top cities to visit in florida for couples

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in florida in 2024.

With more than 8,000 miles of shoreline, the Sunshine State is prime vacation territory. But with so many diverse destinations in Florida, it can be hard to pick which place is right for your next getaway. That's why U.S. News considered factors like the number of attractions, availability of accommodations and the opinions of everyday travelers to pick the best places to visit in Florida. Vote for your favorite spots below to help determine next year's list.

Clearwater Beach

St. augustine, anna maria island, dry tortugas national park, marco island, amelia island, sanibel island, miami beach, everglades national park, st. petersburg, fl, fort lauderdale, cocoa beach.

This picturesque barrier island off the coast of Sarasota is a prime vacation spot for relaxation-seeking travelers. Spend your getaway lounging on Siesta Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , and enjoy powdery white sands and a bevy of family-friendly amenities including beach volleyball, a playground and concession stands. Or, head to quieter Turtle Beach for shelling and kayaking. In the evening, catch some live music in Siesta Key Village.

Clearwater Beach's beautiful white sand , crystal clear water and small-town vibe make it an ideal destination for a family vacation on the Gulf Coast. Spend the day getting a snapshot of the city during a Segway tour or visit Caladesi Island State Park (only accessible by boat) for its untouched natural splendor. Also save time for a visit to one of the area's biggest attractions, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where the dolphins that inspired the "Dolphin Tale" movies were rehabilitated. Later, head to Pier 60 to catch a sunset, purchase locally made crafts and watch various street performances.

History buffs should make a beeline for St. Augustine. Founded by the Spaniards in 1565, this town in northern Florida is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., earning it the nickname the Ancient City. Constructed from local coquina, a unique type of stone made from compressed shells and limestone, St. Augustine's structures and monuments (including the buildings lining pedestrian-friendly St. George Street and the imposing Castillo de San Marcos National Monument) act as a living guide to history. When it's time to relax after taking in the sights, head to Anastasia State Park for its unspoiled beaches and sand dunes.

This tranquil barrier island located roughly 35 miles south of St. Petersburg is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Kick back on gorgeous white sand shorelines like Bean Point and Coquina Beach, then grab a bite to eat along Pine Avenue, the island's historic main street. And if you're traveling with children, Mote's Marine Science Education & Outreach Center features several kid-friendly programs worth checking out. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts should pencil in time for a tour of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum.

Made up of six islands in the Florida Keys – Plantation Key, Windley Key, Indian Key, Lignumvitae Key and Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys – Islamorada boasts tranquil parks, colorful coral reefs and art galleries. Thanks to its position between the Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back coastal village is a renowned sport fishing destination, bringing in species like sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna and tarpon. But if you don't feel like casting a line, you can check out the History of Diving Museum or put a dent in your wallet at the shops in Rain Barrel Village. 

Sitting about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its premier snorkeling and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Home to nearly 300 species of birds, five types of sea turtles and about 30 species of coral, this remote seven-island park in the Gulf of Mexico is a popular Florida day trip destination for nature lovers. Plus, travelers can go on a self-guided tour of the 19th-century coastal fortress Fort Jefferson, located on Garden Key. Keep in mind, Dry Tortugas National Park can only be reached by boat or seaplane, and an entrance fee is required.

The elegant and romantic city of Naples is all about luxury and relaxation. This spot on Florida's Paradise Coast is known for its gorgeous sugar-white sand beaches and incredible golf courses. High-end shops and gourmet restaurants abound, especially along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. Plus, flora and fauna lovers have access to all kinds of nature-focused attractions here, such as the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Naples Botanical Garden and Clam Pass Park. Those who appreciate art won't want to miss The Baker Museum or one of the city's many art galleries.

Known as the Diving Capital of the World, Key Largo offers access to the only living coral reef in the continental U.S., the country's first undersea park (John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park) and the only underwater hotel in the world solely accessible by scuba diving. The largest island in the Florida Keys is also a prime spot for other aquatic activities, including snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boating. When you're ready to trade your sea legs for solid ground, grab a bite to eat and a rum runner cocktail at one of Key Largo's laid-back eateries.

World-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida make Orlando a year-round tourist destination, but there are many attractions and activities outside of the theme parks . Travelers can shop till they drop at outlet malls, hit the links at one of the area's many golf courses, and get up close and personal with dolphins and stingrays at Discovery Cove. Those without little ones can explore Orlando's revitalized nightlife and restaurant scenes in the downtown area.

Travel to this island in the Florida Keys to relax at a beachside resort and see the southernmost point in the continental United States. Key West is known for its free-spirited locals, colorful conch-style homes and coral reefs ripe for snorkeling and scuba diving. Between boat tours and margaritas, bibliophiles will enjoy visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where they can learn more about the famous writer and see descendants of his six-toed cat, Snow White. Or, head to Key West's main drag, Duval Street, for its cafes, shops and nightlife.

The largest of Southwest Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, Marco Island is a haven for water sports like boating, fishing and kayaking. Its sunny skies and white sand beaches invite visitors to sunbathe, swim and search for seashells. Those who want a break from the sand can learn about the island's ties to the ancient Calusa Native Americans at the Marco Island Historical Museum or look for manatees, sea turtles and other wild animals in Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island's historical charm and 13 miles of uncrowded beaches make it a top vacation destination. Stroll through Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, where pirates used to roam and the modern shrimping industry was born. For some fun yet relaxing activities, go horseback riding by the water or play a round of golf on one of the island's highly regarded courses.

