As we roll into a new decade and a new year, family travel might be one of your resolutions regardless of age of your children. Maybe you always retreat to your favorite Florida destination, or maybe you are looking to explore a new area and resort in the sunshine state. To help you with your travel resolution planning, below are 12 family-friendly resorts located throughout our sunshine state — a few classics and even a new one or two to sample. The best part is that some are in our “backyard,” while others are just a day trip away.
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Courtesy of South Seas Island Resort
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Courtesy of South Seas Island Resort
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Courtesy of South Seas Island Resort
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Courtesy of South Seas Island Resort
South Seas Island Resort
An ultimate staycation for both parents and kids, South Seas Island Resort offers marine life exploration, water fun (think water slides), sunset celebrations, a candy shop, pier-side fishing,water sports and more. One unique feature: South Seas partnered with Sanibel Sea School, a marine conservation nonprofit; kids ages 6-13 are introduced to the wonders of the marine world through hands-on ocean experiences. It’s a much more elevated and memorable experience than a typical “kids” camp. The accommodations are vast, too, depending on your family size, from a typical resort room to a multibedroom villa — whether near the marina, tennis courts or beachfront.Gulf carts are available for rent, too, to help you traverse this expansive resort property; however, a complimentary guest shuttle is easy to use.
- Online: southseas.com
- Phone: 866-565-5089 or 239-472-5111
- Address: 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva Island, Florida 33924
The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village
Another nearby option for the entire family, including your furry members, is in Cape Coral. Pets up to 45 pounds receive the Westin Heavenly Pet Treatment, so it’s a vacation for them, too. Known for its access to 400 miles of navigable canals and waterways, The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village offers both a relaxing and adventurous tropical escape for families seeking an all-immersive nature experience, from private fishing charters, kayaks, paddleboards, and dolphin and sunset cruises. For young water-loving guests, children can head to the adjacent Tarpon Point Marina for a two-day “Learn to Sail” course. The resort also offers the Westin Kids Club Discovery Room
- Online: marriott.com
- Phone: 239-541-5000
- Address: 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral, Florida 33914
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Jennifer Brinkman/courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
The beachside pool complex at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
The beach at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
Beach chairs at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
Kids sit on beach chairs under a chickee on the beach at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
Kids build a sandcastle in the Beach Kids Club at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
It's Pirate Day in the Beach Kids Club at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
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Courtesy of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
The Family Pool at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
An expansive beach and golf retreat for families, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club overlooks the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The beachside resort also has an onsite championship golf course, world class spa and award-winning tennis center. Additional offerings include a beachfront pool complex with two pools. Plus, for guests there are no resort fees, and valet parking is free. For families, the resort has a complimentary Beach Kids Club for ages 5-12. The program offers daily activities, such as games, sandcastle building, beach walks, sports and swimming. (Note: There is a charge for lunch, arts and crafts, and certain seasonal activities.)
- Online: naplesbeachhotel.com
- Phone: 239-261-2222
- Address: 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples, Florida 34102
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
This Marco Island family paradise is another personal family favorite due to the soft, sandy beaches and activities. One of our recommended favorites at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is the guided tours on personal watercraft through the mangrove islands. In the resort’s Tiki Tribe Discovery Day Camp, ages 5-12 learn about the ecosystem of the Ten Thousand Islands. The Sailing & Shelling tour provides a chance to spot American white pelicans, bald eagles, dolphins, manatees and other wildlife. A new kids’offering is a complimentary kids and teens yoga program for ages 4 and older. This hour-long, indoor yoga experience teaches kids practices they can incorporate into their daily lives. For those wishing to skip the sand, the multiple resort pools serve as a refreshing oasis, including a main resort pool and a Tiki Kids pool with waterslide and waterfall. After the sun goes down, attend the sunset celebration with a live fire dancer show that pays homage to the Balinese inspiration and design aesthetic of the resort. Another family activity is the new 10K Alley, a combination gastropub and state-of-the-art gaming emporium (Note: The space is adults-only after 10 p.m.)
