Beaches Near Orlando

[taterules]

What are some nice beaches I could visit with pre-teen boys for a few days after Disney, near Orlando? I'll have my own car. I'd like to be able to stay beach-front for a reasonable price if at all possible.

 

[Sorsha]

What are some nice beaches I could visit with pre-teen boys for a few days after Disney, near Orlando? I'll have my own car. I'd like to be able to stay beach-front for a reasonable price if at all possible.

We used to live out on the Space Coast, in the Melbourne area. Absolutely gorgeous beaches, and lots of other fun stuff in the area to do as well. If you want more info on the things to do in that area, just let me know.
From Kissimmee, get on the 192 (one of the main east-west highways in Kissimmee) and head east. You will stay on the 192 all the way out, eventually it will cross all the way over to the coast. Most of the beaches there are free and have very good public access. From the beaches, you can get on the A1A and head north to Cocoa (Kennedy Space Center) and Daytona Beach, and be sure to check out what may be one of the biggest RonJon surf shops *I* have ever been in! LOL
The drive from Kissimmee out to the beach will take about 1 1/2 hours, depending on Traffic.
I remember there being lots of hotel/resorts out on the beaches, both small independnt places, and larger chain hotels. Of course, as near Disney, there are LOTS of vacations homes/condos available to rent as well.
Have fun!

 

[cheesehead7]

We love St. Pete Beach on the Gulf side just south of Tampa. We have stayed at the Sirata several times but there are other hotels along the beach.

 

[cjc]

Cheesehead7
How would you rate Sirata?
I have read mixed reports and staying there in 3 weeks?
Any local restaurants or attractions you would recommend?
Thanks

 

[jcriket]

The rooms are big, very nice place, I'd compare it to a deluxe at disney. You'll like it. There's lots of places to eat, lots within walking distance to the sirata. Attractions,? You got the beach!, If you want anything else St. Pete has lots of nice museums, and lots of nice restaurants on the bay side of the city. We have lots of nice parks around also.
http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/default.htm

http://www.stpete.org/ataglance.htm

 

[#1 Minnie Lover]

When we lived in Orlando (near the airport) we would take 417 to the beeline and head to Cocoa. Even now when we visit we still make a trip to Cocoa and Ron Jon.

 

[Born 2B a Princess]

I'm glad you asked this question -- we're planning to do the same thing and I've been looking for information on nearby beaches!

 

[Ruth B]

We love St. Pete Beach on the Gulf side just south of Tampa. We have stayed at the Sirata several times but there are other hotels along the beach.

Hi
how far is this from Bush Garden. wondered if we could spend a couple of hours at the beach after a monring at BG?

 

[cheesehead7]

Cheesehead7
How would you rate Sirata?
I have read mixed reports and staying there in 3 weeks?
Any local restaurants or attractions you would recommend?
Thanks

We love the Sirata. We have stayed in a studio room and a beachfront room. Just there a month ago. As far as eating, there is a ton of stuff up and down the Blvd. You can also walk to several places along the beach for casual food such as Crabby Bill's and Jimmy B's.

Across the street there is a little swim shop where you can buy sand pails, souvenirs etc. Wasn't sure if you had little kids or not. There are 3 pools on-site and I believe two hot tubs. Also two bars Harry B's and Rum runners. The beach is FABULOUS! Wish I were there now.......... Have a great time.