This spot along the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast is a home away from home for thousands of summer vacationers. Its unique, postcard-worthy white sands made from Appalachian quartz and its clear, bright blue-green water help Destin stand out from other Florida beaches. The nearby Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit shoreline, with its 30-foot white sand dunes. And Destin's manicured golf courses, optimal fishing conditions and shop- and restaurant-lined boardwalk continue to attract travelers year after year.

Relaxation is a given on Sanibel Island. Severely impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Sanibel Island continues to recover but is once again welcoming tourists. Your first stop here will no doubt be the beach – Bowman's Beach offers prime shelling opportunities and Captiva Island is an excellent place for water sports like snorkeling and kayaking – but it would be a shame to visit the area without also exploring its many art galleries, bike trails and shops. Plus, you'll want to save time for activities like birding and fishing in the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Just plan ahead; lodging options remain limited.

Few places in the world compare to colorful, vibrant Miami Beach. From the one-of-a-kind art deco architecture along Ocean Drive to the scantily clad beachgoers on South Beach, this Miami offshoot attracts everyone from relaxed retirees to night owls. But you'll want to bring along your credit card because those fashionable dance clubs and chic, trendy restaurants don't come cheap. To save some money, consider buying a Go Miami card before your trip to access to some of the area's museums and tours for a fraction of the price.

Florida is almost as famous for its alligators as it is for its beaches and theme parks, and one of the best places to see them is in Everglades National Park. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the country, the park is the world's only environment where alligators and crocodiles coexist. It's also home to rare species like manatees and panthers. The Everglades offers several hiking trails and guided tours for navigating its vast 1.5 million acres. Be sure to visit between November and April (the park's dry season) to enjoy lower temperatures, fewer mosquitos and increased chances of spotting wildlife.

Holding the Guinness World Record for most consecutive days of sunshine, St. Petersburg appeals to all types of travelers. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy St. Pete Beach and the 7 miles of waterfront parks. Away from the shore, downtown St. Petersburg offers plenty of attractions, including a museum dedicated to the works of Salvador Dalí and the Sunken Gardens, the city's oldest living museum. The city also hosts one of the largest Pride events in the U.S. every summer and is home to a large LGBTQ+ community.

If you're looking for sun, sand and superb shopping, Fort Lauderdale is the place to go. Fort Lauderdale features palm-tree-lined beaches, and its 165 miles of waterways and canals have earned it the nickname the Venice of America. Those looking to partake in some retail therapy will find plenty of shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard and in Galleria Fort Lauderdale and Sawgrass Mills, the largest outlet mall in the country. When you're not exercising your wallet or lounging on beautiful Las Olas Beach, don't forget to check out the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Much like its sunny neighbor, St. Petersburg, Tampa attracts visitors with its balmy weather and outdoor pursuits. But as the third largest city in Florida, Tampa also offers a little more action. Visitors can stroll along the lively Tampa Riverwalk to get a glimpse of public art and dazzling light displays, or visit one of the area's museums, such as the Tampa Bay History Center. Those bringing kids along can also explore Glazer Children's Museum or The Florida Aquarium (with a stop at Sparkman Wharf for lunch), or tire them out with some thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Cocoa Beach appeals to everyone from space enthusiasts to surfers. The nearby Kennedy Space Center offers a firsthand look at NASA's shuttles and launch pads. In the northern part of Cocoa Beach, visitors will find one of the best places in Florida to surf and the flagship Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world. Here, you'll also find the Florida Surf Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Florida surfing. Vacationers can also sign up for bioluminescent kayaking tours of the area's waterways or play beach volleyball next to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Fort Walton Beach

St. George Island

Panama City Beach

West Palm Beach

Delray Beach

You may be interested in.

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2023

Best Beaches in Florida for 2024

Best Family Vacations in the USA for 2024

Best u.s. beaches for 2024.

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Find Your Favorite Beach

Atlantic Coast

Beach Camping

Family-Friendly

Places to stay.

Campgrounds

Travel Ideas

Accessible Travel

Eco-Friendly Travel

African American Heritage Travel

More Travel Ideas

Popular links.

Florida Webcams

Toll Roads Info

Travel Guides

12 couples destinations in florida for romantic getaways.

Here's a romantic view: the lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

By Kara Franker and Lauren Tjaden

Ready to let sparks fly? Florida is for lovers.

Loads of sunshine, luxurious hotels, the freshest seafood, year-round perfect weather and 825 miles of beaches combine to make a potent romantic elixir.

Against the Sunshine State’s dreamy backdrops, here are 12 great ideas for romantic getaways for couples in Florida.

Watch the sunset on St. Pete Beach at the Don Cesar Hotel.

1.    Watch the Sunset on St. Pete Beach

St. Pete Beach is a sunset connoisseur’s paradise. And there are no shortage of romantic places in this couples’ escape to sit and enjoy the show. For views that will take your breath away and cold cocktails to go along with it, head to the rooftop of the Hurricane on the Pass-a-Grille section of the beach. Or park your toes in the sand and listen to live music while the sun bids farewell at the Paradise Grille .

Where to Stay

Not only does the Don CeSar Hotel look like a sandcastle, it has a fairytale ambiance that will make you and your partner feel like royalty. Nicknamed the "Pink Palace," this legendary resort is nestled directly on the glistening, white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. Couples can enjoy a barefoot stroll on the beach together and then cool off with a shared ice cream cone from Uncle Andy's Ice Cream Parlor .

