Florida, the Sunshine State, is synonymous with family fun, boasting miles of stunning coastline, vibrant cities, and world-class theme parks like those in Orlando. It’s no wonder families flock here year after year in search of the perfect getaway. Finding the ideal family resort in Florida can elevate a good vacation to an extraordinary one, offering a haven of relaxation and entertainment for every age group. From luxurious oceanfront paradises to amenity-rich havens nestled near famous attractions, Florida’s resort scene is incredibly diverse. To help you pinpoint the perfect spot for your next family adventure, we’ve curated a guide to the best family resorts in Florida in 2024, ensuring your Sunshine State escape is nothing short of spectacular.
Editor’s Top Family Resort Choices:
Best Family Resort In Florida Overall: The Breakers, Palm Beach
The Breakers
Perfect for: Families seeking a blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury with extensive amenities.
Highlight Amenities: Family Entertainment Center with diverse activities, private beach access and oceanfront family pool, “Spa Petite” services tailored for children, and comprehensive childproofing and baby equipment availability.
Don’t Miss: A memorable family dinner at The Italian Restaurant, located in the Family Entertainment Center, allowing parents to relax while children enjoy nearby play areas.
Location: Prestigious Palm Beach, Florida.
For over a century, The Breakers Palm Beach has stood as an iconic family resort in Florida, seamlessly blending old-world elegance with modern family-friendly features. This high-end destination caters to discerning families who appreciate quality and convenience. Guest rooms and suites exude refined comfort and can be fully childproofed before arrival. The resort ensures even the youngest guests are catered to, offering essential baby equipment such as cribs, bottle warmers, strollers, and mini-fridges. Dining is a breeze with ten on-site restaurants, the majority of which feature dedicated kids’ menus, coloring books, and crayons to keep little ones entertained. The allure of a private beachfront and four oceanfront pools, including a zero-entry family pool, is undeniable. The Breakers goes beyond just sun and sand; a wide array of activities keeps everyone engaged, from bike rides and kayaking adventures to junior golf and tennis programs. The Family Entertainment Center is a hub of fun, boasting arcade games, a mini-golf course, a basketball court, a playground, and organized family activities like arts and crafts, trivia nights, and movie screenings.
Best Family Resort In Orlando: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Perfect for: Families wanting proximity to Orlando’s theme parks with a tranquil resort escape.
Highlight Amenities: Access to five pools, two lazy rivers, thrilling waterslides, a playground, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a full-service fitness center and spa, and diverse dining options.
Don’t Miss: Evening strolls around the scenic 10-acre lake and enjoying theme park fireworks from lakeside fire pits.
Location: Conveniently located in Orlando, near Walt Disney World Resort.
Just a stone’s throw from the magic of Walt Disney World Resort, Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek offers a sprawling 62-acre retreat. This resort provides a serene escape while being incredibly close to Orlando’s famous attractions. Sharing amenities with Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek, guests enjoy access to an impressive five pools, two lazy rivers, eight hot tubs, and an exciting pirate ship-themed waterslide, promising endless water-filled fun for families. Beyond the aquatic offerings, a playground and 18-hole mini-golf course provide further entertainment. Parents can indulge in relaxation at the fitness center and spa. For families, the bunk rooms are a fantastic option, giving kids their own dedicated space with a TV. Evenings at Wyndham Grand are enchanting, with lakeside strolls, cozy fire pits, and views of the nightly fireworks spectaculars from nearby theme parks. A complimentary shuttle to Walt Disney World and an on-site ticket desk streamline theme park visits, making this resort a supremely convenient choice for Orlando adventures.
Best Family Resort In Fort Lauderdale: Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Perfect for: Families desiring a peaceful beachfront setting with easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s attractions.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach with complimentary amenities, zero-entry pool, lazy river, paddleboard rentals, spa and fitness center, engaging kids’ camp, and a daily schedule of family activities.
Don’t Miss: Floating in Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river and enjoying ice cream from The Emporium.
Location: Serene beachfront in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort exudes coastal charm and old-school elegance in Fort Lauderdale. Its rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or the city skyline. A private beach experience is enhanced with included lounge chairs, umbrellas, and beach games, with paddleboard rentals available for ocean adventures. Cool off in the beachside zero-entry pool or float along Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river. For a sweet treat, visit The Emporium, the resort’s charming ice cream parlor. The Funky Fish Ocean Camp keeps kids entertained with snorkeling lessons, boogie boarding, and creative crafts. A daily calendar is packed with family fun, from scavenger hunts to sandcastle competitions and lazy river races. The resort’s location provides a tranquil beachside escape while keeping you close to Fort Lauderdale’s diverse attractions.
Best Family Resort In Palm Beach: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Perfect for: Stylish families seeking a glamorous Palm Beach getaway with exceptional kids’ programs.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach access, two pools, dedicated kids’ and teen clubs, complimentary amenities for dogs, and free dining for kids under five with adult entree purchase.
Don’t Miss: Exploring the Atlantic Ocean with complimentary kayaks and paddleboards and indulging in a private cabana day by the pool or beach.