- Online: jwmarco.com
- Phone: 239-394-2511
- Address: 400 S.Collier Blvd., Marco Island, Florida 34145
Sandpearl Resort
Vacation at the Sandpearl begins upon arrival when parents are greeted with a glass of champagne or a mimosa while smaller guests are offered apple cider and supplies to build a sandcastle during their stay. Camp Ridley engages kids with activities, scavenger hunts, and arts and crafts that educate them about Florida wildlife and attractions. Each night the club’s mascot, Ridley the Turtle, selects a child to ring the historic Sunset Bell. There’s also nightly s’mores by the beachside fire pit and weekly swim-in movies in the lagoon-style pool. The nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to the stars of Warner Bros.’ “DolphinTale” movies. To help foster together time while dining at the beachfront Caretta on the Gulf, families can opt for the new “Tech-Free Treasure Chest” where their digital devices are stowed. The reward for going tech-free an entire meal — free dessert
- Online: sandpearl.com
- Phone: 727-441-2425 or 866-384-2995
- Address: 500 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach, Florida 33767
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
Four Seasons is Central Florida’s first and only Five Diamond property — and it offers guests an unparalleled way to experience the theme park capital of the world. Four Seasons provides Disney connectivity, including an on-site character breakfast (with Mickey, Minnie and Goofy) and access to Extra Magic Hours. The incredible destination resort offers award-winning dining, an amazing spa, 18 holes of Tom Fazio golf, a 5-acre water park, tennis and more. Its full-day,complimentary kids’ club for ages 4-12 offers daily supervised swim time and themed activities. For the most luxurious accommodations (and great for large families), the resort offers the Royal Suite, which can expand up to a 9-bedroom residence. Reserve the Royal and Presidential suites, and the entire 16th floor (21 guest rooms),for the Ultimate Suites Experience package. You may have stayed in Orlando before, but not like this.
- Online: fourseasons.com/orlando
- Phone: 407-313-7777
- Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32836
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Preston Mack/Courtesy of Disney
Guests become part of the story at the Disney Skyliner station at Disney’s Riviera Resort, where they can step aboard and glide across the sky by aerial gondola to Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
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Preston Mack/Courtesy of Disney
The Riviera Pool offers lounge chairs and colorful sun umbrellas, with a winding stone turret slide, giving the feel of swimming and playing along the Mediterranean coast.
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Preston Mack/Courtesy of Disney
S’il Vous Play is an interactive water play area and the perfect place to splash and have fun in a whimsical fountain featuring several beloved characters from Disney’s "Fantasia," drawing inspiration from the grand public fountains seen throughout Europe with a patina and limestone-inspired design.
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Steven Diaz/Courtesy of Disney
The architectural style of Disney's Riviera Resort is inspired by classic European designs and interpreted with modern elegance and a unique Disney flavor.
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Steven Diaz/Courtesy of Disney
The three-bedroom villa at Disney's Riviera Resort sleeps up to 12 guests and is the perfect place for the entire family to gather and stay year after year.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
How many Disney resorts have you experienced? Well, Disney has a new family-based resort that just debuted in December. The Riviera Resort is a deluxe Disney Vacation Club property that immerses guests in the grandeur and enchantment of the European Riviera. It has 300 family-friendly vacation homes, including deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas and grand villas. There are also Tower Studios for two. Topolino is the Italian name for Mickey Mouse,and the new, signature table-service restaurant perched on the rooftop of the Riviera is aptly called Topolino’s Terrace — Flavors of the Riviera. The restaurant, featuring dishes infused with French and Italian flavors, is set to become one of the most stunning dining experiences at Walt Disney World. It offers picturesque vistas of the nighttime spectaculars of nearby Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests at the Riviera also have a new way to travel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios: the Disney Skyliner, a state-of-the-art gondola system. In addition to the Skyliner station at the resort,the system conveniently connects Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
- Online: disneysrivieraresort.com
- Phone: 407-934-7639
- Address: 1080 Esplanade Ave., Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Club Med Sandpiper Bay
I had the pleasure of traveling to the only Club Med property in Florida while on business, and during my stay, I just recall thinking what a playground for kids! Located along the St. Lucie River, this all-inclusive family resort now offers Spectacular Months, a dynamic lineup of events that include Circus-tacular months (March and April), which focus on the acrobatic arts with circus-themed activities like flying trapeze, trampoline and face painting. Year-round, kids can enter the unexpected world of Cirque du Soleil at the resort’s creative playground inspired by the world-renowned acrobatic shows, CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil, where trained Club Med staff teach acrobatic activities like aerial, flying trapeze and tightrope. What kid would not like to go to circus school? Also to note for new parents, this Club Med property offers child care for children as young as 4 months.
- Online: clubmed.us
- Phone: 855-233-0138
- Address: 4500 S.E.Pine Valley St., Port Saint Lucie, Florida 34952
Courtesy of Island Grand at TradeWinds Island Resorts
Island Grand at TradeWinds Island Resorts
TradeWinds Island Grand
With two resorts on property, the pet-friendly Island Grand and the RumFish Beach Resort, TradeWinds on St. Pete Beach is a beach bonanza. The more family-friendly side, the Island Grand has the High Tide Slide (200 feet long), Red Beard the Pirate show, a gyrosphere, bungee trampoline, KONK kids’ club (ages 4-12), paddleboats, kiddie pools, an ice cream shop and more. During the pirate show, kids transform into swashbucklers, search for hidden treasure, make their own shark-tooth necklace, and hear tales of high-seas exploits from TradeWinds’ pirate Capt. Red Beard. The resort also features the Triple WipeOut Surf Simulator — surfing on land — and sunset campfire s’mores. Families can learn more about fishing and wildlife from Capt. Tim, who hosts shore fishing and beach walks and even conducts behind-the-scenes tours at RumFish Grill to show guests the inner workings of the signature 33,500-gallon tank. Kids 8 and older can dive in and explore this marine life aquarium in the Swim with the Fishes program led by experts from the Marine Exploration Center of St. Petersburg, who introduce swimmers to the variety of fish coexisting in the giant tank including a lime green moray eel, a stingray, angelfish,black drums and more. Young guests can seek their own treasure at the new TW Treasure Mining Co. sluice. Purchase a bag of gems, fossils or seashells then sift through the earthen mixture for hidden island treasures.