When dinnertime rolls around, the Don’s award-winning Maritana Restaurant delivers a romantic place to celebrate your amor, with modern dishes crafted from fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and fishermen. For the ultimate splurge – perhaps if you plan to ask your partner a very special question-- reserve the private dining room.

For an unforgettable date night under the stars and moon, explore St. Pete Beach at night in a glass-bottom, LED lighted kayak made for two on a tour with Sharkey’s . You’ll stop at a mangrove island to bird watch; paddle close to the Pinellas Bayway Bridge lit up at night (the ideal photo op); see fish underwater and even feed them.  

2.    Climb the Lighthouse on Key Biscayne

There's nothing more romantic than ascending a spiral staircase and climbing 109 steps in the heart of a historic lighthouse, especially when you're greeted with stunning panoramic ocean views at the top. Built in 1825, the lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers free tours Thursday – Monday, offering a romantic place for your anniversary, or to get down on one knee as a starting point for all the anniversaries to come. Don’t be in a hurry to leave when you’ve finished exploring the lighthouse—the sunsets over the bay are spectacular affairs, perfect for watching while snuggled close to your significant other.

The Ritz-Carlton , stretched along the shimmering, golden-hued sands of the Atlantic on Key Biscayne , is just seven miles from downtown Miami but seems a world away. Soak up the laid-back island vibe, excellent service and delicious waterfront dining options such as Dune Burgers on the Beach , sited near the adult tranquility pool; or  Cantina Beach , a spacious, thatched- roofed restaurant, constructed by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians. Set against the ocean and complete with plush lounges, tiki torches and a fire pit, the Cantina serves up Mexican fare and promises a selection of 110 premium tequilas.

Climb on a Jet Ski with your honey and hold on tight for a thrilling, guided, one-hour tour along Biscayne Bay. On the Biscayne Bay Jet Ski Tour , you’ll navigate the area’s crystalline waters while taking in expansive views of Miami’s breathtaking waterfront, including the downtown Miami skyline; mansions of the rich and famous; the Venetian Islands; the Port of Miami; and Miami Beach. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, manatees and other ocean wildlife. A variety of departure times are available.

3.    Kiss Underwater in the Florida Keys

The 120-mile island chain is home to the continental United States’ only living-coral barrier reef, and offers unparalleled diving and snorkeling experiences. In Key Largo , snorkel your way through schools of brightly colored fish at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Par k, and visit the Spiegel Grove, a sunken U.S. Navy ship that’s home to its own thriving underwater ecosystem. Go ahead and give her a smooch, the fish won't tell anyone. It's one of the most romantic getaways in Florida.

For a steamy destination, you can’t do better than America’s only private island resort, the adults-only paradise known as Little Palm Island Resort and Spa . Spanning four acres on Little Torch Key and accessible only by boat or seaplane, this resort features Robinson Crusoe-style thatched roofs; luxurious suites with private outdoor hot tubs and decks; World-class cuisine; and an indoor/outdoor spa. You and your beloved will truly unplug: you won’t find televisions or telephones in the guest rooms and public areas. While WiFi is available, ringing phones are taboo here. It’s all about you and your partner.

Embark on an utterly unique, one-and-a-half-hour sightseeing cruise aboard the iconic century-old steam-powered vessel from Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn’s epic film, "The African Queen," a boat christened with the same name as the movie. The African Queen departs from the Marina Del Mar and travels down the Port Largo Canals to the Atlantic Ocean before turning around to return. If you’re looking for a sizzling-hot amorous experience, the Queen is available for private cruises.

The Most Romantic Hotel in America: Henderson Park Inn

4.    stay in destin at america's most romantic inn.

Voted the #1 Most Romantic Hotel in North America, the adults-only Henderson Park Inn lives up to its reputation with a secluded getaway made for two. The service is outstanding and the views of the Emerald Coast from the sunset deck are spectacular—as they are from the rooms, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The BeachWalk Café serves up concoctions like Apalachicola Blackened Shrimp Fettuccini and Blue Crab & Corn Bisque with the Gulf of Mexico as a stunning backdrop—and if that’s not romantic enough, reserve a VIP Toes in the Sand dining experience for the date of a lifetime. You’ll be seated at a private table directly on the sand to savor dinner, dessert, and drinks in true barefoot luxury. With amenities like a daily happy hour, complimentary beach cruiser bicycles, and a spa that vows to spoil you, love is always in the Henderson’s clean ocean breeze.

A moonlight walk on the beach is simple, free, and perfect for connecting with your significant other. Let the surf serenade you and admire the stars and planets, vivid in the dark skies, as you stroll hand in hand. Even better, bring a blanket and some wine, and enjoy the best nature has to offer.

5.    Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride in St. Augustine

Located on Florida's Historic Coast,  St. Augustine is the nation's oldest city. What better way to explore the city than by a horse-drawn carriage?  Country Carriages will introduce you to centuries-old architecture and rustic cobblestone streets—and yes, you can book a private ride, sure to kindle the flames of passion. Of all the romantic getaways in Florida, this one offers you a step back in time and a memory that will last forever.

