Top 5 Best West Coast Beaches Near Orlando
- Trixie
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 15
Not all beach days near Orlando mean heading east.
Florida’s Gulf Coast is packed with powdery white sands, calm waves, and that famous west coast sunset glow, all within driving distance of the parks.
If you’re ready for a change of pace from rollercoasters and fireworks, here are five stunning west coast beaches (Plus a couple of Bonus Picks Worth the Drive!) that make the perfect day trip.
Which West Coast Beaches to Visit Near Orlando?
🌴 1. Clearwater Beach
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours
Clearwater regularly tops the “best beach in America” lists, and for good reason.
Expect:
Soft, white sand that feels like flour underfoot
A buzzing beachfront with shops, ice cream, and restaurants
Family-friendly Pier 60 sunset celebrations every night
Dolphin tours by speedboat
Top Tip: Parking can be a mission, so arrive early. Once there, the vibe is pure holiday bliss!
🌊 2. St. Pete Beach
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours
A laid-back alternative to Clearwater, St. Pete Beach offers:
Quieter sands
Retro motels and beach bars
Easy access to the vibrant artsy town of St. Petersburg
Top Tip: It’s perfect if you want a less commercial feel without losing the view.
🐚 3. Fort De Soto Park
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours 15 mins
For a more natural, unspoilt setting, Fort De Soto is a winner.Highlights include:
A historic fort and nature trails
Shallow, kid-friendly waters
Kayak rentals and dog beaches
Top Tip: Bring a picnic, sunscreen, and your explorer’s mindset.
🏝 4. Anna Maria Island
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours 15–30 mins
This postcard-perfect island is a little further south but worth the drive.
Expect:
Pastel beach cottages and old Florida charm
Limited chain shops or big hotels
Crystal-clear water and sugar-soft sand
Top Tip: Great for couples, foodies, or anyone after a quieter day away.
☀️ 5. Treasure Island
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours
A bit quirky and full of character, Treasure Island sits just north of St. Pete Beach.
Why go?
Wide beaches with fewer crowds
Long walking trails and a relaxed pace
Affordable beach bars and rentals
Top Tip: It’s ideal for those chasing a chilled-out, toes-in-the-sand afternoon.
🌟 Bonus Beaches: Other Tried-and-Tested Favourites
If you're happy to explore a little more, here are two extra beaches that we've enjoyed personally and can happily recommend.
🏖 Siesta Beach (Sarasota)
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours 15 mins
Regularly voted one of America’s top beaches thanks to:
Powdery white sand made from quartz that stays cool underfoot
Clear, shallow waters great for paddling
Huge crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays
Top Tip: If you go, aim for early mornings or off-peak days.
🌅 Lido Beach (St. Armands Circle, Sarasota)
Drive time from Orlando: ~2 hours 20 mins
This one is a hidden gem. Tucked near the stylish shopping and dining area of St. Armands Circle, Lido Beach is:
Quieter and more laid-back than Siesta
Great for combining sunbathing with a great lunch or dinner
Surrounded by independent shops, bars, and restaurants with a lovely, walkable atmosphere
Top Tip: Make a night of it!
“We made a night of it, watched the sunset and had dinner on the circle, stayed overnight, then beach-hopped the next day before heading back via Busch Gardens. It was one of the best family trips we’ve done in Florida.”
If you’re looking for a peaceful beach stop with top-notch food and drink, or want to mix your beach day with a mini adventure, this is a perfect option.
🧭 Planning Tips for Brits Driving West
Tolls will apply. Most routes use toll roads, so check your hire car is covered.
Leave early. West coast traffic builds fast, especially near Tampa.
Pack smart. Chairs, shade, and cool boxes are essentials. You can rent them at most beaches, but prices vary.
Stay for sunset. The west coast is unbeatable for those golden-hour views.
🏁 Bottom Line
While the east coast is quicker to reach, the west coast rewards the extra drive with softer sands, calmer surf, and a more chilled-out atmosphere.
Whether it’s a full beach day, a sunset stop, or an overnight foodie escape, the Gulf (American) Coast is a must-add to your Florida plans.
🧡 Brought to you by Tips and Tricks for Brits — helping UK travellers make the most of every Florida moment.