Kissimmee Florida Beaches

When people think of Kissimmee Florida beaches, a common misconception is that Kissimmee sits on the coast. Also known as Central Florida beach access, it's actually about 45 to 60 minutes from the nearest ocean shoreline—yet that’s exactly why it’s a smart base for beach lovers. You won’t find saltwater waves right in town, but you’re closer to top Florida beaches than most visitors realize. This makes Kissimmee one of the most practical spots to stay if you want theme park fun during the day and beach time in the evening.

Most travelers head to Clearwater Beach, a top-rated Gulf Coast destination with soft white sand and calm waters, just under an hour west. Or you can hit Cocoa Beach, on the Atlantic side, famous for surfing and the Kennedy Space Center nearby, about 70 minutes east. Both offer free parking, public restrooms, and lifeguards in season. For quieter options, try St. George Island, a remote stretch of untouched shoreline with no high-rises and plenty of shells, a two-hour drive but worth the trip if you want real peace.

Many families combine a beach day with a Disney trip because Kissimmee hotels are cheaper than Orlando’s, and you can leave the park early to catch sunset at the coast. You don’t need to rent a car for long—most vacation rentals offer free shuttles to Disney, and you can rent a car for just one day to hit the beach. Pack sunscreen, towels, and a cooler with snacks. You’ll save money compared to buying food at the beach, and you’ll avoid the crowds that show up after noon.

Don’t confuse beach trips with Florida’s inland waterways. Kissimmee has lakes, canals, and rivers, but they’re not the same as ocean beaches. The Gulf Coast and Atlantic beaches have tide patterns, ocean breezes, and real surf. The sand is finer, the water clearer, and the vibe totally different from a backyard pool. If you’ve never experienced a Florida beach properly, you’re missing part of what makes the state special.

Some visitors assume that since Kissimmee is near Disney, the beaches must be packed. Not true. The busiest spots are still 45 minutes away, and most tourists never leave the theme park bubble. That means you can get a prime spot on the sand without fighting for parking. Go on a weekday, arrive before 10 a.m., and you’ll have room to spread out. Bring a portable umbrella, a good book, and maybe a frisbee. The real magic isn’t in the rides—it’s in the quiet hours when the only sound is the waves and your kids laughing.

Weather matters. Florida’s summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms mean late spring and early fall are ideal. March through May and September through November give you warm water, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. Avoid July and August unless you’re okay with humidity so thick you can feel it. Hurricane season runs June through November, but most beach towns stay open and safe—you just need to check forecasts before you go.

There’s no single "best" beach near Kissimmee—it depends on what you want. Want calm water for toddlers? Go to Clearwater. Want to surf or see sea turtles? Head to Cocoa Beach. Looking for solitude? Try St. George Island. The point isn’t to pick one—it’s to know your options and plan ahead. And with Kissimmee as your home base, you’ve got the flexibility to try them all.

Below, you’ll find real tips from travelers who’ve done the drive, picked the right time, and figured out how to make beach days part of their Florida trip without breaking the bank. Whether you’re here for Disney, a family reunion, or just the sunshine, these posts will help you find the right stretch of sand—and how to enjoy it without the stress.