Florida, the Sunshine State, is synonymous with family fun. From stunning coastlines perfect for building sandcastles to vibrant cities like Miami and Orlando brimming with attractions, Florida offers an unforgettable vacation for every family. Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful family trip, and Florida boasts an impressive array of family-friendly resorts. These resorts go above and beyond to cater to families, offering everything from beachfront bliss to amenity-rich adventures that will keep everyone entertained.
If you’re planning a family getaway to Florida this year, look no further. We’ve curated a list of the best Florida Resorts For Families, with our top pick being the iconic The Breakers. From luxurious Miami escapes to serene panhandle retreats, our curated list highlights the very best family resorts Florida has to offer. We’ve considered every detail, ensuring your family vacation is nothing short of spectacular. Get ready to explore our top recommendations for the best family resorts in Florida in 2024.
Top Picks for Florida Family Resorts
Overall Best Family Resort in Florida: The Breakers Palm Beach
Who Will Love It: Families seeking a blend of historic charm and modern, amenity-rich experiences in a luxury setting.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach access, oceanfront family pool with zero-entry, Family Entertainment Center, “Spa Petite” for kids, and comprehensive childproofing services.
Don’t Miss: Family dinners at The Italian Restaurant within the Family Entertainment Center, allowing parents to relax while kids play nearby.
Location: Palm Beach, Florida
For over a century, The Breakers Palm Beach has stood as a landmark of Florida hospitality. This iconic resort seamlessly blends historical elegance with contemporary family-friendly amenities. While exuding a high-end ambiance, The Breakers warmly welcomes families, ensuring a comfortable and engaging stay for all ages. Guest rooms and suites are designed with an elegant yet comfortable aesthetic, and the resort offers childproofing services and essential baby equipment like cribs, bottle warmers, and mini-fridges upon request. Dining is a breeze with ten on-site restaurants, most offering kids’ menus, crayons, and coloring books to entertain young diners. The resort’s prime location boasts a private beachfront and four oceanfront pools, including a zero-entry family pool, perfect for safe splashing and play. Activities abound, from bike riding and kayaking to specialized junior golf and tennis programs, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. The indoor-outdoor Family Entertainment Center is a hub of fun, featuring arcade games, a mini-golf course, a basketball court, a playground, and organized family activities like arts and crafts, trivia nights, and movie screenings. The Breakers truly exemplifies a top-tier family resort in Florida.
Best Orlando Family Resort: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Who Will Love It: Families seeking a tranquil retreat close to Orlando’s theme parks, offering both excitement and relaxation.
Highlight Amenities: Access to five pools, two lazy rivers, waterslides, playground, putt-putt course, fitness center, 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
Nestled just a short drive from Walt Disney World Resort, Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek provides a serene escape amidst the excitement of Orlando. This expansive 62-acre resort feels worlds away from the theme park bustle, situated on the edge of the picturesque 10-acre Bonnet Bay. Guests enjoy shared access to a wide range of amenities with the adjacent Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek, including five swimming pools, two lazy rivers, eight hot tubs, and a pirate-themed waterslide – a paradise for water lovers of all ages. Beyond the aquatic fun, families can enjoy a playground, an 18-hole putt-putt course, a well-equipped fitness center, and a spa for parental relaxation. For family-friendly accommodations, consider booking a bunk room, giving kids their own dedicated space with a TV. Evenings at the resort are magical, with fire pits and bench swings around the lake offering perfect spots to watch the nightly theme park fireworks illuminate the sky. Complimentary shuttle service to Walt Disney World and a convenient ticket desk in the lobby make park visits seamless, solidifying Wyndham Grand as a prime Orlando family resort.
Best Fort Lauderdale Family Resort: Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Who Will Love It: Families desiring a peaceful beachfront location that remains conveniently close to Fort Lauderdale’s attractions.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach with beach games, zero-entry pool, lazy river, paddleboard rentals, kids’ camp, and daily activity calendar.
Don’t Miss: Relaxing in Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river and indulging in ice cream at The Emporium.
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Pelican Grand Beach Resort offers a blend of coastal chic style and old-school elegance, providing families with a tranquil beachfront retreat in Fort Lauderdale. The resort’s guest rooms and suites feature stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean or the Fort Lauderdale skyline. The resort fee includes access to a private beach equipped with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and beach games, ensuring days filled with sandcastle building and seaside fun. Paddleboard rentals are available for ocean adventures, and a beachside zero-entry pool and Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river offer refreshing alternatives to the ocean. For a sweet treat, The Emporium, the resort’s vintage-style ice cream parlor, is a must-visit. The Funky Fish Ocean Camp keeps kids entertained with snorkeling lessons, boogie boarding, and creative crafts, while a daily calendar of family activities includes scavenger hunts, bingo, and sandcastle competitions. Pelican Grand’s location strikes the perfect balance, offering a quiet escape with easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s attractions, making it a top choice among family resorts in Florida.
