Florida and family vacations are a classic pairing for good reason. With stunning coastlines, vibrant cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and the theme park capital of Orlando, the Sunshine State offers diverse attractions for families of all kinds. Finding the perfect place to stay is key to a memorable trip, and luckily, Florida boasts an incredible selection of family-friendly resorts. From luxurious oceanfront properties to amenity-rich havens, the best family resorts in Florida promise exceptional experiences for everyone.
For an unforgettable family getaway in 2024, consider The Breakers to the serene Florida Panhandle, island paradises such as Cheeca Lodge & Spa. Read on to find the best family resort in Florida for your 2024 travel plans.
Editor’s Top Family Resort Picks:
Overall Best Family Resort in Florida: The Breakers, Palm Beach
The Breakers is our top pick as the best family resort in Florida overall, offering a harmonious blend of history, luxury, and modern family-friendly amenities.
The Breakers
Perfect For: Families who appreciate a resort with a rich history and comprehensive, modern amenities.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach access, oceanfront family pool with zero-entry, Family Entertainment Center, “Spa Petite” for kids (ages 6-17), babyproofing services, and complimentary baby equipment.
Don’t Miss: Family dinners at The Italian Restaurant in the Family Entertainment Center, allowing parents to relax while kids play nearby.
Location: Palm Beach, Florida
For over a century, The Breakers has been a cherished Florida destination, and its enduring appeal lies in its ability to cater to both upscale travelers and families. This Palm Beach icon provides elegant and comfortable accommodations, with guest rooms and suites that can be childproofed upon request. Essential baby gear such as cribs, bottle warmers, strollers, and mini-fridges are readily available for guests. Dining is a breeze with ten on-site restaurants, the majority of which offer dedicated kids’ menus, coloring books, and crayons. The resort boasts a coveted private beachfront and four oceanfront pools, including a zero-entry family pool, ensuring ample space for relaxation and play. Families will never face a dull moment with a wide array of activities, from biking and kayaking to junior golf and tennis programs. The indoor-outdoor Family Entertainment Center is a hub of fun, featuring arcade games, a mini-golf course, basketball court, playground, and organized family activities like arts and crafts, trivia nights, and movie screenings.
Best Orlando Family Resort: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
For families focused on Orlando’s theme parks but desiring a relaxing retreat, Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek is an ideal choice.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Perfect For: Families wanting proximity to Orlando attractions with a relaxing resort atmosphere.
Highlight Amenities: Access to five pools, two lazy rivers, waterslides, playground, putt-putt course, fitness center, spa, and multiple dining options.
Don’t Miss: Evening strolls around the scenic 10-acre lake and enjoying theme park fireworks from the fire pits.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Located just minutes from Walt Disney World Resort, Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek offers a tranquil escape on 62 acres surrounding Bonnet Bay. Guests enjoy shared access to Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek’s extensive amenities, including five pools, two lazy rivers, eight hot tubs, and a pirate-themed waterslide. Beyond the water parks, families can enjoy a playground and an 18-hole putt-putt course. Parents can take advantage of the fitness center and spa for some personal time. Family bunk rooms provide a dedicated kids’ space with their own TV. Evenings can be spent enjoying the Disney fireworks displays from the resort’s fire pits or bench swings around the lake. The resort offers a convenient shuttle to Walt Disney World and a ticket desk for park arrangements.
Best Fort Lauderdale Family Resort: Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Pelican Grand Beach Resort offers a quieter beachfront experience in Fort Lauderdale, while still being conveniently close to local attractions.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Perfect For: Families seeking a peaceful beachside setting near Fort Lauderdale’s attractions.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, zero-entry pool, lazy river, paddleboard rentals, spa, kids’ camp, and daily activities calendar.
Don’t Miss: Relaxing in Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river and enjoying ice cream from The Emporium.
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Pelican Grand Beach Resort exudes coastal elegance with ocean and city skyline views from its rooms and suites. The resort fee includes access to a private beach with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and beach games. Paddleboard rentals are also available for ocean adventures. Cool off in the beachfront zero-entry pool or float along Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river. The Emporium ice cream parlor offers a sweet treat escape. Kids can participate in the Funky Fish Ocean Camp with activities like snorkeling, boogie boarding, and crafts. A daily calendar features family-friendly events such as scavenger hunts, bingo, and sandcastle contests. The resort’s location offers a balance of peaceful retreat and easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s attractions.
Best Palm Beach Glam Family Resort: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
For a stylish Palm Beach family getaway, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa delivers a glamorous experience with exceptional kids’ amenities.
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Perfect For: Stylish families seeking a luxurious Palm Beach experience.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, two pools, kids’ and teen clubs, complimentary dog amenities, and kids under five eat free with adult entrée purchase.
Don’t Miss: Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards for ocean exploration and private beach or poolside cabana days.