Featuring Spanish-influenced architecture and lavishly appointed rooms,  Casa Monica  offers couples opportunity to rekindle romance in the heart of historic St. Augustine. Amenities include champagne at check-in; an outdoor heated pool and hot tub; the Artful Wellness Center, which features free weights and cardio machines; and exclusive access to Serenata Beach Club on Ponte Vedra Beach. The resort’s onsite restaurant, Costa Brava , incorporates Mediterranean flavors with Spanish tapas-style dining on its enticing menu and promises an impressive collection of premium wines.

Visit Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , where you can experience the oldest continuous European settlement in the U.S.; take a sip of the magic elixir at The Spring House , home to Ponce de Leon’s Spring of Eternal Hope, flowing forth for centuries; and even hold your wedding there , harmonizing your love story with the Fountain of Youth’s legend… a supreme match.

6.    Eat Oysters on St. George Island

Remote St. George Island is a 28-mile, unspoiled Florida barrier island, a serene and pet-friendly vacation paradise perfect for couples who love nature and the best that it offers—award winning beaches, ocean breezes and star-gazing without the glare of the city lights. Located just 20 minutes from Apalachicola , you'll find these tasty little aphrodisiacs at eclectic oyster shacks throughout the island, including Paddy’s Raw Bar , Harry A’s on the Bay , and the Beach Pit .

Rent your own romantic (and private) beach house in this secluded part of Florida, also known as The Forgotten Coast. Check out options from the area’s visitors services .

Treat your beloved to an epic sunset dolphin cruise with Journeys of St. George . In this romantic rendezvous, guides take travelers out on a small boat, which carries no more than six people, to watch dolphins frolic in the waves created by the Journeys powerboats. Often, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and jumping fish make appearances as well. And get this! Guests have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins within the wake of the boat.

7.    Explore the Florida Everglades

If your idea of a romantic getaway in Florida includes becoming one with nature, then the  10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge is an amazingly romantic place to visit. Located between Marco Island and Everglades City , the 35,000-acre refuge is home to immense mangrove forests, some 200 species of fish and 189 bird species, plus a diverse array of mammals, from river otters to bottle-nosed dolphins.

The definitive romantic escape for outdoor lovers is the Rod & Gun Club in Everglades City , once a playground for some of the world’s wealthiest and most influential people. Step into a time-warp with a visit to the historic, white lodge, with the ambience – and all the furniture –from the turn of the century. Couples can enjoy fishing in the Everglades or in the Barron River; indulge in top-class meals in the dining room or on the porch, which delivers panoramic views of the sunrise and sunset; or experience eco-tours; airboat rides; and guided canoe and kayak excursions into the deep Everglades.

Get away from it all by camping in an Everglades chickee hut , something that will make your sweetie want to snuggle close to you. Chickee huts are sheltered camping platforms standing in the water, man-made miniature islands rising above a mangrove swamp. Open on all sides, the huts invite breezes to flow through them, making them cooler and discouraging insects. The Pearl Bay Chickee experience is ideal for wilderness camping newbies, and its "outhouse" restroom between the camping platforms makes roughing it not as rough. Kick back, revel in the watery wonderland sunset, and drift off to sleep with the lullaby of lapping water, singing frogs and an ensemble of swamp music, all with your significant other’s arms wrapped around you.

8. Buy Your Significant Other Something in Palm Beach

Often referred to as the "Rodeo Drive of the East Coast" Palm Beach 's Worth Avenue is brimming with upscale retail brands and one-of-a-kind boutiques, tempting visitors with the ultimate in art, apparel, home furnishings and accessories, all amid Old World decor and lush landscaping. Luxury brands include Chanel, Armani, Gucci, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Co. -- just to name a few. The latter of which could come in very handy for ring shopping.

Romantic places to stay include the Brazilian Court Hotel , a private, secluded getaway infused with Roaring Twenties glamour, all located within walking distance to both the shops and the shore. For a date night to go down in the history books, dine at the Brazilian’s Café Boulud , situated in a verdant garden setting at the hotel and owned by French celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. Plan ahead for this one: reservations are recommended up to one month in advance. Another luxe place to stay is The Breakers Palm Beach Resort , beckoning the glitterati to Palm Beach since the early 20th-century.  Let your worries melt away with a couples massage in the resort’s exquisite indoor-outdoor spa ; indulge in superb dining ; and make some waves with your partner in the infinity-style adult’s only pool.

Kick back with your paramour on a boat tour with  PonTiki Boat Cruises , a party barge complete with a chipping green and tiki bar. Choose from an evening inlet cruise, a private charter – and if you get the timing right—a full moon cruise.

You've Gotta Try: Beach Horseback Riding in Amelia Island

9. go horseback riding on amelia island.

On unspoiled  Amelia Island , explore nature trails and experience a sunrise horseback ride on the golden sand beach. Mother’s Nature’s brilliant sunrise show, the fresh, salt air, and your horse’s hooves in the surf are a surefire aphrodisiac—and a surefire way to work up an appetite. To satisfy your hunger, dine at Salt , a AAA 5-Diamond restaurant that pays tribute to the rich bounty of fresh foods harvested from the ocean and marshes on the island. This romantic eatery earns its name from the salts it employs from around the world -- over 40 of them--  that add intensity to each dish.

Located right on the beach—a generous, secluded affair that stretches as far as the eye can see in both directions-- The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island offers an elegant combination of Southern charm and five-star service. Ocean-inspired spa services, including the signature ‘Heaven in a Hammock massage’; indoor and outdoor pools with direct beach access; and oh-so-private cabanas deliver romance for couples searching for the perfect place to reconnect and indulge.

