Florida but not Disney

[Emmaheather]

Hoping to visit a relatively in Orlando in April with DC 14 and 16 yo for a couple of weeks. Not keen on Disney or big resorts/crowds. Ideally will have a bit of beach time and will spend a bit of time in Orlando. I don't really have a clue where to start or what to do as main motivation is family visit. (They have newly moved so don't know the area well yet either). I would really appreciate any suggestions or recommendations, from places to eat, things to do, places to stay. Thanks

Siesta key is lovely if you aren't looking to travel too far. Just did Florida with two teens this summer.

What I will say is that Universal Studios was brilliant, Volcano Bay too.

We also went to the Everglades and did an airboat ride, definitely bucket list.

Kennedy space station was fab too.

Naples is lovely - amazing sunsets

The gulf coast is absolutely brilliant. It is pretty expensive though compared to Orlando (which has also become expensive).

We've never done Miami/Keys so that's next on our list but it's quite a way from Orlando.

Universal studios are amazing and well worth the crowds.