Location: Palm Beach, Florida
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa provides a dreamy and chic family escape in Palm Beach. Designed by Jonathan Adler, the bright and cheerful rooms feature private balconies with hanging chairs, and suites offer extra space. Even family dogs are welcomed with special amenities. Kids five and under enjoy complimentary dining with adult entrée purchases throughout the resort. The Family Pool and turtle-themed splash pad are perfect for younger guests, while the private beach offers complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and non-motorized watersports. The reimagined Loggers kids’ club engages children ages 3-12 with activities like the Lite-Zilla and Sketch Aquarium. Complimentary bike rentals make exploring Palm Beach easy, capped off with ice cream from Melt.
Best Miami Beach Family Resort: Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Loews Miami Beach Hotel places families in the heart of Miami Beach’s Art Deco District with a wealth of family-focused amenities and activities.
Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Perfect For: Families wanting to be in the center of Miami Beach’s vibrant Art Deco District.
Highlight Amenities: Beach with private kids’ play area, zero-entry pool, and kids’ club.
Don’t Miss: Dining at Rao’s Miami Beach and the regular schedule of family activities, including poolside games, cooking classes, and movies under the stars.
Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Loews Miami Beach Hotel provides a red carpet welcome for families with year-round amenities and programs. The SoBe Kids Club offers engaging activities for kids ages 4-10, developed with the Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science. The hotel’s beachfront and zero-entry pool provide refreshing options, with complimentary swim diapers, floaties, and sunscreen. Kid-friendly dining options abound, including a kids’ buffet at Preston’s and local ice cream at Miami Joe Coffee Co. For adults, the new Miami Beach location of Rao’s offers classic Italian dishes. Sea Spa provides kid-friendly spa treatments, and St. Moritz Tower guest rooms offer convenient access to family amenities.
Best Florida Keys Family Resort: Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Islamorada
Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada offers an outdoorsy island escape in the Florida Keys, perfect for families seeking tropical adventures.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Perfect For: Outdoorsy families seeking a tropical Florida Keys island escape.
Highlight Amenities: Two family pools, adults-only pool, private beach, watersports facility, and Camp Cheeca kids’ program.
Don’t Miss: Family pizza dinners at Mia Cucina overlooking the water and strolls on the resort’s fishing pier.
Location: Islamorada, Florida Keys
Set on a 27-acre private estate in Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge & Spa has been a beloved destination since 1946, recently enhanced with major renovations. Accommodations range from guest rooms to oceanfront suites and private villas, The Casitas, ideal for families with full kitchens and ample space. Casitas guests enjoy butler service and exclusive access to a private beach and pool. Located in the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” the resort boasts a full-service watersports facility for fishing and snorkeling tours, rentals, and lessons. Camp Cheeca provides engaging activities for kids, while adults can relax at Tiki Bars or the spa.
Best Gulf Coast Family Resort: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs is ideal for families who love water activities, with a fantastic water park and private island access.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Perfect For: Families who enjoy diverse water activities.
Highlight Amenities: Three-acre water park, kids’ programming, spa, multiple restaurants, and watersports rentals.
Don’t Miss: Dueling waterslides and the private island experience at Big Hickory Island.
Location: Bonita Springs, Florida
Recently renovated, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa offers a coastal-chic ambiance with views of Estero Bay. The resort’s three-acre water park is a major draw, featuring five waterslides, multiple pools, and a lazy river. The pet-friendly resort also offers kids’ camp, a video arcade, spa, and 24-hour fitness center. A unique experience is the private island at Big Hickory Island, accessible by a short boat ride, offering a pristine beach and relaxation.
Best Panhandle Family Resort: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa on the Panhandle provides spacious accommodations and beachfront access, ideal for families seeking a classic beach vacation.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Perfect For: Families seeking spacious rooms with water views near the beach and attractions.
Highlight Amenities: Watersports rentals, three pools, spa, multiple dining options, and tram service to Sandestin area.
Don’t Miss: Dining at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood and relaxing on the white sand beach.
Location: Miramar Beach, Florida
The largest beachfront resort on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, has been a family favorite for 40 years. A recent refresh enhanced the resort’s appeal, from pools to dining outlets. Rooms offer modern décor, balconies with Gulf views, and junior deluxe suites are perfect for families. The white sand beach offers rentals for umbrellas, paddleboards, and kayaks. Kids enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a toddler pool, and a pizza oven at Sandcastles Restaurant. Tram service provides access to the Sandestin area’s attractions and dining.
Best Beachfront Family Resort in Florida: Omni Amelia Island Resort
Omni Amelia Island Resort offers direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and a wide beachfront, perfect for families who prioritize beach time.
Omni Amelia Island Resort
Perfect For: Families focused on spending time on the beach.
Highlight Amenities: Expansive beach, family pool, splash pad, mini-golf, and bike rentals.