Date night with your significant other is a sure winner at Le Clos , sited in Fernandina Beach’s Historic District. The acclaimed restaurant delivers mouth-watering Provençal dishes by candlelight in a charming, intimate 1906 cottage. Local fresh seafood and eclectic wines take center stage: the perfect way to celebrate your love.

10.    Hunt for Seashells on Sanibel Island

Formed in an unusual east-west curve along the coast, Sanibel ’s tranquil shores scoop up abundant seashells from the Gulf, making this barrier island the best place on earth to search for shells . Kick off your sandals, let the salt air work its magic, and stroll out to the beach with your beloved to discover shells with names like angel wings, golden olives, prickly cockles, rusty doves and jewel boxes . Sanibel’s visitors services point out the area boasts ‘15 miles of beaches, 25 miles of bike paths, 50 kinds of fish, 230 kinds of birds, 250 kinds of shells and zero traffic lights,’ and that adds up to just what the love doctor ordered.  

Sanibel’s Casa Ybel encompasses 23 gloriously pristine acres set against the Gulf of Mexico, delivering indulgent, Gulf-facing suites with balconies, private entrances and equally private white-sand paths that lead to the beach.  It’s a retreat made for romance: this boutique resort has bikes available for use ; sunrise and sunset yoga on the Gulf Lawn; and a spa that offers couples massages. When evening rolls around, make the best of the sunset over the waves to help fuel the mood at the resort’s award-winning Thistle Lodge restaurant —or if you want something more casual, Coconut’s Bar and Grill , where you’ll have a front row seat for the sunset, served up with tropical drinks.

Make a day trip to Lovers Key State Park , a renowned romantic destination that often hosts picturesque weddings on the pristine shores of the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re already married, you and your beloved can renew your vows. Or you can just cement your connection by enjoying the adventures of this barrier island park , which include paddling; hiking; biking; picnicking and shelling.

 A hot air balloon ride is made for love.

11.    Embark on a Hot Air Balloon Flight over Orlando

Orlando is nicknamed ‘the City Beautiful,’ and it lives up to the moniker in an epic way on a hot air balloon flight. Your romance will soar as you and your partner take to the skies in a colorful balloon, drifting over hidden lakes and fragrant orange groves, an adventure where you might have the chance to pluck a pinecone from the tiptop of a tree. Local balloon ride operators offer customized flights, with aphrodisiac options like post-flight brunches, champagne toasts and commemorative photos. And if you want to pop the question, proposing from as high as 2,500 feet up will make it the flight of a lifetime.

So close to Magic Kingdom Park it’s connected by a walking path, Disney’s oh-so-lavish, Victorian-style Grand Floridian Resort & Spa promises to cast a love-spell over couples with indulgent massages; a beach pool complete with a 181-foot-long waterslide; and views of the nightly fireworks that light up the sky over Cinderella Castle .

For a sip of enchantment, couples can savor cocktails under the stars on the outdoor patio of the resort’s Enchanted Rose . The lounge, inspired by Beauty and the Beast , serves up appetizers like White Sturgeon Caviar and Truffle Fries.

A fairytale dining experience awaits you and your significant other at Cinderella’s Royal Table ,  snuggled inside Disney’s legendary Cinderella Castle. The steamy mood is set as couples enter the majestic Grand Hall, ascending a spiral staircase that winds to the banquet hall above (a gilded elevator is also available). The romantic, storybook setting includes towering stone archways, imposing medieval flags and dazzling stained-glass windows overlooking Fantasyland. Dinner entrees include ‘Magic Carpet Ride,’ a spiced-crusted pork tenderloin and pork belly with curry couscous; Sustainable Catch En Papillote, and Tenderloin of Beef.

12.    Get Snuggly on a Gondola Tour in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is known as ‘the Venice of America,’ with 300 miles of canals curving through the greater area, weaving past sumptuous mansions and gardens. The ultimate romantic way to explore the waterways is with Las Olas Gondola Tours . On 75-minute-long ride, the gondolier is seated in the rear, while couples have their own private cabin in the center. The tour company provides music, as well as ice, glasses, and plates, so you can bring your fav libations and finger foods to enjoy—over-the-top amorous. The ‘ message in a bottle ,’ set with a silky rose, is a must-do way to surprise your beloved. Your own romantic message is inserted into the bottle, and the gondolier will find it “along the way in the river.”

Hugged against the Atlantic and sited mere minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport , Port Everglades , and downtown Las Olas Boulevard , the iconic B Ocean Resort delivers a getaway steeped in romance. Couples can splash in the beachfront infinity pool; get spoiled at the luxe spa; and catch some rays on the private beach. To add some sizzle, The Wreck Bar has just the ticket, offering seductive Mermaid and Aquamen shows --underwater, adult-only burlesque shows.

Date night is special on Hollywood Beach Broadwalk , an award-winning, brick-paved thoroughfare that parallels the ocean for 2.5 miles, well employed by pedestrians, joggers, bicyclists, rollerbladers, and millions of visitors. The Broadwalk is home to countless eateries, bars, shops and hotels—and also, the Hollywood Beach Theatre , an outdoor, beachside venue featuring musical entertainment five nights a week, where you and your main squeeze can dance under the starry skies.

