13 Best Family Resorts in Florida to Book Now
School is back in session. Yet, we could all use one last getaway, maybe at one of many kid-friendly, sun-splashed family resorts in Florida.
There are plenty of resorts to choose from, too. Whether you want to be on the beach or close to a theme park, you’re covered in Florida.
Lots of family resorts in Florida have splash pads and water parks, even kid clubs, lending libraries, zero-entry pools and plenty of tropical palm trees.
When you’re ready for an escape to Florida, Florida will be ready for you. The swaying palms, the warm breezes, the refreshing waters. Ah, paradise.
Here are 13 of the best family resorts in Florida to book now, including two picks from yours truly.
Table of Contents
#1: Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Recommended by Lori at Travlinmad
Set on a pristine stretch of sandy beach, the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in Southwest Florida wows with amenities for families.
Several resort-style pools, including a kids-only area that is perfect for infants and toddlers, make it tempting to spend every waking moment at the resort.
Then, there is the wide-ranging list of resort activities, like arts & crafts, beach volleyball and unique dive-in movies, to name a few.
Look to on-site beach rentals for kayaks, paddleboards and wave runners. Even 90-minute guided wave runner excursions into the Ten Thousand Islands.
Families with kids over five will love the dolphin watch and shelling excursions that depart from the resort.
Minutes from the Florida Everglades, adventure-loving families can also hike and kayak the Everglades.
When Mom and Dad need grown-up time, the resort’s Tiki Tribe Discovery Day Camp offers peace of mind for parents and tons of fun for kids (fee applies).
CHECK RATES: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
#2: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Recommended by Suzy at Our Bucket List Lives
Located in Orlando, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a stone’s throw from Universal’s popular theme parks.
Of course, we’re talking about Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is an affordable family-friendly hotel. The family suites come equipped with a kitchenette that includes a fridge, sink and microwave.
There’s even a separate sofa bed/lounge area in addition to the two beds. There is plenty to do outdoors to keep the family entertained, too.
The courtyard wows with a pool, plus a lazy river, splash pad and water slide.
There is a large games area and sandpit for the kids with various toys. There’s even a ping pong table that’s just right for family game night.
Outdoor fire pits and a hot tub keep the fun at the resort, particularly when restrooms and snack shacks are steps away.
CHECK RATES: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
#3: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort
Recommended by Nicole at Affordable Family Travel
The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs wows with its location alone on Florida’s idyllic Gulf Coast. Yet, there’s so much more.
This family-friendly resort features a small water park with several water slides, including a tube slide that splashes down into the lazy river.
Across the resort, look for kid-centric outdoor activities, like a rock climbing wall, super-size Connect Four, ping pong tables and cornhole boards.
Staff lead group-oriented games, like potato sack races and hula hoop contests. There is also an on-site kids club (fee applies).
Enjoy a relaxing water taxi ride to the resort’s private island beach for swimming, sand castle building and shelling.
Dolphins frequent the warm coastal waters, so keep your eyes open both on the boat and on the beach.
On the walkway to the boat launch, you may even spot land-loving wildlife, like raccoons and rabbits.
Guest rooms are spacious too, many wowing with wide-reaching ocean views from the balcony.
CHECK RATES: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
#4: TradeWinds Island Resorts, St. Pete Beach
Recommended by Gwen at Healthy Travel Mom
Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, TradeWinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach feature multiple pools, restaurants and kid-friendly activities across 31 beachfront acres.
Two incredible hotels make up TradeWinds Island Resort including RumFish Beach Resort (formerly Guy Harvey Outpost) and TradeWinds Island Grand.
Between the two properties, TradeWinds has a combined seven swimming pools, 14 restaurants, a luxurious spa, a kids club and tons of family-friendly activities.
That’s not to mention the exquisite stretch of white sand and turquoise water.
Since you’re probably about to ask, the answer is yes. If you stay at one property, you can use and enjoy all that both resorts have to offer.
Most amenities, like beach chairs and umbrellas, are included as part of your daily resort fee.