Location: Upscale Palm Beach, Florida.
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa delivers a truly luxurious and stylish family vacation in Palm Beach. Jonathan Adler-designed rooms are bright and inviting, featuring private balconies with hanging chairs. Suites offer extra space for larger families. The resort even welcomes canine family members. Families with young children will appreciate that kids five and under eat free throughout the resort with a paying adult. Enjoy the Family Pool and turtle-themed splash pad or relax on the private beach with complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and non-motorized watersports. The reimagined Loggers kids’ club is a highlight, featuring interactive exhibits like the Lite-Zilla and Sketch Aquarium. Complimentary bike rentals encourage local exploration, and Melt ice cream shop provides the perfect treat after a ride.
Best Family Resort In Miami: Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Perfect for: Families seeking to be at the heart of Miami Beach’s vibrant Art Deco District.
Highlight Amenities: Beachfront location with a dedicated kids’ play area, zero-entry pool, and engaging kids’ club.
Don’t Miss: Dining at the new Miami Beach location of Rao’s and participating in the regular schedule of family activities, including poolside games, cooking classes, and movies under the stars.
Location: Lively Miami Beach, Florida.
Loews Miami Beach Hotel provides a red-carpet experience for families in the middle of Miami Beach’s Art Deco scene. The SoBe Kids Club, in partnership with the Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science, offers enriching activities for kids aged 4-10, including arts and crafts, STEM programs, and cooking classes. The hotel features beachfront access and a zero-entry pool, with complimentary swim diapers, floaties, and sunscreen for convenience. Dining is family-friendly, with kid-sized buffets and local ice cream options. For adults, Rao’s offers a taste of classic New York Italian cuisine. The Sea Spa provides pampering for all ages, and St. Moritz Tower rooms are conveniently located near family amenities.
Best Family Resort In The Florida Keys: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Perfect for: Outdoorsy families in search of a tropical island escape with extensive water activities.
Highlight Amenities: Two family pools, adults-only pool, private beach, watersports facility, and Camp Cheeca kids’ program.
Don’t Miss: Waterfront family dining at Mia Cucina and a relaxing stroll on the resort’s fishing pier.
Location: Idyllic Islamorada, Florida Keys.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa, nestled on a 27-acre private estate in Islamorada, has welcomed guests since 1946. Recent enhancements have elevated the experience. Accommodations range from guest rooms to oceanfront suites and private villas called The Casitas. Casitas offer one or two bedrooms, full kitchens, and private porches, perfect for families needing extra space. Casita guests also enjoy butler service and access to an exclusive beach, pool, and tennis courts. Located in the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” the resort boasts a full-service watersports facility for fishing, snorkeling, rentals, and lessons. Camp Cheeca provides engaging activities for children, while adults can unwind at the spa or Tiki Bars overlooking the ocean.
Best Family Resort On The Gulf Coast: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Perfect for: Families who love water activities, from pools and slides to island adventures.
Highlight Amenities: Three-acre waterpark, kids’ programming, spa with meditation pool, multiple restaurants, and watersports rentals.
Don’t Miss: Dueling waterslides and the private island experience at Big Hickory Island, accessible by a short boat ride.
Location: Beautiful Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa offers a refreshed coastal ambiance for family vacations. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Estero Bay. The resort’s highlight is its three-acre waterpark, featuring five waterslides, multiple pools, and a lazy river. The resort is pet-friendly and offers kids’ camp, a video arcade, a spa, and a fitness center. A unique experience is the private island getaway to Big Hickory Island in Estero Bay Ecological Preserve, a short boat trip away, where guests can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy food and beverage services.
Best Family Resort On The Panhandle: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Perfect for: Families seeking spacious rooms with water views and easy beach access on the Florida Panhandle.
Highlight Amenities: Watersports rentals, three pools, spa and fitness center, diverse dining, and tram service throughout Sandestin resort area.
Don’t Miss: Fine dining at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood and relaxing on the white sand beach.
Location: Miramar Beach, Florida Panhandle.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, the largest beachfront resort on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, has been a family favorite for 40 years. A recent renovation has enhanced its appeal. Rooms feature modern beach decor and balconies with Gulf views. Junior deluxe suites are ideal for families, offering bunk beds, king or double beds, and sleeper sofas. The resort provides beach rentals, paddleboards, and kayaks. Kids enjoy indoor and outdoor pools and a toddler pool. Tram service connects guests to the Sandestin resort area, including the Village of Baytowne Wharf.
Best Beachfront Family Resort In Florida: Omni Amelia Island Resort
Omni Amelia Island Resort
Perfect for: Families prioritizing beach time on Florida’s northeast coast.
Highlight Amenities: Expansive beach, family and adults-only pools, nautical splash pad, “Gamer’s Lounge,” mini-golf, and bike rentals.
Don’t Miss: Little Sandy golf course and the Amelia Island Nature Center.
Location: Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, Florida.