PLACES TO REMEMBER

St. Augustine

Apalachicola

RELATED CONTENT

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

• 28500 Overseas Hwy.
• (800) 343-8567

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

• 1200 S. Crandon Blvd.
• (305) 361-5811

Henderson Park Inn

• 2700 Scenic Hwy. 98 E.
• (877) 305-9196

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS

15 Romantic Getaways in Florida: Hidden anniversary spots for all budgets

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: September 11, 2023

Categories Romantic Getaways

Looking for the most romantic getaways in Florida? We have you covered!

Whether you are looking for a getaway on a budget or something more exclusive and fancy (like an all inclusive resort) for a honeymoon, anniversary trip or romantic weekend getaway in Florida – we have it all.   

The Sunshine State is definitely is one of our favorite places to vacation in the US as there is pretty much no “bad” place to go and with these 15 epic spots for couples, you’ll soon understand why and be totally hard pressed to pick just one to visit! Don;t worry, there’s always more trips to plan in your future.

Stay tuned for the most romantic places in Florida for couples as well as the best hidden romantic getaways in Florida.   

Sanibel Island  

Located on the southwestern shore of Florida along the Gulf Coast, this small island is known for picturesque sunsets, shell studded beaches , and delicious seafood.

Book a stay at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa for an oceanfront experience with all of the amenities you could possibly need for a romantic weekend. All of their rooms come equipped with a full kitchen and an on site market that make beach picnics a breeze for your and your loved one.

Spend the weekend exploring the nature trails at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to spot native wildlife that includes endangered species like the West Indian Manatee or to watch the sunset with your sweetheart.

To get a taste of the suite life, book a room at Casa Ybel Resort . All of the suites at this resort are positioned to give guests unparalleled views of the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Their comfortable beachfront rooms are the perfect place to relax after spending the day hunting for shells along the shores of Bowman’s Beach . Bowman’s Beach is the most well known beach in Sanibel and offers visitors miles of secluded, picturesque white sands with one of the highest concentrations of seashells in the area.

Marco Island

This peaceful Florida island is fully surrounded by crystal clear water, estuaries filled with rare and endangered animal species, and plenty of sandbars for exploring. Nestled between Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge and Everglades National Park, this island is a popular spot for birdwatching, fishing, shell hunting, and other outdoor activities.

There are seriously tonnes of fun things to do in Marco Island for couples – it is a rather underrated area in Florida if you ask me which means one good thing – less people around! Also, this means it is one of the best cheap romantic getaways in Florida. Remember, price is all about supply and demand.

For a unique thrill, take a guided airboat tour along the waters in Everglades National Park to catch a glimpse of alligators in their natural habitat. Other than the abundant nature activities, the laidback lifestyle of this island has also made golf a popular pastime for visiting guests.

There is lots of awesome places to stay in Marco Island but the JW Marriott is definitely our favorite for couples and honeymooners. Guests staying at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort can enjoy easy access to their two private championship courses, The Rookery and Hammock Bay, as well as other surrounding area courses.

Guests playing a round at The Rookery won’t have to leave nature behind because this specially designed course has been recognized as a Gold Certified Signature Sanctuary designated by Audubon International to provide haven to native wildlife including bald eagles, alligators, and blue heron. After working up an appetite on the golf course, immerse yourself in a unique culinary experience at one of the hotel’s 12 on site restaurants featuring a variety of international cuisines.

Romantic Getaways in Florida Keys

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go? These tropical islands at the farthest southern tip of the state are well known for their aqua blue waters, guided snorkeling tours, and plentiful beach bars and tropical cocktails. Spend the weekend wastin’ away again in Margaritaville enjoying mixed cocktails, blended drinks, and a huge menu of bar food favorites.

For an all inclusive beachfront stay for couples , book a room at the award winning Bungalows Key Largo , Florida’s premiere adults only resort. This luxury resort features an expansive oceanfront infinity pool, guided yoga classes in their zen garden, and private sailing or fishing charters for a true locals experience. It is one of the best places to propose in Florida if you are looking for somewhere special.

If you’re looking for a private island suite, check out Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , A Noble House Resort. Equipped with their own marina, this resort is the perfect place for sailors to trade in their sea legs for a few romantic nights on land.

For a more budget-friendly option, check out Cheeca Lodge & Spa featuring flexible rate booking and a generous cancellation policy. Although this lodge is a budget friendly option, you won’t have to compromise on quality or comfort. With private balcony hot tubs, adults only swimming pools, an oceanfront tiki bar, and full-service water sports facility on site, you’ll find everything you need at Cheeca Lodge & Spa. 

No trip to the Florida Keys is complete without a stop at the world famous Duval Street in Key West, one of the best free things to do in Key West (note key West is an expensive place to be!). Saturated with activities, bars, restaurants, nightlife, museums, and more, this approximately one mile long stretch of the city has something for everyone to enjoy! While The Keys are not a cheap romantic getaway in Florida, they sure are cool and well worth the extra buck!

There are lots of cool places to swim with Dolphins in the Florida Keys which is also a fun activity to do!

See more: Romantic Hotels in Key West you have to stay !

St. Augustine

This Florida gem lays claim as the oldest city in the US and is well known for its unique Spanish colonial architecture, tranquil beaches, and charming small town atmosphere. Definitely one of the most romantic places to visit in Florida !

