10 Best Florida Family Vacations (that aren’t Disney)

Welcome back to Wanderfully Lost, where Moms and Dads go for travel advice. And to make things easier, today we are taking you on a tour of the fun family-friendly vacation places in Florida that are not, mind you, Disney theme parks.

Or any other theme parks for that matter. The Sunshine State is full of wanderful family vacation spots that get overshadowed by adventurous theme parks. These locations offer a quieter, more comfortable Floridian experience.

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10. Ginnie Springs

And we are off to our first stop—Ginnie Springs. This wonderful place invites you to a sprawling oasis spread over 200 acres. It seems as if nature itself has spread its arms along the Santa Fe River, welcoming you to the heart of the Sunshine State. The crystal-clear waters, a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit, are hard to resist.

Imagine the simplicity of camping beneath the starlit sky, the joy of swimming in waters that feel like liquid nirvana, or the thrill of uncovering hidden wonders through snorkeling. Ginnie Springs has an adventure vault that caters to every soul—whether you seek the tranquility of kayaking or the exhilaration of dwelling in the depths with scuba diving.

For those who prefer solid ground beneath their feet, setting up camp by the springs opens a unique portal to get in touch with nature. Imagine the symphony of rustling leaves and the rhythmic flow of the river, orchestrating an unforgettable camping experience. Ginnie Springs is more than a destination; it’s an exploration—a journey into the heart of Florida’s natural wonders that whispers tales of the land.

Ginnie Springs Outdoors, LLC on Google Map:

9. Palm Beach

Nestled along the serene east coast of Florida, Palm Beach Gardens is not just a destination—it’s a harmonious blend of luxury, natural beauty, and world-class golfing that appeals to both avid sports enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely retreat.

The heartbeat of Palm Beach Gardens is the golf culture. It is the historical grounds of the Professional Golfers’ Association of America that stays alive in its very heartbeat. Each year, the city becomes a pilgrimage site for thousands of tourists worldwide.

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But Palm Beach Gardens isn’t just about golf. It is also home to the John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, a gem here in the coastal area of Florida. This pristine state park spans over 400 acres, providing a refuge for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. The two-mile stretch of beautiful beach offers a tranquil retreat where visitors can indulge in swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Palm Beach Gardens on Google Map:

8. Sanibel and Captiva

Number 8 is only a short distance from Fort Myers—the enchanting islands of Sanibel and Captiva await, offering a contrasting yet equally captivating escape for just about every kind of wanderer.

Captiva, quieter and less developed than its sister island, gives off a comfortable charm that lures visitors seeking a respite from ordinary life. From the scenic views from the top of the bridge at the heart of Captiva to the enticing dining spots, this island is truly for those in search of simplicity and serenity.

On the flip side, Sanibel unveils some of Florida’s best shores, including the iconic Lighthouse Park Beach, where the renowned Sanibel Lighthouse stands sentinel. Nature enthusiasts can venture to the J. N. Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for diverse bird species, or explore the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, housing over 30 art exhibits showcasing mollusks from around the world.

Captiva on Google Map:

7. Crystal River

Now, let’s step into Crystal River, a city where coastal charm meets aquatic wonders. Crystal River proudly boasts its title as the world’s Manatee Capital, a haven for these gentle giants all year round.

The city, with its National Wildlife Refuge dedicated to marine animals, stands as a testament to its commitment to conservation.

As boaters navigate the waters around the refuge, there’s a simple yet crucial plea to observe idle or no-wake zones, a small gesture to prevent the leading cause of marine animal mortality—boat strikes.

Crystal River on Google Map:

6. Marco Island

Marco Island, the largest gem among the Ten Thousand Islands, is a totally different Florida experience than the rest. In 2014, it proudly claimed the title of the top island in the U.S. Picture tropical white sand beaches and a laid-back lifestyle, offering an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility.

What’s more, the island’s allure extends beyond its shores, tempting visitors with outdoor activities, fine dining options, and the spectacle of breathtaking sunsets. From fishing and kayaking to boating and other water sports, Marco Island crafts a myriad of experiences for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

And take this! It is a sanctuary for rare bird species and endangered animals inhabiting the uninhabited islets that embrace it.

