Gulf Coast Beaches Near Orlando

In case you missed the first part of this series, check out ROVH's recommendations for Atlantic Coast beaches.


Beaches on the Gulf Coast...

ST PETE & TREASURE ISLAND BEACHES
Located on Florida’s west coast, between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, “St Pete” and Treasure Island Beaches are known for their white sand beaches, beachfront restaurants and bars, and water sports.

Don’t Miss: Tampa Bay Devil Rays Baseball, water sports including jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding, the annual fall sand sculpting competition, and the annual spring Taste of Pinellas food and music festival.

Parking: Many parking garage and metered street parking options.  Tolls are charged on the Pinellas Bayway, which connects St. Petersburg to St. Pete Beach and Fort De Soto Park. Tolls are also charged on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which connects St. Petersburg to points south.

From Kissimmee: 2 hours


FORT DE SOTO STATE PARK
Built for the Spanish-American War, Fort De Soto was named America’s most family-friendly beach by Parents Magazine in 2011.  Two piers offer free fishing 24 hours a day and visitors can view the ocean wildlife from the piers, including sea turtles, birds, and dolphins.  And don’t forget your dog because this beach is pet-friendly too!

Don’t Miss: Camping on the beach, kayaking and canoeing, fishing off the piers, exploring the old fort, and trail hiking.

Parking: Beachfront parking lot with a daily rate of $5.  Visitors entering by foot or bike are free to enter.

From Kissimmee: 2 hours



OTHER GULF COAST BEACHES
• Sunset Beach Park: 2 hours, 10 minutes
• Caladesi Island State Park (Near Tampa): 2 hours, 7 minutes
• Anna Maria Island (Near Bradenton): 2 hours, 17 minutes
• Siesta Key (Near Sarasota): 2 hours, 20 minutes
• Longboat Key, Lido Key and St. Armands Key (Near Sarasota): 2 hours, 21 minutes

Read on for ROVH's Beach Trip Packing Tips...