Best Palm Beach Family Resort: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Stylish families seeking a glamorous Palm Beach getaway with exceptional kids’ programs.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, two pools, kids’ and teen clubs, complimentary dog amenities, and kids under five eat free program.
Don’t Miss: Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards for ocean exploration and private cabana days by the pool or beach.
Location: Palm Beach, Florida
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa embodies the sophisticated vibe of Palm Beach, offering families a dreamy and stylish vacation destination. Designed by Jonathan Adler, the bright and cheerful guest rooms come with private balconies and hanging chairs, while suites provide ample space for families to spread out. Even furry family members are welcome with complimentary dog amenities. A fantastic perk for families is that kids five and under eat free throughout the resort with the purchase of an adult entrée. The resort boasts a Family Pool with a turtle-themed splash pad and a private beach where beach chairs, umbrellas, and non-motorized water sports are complimentary. The reimagined Loggers kids’ club offers innovative activities, including a Lite-Zilla and a Sketch Aquarium for immersive creative play. Complimentary bike rentals encourage exploration of the Palm Beach area, and Melt ice cream shop provides the perfect treat after a bike ride. Eau Palm Beach Resort truly stands out as a luxurious and family-focused resort in Florida.
Best Miami Family Resort: Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Who Will Love It: Families wanting to be at the heart of Miami Beach’s vibrant Art Deco District with robust kids’ programming.
Highlight Amenities: Beachfront location with kids’ play area, zero-entry pool, and an engaging kids’ club.
Don’t Miss: Dining at the new Miami Beach location of Rao’s and the regular schedule of family activities, including poolside games and kids’ cooking classes.
Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Loews Miami Beach Hotel provides a red carpet experience for families, offering year-round amenities and programming designed to delight guests of all ages. Located in the energetic Art Deco District, this resort puts you in the center of Miami Beach action. The SoBe Kids Club, in partnership with the Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science, offers enriching arts and crafts, STEM activities, and cooking classes for kids aged four to ten. The hotel’s beachfront location and zero-entry pool are perfect for cooling off, with complimentary swim diapers, baby floaties, and sunscreen readily available. Dining is family-friendly, with kid-sized buffets at Preston’s and local ice cream at Miami Joe Coffee Co., alongside more adventurous options like the new Rao’s Italian restaurant. Sea Spa offers pampering treatments for both adults and children. Guest rooms in the St. Moritz Tower provide convenient access to family-friendly amenities, making Loews Miami Beach a top family resort choice in Miami.
Best Family Resort in the Florida Keys: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Who Will Love It: Outdoorsy families seeking 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: Family dinners at Mia Cucina overlooking the water and sunset strolls on the resort’s fishing pier.
Location: Islamorada, Florida Keys
Cheeca Lodge & Spa, nestled on a 27-acre private estate in Islamorada, has been a beloved Florida Keys destination since 1946. Recently enhanced, this resort offers a true tropical island escape. Accommodations range from guest rooms to luxurious oceanfront suites and bungalows, with the new Casitas private villas being ideal for families, featuring full kitchens, spacious living areas, and laundry facilities. Casitas guests also enjoy butler service and exclusive access to a private beach and pool area. Located in the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Cheeca Lodge provides a full-service watersports facility for fishing and snorkeling tours, equipment rentals, and lessons. Camp Cheeca offers engaging activities for kids, while adults can unwind at the spa or enjoy cocktails at the open-air Tiki Bars overlooking the Atlantic. With its focus on outdoor adventures and island relaxation, Cheeca Lodge is a standout family resort in the Florida Keys.
Best Family Resort on the Gulf Coast: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Water-loving families seeking a resort with diverse aquatic activities and a private island experience.
Highlight Amenities: Three-acre waterpark, kids’ activity programming, spa, multiple restaurants, and private island access.
Don’t Miss: Dueling waterslides, the private island experience at Big Hickory Island, and dolphin and manatee spotting on the boat ride.