Omni Amelia Island Resort, on a barrier island off Florida’s northeast coast, emphasizes beach access. Guests can rent chairs and umbrellas, stroll the beach, shell, build sandcastles, or search for sharks’ teeth. The resort features family and adults-only pools, a splash pad, and a large pool deck overlooking the beach. Families can enjoy mini-golf, bike rentals, and the Little Sandy golf course. The Amelia Island Nature Center offers insights into local nature, with tours and animal encounters available. Camp Amelia provides childcare options for parents.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Activities: The Boca Raton
The Boca Raton
Perfect for: Active families who enjoy variety and numerous activity options during their vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Harborside Pool Club, private beach, kids’ and teen clubs, junior tennis program.
Don’t Miss: FlowRider simulator and robot butler snack deliveries.
Location: Luxury in Boca Raton, Florida.
The Boca Raton offers a customizable family vacation experience with five hotel options, including the historic Cloister and the renovated Tower. The Harborside Pool Club features pools, waterslides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider simulator. Kids’ and teen clubs offer age-appropriate activities. Complimentary water taxis provide access to resort amenities, including watersports, tennis, golf, spa, and fitness center. Dining options are plentiful, from the Burger Bar to a macaron shop.
Best High-End Family Resort In Florida: Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
Perfect for: Families seeking a luxurious Disney World vacation with high-end amenities.
Highlight Amenities: Explorer Island water park, complimentary kids club, and The Hideout game room.
Don’t Miss: Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals character dining.
Location: Luxury within Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort offers a luxurious vacation experience, even for those not visiting theme parks. Explorer Island features pools, a lazy river, waterslides, a game room, and a kids’ club. Complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks and a Disney Planning Center are available. Character dining experiences like the Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals enhance the Disney magic without even leaving the resort. Sophisticated rooms and suites ensure comfortable relaxation after a day of fun.
Best Affordable Family Resort In Florida: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Perfect for: Budget-conscious families wanting a great beach vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, oceanfront heated pool, and complimentary baby gear.
Don’t Miss: Complimentary Micro Kickboard scooters for kids.
Location: Value-oriented Vero Beach, Florida.
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa offers affordable family beach vacations with off-peak rates around $200 per night. Spacious suites, some with kitchens and ocean views, accommodate families comfortably. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas are provided, along with watersports rentals. An oceanfront pool, complimentary morning coffee, and evening wine hour add value. Special packages like Stargazing on the Sea enhance the experience.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Pools: Orlando World Center Marriott
Orlando World Center Marriott
Perfect for: Families who love spending time in the water with extensive pool and waterpark features.
Highlight Amenities: Lagoon-style pool, seven waterslides, lazy river, splash zones, arcade, and mini-golf.
Don’t Miss: Speed slide and nightly laser light show at the Falls Pool area.
Location: Pool-centric Orlando, Florida.
Orlando World Center Marriott boasts an impressive pool complex, including the Falls Pool Oasis with a lagoon pool, waterslides, and a splash zone. The new River Falls Water Park adds three more waterslides and a lazy river. Nightly laser light shows and mermaid glow parties provide evening entertainment. Arcade and mini-golf options are also available. Complimentary shuttles to Disney theme parks are offered, though the pools might be enough to keep families happily occupied at the resort.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Adventurous Families: Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand
Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand
Perfect for: Thrill-seeking families wanting action-packed beach vacations.
Highlight Amenities: Beach cabana access, five pools, surf simulator, zipline, touch tank, and mini-golf.
Don’t Miss: Beach ziplining and the three-story inflatable waterslide.
Location: Adventurous St. Pete Beach, Florida.
Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand is designed for adventurous families with a plethora of included amenities. Five pools, a waterslide, a surf simulator, and a zipline are just some of the highlights. Beach games, a touch tank, mini-golf, pirate shows, and s’mores are also included. Fee-based options like paddleboard rentals and jet ski tours add even more excitement. Tropical-themed rooms and villas offer comfortable accommodations after a day of adventures.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Outdoorsy Families: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Perfect for: Families seeking a dude ranch experience in Florida with glamping and outdoor activities.
Highlight Amenities: Glamping options, petting farm, seasonal pool, tennis and basketball courts.
Don’t Miss: Saturday Night Rodeo and horseback riding in a scenic setting.
Location: Outdoorsy River Ranch, Central Florida.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers a unique dude ranch and glamping experience in Central Florida. Lodging options range from glamping tents to wagon cabins and lodge rooms. A petting farm, pool, and sports courts are available. Add-on activities include horseback riding, archery, airboat rides, a rodeo, and a Cowboy Adventure Park. On-site dining offers diverse options, and special experiences like S’mores ‘N Pours enhance the ranch stay.
About Beth Luberecki, Your Florida Family Resorts Guide
Beth Luberecki is a seasoned travel writer with over 25 years of experience covering travel, business, and lifestyle topics. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, including USA Today, FamilyVacationist, and Smarter Travel. A Florida resident for nearly two decades, Beth has extensive knowledge of the state’s travel offerings, from theme park tips to romantic getaways and family trips. She continues to explore and discover new places in Florida with her family.
