themed entertainment for kids.
- Kids’ Club Activities: Crafts, pool games, and treasure hunts keep little ones entertained.
4.3. Insider Tips
- Opt for the “Just Let Go” package to include resort activities in your stay.
- Explore nearby St. Pete Beach for more family-friendly dining and fun.
5. South Seas Island Resort – Captiva Island
5.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
South Seas Island Resort is a sprawling 330-acre resort on Captiva Island, offering families a mix of nature, relaxation, and water activities.
5.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Adventure Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and shell collecting along private beaches.
- ScoutAbout Program: Kids can explore the resort and complete fun challenges to earn ScoutAbout bands.
- Pools for Everyone: With 20 pools, including a lagoon-style pool with waterslides, there’s something for every age group.
- Wildlife Encounters: Learn about manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles through on-site programs.
5.3. Insider Tips
- Rent a golf cart for easy exploration of the resort’s expansive grounds.
- Visit during sea turtle nesting season for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
6. The Breakers – Palm Beach
6.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
This luxury resort in Palm Beach has something for everyone in the family, from kids’ programs to fine dining and a gorgeous beachfront.
6.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Kids’ Camp: The Breakers offers a fully supervised camp with crafts, scavenger hunts, and sports.
- Family Entertainment Center: Includes an arcade, playground, and miniature golf course.
- Four Pools: A kids’ pool with slides and plenty of shaded cabanas for parents.
- On-Site Dining: Family-friendly dining options as well as fine dining for parents.
6.3. Insider Tips
- Enjoy the complimentary bikes for a family ride along scenic Palm Beach.
- Book early during holidays—The Breakers is especially popular during Christmas and Easter.
7. Marriott’s Harbour Lake – Orlando
7.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
This resort combines the convenience of being close to Orlando’s theme parks with the feel of a private family retreat. It’s ideal for families who want to mix park days with relaxing poolside fun.
7.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Pirate-Themed Pool: Kids love the water slides, fountains, and splash zones.
- On-Site Activities: Mini-golf, basketball courts, and nightly campfire s’mores.
- Spacious Villas: Accommodations include full kitchens and separate bedrooms for families.
- Proximity to Parks: Just minutes from Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
7.3. Insider Tips
- Make time for one of the resort’s planned activities, like craft sessions or pool games.
- Stock up on groceries to take advantage of the villa kitchens and save on dining out.
8. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – Miramar Beach
8.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Located in the Florida Panhandle, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers a mix of sugar-white sand beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly entertainment.
8.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Baytowne Wharf: A village with zip lines, playgrounds, and family events like movie nights.
- Beachfront Access: Spend your day lounging on the beautiful Emerald Coast.
- Kids’ Activities: Tie-dye workshops, scavenger hunts, and paddleboarding lessons.
- Wide Range of Accommodations: From condos to cottages, perfect for families of all sizes.
8.3. Insider Tips
- Visit during one of the resort’s seasonal festivals, like the Sandestin Wine Festival or Baytowne Beer Fest.
- Rent bikes to explore the resort’s scenic trails.
9. Club Med Sandpiper Bay – Port St. Lucie
9.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
As an all-inclusive resort, Club Med Sandpiper Bay takes the stress out of vacation planning by bundling accommodations, activities, and meals into one package. It’s ideal for families who want everything in one place.
9.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Kids’ Clubs: Programs for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, with sports, crafts, and group games.
- All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy unlimited meals and snacks, with options for even the pickiest eaters.
- Watersports and Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, tennis, and even trapeze lessons.
- Adult Relaxation: While kids are at the club, parents can enjoy the adults-only pool or a spa treatment.
9.3. Insider Tips
- Take advantage of the evening babysitting service for a parents’ night out.
- Book water sports or tennis lessons in advance during peak seasons.
10. Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa – Palm Coast
10.1. Why It’s Perfect for Families
Hammock Beach Resort offers the perfect blend of family fun and relaxation with its beachfront location and endless activities for kids and adults alike.
10.2. Family-Friendly Features
- Lazy River and Water Slides: The pool complex includes a lazy river, water slides, and a kids’ splash zone.
- Beachfront Fun: Miles of pristine coastline for sandcastle building and swimming.
- Kids’ Programs: Supervised activities like arts and crafts and pool games.
- Spacious Villas and Suites: Perfect for large families who need extra space.
10.3. Insider Tips
- Book a villa with a kitchen to enjoy meals in after a day at the beach.
- Make reservations for the resort’s dining options—sunset dinners by the ocean are a must.
Conclusion
Florida is brimming with family-friendly resorts that cater to every type of traveler, from theme park fanatics to beach bums and outdoor adventurers. These resorts go above and beyond to create an unforgettable vacation experience with amenities like kids’ clubs, water parks, and family activities. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach at Hawks Cay or stepping into the magical world of Disney at the Grand Floridian, these destinations ensure memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs
1. Are these resorts all-inclusive?
Not all of them. Resorts like Club Med Sandpiper Bay are all-inclusive, while others offer a mix of packages and à la carte dining options.
2. What’s the best time to visit Florida for a family vacation?
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid peak summer if you prefer cooler temperatures.
3. Are there babysitting services at these resorts?
Many resorts, like Club Med and Disney’s Grand Floridian, offer babysitting services or kids’ clubs for supervised fun.
4. Do these resorts accommodate large families?
Yes, most resorts offer multi-bedroom suites, villas, or condos to comfortably accommodate larger families.
5. Are there dining options for picky eaters?
Absolutely! Many resorts provide kid-friendly menus and diverse dining options to cater to all tastes.
6. Do these resorts have pools suitable for toddlers?
Yes, most family-friendly resorts have shallow pools, splash zones, or zero-entry pools ideal for young children.
7. Are pets allowed at these resorts?
Policies vary—check with each resort for specific pet-friendly accommodations.
8. Are there outdoor activities available?
Yes! From kayaking and paddleboarding to zip-lining and beach volleyball, these resorts offer a wide range of outdoor activities.
9. Do these resorts offer packages with theme park tickets?
Yes, many Orlando resorts, like the Grand Floridian and LEGOLAND Resort, offer packages that include park tickets.
10. Can I plan a multi-resort stay in Florida?
Absolutely! With Florida’s diverse regions, you can easily combine stays at beach resorts, theme park hotels, and nature retreats into one trip.