Orlando to Beaches Florida Road Trip

Are you looking for a fun, easy and relaxing road trip from Orlando to the beaches? Enjoy a few of my favorite things to do in Orlando before you head to the beach for an Orlando to Beaches Florida Road Trip and explore Hutchinson Island, Florida!

I saved you a seat on the beach! What are you waiting for? After a few days exploring Orlando attractions, plan a relaxing visit to one of the most beautiful beaches on Florida’s east coast.

It is easy to combine a visit to Orlando with a visit to the beach. A gorgeous beach is located within a two hour drive from Orlando and offers delectable food and fun amenities for the entire family. This guide provides highlights of my favorite spots on the Orlando to beaches Florida road trip.

1st stop – Orlando

Orlando is one of the most popular travel destinations in Florida. It is within driving distance to most of the southern U.S. and a short flight from many destinations. Whether you plan a visit to one of the amusement parks or attend one of the many festivals, the options in Orlando are endless.

Where to Stay in Orlando

As Hilton Honors members, we frequently stay at Hilton properties in Orlando. We always stay at properties that are located close to the attractions or events we are attending. In addition, we love properties that offer large suites, on-site breakfast and a nice pool. The DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Seaworld is one hotel we really love due to the fact that it offers everything we need and is located in close proximity to many Orlando attractions.

My biggest tip when traveling with small children, especially toddlers, is to book a large corner or family suite. The extra space not only offers plenty of room to put a pack and play, but it also offers plenty of room for the entire family without feeling cramped. The DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Seaworld is a great option because the suites are large and reasonably priced.

Of course one of the most important aspects of any hotel is the food, especially breakfast. Laguna Restaurant at The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at Seaworld offers a delectable breakfast menu. In addition to the regular breakfast offerings, the restaurant also offers a breakfast buffet that is well worth the price. I am always pleasantly surprised by the food at this hotel. The on-site breakfast makes it easy to eat and then head out the door to explore.

The hotel also offers two large pool areas, children’s activities, a full recreation staff and more. It is within walking distance to Seaworld Orlando and a short drive to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

Things to do in Orlando

Orlando offers endless things to do. I simply can’t cover all of them here. But I will mention two of my favorite things to do in Orlando. Check out my other travel guides for some of my favorite things to do in Orlando.

One of the reasons I visit Orlando so often is to explore the many festivals happening throughout the year. No matter when you visit, there is almost always a festival happening in Orlando. As a foodie, the Seven Seas Festival, Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and Epcot International Food and Wine Festival are a few of my favorites. Visit Orlando offers a calendar of special events happening throughout the year.

Even if you do not visit any of the other Disney attractions, you must visit Disney Springs. The outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment center is one of my favorite places in Orlando. Eat fried chicken at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ or indulge in one of my favorite sweet spots at Disney Spring. Some of my other favorite dining experiences at Disney Springs include Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, The Polite Pig and STK Orlando. For more things to do at Walt Disney World, check out my Disney travel guides featuring everything from unique foodie experiences to special events and more.

2nd stop – Hutchinson Island

Hutchinson Island is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast and is only a 2 hour drive from Orlando. The reason I love Hutchinson Island as opposed to many other beaches is because it is relaxing, quiet and preserved. You won’t find a lot of high rise hotels or beachy tourist traps along this stretch of the east coast. You will find many outdoor activities, good food and a beautiful beach.

Where to Stay on Hutchinson Island

Since the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa opened last fall, I stalk their Instagram and Facebook page every single day. The photos of the property are gorgeous and the food always always looks incredible. Can you believe that the resort is even better than the photos?

The rooms are absolutely stunning and the resort is well designed. It is a great place to visit for a relaxing weekend getaway or a family vacation. I highly recommend booking a oceanview room, if possible. After all, the location is what makes this resort extra special. The resort offers beach service, two pools, a fitness center, spa and activities for the entire family.

Yes, the rooms are comfortable, the property is stunning and the beach is beautiful, but the food is the reason that I will be returning to Hutchinson Shores Resort. It is rare for a resort to offer the entire package – luxury accommodations, family friend amenities and incredible food. Every single item on the menu at Drift Kitchen and Bar at Hutchinson Shores Resort is made from scratch. Yes, even the pizza dough and pasta! In addition to Drift Kitchen and Bar, the resort offers dining at Dune Beach Bar and Reflections Pool Bar.

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better….it does! Not only does Drift Kitchen and Bar offer some of the best food on the Treasure Coast, it also offers the one of the best views of the coast. The picture below was our view from breakfast. Stunning, right?

Things to do on Hutchinson Island, Florida

While I could spend every single day walking the beach and biking the trails along Hutchinson Island, there are many other fun activities for the entire family. Visit the Florida Oceanographic Society and explore the nature trails, Game fish lagoon, Sea Turtle Pavilion, Children’s Activity Pavilion, Sea Star Touch Tank and more. If you have little ones with you, visit The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast. It’s located in the beautiful Indian Riverside Park and is one of the best children’s museums in Florida. My little one loved “shopping at Publix” and climbing the pirate ship. Or visit Historic Downtown Stuart for shopping, ice cream and more. For more things to do, visit discovermartin.com.

It’s difficult to recap such a fun trip in one single post. This guide highlights a few of my favorite things to explore on the Orlando to beaches Florida road trip. The best thing about this trip is that it is laid back, relaxing and fun. You don’t even need to plan an itinerary. Just visit, relax and explore!

If you plan an Orlando to Beaches Florida Road Trip, don’t forget to tag @SpoonfulFlavor and #SpoonfulTravel in your social media posts so that we can follow along. Or come back here and share your thoughts about the trip.

Hutchinson Shores Resort and DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Seaworld graciously hosted part of our stay. As always, all opinions are my own.