10 Best Beach Towns Near Orlando – Just 1 Hour to the Water

Some of the best beach towns near Orlando are close enough for an easy escape for those looking for a vacation from their vacation.

These charming places, all within about an hour’s drive, offer the perfect balance of livability, attractions, and, of course, beautiful coastlines.

These towns provide a manageable vibe and proximity to the beach that makes them perfect getaways or potential places to settle near the surf.

Methodology

To narrow down our choices, we selected towns with a maximum population of 50,000, within an hour and a half drive from Orlando.

Each of these beach towns is located 15 minutes or less from the coastline, so you’re never far from the water. These towns were also chosen based on their quality of life, variety of amenities, and abundance of things to do. Check out our list to see which of these spots might be your next beachside escape.

The 10 Best Beach Towns Near Orlando

10. Cocoa Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 55 Minutes
Population: 11,649
Location: Check on Google Maps

Known widely as a surfing haven, Cocoa Beach brings a whole lot of character with it. This town is about 55 minutes from Orlando, making it, almost an hour away but just close enough for a day trip or even a quick afternoon by the shore.

With the Kennedy Space Center nearby, Cocoa Beach might also double up as a fantastic spot for anyone fascinated by space history. In other words, it’s got a little something for everyone—whether that’s the beach itself or the eclectic shops along its downtown stretch.

At Cocoa Beach Pier, you’ll find fishing, food, and unforgettable views, especially when the sun sets. And by the way, if you’re into nature, the Lori Wilson Park offers a quiet green space right by the ocean, plus some pretty good hiking trails.

So, in short, Cocoa Beach manages to pack quite a punch, even though it’s a relatively small town. With amenities galore, this town really earns its spot as one of the top beach towns near Orlando.

9. New Smyrna Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 60 Minutes
Population: 27,843
Location: Check on Google Maps

Just about an hour’s drive from Orlando, New Smyrna Beach has a reputation that seems to grow every year. This artsy, somewhat laid-back beach town offers a unique blend of surf culture and local flair.

Flagler Avenue, its main strip, often hosts festivals and markets, and it’s filled with small boutiques, inviting eateries, and galleries. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Indian River on the other, you’re never far from a view.

Interestingly, the town is also known for its shark bites, which may not sound appealing, but in a strange way, it’s become a quirky part of its identity.

Aside from that, Smyrna Dunes Park provides a place to relax, walk, or enjoy a bit of nature. In fact, New Smyrna is not just about the beach; it’s got some real substance and a history that gives it charm.

8. Melbourne Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 70 Minutes
Population: 3,249
Location: Check on Google Maps

Melbourne Beach, about an hour and ten minutes from Orlando, brings a mix of historical significance and natural beauty.

With its small-town feel, this place seems to be wrapped in nostalgia. In a way, it’s got an atmosphere that reminds you of Old Florida. Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, a short drive away, gives you access to a pristine environment perfect for birdwatching, and during nesting season, you might even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle!

Just strolling through Melbourne Beach’s small downtown area gives you a feel for its welcoming nature. It’s not huge by any means, but that’s what makes it so appealing.

Melbourne Beach could be your escape if you’re looking for one of the best beach towns near Orlando with a bit of an old-fashioned twist.

7. Ormond Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 60 Minutes
Population: 43,080
Location: Check on Google Maps

Ormond Beach is roughly an hour from Orlando, but it has a vibe that’s entirely its own. Known as the quieter alternative to nearby Daytona Beach, Ormond offers a little more serenity with the same gorgeous shoreline.

The town itself has a variety of cafes, parks, and spots to catch a view of the ocean.

Rockefeller Gardens Park, along the Halifax River, is a highlight that’s worth checking out. And let’s not forget that Ormond was once a vacation favorite of John D. Rockefeller, which adds a bit of historical appeal.

This beach town, in some ways, is a hidden gem and easily ranks among the best beach towns near Orlando for anyone craving a slower pace without giving up too much in terms of convenience.

6. Flagler Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 75 Minutes
Population: 5,105
Location: Check on Google Maps

Flagler Beach may take you an hour and a quarter from Orlando, but it’s worth every minute of the drive. Known for its casual, small-town vibe, this is where beachgoers find a bit of everything.

From scenic ocean views along Highway A1A to beachfront restaurants serving up local seafood, there’s really not much lacking here.