Book a stay at 44 Spanish Street Inn in the heart of the St. Augustine’s downtown district for a romantic weekend getaway. Their private enclosed courtyards, vintage architecture, and candlelit porches provide romantic ambiance for your and your loved one to enjoy a quiet evening in the warm Florida air.

For a unique experience, take a walking tour of the historic Castillo de San Marcos fort. Over 300 years ago, this Spanish style fort provided protection from opposing military forces and in 1924 became recognized as a National Monument and historic site.

After visiting the fort, head over to take a sip of the magical elixir at Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park to stay young forever! The park is dedicated to preserving the historical accuracy of this site while providing visitors a fun, yet educational experience centered around the saga of Juan Ponce de Leon as well as the tragedy of the Timucua civilization that once called this land home.

Amelia Island

One of the best places to visit in Florida for couples.

Known for pristine beaches with virtually no crowds, this northeastern Florida island is only a short drive from Jacksonville . There’s tonnes of awesome date ideas in Jacksonville too by the way so you might like to go there also. Visitors have praised Amelia Island for the variety and quality of restaurants and cuisines, making it the perfect getaway for foodies.

Guests staying at the Omni Amelia Island Resort can enjoy their first dining experience at one of the ten onsite restaurants. First stop into their French inspired market and cafe, Marché Burette for their specialty brunch tower, a dish served three stories high and piled with breakfast classics like eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, and more! For dinner, make a reservation at Bob’s Steak & Chophouse to treat yourself and your date to a quality ribeye.

For more culinary experiences, check out some of the many restaurants found in the Fernandina Beach downtown area like Wicked Bao and Espana Restaurant & Tapas. To explore the island from a local’s point of view, book a sightseeing tour with Amelia Adventures for private boat charters, kayak tours, or paddleboard adventures for an up close and personal view of the island.

It’s time to live it up in this southern Florida city! Known as one of Florida’s most affluent cities with high rise resorts, casinos, and multi-million dollar yachts lining the waterfront, this is the perfect place to experience a taste of the sweet life!

For a health and wellness centered vacation book a stay at the Carillon Hotel , a towering Miami Beach oceanfront resort with a private beach club and a variety available onsite wellness therapies. Indulge in their stress and anxiety reducing therapies like salt bath floats, meditation pods, infrared therapy, and vibrational or sound therapy to uncover your best version of yourself. The Biltmore in Miami is an expansive luxury resort with endless amenities like private poolside cabanas, golf, and a spa. This hotel is just blocks away from the Venetian Pool, a clear spring fed pool and two waterfalls designed with traditional Spanish style architecture.

Take a dip in the springs to experience the unique healing properties of its natural mineral waters. If you’re looking for the ultimate taste of luxury, you’ll have to win big at the Gulfstream Park Casino to fund your stay at the Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach . This 4.5 acre oceanfront resort features a Mediterranean Villa style flair with all the amenities so guests never have to worry about a thing during their stay resulting in optimum rest and relaxation.

Fort Lauderdale

As one of Florida’s most well-known cities, Fort Lauderdale has everything you need for a romantic weekend getaway ! Visitors can find a multitude of upscale restaurants, shops and boutiques, luxury hotels, and plenty of outdoor seating along the city’s waterfront edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Plan a stay at the luxurious W Fort Lauderdale to catch some rays by the pool before heading out for an evening of fun on the town. The 5th story pool deck overlooks the ocean and offers comfortable lounge furniture and poolside service. The W hotel is centrally located so everything Fort Lauderdale has to offer is only minutes away. Spend the afternoon on a sightseeing cruise with Fort Lauderdale’s longest running tourist attraction, the Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise.

Options for the cruise include a 90 minute afternoon sightseeing tour, tropical island dinner show, and more. After sightseeing, grab a water taxi and bar hop along the city’s many waterfront restaurants like Coconuts casual seafood restaurant or park your boat along the dock at Pirate Republic , a family owned restaurant previously featured on the popular reality TV show, Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

Saint George Island

This small stretch of undeveloped land bordering the Florida Panhandle is the perfect location to spend a romantic beach vacation. The 22 mile island offers a range of accommodations like luxurious Gulf-front rental homes, quaint cottages and inns, and beach camping at Saint George Island State Park. It costs $6 per vehicle to enter the State Park.

This secluded state park has very little light pollution, offering visitors one of the best opportunities for stargazing in entire the state. Grab your beach chairs and umbrella to spend a day of fun in the sun before enjoying fresh oysters and local seafood at Paddy’s Raw Bar , one of the island’s most popular oceanfront restaurants. With an outdoor setting complete with wooden picnic tables and a small stage for live music, this restaurant creates a sense of togetherness that makes each customer feel like family. Indulge in menu items like fresh, local Apalachicola oysters, snow crab, and seafood gumbo then wash it down with a reasonably priced pitcher of beer or glass of wine.

After dinner, climb the stairs at Saint George Island Lighthouse for an unbeatable view of the sunset and picturesque romantic photo opportunity. The lighthouse was originally built in 1833 but many years of harsh weather and erosion have led to multiple attempts at reconstruction of the lighthouse before construction of a replica and museum was completed in 2011 using some of the original pieces of the structure in the history center that stands there today.

