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Orlando Holidays
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Beaches | Hotels | Nightlife | Food | Events | Things to do | Weather | Important information | Reviews |
What are the best beaches in Orlando?
While the city isn’t located on the coast, beach holidays in Orlando are still a possibility! You can get wet ‘n’ wild at a mega waterpark, or take a short drive to the seaside for the real deal. Get inspired by our top picks:
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon - This tropical island-themed waterpark has a real sandy beach next to the biggest wave pool in the USA, as well as tons of thrilling slides.
- Universal’s Volcano Bay - Not to be outdone, Universal offers its own beachy paradise where you can slide right out of a volcano or float along a winding river.
- Daytona Beach - The World’s Most Famous Beach, with every seaside activity you could dream of.
- Cocoa Beach - A popular family-friendly beach where you may even spot a rocket launch!
- Canaveral National Seashore - This long stretch of coast is full of wild beauty, the perfect place to unwind after hectic days.
- New Smyrna Beach - Surf’s up! Head here to catch the best waves on the East Coast.
What are the top hotels in Orlando?
If you’re planning a family holiday to Orlando you’re spoiled for choice with hotels for lively little ones, but there are lots of options for calmer places to rest your head too. Here are some of the best:
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort - This retro-chic hotel in the Universal grounds brings the beach to you with loads of pools, and even sand!
- Disney’s Polynesian Resort - An oasis of calm in the Magic Kingdom resort area, where families and couples alike can enjoy tropical island vibes by a lagoon.
- The Grand Orlando Resort at Celebration - A great base to visit all the parks, with enough pools and evening fun to keep everyone happy.
- Disney’s Art of Animation - Every moment is full of Disney magic at this hotel, from your movie-themed rooms to the characters joining you for breakfast.
- The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes - Get fancy at this five-star palace with accessible room options, perfect for sunny days out on the lake.
- Waldorf Astoria Orlando - Enjoy peaceful creek views and a championship golf course at this five-star luxury retreat.
What's the food like in Orlando?
Supersized everything awaits you on holiday to Orlando! Aside from the juicy burgers and huge hotdogs, these are some local classics you’ll love:
- Florida Stone Crab - Locally caught crab served cold with a peppery mustard sauce.
- Conch Fritters - A beachside favourite of fried tender shellfish.
- Cuban Sandwich - A popular ham and cheese lunch snack packed with flavour.
- Butterbeer - Find this creamy butterscotch yumminess at the Wizarding World.
- Dole Whip - This fruity frozen dessert is Disney’s favourite, and it’s totally vegan!
If you’re on an All Inclusive holiday to Orlando you’ll have your fill of tasty hotel food, but there are loads of other places to try out:
- The Edison, Disney Springs - A steampunk wonderland where you can enjoy American classics, with cocktails and burlesque on the side.
- Leaky Cauldron, Universal Studios - Missing British comfort food? Find all your favourites inside this magical pub on Diagon Alley.
- Tasty Takeover, Milk District - Every Tuesday night a lively food truck party takes place, perfect for trying a little bit of everything.
- Deep Blu Seafood Grille, Bonnet Creek - A perfect place for date night or special occasions, serving fresh seafood delights.
- Voodoo Doughnuts, Universal CityWalk - Feast on doughy treats with creative fillings and toppings, plus loads of vegan options.
Where’s the best nightlife in Orlando?
Your Orlando holidays may be all about the rides, but you can still enjoy a party every night! Check out these hotspots for adults, and one for the kids too:
- the groove, Universal CityWalk - Get down after dark at this multi-level nightclub with themed bars and special effects.
- Jelly Rolls, Disney’s BoardWalk - Completely raucous nights for music fans, filled with piano duelling and sing-alongs.
- Hamburger Mary’s, Downtown - A gay institution! Bringing you the hottest drag shows in town.
- Pirates Dinner Adventure, Carrier Drive - Swashbuckling fun with pyrotechnics and performances aboard a large ship, with accessible seating options available.
What events can I go to in Orlando?
If your 2022 holidays to Orlando are all about the parks, you’ll find celebrations for every holiday involving spectacular parades and light shows. The city itself has loads to offer too, so if you’re looking for something a bit different, check these events out:
- Hula Bowl (January) - Sports fans can get the true stateside experience watching up-and-comers in American football.
- Central Florida Dragon Parade (February) - A celebration of the Lunar New Year, with lots of traditional music and costumes.
- National Miss Comedy Queen (March) - Stay laughing all night as the funniest drag queens in the nation compete for the title.
- Thundering Spirit Family Pow Wow (March) - Local Native Americans welcome visitors to enjoy traditional music, dance, and feasting at this family-friendly event.
- Movieola (April–August) - Enjoy family-friendly films under the stars at this free monthly event where you can bring your own blankets and snacks.
- MEGACON Orlando (May) - Four days of heaven for sci-fi, comic book, anime, and gaming fans of all ages.
