We will be in Florida the end of June, and will be doing the theme park thing with kids (4, 10, 14) We are staying in Orlando, too. One day we want to go to the beach. I've been to St. Pete beach before and liked it. But what I want to know is what beaches are good for kids. We just want to swim and mess around. I like the clear water on the gulf side. What's the Atlantic side like? Any suggestions?

the biggest difference......WAVES.

Karen, I live on the gulf side, but wouldn't miss a chance to swim in those wonderful east coast waves. It's probably a slightly shorter drive too (?). Playalinda beach is nice (public beach - bring lunch), and of course Cocoa, home of the huge Ron Jon surf shop (you'll be all shopped out by then though). Alot less touristy than the gulf coast, for sure. And you know what, the Kennedy Space Center is nearby, and it's great too. I'm not much for astronauts, but I loved it. There are tours, a playground, and an IMAX theatre and assuming no shuttle launches, they take you out and show you the launch pads. Awe-inspiring. Maybe you could combine the two outings and make an overnight of it...
Joan

A four year old, and a mom worrying about a four year old, might be happier in the calmer gulf water, although it can get pretty exciting, too.

BAK

Check out St.Agustine
on the Northeast Coast.
Ther's a fun Pirate Themed Hostel there
with great Family rooms.
www.PirateHaus.com

I would definately go to the west side, we have been traveling from the new england area for a few summers now and love the west coast of florida, espically with kids. we have three and all of them love it! Small waves,warm water, we usually go down to sanibel island, try it, you won't be disappointed!

Although I think the west coast has the best beaches, I'd opt for Cocoa Beach since you only have a day because of its relative closeness. As a previous poster said, keep and eye on the four-year-old. My kids love to paddle out with their dad as far as they can and ride the waves in on a big round float . The Hilton and the Holiday Inn both have kid suites.

We were disappointed with Atlantic side beaches, esp. Cocoa Beach. Of course, on our way to Florida we had stopped at Seaside for an afternoon and played on the white sand and in the blue/green water, so that spoiled us. Then we went to Disney World and one afternoon went to Cocoa Beach. Such a contrast. I would vote for the gulf side. A longer drive, but so much nicer.

As a frequent visitor from the UK, my vote goes to Clearwater Beach about a 90 minute drive from Orlando.
Cocoa Beach is a lot nearer but nothing like as good.
Generally speaking in my opinion, the beaches on the west coast are better, cleaner and the sand whiter.
Clearwater is just miles of pure white sand and is the one I would choose.

I'll echo the sentiments of several who have already responded: East Coast. To me, it's the old, real Floride. Yes, the beaches on the west coast have whiter sand and are more "picture-postcard" quality. But, the East Coast. Man, that's the real Florida. Waves. Sand dunes. Surfing. Old motels. Cocoa is nice. Sebastian Inlet, though, is gorgeous (it's north of Vero and south of Melbourne.) St Augustine is a fun, if somewhat touristy, place to visit. Tons of history, and some great restaurants there (such as the Conch House.) Have fun.

Cocoa Beach is 45 min. from Disney! Nearest beach...best bet! Go to Ron Jon's Surf Shop...open 24 hrs. It's a gas! The Lobster Shanty...great restaurant (on rte.A1A) Check out the Cocoa Beach Pier too! Usually lots of surefers around it! Fun to watch! Ride down (South) on A1A and there are lots of small areas to park and either swim or watch surfers!

I live on the Atlantic side but grew up on the Gulf of Mexico. The Atlantic side has bigger waves (if you want to surf or boogie board that's good)and the water is dark - you can't see your feet. The Gulf side has pretty green water that's clear and smaller waves (still good for boogie boarding). I also find that the Gulf beaches have softer sand.

While I prefer the gulf coast too, the trip from Orlando on I-4 can be HELL, we all call it the I -4 parking lot. One of the safest East coast beaches is New Smyrna, and the Seashore National Park beach is fantastic but limited parking.Both nearby and the trafiic is not too bad

I live in Florida and like the Gulf Coast better than the Atlantic. The water is beautiful on the Gulf and there are frequently undertow problems on the Atlantic side.

Well, there you have it, Karen! Very convincing reasons to stay two weeks and go to BOTH coasts!