The Perfect Florida Vacation: Disney Magic & Anna Maria Island Relaxation

If you’re dreaming of a Florida getaway that combines world-famous theme park thrills with laid-back beach vibes, look no further.

A split vacation between Central Florida and Anna Maria Island gives you the best of both worlds — a few action-packed days at Walt Disney World® followed by a tranquil beach retreat on Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast.

With a little planning, you can experience the ultimate Florida vacation — from luxury vacation homes near Disney World to coastal beach rentals with ocean views.

Start Your Adventure in Central Florida: The Magic of Disney & Beyond

Your Florida adventure begins in the heart of it all — Orlando, the theme park capital of the world. Stay in a vacation rental near Disney World and wake up just minutes from the gates of Magic Kingdom®, EPCOT®, Hollywood Studios®, and Animal Kingdom®.

Choosing a luxury vacation home in Reunion Resort, Champions Gate, Windsor Island Resort or Solterra Resort gives you more space, privacy, and resort-style amenities than a hotel ever could.

Many of our Orlando vacation rentals feature:

• Private screened pools and hot tubs

• Game rooms and home theaters

• Full kitchens and multiple ensuite bedrooms

• Access to resort water parks, restaurants, and golf courses

After long days at the parks, coming home to your own pool villa feels like a vacation within a vacation. And with Florida Vacation Homes, you can book direct and save on third-party fees — giving you more spending money for churros, Mickey ears, and park souvenirs!

Next Stop: Anna Maria Island – Florida’s Gulf Coast Paradise

Once you’ve had your fill of roller coasters and fireworks, it’s time to slow things down. Just a two-hour drive southwest from Orlando, Anna Maria Island awaits with soft white sand, turquoise waters, and an Old Florida charm that feels worlds away from the crowds.

Here, the pace is unhurried. You’ll spend your days:

• Biking to the pier for fresh seafood

• Watching dolphins play in the surf

• Enjoying breathtaking Gulf sunsets from your balcony

• Exploring boutique shops and beach cafés in Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Anna Maria City

A vacation rental on Anna Maria Island offers the same comforts of home — private pools, outdoor living spaces, and beach access — but with ocean breezes and palm trees swaying outside your window.

It’s the perfect reset after the high-energy excitement of Orlando.

How to Plan the Perfect Split Vacation in Florida

Here’s how to make your Central Florida + Gulf Coast vacation seamless:

1. Start in Orlando (4–5 nights)

   Stay close to the action in a Reunion Resort or Champions Gate vacation home. Visit Disney parks, Universal Orlando, and ICON Park.

2. Drive to Anna Maria Island (4-5 nights)

   Pack light for the drive — it’s about 2 to 2.5 hours from the Orlando area. Stop for lunch in Tampa or at St. Armands Circle in Sarasota.

3. Relax & Recharge

   Spend your final days on the beach, soaking up Florida sunshine and letting the sound of the waves wash away the theme park adrenaline.

4. Fly Home Refreshed

   The nearest major airports are Sarasota-Bradenton International (SRQ) or Tampa International (TPA) — both offer easy returns home or short drives back to Orlando.

Why Stay in a Vacation Rental for Both Stops?

Whether in Orlando or on Anna Maria Island, a vacation home gives you:

• More space for families and groups

• Full kitchens to cook your own meals

• Laundry facilities and home-style comfort

• Better value per night than multiple hotel rooms

Plus, our team at Florida Vacation Homes can help you find the perfect rental for the Orlando leg of your trip — from cozy condos to sprawling luxury villas with resort access.

The Best of Both Worlds — All in One Florida Vacation

By pairing Disney adventure with Gulf Coast relaxation, you’ll experience the real magic of Florida.

Create unforgettable memories with your family at the parks, then unwind on the beach with your toes in the sand — all within one amazing trip.

Ready to plan your dream Florida vacation?

Explore our collection of luxury Orlando vacation rentals near Disney World and start your journey today.