- One Magical Weekend (June) - A jam-packed weekend of LGBTQ+ pride with concerts, sports games, Disney rides, and dancing.
- Orlando’s Magical Dining (August) - Sample the poshest nosh Orlando has to offer with fixed-price menus across the city.
- Come Out With Pride Festival (October) - Massive colourful parades by day, world-famous LGBTQ+ acts by night.
- NBA season (October–April) - Catch the Orlando Magic basketball team shoot hoops at the Amway Centre stadium.
- Downtown for the Holidays (November–January) - The whole area comes alive with free festive events, perfect for cheap Christmas holidays in Orlando.
- Spooky Empire (December) - A screamfest for horror-loving adults who want a break from the cuteness overload.
Things to do in Orlando
Don’t trail behind
Orlando is called ‘The City Beautiful’ because it’s packed with green parks and trails. Take a relaxing stroll along the Orlando Urban Trail to see some of the nicest spots, or follow the West Orange Trail, which runs along old rail lines. You can also enjoy the sights by bike, wheelchair, or even roller-skates!
Pick a brick
Family holidays to Orlando are all about the famous parks, but did you know you’ll be right around the corner from LEGOLAND too? The park has rides, attractions, and displays that will delight builders of all ages.
Small town dreams
The town of Celebration was originally designed by Disney, which shows in its neat and colourful houses. Now it runs itself and has become a great place to find cute boutique shops and cafés, all by the side of a picturesque lake.
Get snap happy
Alligators love to take a dip in the Florida lakes, but we don’t recommend joining them. If you want to get up close head to GatorWorld, where you can see hundreds of rescued gators at a drive-thru safari or even hold one with the help of a pro.
Want to know more? Take a look at our article to Discover the other side of Orlando.
What's the weather like in Orlando?
With its warm days all year, a last-minute summer holiday to Orlando may seem like a great idea! However, you’ll get the most reliable sunshine in the winter months, as the city gets frequent rainfall and high humidity between June and September.
Month | Average temp. | Sea temp. | Hours of sunshine per day |
| Jan | 15 °c | 23 °c | 7 h |
| Feb | 16 °c | 23 °c | 7 h |
| Mar | 19 °c | 23 °c | 8 h |
| Apr | 22 °c | 25 °c | 10 h |
| May | 25 °c | 26 °c | 10 h |
| Jun | 27 °c | 28 °c | 11 h |
| Jul | 28 °c | 29 °c | 10 h |
| Aug | 28 °c | 29 °c | 9 h |
| Sep | 27 °c | 29 °c | 9 h |
| Oct | 24 °c | 27 °c | 8 h |
| Nov | 20 °c | 26 °c | 8 h |
| Dec | 17 °c | 24 °c | 7 h |
Important Information about travelling to Orlando
How long does it take to fly to Orlando?
Flights from the UK mainland to Orlando take around 9 hours.
What’s the time difference between the UK and Orlando?
Orlando is in the Eastern Standard Time zone, which is 5 hours behind the UK.
What currency do they use in Orlando?
Orlando uses the official currency of America which is the US Dollar (USD).
What language do they speak in Orlando?
The official language in Orlando is American English, though you will find lots of Spanish speakers too.
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Orlando?
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Orlando?
Travellers are often charged a resort fee when staying in Orlando. This varies from hotel to hotel and is usually charged per person or room, per night. This resort tax must be paid by the traveller directly to the hotel.
Do I need a visa to travel to Orlando?
The UK is on the list of Visa Waiver Countries in the USA, so you do not need a visa to holiday in Orlando as long as you are staying for under 90 days. However, you will need to make an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for each member of your travelling party, which costs $14. They are usually approved in 3 days, but it’s best to apply via the official site as soon as you book your holiday: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta.
Will Covid-19 affect my holiday to Orlando?
We are currently closely following the Covid-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Orlando on the FCO website.
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Customer reviews
At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to Orlando for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.
Jen:
I love this company have booked many many holidays with OTB and they are great! Customer service is excellent and Lewis S you we’re great sorting out changes for us at weekend we really appreciated your expertise and ease of process to change details of our holiday - thank you for helping us - I will continue to book our family holidays with you as I have done for all of the previous holidays
Ms Amanda Burroughs:
Always my first choice for booking holidays. Seamless from beginning to end every time. Great locations, accommodations and prices.
