Beach near WDW? Need YOUR help

[Wilsonfamily4]

We are going to WDW May 8-15. I first thought we wouldn't be leaving WDW but now am seriously considering going to a beach on Mothers Day. We live on the west coast and my family loves beach days. Anyway, is there a good beach somewhat close to WDW? Will the beach be very busy on Mothers Day in Florida? (I tried doing a search for this subject but the search link is not working.) Thanks for your suggestions

 

[spiceycat]

cocoa beach is the closest - what an hour, but I prefer the gulf - 90 minutes.

since May is just about perfect beach weather - I would say yes it will be crowded on the weekends - so just go on a weekday.

 

[Wilsonfamily4]

spicycat~
What "gulf" are you talking about. I know fairly nothing about Florida. Also is Vero Beach worth the drive?

 

[spiceycat]

vb = not for the beach.

sorry - clearwater beach is on the gulf side, nice white sandy beaches, very pretty.

cocoa beach is on the ocean side - generally the beaches are brown, the water can be pretty harsh - this is the ocean side.

the gulf side is only high when there is a storm - otherwise it is pretty tame.

I preferred a nice calm sea over the ocean....

personally taste.

 

[Crokette]

I think that if you love going to the beach, you have to try both sides. It's not such a long drive, and it worth it. East coast and west coast are so different. The gulf side is well known for the beauty of the beaches.

 

[Mike Jones]

I also prefer the Gulf side to the east (Atlantic).. I'm not that keen on the northern beaches, around Clearwater/St.Pete's though, as they are pretty commercialised. We prefer Siesta Key, near Sarasota, a little further south, but it will take around 2 hours to drive from the Orlando area.

Mike

 

[Wilsonfamily4]

Thanks guys. We live on the pacific and I really want my kids to go to the Atlantic for a day. But am having a hard time convincing my husband as he doesn't want to rent a car. Figure if I get all my info and am ready then I can get him to go while we are there. Sounds like Clearwater and maybe a little south, is the best choice for my family. Just a long drive with a 2 and 5 year old in a rental car for a day trip. Appreciate all your help though.

 

[Charleyann]

Anna Maria Island in Florida has lovely beaches surrounding it. It is on the gulf side....I think. Nice calm and beautiful white beaches.

Charleyann

 

[NHLFAN]

We always take a day trip to a beach while in Orlando....I must agree Clearwater & St.Pete are great on the gulf coast.
But we also enjoy our day trips to Daytona.
Have fun....

 

[JohnnySharp2]

Personally although they are further away Clearwater and St.Petes beaches cannot be beat.

 

[Aidensmom]

I live over near the gulf beaches that people are suggesting, and I prefer Cocoa. I guess it is a case of not appreciating what you have.

If you do decide on the Gulf, I would suggest Bradenton Beach/Anna Maria or St Pete Beach/Treasure Island if you prefer something quieter, Clearwater Beach if you want a little more excitement.

 

[DanenRox]

Here's a thought...plan the Beach day for the last day of your vacation. Rent a car for one day, drive to St. Pete Beach, then fly home from the Tampa Airport about 30 minutes away...a nice, easy, little airport. We always follow up our Disney trips with "Beach Time" where you can decompress and relax. Let's face it, Disney, although our favorite vacation destination, is not relaxing. Our pic, Daytona Beach for the impressive Atlantic surf with the occasional dolphin sighting and the best sand ever. With little ones though, I'd go gulf side (St. Pete/Clearwater). The Atlantic does have a formidable current.