When you’re staying in Kissimmee, Florida, you’re not far from the beach-but you’re not on it either. Kissimmee sits about 45 to 60 minutes inland from the nearest ocean or gulf shoreline. If you’re planning a day trip from your vacation rental or hotel, you’ve got solid options. But which beach is closest? How long will it really take? And what’s the difference between the Atlantic and Gulf sides?
Closest Beach to Kissimmee: Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic
The nearest ocean beach to Kissimmee is Cocoa Beach, about 55 miles east. Drive time? Around 55 to 65 minutes depending on traffic, especially if you’re leaving after noon on a weekend. Take I-4 east to SR-528 (Beachline Expressway), then head south to A1A. You’ll hit the sand at Cocoa Beach Pier or the public access points near the lifeguard towers.
Cocoa Beach is famous for surfing, especially around the pier where the waves roll in consistent and clean. It’s also got wide, soft white sand and plenty of parking. If you’re with kids, the north end near the Ron Jon Surf Shop has calmer water and lifeguards on duty. Local shops rent paddleboards, kayaks, and even jet skis. You can grab a seafood sandwich at Beachside Bistro and watch the sun set over the Atlantic.
Second Closest: New Smyrna Beach
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive-about 70 miles and 75 to 90 minutes-you’ll reach New Smyrna Beach. This spot is popular with locals and serious surfers. It’s got more natural dunes and fewer high-rises than Cocoa Beach, so it feels less crowded. The beach here is known for its shark sightings (rarely dangerous, but worth knowing if you’re swimming at dawn or dusk).
There’s a state park nearby, New Smyrna Beach State Park, with picnic areas, restrooms, and shaded spots under live oaks. It’s a good pick if you want shade, nature trails, and fewer vendors. The boardwalk along Flagler Avenue has ice cream stands, bike rentals, and live music on weekends.
West Coast Option: Clearwater Beach on the Gulf
Want calmer water and pastel sunsets? Head west to Clearwater Beach, about 85 miles from Kissimmee. That’s roughly a 90-minute drive via I-4 and I-75. The Gulf Coast beaches are famous for their soft, powdery sand and shallow, warm water. It’s perfect for toddlers, seniors, or anyone who hates big waves.
Clearwater Beach has a boardwalk with restaurants, a pier with fishing and dolphin tours, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium-home of Winter the dolphin from the movie Dolphin Tale. You can catch a sunset cruise from the harbor, or just sit on the sand and watch the sky turn pink. Parking here costs $15-$20 per day, so plan ahead.
Why Not Daytona Beach?
Some people assume Daytona Beach is the closest because of its fame. It’s only about 65 miles from Kissimmee, but traffic on I-4 and SR-528 can make it feel longer. Plus, Daytona’s beach is wider and flatter, but the sand is coarser and less ideal for lounging. It’s more about the speedway and spring break crowds than quiet relaxation.
If you’re looking for a beach vibe with fewer people, skip Daytona. Stick with Cocoa or Clearwater.
Beach Day Tips from a Local Perspective
Here’s what you won’t find on most travel blogs:
- Arrive before 10 a.m. to get the best parking. Beach lots fill fast by noon, especially on weekends.
- Bring your own beach towel and umbrella. Rentals cost $20-$30 a day and aren’t always clean.
- Check the Florida Beach Conditions website before you go. Red flags mean rip currents. Yellow means moderate surf. Green is safe.
- Bring water shoes. The sand gets hot-like 140°F hot-by midday. And seashells, broken glass, or sea urchins can hurt bare feet.
- Don’t forget sunscreen. Florida’s UV index is often 8-10 in November. Even on cloudy days, you burn fast.
- Bring cash. Many small food carts and beach vendors don’t take cards.
What About the Gulf Coast Near Fort Myers?
Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island are beautiful, but they’re over 120 miles from Kissimmee. That’s a 2-hour drive each way. Unless you’re planning a multi-day trip, it’s not worth it just for a beach day. The same goes for Panama City Beach-it’s 3.5 hours away. Too far for a quick escape.
Best Beach for Families
If you’ve got kids under 10, go to Clearwater Beach. The water is shallow for a long way out, the sand is fine, and there are restrooms, showers, and playgrounds right on the beach. The aquarium is a bonus. If you’re on a budget, Cocoa Beach is the next best. It’s got free public access points, picnic tables, and a boardwalk with cheap eats.
Best Beach for Adults
For couples or solo travelers looking to unwind, New Smyrna Beach wins. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and less commercial. You can rent a beach chair for $10, bring a book, and listen to the waves without being sold to every 10 minutes. The sunset here is unreal-golden light reflecting off the Atlantic, no high-rises blocking the view.
How Often Do People Do This Trip?
Thousands of visitors from Kissimmee head to the beach every weekend, especially during the cooler months (October to April). It’s a standard part of the Orlando-Kissimmee vacation routine. Many vacation rentals even offer free beach towel and cooler rentals to guests.
If you’re staying in a Disney-area resort, you’re already halfway there. Most shuttle services from Kissimmee to Cocoa Beach cost $25-$40 per person round-trip. Some hotels partner with local tour companies for group beach days.
What If You Just Want Water?
Not every beach is ocean. Kissimmee has plenty of lakes-Lake Tohopekaliga, Lake Kissimmee, and Lake Cypress. You can rent a pontoon boat, go fishing, or swim at public parks like Kissimmee Lakefront Park. It’s free, quiet, and clean. Not the ocean, but it’s a great alternative if you’re tired of driving.
Some locals say the real Florida isn’t the beach-it’s the lakes. And they’re right. You’ll find families fishing at sunrise, kayakers gliding through cypress trees, and herons standing still like statues. It’s peaceful. And it’s only 10 minutes from your hotel.