Don’t Miss: Little Sandy golf course and the Amelia Island Nature Center.
Location: Fernandina Beach, Florida
Located on Amelia Island, Omni Amelia Island Resort provides easy access to the Atlantic shores. The expansive beach offers opportunities for strolling, shelling, and sandcastle building. The resort features a family pool, splash pad, and adults-only pool 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 flora and fauna, with nature tours and family discovery programs. Dining options include Falcon’s Nest and Natural Slice, and Camp Amelia provides childcare services.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Activities: The Boca Raton
The Boca Raton provides endless activities and choices, ensuring families are always entertained during their Florida vacation.
The Boca Raton
Perfect For: Active families who enjoy variety and numerous activity options.
Highlight Amenities: Harborside Pool Club, private beach, kids’ and teen clubs, and junior tennis program.
Don’t Miss: FlowRider simulator and robot butler snack delivery at The Tower.
Location: Boca Raton, Florida
The Boca Raton offers a customizable family vacation with five hotel options. The Tower provides access to the Harborside Pool Club with pools, waterslides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider. Kids’ clubs and a teen space offer age-appropriate activities. Complimentary water taxis provide access to resort amenities, including watersports, tennis, golf, spa, and dining.
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 delivers a luxurious family vacation experience, even for those focused on theme parks.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
Perfect For: Families seeking high-style vacations, including Disney theme park trips.
Highlight Amenities: Explorer Island with pools, lazy river, waterslides, kids club, and game room.
Don’t Miss: Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals character dining.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Four Seasons Resort Orlando is a destination in itself, offering a five-acre Explorer Island with 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 are offered at Ravello restaurant. Luxurious guest rooms and suites ensure comfortable stays.
Best Affordable Family Resort in Florida: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa provides a budget-friendly beachfront family vacation without compromising on quality or amenities.
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Perfect For: Budget-conscious families wanting a great beach vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, oceanfront pool, and complimentary baby gear.
Don’t Miss: Complimentary Micro Kickboard scooters for kids.
Location: Vero Beach, Florida
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa offers affordable family travel with spacious suites, some with kitchens and ocean views. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, watersports rentals, and an oceanfront pool are available. Complimentary morning coffee and evening wine hour are included. Stargazing packages and interactive events with the Environmental Learning Center enhance the experience.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Pools: Orlando World Center Marriott
Orlando World Center Marriott is a water park paradise, offering an incredible pool complex for families who love to swim and splash.
Orlando World Center Marriott
Perfect For: Families who prioritize pool time during their Florida vacation.
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.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Orlando World Center Marriott boasts an expansive pool scene, including the Falls Pool Oasis with a zero-entry pool, waterslides, and a splash zone. The River Falls Water Park adds more thrills with inner-tube waterslides and a lazy river. Nightly laser light shows and mermaid glow parties enhance the pool experience. Arcade, mini-golf, and kids’ activities are also available, along with shuttle service to Disney theme parks.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Adventurous Families: Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand, St. Pete Beach
Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand in St. Pete Beach is perfect for thrill-seeking families, packed with action and exciting activities.
Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand
Perfect For: Thrill-seeking families wanting an action-packed beach vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Beach cabana, five pools, surf simulator, zipline, touch tank, and mini-golf.
Don’t Miss: Beach ziplining and the three-story inflatable waterslide.
Location: St. Pete Beach, Florida
Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand includes an array of amenities in its resort fee, such as pools, a waterslide, surf simulator, and zipline. Beach games, a touch tank, mini-golf, paddleboats, pirate shows, s’mores, and beach yoga are also included. Fee-based options include watersports rentals and a floating water park. Tropical-themed rooms and villas provide comfortable accommodations.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Outdoorsy Families: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers a unique dude ranch experience in Central Florida, ideal for families who love the outdoors and western adventures.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Perfect For: Families seeking a dude ranch experience without sacrificing comfort.
Highlight Amenities: Glamping options, petting farm, seasonal pool, tennis, and basketball courts.
Don’t Miss: Saturday Night Rodeo and horseback riding.
Location: River Ranch, Florida
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo provides a dude ranch and glamping experience on 1,700 acres in Central Florida. Lodging options range from glamping tents to cabins and lodge rooms. Amenities include a seasonal pool, petting farm, tennis, and basketball courts. Add-on activities include horseback riding, archery, airboat rides, and a Saturday night rodeo. Dining options range from steaks to barbecue.
About Beth Luberecki, Your Florida Family Resorts Guide
I’m Beth Luberecki, a professional writer with over 25 years of experience covering travel, business, and lifestyle topics. My travel stories have appeared in numerous publications including USA Today, FamilyVacationist, and Smarter Travel. Living in Florida for nearly two decades has given me extensive knowledge of the state, from Disney World tips to romantic getaways and, of course, the best family-friendly resorts. Based in the Orlando area, I’m always exploring new Florida destinations with my family.
