It’s that time of year when the winter doldrums have set in. It’s cold and blustery outside, everyone feels trapped indoors, the kids are going crazy and winter seems never ending.
If you’re like me, the key to surviving the rest of winter is planning your escape to somewhere tropical with plenty of sun, sand and warm ocean breezes!
If booking a trip to the Caribbean isn’t in the budget, then allow me to introduce you to the BEST family friendly Florida spring break destinations!
These Florida beaches with their powdery white sand, palm trees and clear blue water are sure to deliver the winter escape you are looking for.
Marco Island
Marco Island tops my list of family friendly Florida spring break destinations! Its position as the southernmost beach on Florida’s west coast ensures warm weather in the mid 70’s even in early March.
This easily accessible island is perfect for families looking for white sand and calm blue waters. You won’t have to worry about setting your beach chairs amongst the spring break party crowd and will instead see lots of other families or friendly retirees.
Even in the high season there is enough room for the kids to roam, to build sandcastles, play a game or toss a ball. Something our active and sports loving family appreciates!
Marco Island has several great beaches to choose from and plenty of rainy day activity options as well. Shopping, bowling and movie theaters can keep your crew busy even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
There are also a wide variety of accommodations to chose from on Marco Island. Hotels, resorts, airbnb and home away options are numerous so you are sure to find lodging at a price point you are comfortable with.
For a complete review of Marco Island including where to shop, eat and stay, check out my recommendations here.
Captiva/Sanibel Island
Captiva and Sanibel Islands are the perfect choice if you’re looking to get away from it all. No high rises, no hotel chains, no strip malls and no crowded beaches! You will truly feel as though you’ve escaped to your own slice of paradise.
Like Marco Island, Captiva and Sanibel boast fantastic white sand beaches and calm waters perfect for the whole family to enjoy. What sets Sanibel and Captiva apart, besides its more laid back vibe, are their incredible seashells. In fact, Sanibel Island is rated as the best shelling beach in North America.
While Sanibel and Captiva are quaint and full of old Florida charm, keep in mind that there is only a two lane road for island access. This means that when the March busy season hits, you need to be prepared to wait in traffic to get on and off the island.
Also keep in mind that price points are higher in Captiva/Sanibel and lodging options are not as plentiful when compared to other south Florida destinations. Temperatures can also be slightly cooler as Captiva/Sanibel are about an hour and a half north of Marco Island.
Although Florida has many other beautiful beaches that we love like Siesta Key and Destin, these locations are just not warm enough in March/April to make our list of top Florida Spring Break destinations for the family.
No matter which Florida destination you choose, you’re sure to create lasting family memories at any of these beautiful beach towns.