For active families, look for water sports, like SUPing, parasailing and snorkeling. For land lovers, there is volleyball, mini golf and a giant inflatable beach slide.
CHECK RATES: RumFish Beach Resort or TradeWinds Island Grand
#5: Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas
Recommended by Leah at Yoder Toter Blog
For a relaxing getaway that’s a mere 10 minutes from Walt Disney World, look to Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas in Lake Buena Vista.
These stylish, laid-back villas are a favorite among families, particularly large families thanks to a variety of two-bedroom villas and townhomes.
Individual properties wow with the space and comfort of home. Look for must-have amenities like full kitchens, dining tables, even washers and dryers.
For those traveling with an infant or toddler, request a crib when you book your reservation.
Also, ask for a villa, which keeps all living space on one level. No need to go up or down stairs like in a townhome.
The resort has six swimming pools, including a few with water slides. You’ll also find basketball courts, playgrounds, arcades and a mini golf course.
CHECK RATES: Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas
#6: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Recommended by Ruby at Voyage Florida
Situated on a pristine barrier island along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa is a boutique hotel known to attract ocean-loving families.
Thanks to its beachfront location, it’s a short walk to enjoy the blue-green waters along the sandy coastline. This proximity to the beach is key with tiny tots in tow.
For families, there is a swimming pool, a lending library and a game room with gaming consoles, board games, LEGOs and more for kids of all ages.
Cruiser bikes are available to check-out at the hotel for those eager to explore the property on two wheels (included in the daily resort fee).
At certain times of the year, this property selectively shares a social password.
Mention this key word or phrase at the front desk for a bonus amenity, like free parking, free breakfast or a free in-room movie night with complimentary popcorn.
CHECK RATES: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
#7: The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
Recommended by Harshi at trot.world
You’ll find an idyllic tropical paradise less than 20 minutes by car from downtown Miami called Key Biscayne.
Here, families can book a stay at a true island gem, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.
Pristine beaches, a historic lighthouse and plenty of recreational activities, like tennis, water sports and golf, make this an ideal getaway for families.
That’s all in addition to the zero-entry family pool steps from the ocean. For school-age kids (ages 5-12), the resort wows with its signature Ritz Kids program.
Kids can engage in fun activities, like face painting and craft-making, as well as educational endeavors.
Thanks to Ritz Kids, kids will be able to share all they’ve learned about the history of Key Biscayne, as well as all the natural wonders of the land and sea.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is more than a place to lie your head at night. It’s an immersive experience that can create memories to hold onto for years to come.
CHECK RATES: The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
#8: The Grove Resort & Water Park
Recommended by Erin at Kidventurous (that’s me!)
The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando is for those who love Disney, but don’t love Disney. As in, no character breakfasts, no cast members, no Hidden Mickeys.
However, there are Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles on the kids’ breakfast menu. There’s also free shuttle service to the parks, but no more.
The resort is made for families given the resort is made up of one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. Each suite has a washer, dryer and full kitchen.
Spend time at the on-site Surfari Water Park. Here you’ll find a lazy river, two water slides, a kids’ water play area and a heated zero-entry pool.
Adjacent to the water park is Longboard Bar & Grill, an open-air restaurant serving up starters, salads and sandwiches. There’s also an outdoor milkshake bar.
The world-class spa and fitness center wow many guests, but then there is Hammock Cove. Select a hammock and stare up at swaying palm fronds.
CHECK RATES: The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando
#9: Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina
Recommended by Paul at The Two That Do
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina is located in Fort Myers Beach, on the northern tip of Estero Island.
A short walk from pristine Bowditch Point Park, this is a delightful family-friendly destination.
Hotel guests can savor the natural splendor of a wide, white sand beach paired with some of the most stunning sunsets across Florida.
The resort boasts two swimming pools, including one for children with lagoon-style entry, a waterfall and splash zones.
There are lots of games to play in the pool area too, like super-size Connect Four, ping pong and corn hole.