Location: Bonita Springs, Florida
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, with its recently renovated guest rooms, sets a relaxed coastal tone for a family vacation on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Floor-to-ceiling windows in each room offer stunning views of Estero Bay and the Southwest Florida coastline. The resort’s highlight for families is its three-acre waterpark featuring five waterslides, multiple pools, and a lazy river. A walk-in lagoon-style pool caters perfectly to younger children. This pet-friendly resort also offers multiple dining options, a kids’ camp, a video arcade, a spa, and a 24-hour fitness center. A unique experience is the resort’s private island at Big Hickory Island, accessible via a short boat ride where guests may encounter dolphins and manatees. Chairs and umbrellas await on the white sand beach for ultimate relaxation, with food and beverage service available. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point is an exceptional family resort on Florida’s Gulf Coast, blending water park fun with natural beauty.
Best Family Resort on the Panhandle: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Families seeking spacious accommodations with water views and easy access to both the beach and local attractions.
Highlight Amenities: Watersports rentals, three pools (including indoor), spa, multiple dining options, and tram service within Sandestin resort area.
Don’t Miss: Family dinner at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood and spending days on the pristine white sand beach.
Location: Miramar Beach, Florida Panhandle
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, the largest full-service beachfront resort on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, has been a family favorite for 40 years. A recent $35 million renovation has enhanced its appeal, updating everything from pools to dining outlets. Rooms feature modern, beachy décor and private balconies with Gulf views. Junior deluxe suites, with bunk bed areas for kids, are ideal for families. The resort’s white sand beach offers rentals for beach umbrellas, chairs, paddleboards, and kayaks. Kids will enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a toddler pool, and a pizza oven at Sandcastles Restaurant. Tram service throughout the Sandestin resort area provides easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions like The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Hilton Sandestin is a premier family resort in the Florida Panhandle, combining beachfront luxury with ample activities.
Best Beachfront Family Resort in Florida: Omni Amelia Island Resort
Who Will Love It: Families prioritizing extensive beach time and a wide array of beach-related activities.
Highlight Amenities: Expansive beach area, family-friendly pool and splash pad, mini-golf, bike rentals, and nature center.
Don’t Miss: Little Sandy 10-hole golf course and the Amelia Island Nature Center with rescued animals and nature tours.
Location: Fernandina Beach, Florida
Omni Amelia Island Resort, located on a barrier island off Florida’s northeast coast, is a haven for beach-loving families. The resort boasts an expansive beach area perfect for strolling, shelling, building sandcastles, and even searching for sharks’ teeth. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. The resort features a family-friendly pool, a nautical-themed splash pad, and an adults-only pool, all overlooking the ocean. Beyond the beach, families can enjoy mini-golf, bike rentals, and the Little Sandy 10-hole golf course designed for beginners. The Amelia Island Nature Center offers educational insights into local flora and fauna, with kayaking and biking tours available. Camp Amelia provides childcare services, and dining options range from burgers at Falcon’s Nest to pizza at Natural Slice. Omni Amelia Island Resort is a top beachfront family resort in Florida, emphasizing natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Best Florida Family Resort for Activities: The Boca Raton
Who Will Love It: Active families who appreciate variety and numerous options for staying entertained throughout their vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Harborside Pool Club, private beach, kids’ and teen clubs, junior tennis program, and FlowRider simulator.
Don’t Miss: Riding the FlowRider simulator and robot butler snack deliveries at The Tower.
Location: Boca Raton, Florida
The Boca Raton offers an adventure-packed family vacation with five distinct hotel experiences, including the historic Cloister and the newly renovated Tower. The Tower provides easy access to the Harborside Pool Club, featuring pools, waterslides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider simulator for surfing and boogie boarding. Kids’ and teen clubs offer age-appropriate activities, while complimentary water taxis facilitate resort-wide exploration. Amenities include watersports rentals, tennis and pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf course, a spa, a fitness center with classes, and bicycle rentals. Dining choices are plentiful, from the Burger Bar to a macaron and chocolate shop. The Boca Raton truly caters to families seeking non-stop activity and diverse experiences, making it a leading Florida family resort for active travelers.
Best High-End Family Resort in Florida: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
Who Will Love It: Families seeking a luxurious vacation experience, even when visiting Orlando’s theme parks.
Highlight Amenities: Explorer Island water park, complimentary kids club, game room, spa, and golf course.
Don’t Miss: Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals character breakfast at Ravello restaurant.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort elevates the Orlando family vacation to new heights of luxury. This AAA Five Diamond Award-winning property is a destination in itself, even beyond the nearby theme parks. The five-acre Explorer Island features pools, a lazy river, waterslides, a game room, and a complimentary kids club. Complimentary transportation to Walt Disney World theme parks and a Disney Planning Center in the lobby make park visits convenient. Guests can enjoy Disney magic right at the resort with the Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & Pals character dining experience. Sophisticated and comfortable guest rooms and suites ensure restful nights after fun-filled days. For families seeking unparalleled luxury and Disney access, Four Seasons Resort Orlando is the ultimate high-end family resort in Florida.