- Online: tradewindsresort.com or justletgo.com
- Phone: 866-587-8538 or 727-363-2212
- Address: 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, Florida 33706
Courtesy of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Club KZ entertains ages 4-12 at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Sandestin offers a superb natural location on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, also known as the Emerald Coast, and it has seemingly unlimited resort amenities and activities. You are sure to find many memorable ways to fill your days and nights, whether it is Sandestin’s 7 miles of beach and bay, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis and pickleball courts, 123-slip marina with dozens of water sports, deep sea fishing, shops, dining options (from casual to dinner cruises to gourmet), four swimming pools, miles of beautiful hiking and bicycle paths or Club KZ for ages 4-12. New for 2020, Sandestin is expanding kids’ activities between the Village of Baytowne Wharf (a 28-acre waterfront town center) and the Baytowne Marina with the addition of a miniature golf course, Ferris wheel and playground for kids. This resort has a massive 4th of July celebration — Red, White and Baytowne — complete with live music, lawn games, kids’ crafts, face painting and, of course, fireworks.
- Online: sandestin.com
- Phone: 800-622-1038
- Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach, Florida 32550
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Courtesy of Hawks Cay Resort
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Courtesy of Hawks Cay Resort
The Coral Cay Entertainers at Hawks Cay Resort
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Courtesy of Hawks Cay Resort
Special programs allow guests to interact with dolphins at Hawks Cay Resort in the Keys.
Hawks Cay Resort
Hawks Cay Resort, an iconic destination in the Florida Keys, reopened in August 2018 following a $50 million renovation. This is a resort our family has ventured to many times to soak in the Keys lifestyle and for our now 14-year-old to enjoy the resort’s on-site dolphin program. Situated roughly halfway between Key Largo and Key West, guests enjoy offshore, flats and backcountry fishing in the aquamarine water, diving, kayaking, kiteboarding and stand-up paddleboarding, a Cliff Drysdale tennis program and the Dolphin Connection program. Dolphin Connection lets guests encounter a pod of bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment. You can also become Trainer for a Day, which is even available for kids younger than 4 with their parent. Our daughter, Kylie, participated in the Dockside Dolphin program when she was 4 and was able to feed, play and interact with the dolphins. Still to this day, she remembers the names of each dolphin she encountered. New to the resort is a cast of characters that include Captain Hawk, Priscilla the Pirate Queen, Clarence the First Mate and Koral the Mermaid. They pop up around the resort to play games and make kids smile, but they also have a Swashbuckling Pirate Show a couple of times a week. Also new this year, the resort offers complimentary use of paddleboards and kayaks in the Saltwater Lagoon.
- Online: hawkscay.com
- Phone: 888-395-5539
- Address: 61 Hawks Cay Blvd., Duck Key, Florida 33050
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Courtesy of The Breakers Palm Beach
The main drive to The Breakers Palm Beach
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Courtesy of The Breakers Palm Beach
Kids tubing at The Breakers Palm Beach
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Joel I Castaneda/Courtesy of The Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers offers golf and tennis junior programs
The Breakers
An historical resort that debuted in 1896, The Breakers has transformed through the decades. The luxury oceanfront hotel built by Henry Morrison Flagler was the grand dame of formality and, while it has maintained its reputation for luxury, it is now very much a resort for families. Even with its palatial, Italian Renaissance design, the hotel welcomes discerning families with the warm hospitality of an inn. The Breakers’ Family Entertainment Center includes an arcade and a Camp Room, which features a 1,000-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with indigenous marine life. Families can engage with bicycle rentals, a playground, kayaking, snorkeling, banana boat rides, a kids’ introduction to scuba diving program and four pools (one specifically for families, the Active Pool with zero-depth entry). For your tennis or golf pros in the making, The Breakers offers golf and tennis junior programs. Not quite at that level? Consider playing Family Fun Golf on the Ocean Golf Course. Finally, a family vacation is not complete without a visit to Mary Lily’s, where you’ll find sweet treats and indulgences like locally made Italian gelato and a curated selection of specialty chocolates and candies. This whimsical shop brings out the kid in everyone. The name also plays homage to Flagler’s wife.
- Online: thebreakers.com
- Phone: 833-507-6635
- Address: One South County Road, Palm Beach, Florida 33480