Kids will also love dive-in movies by the pool with free just-popped popcorn. Plus, there’s an arcade and loads of daily activities.
For active families, rent a wave runner, kayak or stand-up paddleboard to get out on the cerulean waves.
Moms and dads can even take yoga classes right on the beach. For more travel ideas, follow @thetwothatdo on Pinterest
CHECK RATES: Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina
#10: Acqualina Resort & Residences
Recommended by Nichola at Family Hotel Expert
The stylish Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach is situated in Sunny Isles Beach, just north of bustling Miami Beach.
This luxury hotel caters to families with elegant hotel rooms, as well as one-, two-, and three-bedroom oceanfront suites.
It’s no surprise that this property is frequently considered among the top family hotels in Miami.
Here you’ll find three on-site restaurants, which keep children top of mind with tempting menus for even the littlest travelers.
This upscale hotel also wows with three outdoor pools, a private beach club and a fitness center.
On the beach, little ones will love access to play toys, like buckets and shovels, to aid in their quest to build the perfect sand castles.
Kids can also enjoy a fabulous, complimentary kids club. The AcquaMarine children’s program (ages 5-12) boasts marine-inspired educational activities.
They will learn how to size up whales on the beach and how to protect sea turtles.
CHECK RATES: Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
#11: Sirata Beach Resort
Recommended by Amy at Amy Guides
Sirata Beach Resort is a laid-back beachfront property on St. Pete Beach.
Situated on hotel-lined Gulf Boulevard, families enjoy glorious westerly views of the Gulf of Mexico. Get ready for legendary sunsets nearly every evening.
The friendly, approachable staff will escort you to the fenced-in splash pad, heated outdoor pool and beachfront play structure upon arrival.
At Sirata Beach Resort, it won’t take long to find playmates for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. There’s much to do on-site with lots of other children.
For foodies, look no further than the two on-site restaurants: Harry’s Beach Bar and Rum Runners Bar & Grille.
From kid-friendly faves, like burgers and fries, to freshly-caught seafood dishes, everything on the menu is delish.
Feeling adventurous? Try the Alligator or Grouper Bites. Yum-o. For more food picks, follow Amy on Twitter at @AmysCuisine.
CHECK RATES: Sirata Beach Resort
#12: Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Recommended by Priya at Outside Suburbia
For families eager to spend time in Orlando, but not set to visit theme parks every single day, look to a stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando.
Yes, the upscale resort is within the Walt Disney World Resort. However, the property is largely removed from the bustling theme park.
Big kids will love the 250-foot-long water slide and the 11,000-square-foot lazy river at Four Seasons Resort Orlando.
For small children, the Splash Zone and Explorer Island are a dream come true.
At Ravello, the on-site restaurant, families can sign up to attend a Disney Character Breakfast on select mornings when Goofy comes by for a visit.
When it’s time to visit the parks, the resort offers a complimentary shuttle. Kids will love the amenities, like kid-size robes, cookies and magic wands.
In the evening, revel in the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show from the balcony. Follow Priya on Instagram at @outsidesuburbia.
CHECK RATES: Four Seasons Resort Orlando
#13: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach
Recommended by Erin at Kidventurous (that’s me!)
The Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort is one of a sprinkling of hotels that line the boardwalk. Rather, the “broadwalk,” a 2.5-mile promenade.
As a bonus, the hotel offers free one-hour cruiser bike rentals so you and the kids can pedal from one end to the other on the promenade.
You’ll also want to don your swimsuits and take a dip in the on-site pools, including one with a water slide. On the 11th floor, there’s an adults-only rooftop pool.
There are eight bars and restaurants spread across the hotel, including the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and Floridays Airstream Café.
Yes, a food truck. It’s parked just outside on the “broadwalk.”
When it’s time to turn in, look for standard rooms with a restorative, yet tropical vibe. The rooms are refreshingly bright with whites and teals.
Even the Adirondack chairs on the balcony are beachy in pastel blue and green.
CHECK RATES: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. However, the views and opinions expressed here are of the contributors.
