A Multi-Generational Trip Guide to Florida’s Paradise Coast
Planning a vacation that makes everyone happy—from toddlers to grandparents—is no small feat. But in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades, we aim to make it as easy as possible. From laid-back beach time to exciting eco-adventures and memorable meals everyone can enjoy, Florida's Paradise Coast has you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to a getaway that brings everyone together!
Accommodations for Every Generation
When it comes to multi-generational travel, finding the right place to stay is key. Conveniently, Florida’s Paradise Coast offers exceptional options that cater to every family member, from your little one looking for waterslides to grandparents who want to relax along a quiet beach.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Beach Resort: This iconic beachfront resort blends refined comfort with family-friendly amenities. Enjoy oceanfront pools, a world-class spa, and immersive kids’ programming, all just steps from the sand, making it a perfect setting for families looking to balance relaxation and family recreation.
Great Wolf Lodge South Florida: Ideal for families traveling with younger children, this resort is home to a sprawling indoor water park, themed suites, and interactive adventures that keep kids entertained from dawn to dusk, all under one roof.
Edgewater Beach Hotel: This all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with full kitchens, ocean views, and a relaxed beachfront vibe, ideal for larger families and those seeking home-away-from-home comfort.
Vanderbilt Beach Resort: A hidden gem that combines old-Florida charm with modern comforts. With easy beach access and family-friendly hospitality, it’s a fantastic choice for a laid-back coastal stay.
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort: Perfect for all ages, with expansive pools, beachfront access, and entertainment like 10K Alley—an arcade and bowling venue that keeps everyone engaged.
Beach Days Everyone Will Love
With 30 miles of soft, white-sand beaches, Florida’s Paradise Coast provides the perfect backdrop for multi-generational fun. With options for little ones such as building sandcastles, paddleboarding for teens, or letting grandparents lounge with a book, the beaches on the Paradise Coast offer excitement for all ages.
Marco Island: Famous for its tranquil atmosphere and world-class shelling, Marco Island’s expansive shoreline is a dream for families who love to explore. Stroll the beach in search of unique treasures like junonia and lightning whelk shells, or simply relax as gentle Gulf waves roll in. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for younger swimmers, too.
Vanderbilt Beach: Located near the heart of Naples, this popular beach is a go-to for its vast stretch of sand and convenient amenities. With easy access to restrooms, showers, and nearby dining, it’s a stress-free option for families. Water sports rentals— including paddleboards and kayaks—offer active fun for teens and adults alike, while shaded areas provide a welcome retreat from the sun.
Clam Pass Park: Another family favorite, Clam Pass Park, features a calm, scenic boardwalk through a mangrove forest that opens to a beautiful beach. Expect calm waters and easy-to-access cabana rentals.
Tigertail Beach: Located on Marco Island, Tigertail Beach offers both a lagoon side, ideal for safe, shallow water play, and a Gulf-facing beach, perfect for swimming and shelling. Its playground, picnic areas, and birdwatching opportunities make it a versatile spot for a full day of family adventure.
Outdoor Adventures for All Ages
Florida’s Paradise Coast is a haven for families who love to get outside and explore! With its diverse natural landscapes, spanning mangroves, estuaries, and tropical gardens, the region offers countless opportunities for multi-generational adventure.
A fantastic place to start is Big Cypress National Preserve or Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where your family can enjoy guided nature walks, eco-tours and even swamp buggy rides. These off-road adventures offer a unique way to see the Everglades up close, from towering cypress trees to hidden wildlife like turtles, deer, and the elusive Florida panther.
Looking to add a little friendly competition? Spend an afternoon at one of the area’s mini-golf courses, a guaranteed hit with kids of all ages. Many locations also feature bumper boats and arcade games, making it easy to turn a simple outing into a full day of fun.
Families with a love for fishing will find endless ways to connect with nature. Whether it’s casting a line off a public pier or booking a private charter to explore the Gulf of America’s bountiful waters, fishing offers a relaxed yet exciting way to bond with your loved ones. Plus, many local restaurants offer “cook your catch” options, which means you can turn your fresh haul into a delicious family dinner!
Whether you’re trekking through untouched wilderness, testing your skills on the mini-golf green, or hooking fish along the Gulf, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades invites your family to get outdoors and make unforgettable memories together.
Planning the Perfect Multi-Generational Getaway
A little preparation goes a long way in making your family trip one for the books. Start by reserving your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Planning ahead ensures your family has the space and comfort needed to truly relax!
The best part of Florida’s Paradise Coast for families? There’s so much to choose from. Whether your crew is in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or something in between, there’s always a new experience waiting around the corner. Here, every generation finds something to love, from toddlers chasing waves to grandparents enjoying our fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood. To create memories that last a lifetime, ONLY Paradise will do.