Best Affordable Family Resort in Florida: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Who Will Love It: Budget-conscious families who still desire a fantastic beach vacation with quality amenities.
Highlight Amenities: Private beach, oceanfront heated pool, complimentary baby gear, and Micro Kickboard scooters.
Don’t Miss: Complimentary Micro Kickboard scooter use and Stargazing on the Sea package.
Location: Vero Beach, Florida
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa offers an exceptional value for families seeking an affordable yet memorable Florida beach vacation. With off-peak rates around $200 per night, this resort provides spacious suites, some with full kitchens and ocean views. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas are provided, along with access to watersports rentals and private beach cabanas. An oceanfront heated pool, complimentary morning coffee and tea, and an evening wine hour enhance the guest experience. The resort offers unique experiences like the Stargazing on the Sea package and interactive pop-up events in partnership with the Environmental Learning Center. Complimentary Micro Kickboard scooters add extra fun for kids. Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa proves that an amazing family beach vacation in Florida doesn’t have to break the bank.
Best Florida Family Resort for Pools: Orlando World Center Marriott
Who Will Love It: Families planning to spend significant time swimming and enjoying water activities during their Florida vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Lagoon-style pool, seven waterslides, lazy river, kids’ splash zones, arcade, and mini-golf.
Don’t Miss: Plummeting down the speed slide and the nightly laser light show at the Falls Pool area.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Orlando World Center Marriott, the world’s largest Marriott property, is a paradise for pool-loving families. The resort’s pool scene is anchored by the Falls Pool Oasis, featuring a zero-entry lagoon pool, a splash zone for younger kids, two twisting waterslides, and a thrilling 90-foot speed slide. The new River Falls Water Park adds three high-speed inner-tube waterslides and a lazy river to the aquatic excitement. An “aqua playground” further enhances the water fun. Nightly laser light shows and mermaid glow parties at the Falls Pool area provide evening entertainment. Beyond the pools, the resort offers an arcade, mini-golf, and scheduled activities for kids. Complimentary shuttle service to Disney theme parks is available. Orlando World Center Marriott is the ultimate Florida family resort for making a splash.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Adventurous Families: Tradewinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand
Who Will Love It: Thrill-seeking families of all ages wanting an action-packed Florida beach vacation.
Highlight Amenities: Beach cabanas, five pools, surf simulator, touch tank, mini-golf, paddleboats, and zipline.
Don’t Miss: Beach ziplining and the three-story inflatable waterslide on the sand.
Location: St. Pete Beach, Florida
TradeWinds Beach Resort’s Island Grand is designed for adventurous families seeking non-stop excitement on St. Pete Beach. The resort fee includes access to an incredible array of activities: five pools, a 200-foot waterslide, a surf simulator, and a three-story zipline over the beach. Guests also enjoy beach games, a touch tank experience, mini-golf, paddleboats, pirate shows, s’mores, and beach yoga. Fee-based options include watersports rentals, jet ski tours, and a floating water park. Guest rooms and villas feature tropical décor, mini-fridges, and microwaves. Tradewinds Island Grand provides a vacation packed with thrills and adventures, making it the best family resort in Florida for active families.
Best Family Resort in Florida for Outdoorsy Families: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Who Will Love It: Families looking for a unique dude ranch experience with glamping and outdoor adventures.
Highlight Amenities: Glamping options, petting farm, seasonal pool, tennis and basketball courts, and rodeo.
Don’t Miss: Saturday Night Rodeo and scenic horseback or airboat rides.
Location: River Ranch, Central Florida
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers a distinctive dude ranch meets glamping experience in Central Florida. Set on 1,700 acres overlooking the Kissimmee River, this resort provides a taste of Old Florida charm. Accommodation options range from glamping tents to wagon-inspired cabins and lodge-style rooms. Guests can enjoy a seasonal pool, tennis and basketball courts, and a petting farm. Add-on activities include horseback riding, archery, airboat rides, a Saturday night rodeo, and a Cowboy Adventure Park. Dining options range from steakhouses to pizza parlors. Westgate River Ranch is perfect for outdoorsy families seeking a unique and rustic Florida vacation experience, distinct from typical beach resorts, offering a truly memorable family resort in Florida.
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. Based in Florida for nearly two decades, Beth has extensive knowledge of the Sunshine State, specializing in family travel, romantic getaways, and Orlando area destinations. She continues to explore and discover new family-friendly destinations throughout Florida with her family.
