Many people love Orlando and having lived in this area all of my life, I’m included in their company. There are times though when we may need a mini-escape from one of the hottest destinations in the country. These Orlando day trips are the perfect solution.
Let’s start with the beaches, OF COURSE!! Here are a few of my favorites –
Daytona Beach. 23 Miles of blonde-sand beaches AND home to the famous Daytona 500 and is the birthplace of NASCAR racing. So, take in some NASCAR and then relax on the beach.
New Smyrna Beach. Only an hour drive from Orlando and 17 miles of white sandy beaches! It truly is a great escape! You will find fishing, surfing, and swimming and if you come between May through November, you can witness the baby sea turtles hatch at Canaveral National Seashore. That’s about 30 minutes from New Smyrna. Also, bring your 4-legged friend as there is a dog beach located at Smyrna Dunes Park.
Clearwater Beach. Named the #1 beach in 2018 by Trip Advisor. This is about a 2.5-hour drive from Orlando and is located on the Gulf of Mexico. The sand is white and like satin. If you need more than the beach then visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Cocoa Beach. Known as the quintessential beach town and after you visit you’ll know why. It is a short hour’s drive away from Orlando on Space Coast. Sun yourself on the beach and just relax or visit some of the area attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center or one of the museums. Lots to do here.
Jensen Beach. Located between Fort Pierce and West Palm Beach. Jensen Beach was known as the “Pineapple Capital of the World” and still holds an annual pineapple festival. You can enjoy shopping at their renowned retail shopping center and try their seafood fine dining options. This beach also attracts several species of endangered sea turtles during nesting seasons.
If history is your thing then you might like to take one of these day trips.
St. Augustine, Florida. Located on the northeast coast of Florida and is a 1 hour 46 minutes drive from Orlando. St. Augustine is known as being the oldest city in the U.S. and is also recognized for its Spanish colonial architecture. I really love the rich history, restaurants and of course, shopping!
Kennedy Space Centre. Located under an hour away from Orlando. I include this with the historic theme because you can learn about the history of space travel, starting with Neil Armstrong’s first step on the moon! Fun for all ages.
There are some of my top ideas. Hope you enjoy!! Stay close because I may be adding to this and Summer vacation is coming up. 🙂