Visitors often find the town’s wooden fishing pier and orange-tinted sands particularly striking. And Flagler is dog-friendly in most areas, which adds to its laid-back appeal.

With its easygoing atmosphere, Flagler Beach feels like a classic American beach town, and it’s hands down one of coolest towns near Orlando.

5. Vero Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 90 Minutes
Population: 16,354
Location: Check on Google Maps

Vero Beach, though a bit further at about an hour and a half from Orlando, is certainly a standout. Known for its relaxed vibe and pristine beaches, Vero is the kind of place that seems almost designed for unwinding.

You’ll find the Indian River Lagoon here, where boating and kayaking are common pastimes. McKee Botanical Garden is a local favorite, offering a lush escape just minutes from the shoreline.

For art lovers, the Vero Beach Museum of Art offers an impressive collection, especially for a town of its size. And the local restaurants? They’re not only inviting but deliver in flavor, too.

All in all, Vero Beach could be your spot if you’re looking for one of the best beach towns near Orlando with just a little bit of everything.

4. Ponce Inlet

Minutes from Orlando FL: 70 Minutes
Population: 3,268
Location: Check on Google Maps

At just over an hour from Orlando, Ponce Inlet is a hidden gem for those who appreciate a small-town feel and scenic beauty.

It’s home to the iconic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, which towers above the coast and offers incredible views for those willing to make the climb. The town’s Marine Science Center also attracts families and nature enthusiasts, with its sea turtle rehabilitation and bird sanctuary.

Ponce Inlet doesn’t boast crowded beaches or high-rise hotels, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll often find locals fishing along the jetty or surfers catching waves.

For anyone seeking an authentic, laid-back coastal town experience, Ponce Inlet is a great choice.

3. Satellite Beach

Minutes from Orlando FL: 70 Minutes
Population: 10,109
Location: Check on Google Maps

Located around 70 minutes from Orlando, Satellite Beach is a peaceful community that offers a more secluded experience compared to some of the busier beach towns.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Satellite Beach attracts those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Hightower Beach Park is a popular local spot, with boardwalks leading to a scenic, quiet beach that’s ideal for unwinding.

Not to mention, Satellite Beach is an excellent place to spot wildlife, with regular sightings of sea turtles and dolphins near the shore.

In a way, this town provides a classic beach experience, only without the tourist-heavy vibe, making it a great choice  for a day or even a weekend.

2. Daytona Beach Shores

Minutes from Orlando FL: 60 Minutes
Population: 4,355
Location: Check on Google Maps

Daytona Beach Shores, only an hour away from Orlando, offers a different side of Daytona, one that’s a bit quieter and more relaxed.

Unlike its livelier counterpart, Daytona Beach Shores provides a calmer experience with family-friendly beaches and fewer crowds. Frank Rendon Park is a hit with families, featuring a playground, picnic areas, and easy beach access.

This town might be known for its sunrises and stunning coastline, but it’s also about the community feel. Small eateries, cozy resorts, and inviting parks give it that welcoming touch.

When you’re looking for a less commercialized vibe, Daytona Beach Shores stands out as a great choice.

1. Port Orange

Minutes from Orlando FL: 55 Minutes
Population: 64,842
Location: Check on Google Maps

Just under an hour from Orlando, Port Orange offers a mix of natural beauty and a touch of local history. With the Halifax River running alongside, this town provides scenic river views and a variety of outdoor activities, from kayaking to fishing. Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, a historic site with a botanical garden, adds an intriguing spot for a quiet afternoon.

Port Orange is, in a way, like the perfect blend of town and coast, where you get the beach but also a community that feels close-knit. Therefore, we think it is the best beach town near Orlando for those who appreciate a balance between outdoor fun and a bit of history.

With parks, easygoing vibes, and proximity to the beach, Port Orange wraps up our list on a high note.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to drive to beach towns from Orlando? Yes, many beach towns are just about an hour away, making them perfect for day trips or short getaways.

What’s the best beach town near Orlando for nature lovers? Melbourne Beach and Ponce Inlet are great for those who enjoy nature, with access to wildlife refuges, parks, and natural coastlines.

Are these beach towns suitable for families? Absolutely. Many of these towns, like Satellite Beach and Daytona Beach Shores, offer family-friendly beaches and amenities that make them perfect for family visits.

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