David:
We have used on the beach many with no problems at all. Would highly recommend
Top Orlando Hotels
Rosen Inn Closest to Universal
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Ramada Kissimmee Gateway
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Universal's Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn & Suites
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Ramada Plaza Resort & Suites
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Universals Aventura Hotel
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Doubletree Resort Orlando
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Days Inn Orlando Convention Center
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Floridays Resort
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Enclave Suites by Sky Hotels & Resorts
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Bahama Bay Resort
Davenport, Orlando, Florida
Disney's Port Orleans Resort Riverside
Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida
Cypress Pointe
Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida
Florida Hotel & Conference Center
Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida
Crowne Plaza Universal Orlando
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Rosen Centre Resort
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Sonesta ES Suites Orlando - International Drive
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Omni Orlando Resort At Championsgate
Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida
Oak Plantation Resort
Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida
Caribe Cove Resort
Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida
Melia Orlando Celebration
Celebration, Orlando, Florida
Calabay Parc
Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida
Champions World Resort
Kissimmee Area, Orlando, Florida
Monumental Movieland
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Courtyard by Marriott LBV at Vista Centre
Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida
Holiday Inn At Orlando International Airport
Orlando, Florida, Usa
Quality Suites Orlando
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Legacy Vacation Resorts Lake Buena Vista
Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida
Walt Disney World Swan Resort
Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida
Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn and Suites
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Orlando Weather
Be prepared for wonderful weather if you're thinking of visiting during the UK summer holidays in July or August. Because of Florida's location on the Gulf stream, Orlando enjoys a tropical climate, with hot summers experiencing an average temperature of around 30° Celsius. In the summer, Orlando receives a good 8 centimetres of rain, which will provide a great respite from the humidity.
Any month from October to May will also provide a pleasurable break weather-wise though; through the months of winter and spring, Orlando still enjoys a warm temperature of around 24 or 25° Celsius, with around 8 hours of sun a day. During this time the rainfall will also be less than the summer at around 2 centimetres, so if you're looking for a Florida holiday outside the peak months, then rest assured that any time will provide you with great weather.
Landscape
Landscape lovers will enjoy Orlando holidays because the landscape is just amazing, encapsulating everything we've all seen in the movies into one place! Downtown Orlando is home to the most amazing skyscrapers and millionaire homes you will have ever seen! If you begin to tire of the metropolis, then you can soon head out to areas like Lake Buena Vista near Disney World.
Things To Do on Orlando Holidays
It's not a question of what you can do on Orlando holidays, but what to do first! Everyone will want to begin with a visit to the world-revered Disney World resort! Located in Lake Buena Vista, everyone will relish a meeting with Mickey Mouse, while International Drive's Universal Studios Florida has cinema-themed rides that will have you smiling all day. Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum, the origin of the TV program, will provide a day of fascinating and unbelievable facts and exhibits. Sea World meanwhile, will please marine-life lovers, just as the Orlando Museum of Art will please those with an artistic eye.
But what about those who love to shop? Florida Mall is located in Orlando at the crossroads of the Orange Blossom Trail. It's home to hundreds of famous stores, including Saks and Macy's - rest assured, shopaholics, that you can shop all day in this mega-mall and still not finish! With these attractions being just the tip of the iceberg, with holidays in Orlando, every day offers a fantastic new experience.
Culture
America has one of the most fascinating histories in the world, so it's only natural that a city as huge as Orlando has a history that is hugely intriguing. It is said that many historian's attribute the name of the city to the date of 1836, when a soldier named Orlando Reeves died in the area after a huge war with an Indian Tribe named the Seminole's.
Orlando wasn't a resident of the area, but ran a sugar mill 30 miles outside of it, but even so, his name was carved into a tree, which is how everyone came to call the city Orlando. At first they used 'Orlando's Grave', but over time this changed and city became known solely as Orlando.
It has to be said that Orlando is awash with amazing cultural experiences. Apart from Walt Disney World there's loads to do; art-lovers on Orlando holidays will want to check out the small but thriving Arts centre at Vineland Avenue, which plays host to a range of art exhibits and theatre-shows all year round. You can also expect fireworks and partying in July every year as America celebrates Independence Day, while every August sees Orlando's Annual Project Cultural Fusion, in which kids from all over Florida showcase their performing talents.
In November meanwhile, watch American culture at it's finest during Orlando's Veteran Day Parade, which sees marching bands, decorated floats and an array of different tributes to America's soldiers through the town centre. Whatever time you visit, make sure to check the calendar because Orlando will have events and celebrations that you wont want to miss!
Nightlife
Holidays in Orlando are universally revered for the amazing nightlife, which caters for everyone from families to serious party addicts, and satisfies each and every one! If you're looking for a good time at night, head to Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando. This is home to many, many bars and clubs providing the latest tunes for Florida's "It" crowd. These bars are renowned for their exclusivity, so dress to impress, and more importantly, bring your ID, because only those with proof that they're over 21 will be allowed in to drink.
If you're on a family holiday in Orlando and want something a little more relaxed, you're in for a great night too; for good atmosphere, head to the Thornton Park District, which is littered with cafes and pubs providing great cuisine from any nation you care to look for, with plenty of bars playing live music too.
Book a Orlando Holiday now!
If theme parks, amazing nightlife and museums are your idea of a fun, then Orlando holidays are just what you need. With fantastic restaurants, loads of sunshine whatever time of year, and so much to experience, Orlando will be above and beyond what you could possibly expect!
Best of all, with On The Beach's live booking system, you can search for bargain flights and hotels right now to customise your Orlando holiday just the way you want it!