8 Wonderful Beaches near Lake Mary, FL

Lake Mary is pretty far from the ocean but not all hope is lost. If you are willing to get into the car and drive a bit then you can still find plenty of places to swim. Today we are taking a look at those places. We’ve collected 8 wonderful beaches near Lake Mary, FL.

Everything on this list is easy to access. Most beaches we’ve selected are within one hour of driving and the ones that are more offer something special. So all of these options are great for day-trips.

Every kind of traveler will find something on our list. From secluded beaches to mainstream experiences, we cover a lot of places that you can discover.

One thing to note: although there are a lot of lakes near Lake Mary we are not covering any lake beaches. First of all, they are not really available, second, the bacteria levels are a problem and most often than not they are closed. So, your best bet is the ocean.

1. New Smyrna Beach

Distance: 35 miles – 45 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KTxssjVZEcTU2hJ46

If you’re seeking a nice beach near Lake Mary, Florida, look no further than New Smyrna Beach. This seaside haven caters to beach enthusiasts with its picturesque shoreline, inviting warm waters, and a wide range of nearby eateries to satisfy cravings.

While it’s possible to spot sharks in these waters, it adds a sense of adventure to your explorations. Surfing and fishing are two of the most popular pastimes here, with numerous access points that make it easy to find your sweet spot.

It can get crowded at times, but the beach is always kept pristine, making it the perfect spot for a day of relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing. With attentive lifeguards on duty, you can enjoy your beach time without any worries.

You can even buy beach passes for your car and take it out onto the sand. Just be careful not to get stuck or you might end up on YouTube!

2. Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park

Distance: 44 miles – 55 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SEMK6mYxQZuw46n39

Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park spans an impressive 6 acres and holds a plethora of thrilling activities for beachgoers. This beach park boasts a boardwalk, sports courts, a playground, and fishing areas. It’s a great hidden choice among the beaches near Lake Mary, FL.

What’s even great is that visitors don’t have to pay for parking! With numerous picnic tables available, it is an ideal location to relish the beauty of the sunrise.

Swimming and surfing are both popular activities at this beach, with decent swell and wind conditions. Those seeking a more daring wave will be pleased to know that the sandbar break is perfect for experiencing an adventurous ride.

Weekdays are recommended for those who prefer less-crowded spaces as the parking lot can become busy after 10 am. The well-maintained restrooms feature outdoor showers, which are perfect for cleaning off after a long day of fun in the sun. Be aware that high tide may result in a smaller beach strip.

3. Ponce Inlet Beach

Distance: 50 miles – 1 hr
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/12aZgNYPPEDjpc2M8

Ponce Inlet Beach, situated close to Lake Mary, FL, is a scenic and family-friendly destination that is well worth a visit.

With its pristine and soft white sand, the beach is ideal for a range of activities, including playing, sunbathing, and exploring. The beach is known for its cleanliness and tranquility, making it a safe place for families to enjoy a day of fun in the sun.

In addition, the clear and shallow water is perfect for wading out, and there are plenty of crabs to discover.

Those who love nature will also appreciate the trails and wildlife that surround the beach. One thing to note is that while there is some free parking available, it can fill up quickly, so it is advisable to arrive early in the day.

The downside of this secluded beach is that there aren’t many amenities nearby. Restaurants are few and far in-between, and if you want fast food you can forget it. There is a 7-11 where you can shop but it’s best to pack your own food if you visit this beach.

4. Daytona Beach

Distance: 45 miles – 50 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ysqYC1RwFwFe6Hio6

Daytona Beach is the beach that calls itself the most famous beach in the world. While we may not agree with that, it’s true that this beach has its fair share of fame.

One of the unique features of this beach is the ability to drive your car directly onto the sand. While this may not be for everyone, it’s certainly an experience to consider if you’re interested in something different.

Beyond the novelty of the cars on the beach, there’s plenty to do in the area. From amusement parks to a large pier and numerous restaurants, this beach offers a fully-fledged day trip for those seeking entertainment.

However, it’s worth noting that opinions on the actual beach itself are divided. While some visitors love it, others express a strong aversion to the presence of vehicles on the sand. Ultimately, whether or not this beach is right for you will depend on your personal preferences.

5. Wilbur Beach

Distance: 45 miles – 50 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wHTpJQYX8dCZsnQz9

Wilbur Beach is a serene oasis for those seeking a quieter beach experience. The beach boasts a wide expanse of flat sand that’s perfect for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and unwinding. The sand is a velvety white and incredibly soft, offering an unmatched walking experience.

The crystal-clear waters offer an unobstructed view of the area’s natural beauty. Moreover, the beach is a vehicle-free zone, ensuring maximum safety and peace of mind.

Conveniently, there is free parking available for visitors in close proximity. Unlike the bustling Daytona beach, Wilbur Beach is a local treasure that’s less crowded. It is a perfect destination for a simple beach trip without the distractions of tourist activities.

It’s a beach still within driving distance of Lake Mary and it offers fun for the whole family.

6. Shepard Park

Distance: 70 miles – 1 hr 10 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VEhTr5eKGHryaHZQ9

Situated in a prime location, Shepard Park boasts of being an ideal spot for beach enthusiasts seeking a refreshing getaway. With a generous parking capacity of over 300 public spots, accessing the beach is easy and convenient.

Visitors can indulge in an array of amenities available including picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard stand, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. For those who prefer to travel light, vendors provide rental services for beach gear such as surfboards, boogie boards, umbrellas, and chairs.

The beach is stunningly beautiful, and the tranquil atmosphere allows for a relaxing time. While the facilities and area may exude a slightly outdated vibe, the beach and ocean still provide an enjoyable destination for anyone seeking some fun in the sun.

7. Cocoa Beach

Distance: 75 mins – 1 hr 15 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jndA5bgPHEnKqJrF6

Cocoa Beach is a notable destination for those seeking a classic beach experience. The expansive shoreline is complemented by crystal-clear waters which offer a refreshing respite from the hot climate.

Due to the immense popularity of the beach, we recommend that you try to come early. Otherwise, you might be left looking for a parking spot.

The beach is enhanced by the inclusion of a pier, offering convenient access to a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, restrooms, and fishing facilities.

The beach’s proximity to NASA/Cape Canaveral base allows visitors to witness captivating rocket launches.

The cleanliness of the area is unquestionable, providing visitors with an unobstructed view of their surroundings. Rentals such as beach chairs, surfboards, and umbrellas are easily accessible and reasonably priced, adding to the convenience of the beach experience.

8. Melbourne Beach

Distance: 90 miles – 1 hr 30 mins
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/nuC7GUFYkE1e3ECm8

Melbourne Beach is a hidden and secluded beach that offers ample space for recreational activities such as swimming, walking, and mobility. Its tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the scenic views, makes it one of our favorite beaches near Lake Mary, FL.

The beach’s crystal clear blue waters and pristine white sands offer a picturesque backdrop for bird-watching and fishing. Although Melbourne Beach may seem distant from Lake Mary, the drive there is well worth the effort.

With its uncrowded ambiance, Melbourne Beach is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. The sound of waves crashing against the shore, combined with the sensation of sand between your toes, makes for an unforgettable experience.

Beaches near Lake Mary – FAQ