Florida emerald coast family vacation
 

My husband and I are planning to take our 7 year old twins on their first beach vacation in June. I am looking at FL's emerald coast but I am getting overwhelmed by all the options. We are looking for nice sand beaches and clear blue water where we can find a good mix of activities for the kids but still have plenty of relaxing downtime. We also don't want somewhere that is too overcrowded where we have to fight for a spot on the beach. I haven't decided on a resort (not having to cook would be great) or rental property and am hoping to get the location down first and then figure out where to stay. I love to snorkel and would love to introduce it to the kids so somewhere we can do that would be awesome. Some other activities that would be nice is kayaking, fishing, minimal shopping, aquarium, etc. We really just want this to be a fun first trip to the beach for our kids. Any advice that you can give me would be great!

You need to be aware that snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico isn't that great. You likely won't see much other than sand. Also, clear blue water is the Caribbean. The water in the Gulf is often clear but can be murky, especially after it rains. Everything you're asking for can be found in Destin, except that it is very crowded. I would look into Pensacola Beach. More laid back and you can walk to everything if you pick a central location. No aquarium but there is a zoo in nearby Gulf Breeze. If you want a resort-type place I would look into the Beach Club. In June, all the beach locations will be busy which is why I recommend going someplace where you can walk to most activities.

Think about changing to the US Virgin Islands... St thomas and St John with great snorkling, beaches, and beautiful blue waters... seems like what you are seeking and still in the US...

the keys also have snorkling, but you lose the great beaches...

Sanibel and Captiva have great shelling, activities, restaurants, nature, however you lose the snorkeling...

With it being our kids first trip to the beach we want to stay in the continental US. Maybe save USVI or other Caribbean type vacation when they are a little older. Its sounds like snorkeling is out and really that is ok. They may be still a little young to really enjoy it anyway. We definitely want a nice beach so the keys are out. Id say the highest things on our list are nice beach/water and fun activities for the kids to take part in.