What Are Your Family's Needs?
Before booking a hotel in Coastal Florida, it's important to know what your family needs. While there are many chain hotels, which offer standardized accommodations and services you've come to know and trust, you also have a choice of a variety of upscale resorts. Florida hotels are generally spacious with room for up to four people in some double rooms. There's often no charge for children under eighteen sharing with their parents. You can also choose a suite with a kitchenette. And renting a condominium is an excellent solution if your family plans to stay for three to seven days, the minimum stay required. The best type of accommodations for your family may be a resort hotel, which in addition to accommodations offers game rooms, pools, tennis courts, health clubs, and several restaurants for dining.
Are There Programs for Children?
Florida may be one of the few vacation getaway destinations that cater to the entire family and especially children. Children are welcome in restaurants, and many family-style eateries feature kids' portions. Many hotels along Florida's coasts offer free lodging for children sixteen and under staying with their parents in the same room.
TRAVEL TIP
Along Florida's coasts, the greatest danger to young children is the sun. If your children are going to be exposed to the sunlight for any length of time, you should liberally douse them in high-protection sunblock and repeat after swimming. Both younger and teenage children should also wear hats and caps.
While most moderate and deluxe hotels and resorts cater to families, you won't find special kids' programs at too many places along the coast. Unlike the resorts found in the theme park wonderland surrounding Orlando, most coastal hotels offer basic to deluxe accommodations for families on vacations on which the kids will probably spend most of their time at the beach. Babysitting services are available at some of the larger resorts if you and your spouse want some time for yourselves. Many moderate hotels offer game rooms and playgrounds for children, and some also have kids' pools.
Activities for Older Kids?
If you're traveling with teens, Coastal Florida offers a variety of activities to keep them busy. Activities suited to your active teens include hiking, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and beachcombing. Find out what they're interested in and let them be a part of the planning process. However, be careful not to let their activities dominate your trip. Try to achieve a good balance so everyone, including you, will have a good time.