Finally, for those craving a more immersive wildlife experience, a short distance from Marco Island lies the Everglades National Park—a must-visit. Here, you can encounter exotic animals, witness the grace of manatees, and explore plant life found nowhere else on Earth.

Marco Island on Google Map:

5. Fort Lauderdale

Next up, we have Fort Lauderdale, a gem on Florida’s southeastern coast and an ideal destination for families seeking the perfect beach vacation.

Standing among some of the best family resorts in the Sunshine State, Fort Lauderdale goes the extra mile with special savings packages and all-inclusive rates.

The resort offers exceptional service, making you feel like you never want to leave. The kids’ club adds a touch of excitement with a treasure hunt game, a perennial favorite among children. The beautiful beach serves as a natural playground for the little ones, and you can relax while they play. Request an umbrella, grab a chair, and enjoy the ocean views.

Fort Lauderdale on Google Map:

4. Duck Key

Alright, listen up, beach lovers! If you’re itching for an island escape where the vibes are as easygoing as a Sunday morning and the outdoor fun never takes a day off, Duck Key in Florida is where it’s at.

We’re talking swimming, snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, boating—you name it. Duck Key is like a slice of paradise that lures in thousands each year, thanks to its primo location, jaw-dropping coastline, Instagram-worthy beaches, and some seriously cool local spots.

Oh, and did we mention it’s sandwiched right between two major Florida airports? That’s convenience served on a silver platter for all you beach bums looking for a hassle-free getaway.

Duck Key on Google Map:

3. Jupiter

Jupiter’s got it all for your family’s ultimate relaxation and fun, with its gorgeous beaches and a bunch of family-friendly activities. Take the whole crew to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park for a stroll with turtle hatchlings or paddle around in Loxahatchee River on a kayak.

If you’re up for some jaw-dropping views, climb up a hundred steps at the Jupiter Lighthouse. Trust us, the 360-degree coastal views from the top are totally worth it.

Jupiter is loaded with parks offering bike and beach trails. And if you go to Downtown Abacoa, you’ll find cozy sidewalk dining, cute specialty shops, and live concerts for some laid-back entertainment.

Jupiter on Google Map:

2. Art Basel

Let’s dive into the vibrant art scene of Miami Beach with Art Basel. The international art fair transforms the city into a canvas of creativity every single year. And the show is absolutely stunning.

This privately owned event hosts over 4,000 artists and 240 galleries, showcasing contemporary works in photography, paintings, film, digital arts, and sculptures.

Kids aged four and up can enjoy supervised programs led by professionals, while the Young Artists Studio provides a paid program for skill development, partnering with the Museum Tinguely, which totally takes the cake for us.

When exploring Art Basel with your kids, be sure to check out the best kid-friendly art exhibits, the golden sculpture at Faena Hotel, The Bass, the on-site playroom, and the Perez Art Museum. These experiences not only entertain your little ones but also contribute to the local art scene.

Art Basel on Google Map:

1. Dry Tortugas

Now, let’s talk about our top pick—Dry Tortugas!

Out west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is this remote 100-square-mile paradise surrounded by open waters and seven islets. The catch? You can only reach it by plane or boat.

This place is famous for its turquoise waters, stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, the grand Fort Jefferson, and a bunch of cool bird species. The seven islets become a hot spot for tons of bird species migrating from South America to the U.S. Imagine nearly 300 types of birds hanging out here—hummingbirds, Yellow-billed cuckoos, Peregrine falcons, and even the White-Eyed Vireo.

And guess what’s the icing on the cake? Snorkeling in Dry Tortugas is basically the holy grail of Florida snorkeling. It’s hands down one of the best spots for skin diving and snorkeling in all of North America. Can you say underwater paradise? Yeah, Dry Tortugas has got that covered too.

With these destinations in Florida, you might not even miss the Disney parks. Though, we would suggest perhaps giving them a single day before leaving the Sunshine State. And while that would be the cherry on top, these family vacation spots alone in Florida make for a great family vacation.

Discover the ultimate sun protection and comfort with our top 5 beach tent picks!

Happy Travels!

Dry Tortugas on Google Map: