Planning perfect Florida beach vacations is no easy feat – especially when there’s a whole family’s-worth of people to please and keep happy.

But Florida is a great destination to choose when planning a beach getaway that’s fun for the whole family. Whether you’re a family that likes watersports and waterparks or you’re one that likes sitting on the beach sipping a cocktail, there’s something for everyone on the Florida coast.

But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t take planning. In fact, in order to ensure your Florida beach vacations go off without a hitch, you need to know what to look out for, what to spend time researching and when to just kick back, relax and enjoy the show.

Here’s a quick guide to help plan that next Florida getaway.

Perfect Florida Beach Vacations: A Step by Step Guide

1. Find the Right Beach for Your Family

In Florida, there is no shortage of beaches. Considering Florida has the second-largest coastline in the United States, there are literally beaches all around.

But not all beaches are created equal. Some are geared more towards a younger crowd while others are for those a bit older.

Some have boardwalks while others just have miles of quiet beach.

There’s nothing wrong with either, but it’s important that you take the time to do your research. Depending on the kind of family vacation you’re looking for, you’ll want to choose a beach that can offer it all so you’re not driving across the state for an experience not offered at your current destination.

Florida has over 663 miles of beach to offer. So before you make a hasty decision, do your research.

A great place to start your search includes spots like Siesta Key, Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater Beach.

2. Book Accommodations that Make Everyone Happy

There are tons of different types of accommodations in Florida. These include hotels, resorts, beach houses, Airbnbs and beyond.

Depending on what you’re looking for, again it’s up to you. Maybe a resort that offers everything on-site is more appealing to your family. Maybe a beach house right on the beach is better for some quiet time and privacy.

Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in Florida with ease, but this also requires ensuring everyone in your party is on the same page from the start.

3. Pack Light – There’s Plenty of Shopping Nearby

The next step in the planning process comes down to packing. I can’t stress this enough – do not over pack. That just adds extra stress that’s unnecessary.

In Florida, you won’t need much. Pack light layers for the chillier post-thunderstorm afternoons – but don’t overdo it with the beach supplies. Most resorts and hotels will have these supplies on hand like umbrellas, chairs, toys and more to ensure the whole family has some fun under the sun.

And worst case scenario – you can buy everything you need at the many gift shops that line the shore! This way you don’t have to worry about lugging all of that stuff through airport security twice.

4. Keep Safety in Mind

Safety first, as always. This means packing the right protection from the sun like hats, glasses and sunscreen. It also means being cautious when out in the water. Be aware of rip currents, teach the kids how to behave if they encounter one and make sure everyone knows never to go swimming alone.

Before taking off on these Florida beach vacations, make sure everyone understands what it means to be safe and precautious. This will lead to fewer accidents down the road.

5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Florida in the summer is hot. That is obvious. But for those who aren’t used to the Florida sun, it might hit them hard.

Not only that – but the humidity can get oppressive at times, making it nearly impossible to enjoy the outdoors in the early afternoon.

Kids, though, they don’t really feel the heat all too much – not when they’re swimming in the pool or jumping into the ocean all day. That makes it easier for them to forget to stay hydrated.

That’s why it’s important that you take this into consideration when planning the perfect Florida trip. That means that you’ll need to combat the heat and the humidity by drinking plenty of fluids.

When you first arrive, make it a point to stock up on water and water-heavy foods like fruits and vegetables. This will ensure that everyone is happy, hydrated and full. It also means less hangry-ness that can put a storm cloud over an entire vacation.

6. Above All Else: Have Fun

Of course, this one should go without saying, but it’s important that you and your family have fun on this Florida beach vacation. Otherwise, what’s the point right?

Once all the boxes have been ticked and everyone is safe, happy and content, it’s ok to let loose and just enjoy the beach around you. From the warmth of the sun to the softness of the sand and maybe even the fruitiness of a nice beach cocktail, it’s okay and important that you enjoy the moment and spend this time with your family.

That will ensure this is a vacation that the family will never forget.

No Two Florida Beach Vacations Are Alike – And that’s the Beauty of It

What makes a vacation special for one family isn’t the same for the other. That’s why it’s important to plan accordingly and make sure you’ve ticked all the appropriate boxes. From choosing the right beach to finding the right accommodations to putting safety first, planning is essential.

But once you’re on the beach, enjoy it. There’s nothing else like it in the world.

Want to know how to dress in Florida? We’re here to help you navigate the Florida weather in every season!