Source: Gennady Stetsenko / shutterstock

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida, this vacation spot is well known for their fishing, golf, and high-end shops. One of the most popular spots for fishing and sightseeing is the historic Naples Pier. Visitors to the pier are covered under a blanket fishing license so there is no need to have an individual license, but you will need to bring your own gear for your chance at catching your own Red grouper, Spanish mackerel, or Great barracuda.

For deep sea fishing, guests can book a day charter with Naples Deep Sea Fishing Charters for a day on the water with the city’s number one rated company. Captain Kraig Dafcik will share his knowledge expert knowledge with passengers to give guests the best opportunity to catch a variety of fish such as Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, and more. If you don’t find fishing particularly romantic, the pier is also a great spot for dolphin watching or catching a view of the sunset.

Couples looking to spend time on the beach can book a stay at Naples Grande Beach Resort for private beachfront access complete with shaded lounge areas. The resort also features excellent customer service at their multiple outdoor pools and onsite spa and wellness center for couples looking to relax and unwind on a romantic weekend getaway.

This central Florida city is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend camping under the stars. One of the most popular destinations in Ocala is Silver Springs State Park , a large state park showcasing one of America’s largest natural springs.

Visitors to the park can choose from a variety of accommodations including primitive camping, RV camping, or cabin rental for a peaceful, serene return to nature. The park offers clear bottom boat and kayak tours of the spring, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a museum and environmental education center.

For an added thrill, schedule a guided ziplining tour at the nearby Canyons Zipline and Adventure Park , Florida’s only true canopy tour! If camping isn’t really your style, the Hilton Ocala offers guests a relaxing stay at their area hotel so guests can still enjoy the beauty of nature during the day, but wind down with a hot shower and clean sheets at night. 

If you and your loved one are horse enthusiasts or just want to learn something new, sign up for a tour with Ocala’s number one attraction, Gypsy Gold Horse Farm. During the tour, you will learn more about the impressive Gypsy Vanner horses that call this farm home and have the opportunity for a photo op alongside these tremendous, yet gentle stallions.

Gasparilla Island

If you’re looking for a charming and secluded beach paradise for you and your loved one to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Gasparilla Island is the perfect place for you! Gasparilla Island is a small barrier island in southwest Florida that is only 11 miles long and about half a mile wide.

The island is popular for a number of recreational beach activities, but the absence of paved roads makes it only accessible by a private boat or water taxi. There are no commercial stores or restaurants on the island, so groceries should be purchased ahead of time and carried over on the way to the island, but that’s all part of the charm!

There are lots of cool vacation homes to spend the week building sandcastles, snorkeling along the nearby sandbar, drinking homemade cocktails, and reconnecting with loved ones at the remote island paradise.

Image credit: Flickr

Beer Can Island

Recently renamed Pine Key, this remote island is working on changing its reputation as a place for boaters to drop anchor and explore the island with beer in hand back to a remote island oasis that supports natural habitats and wildlife.

The previously installed performance stage, tiki hut, and inflatable slide will be exchanged for a return to nature with weekly Sunday night bonfires and gatherings. The small island is only accessible for day trips by boat and there are no overnight accommodations. To stay up to date on events and activities happening at Beer Can Island, follow their Facebook page for more information on upcoming events.

One of the best hidden romantic getaways in Florida for sure.

Source: Olga Yudina / shutterstock  

This budget friendly northwest Florida spot is great for couples looking for a fun beach vacation that won’t break the bank. Hotel rooms at Hampton Inn & Suites Destin are reasonably priced and centrally located for easy access to all that this city has to offer. Hold hands as you stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk stopping in the various shops and restaurants before heading across to the beach to enjoy the sunset. There are lots of really romantic things for couples in Destin which makes it the perfect romantic getaway in Florida!

Each summer from Memorial Day through mid-August, visitors can enjoy an evening fireworks display over the harbor. Henderson Beach State Park has over a mile of white sand beaches where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach while watching hundreds of sandpipers along the shore.

For couples looking for a more energetic atmosphere, join the party at Crab Island sandbar on a floating tiki bar with Cruisin’ Tikis Destin ! The company offers a 3 hour guided tiki boat tour that anchors along the Crab Island sandbar for guests to drink, swim, and snorkel their way to fun.

Spend the weekend in Sarasota enjoying cultural activities, beautiful beaches, and pristine golf courses. There are 29 golf courses within the county limits so you’ll never have to worry about overcrowding. Set up a few rounds at Tatum Ridge Golf Links and enjoy the well preserved natural wetlands of this course on a sunny afternoon. There are tonnes of cool things to do in Sarasota for couples, it is consistently rated one of the most romantic places in Florida.

Guests at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota can join their members only club to enjoy access to The Ritz Carlton Golf Club. Their award winning Sarasota course is expertly designed to provide just the right amount of challenge in a meticulously landscaped setting featuring lush greens and 12 sparkling lakes along the 18 hole course.

For a cultural experience, spend the day touring The Ringling , Florida’s State Art Museum and 66 acre estate. Guest can enjoy access to multiple exhibits featuring a circus museum, exhibit paying testament to the American Dream of the Roaring Twenties, and the romantic Bayfront Gardens.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. , voted the best seafood in Sarasota for the past six years. This high-end seafood restaurant strives to bring patrons only the finest choice meats and freshest seafood options in a sleek, modern atmosphere. There are honestly tonnes of great restaurants in Sarasota , which is why it is one of our favorite places to visit in Florida.

One of the best romantic beach getaways in Florida.

Romantic Getaways in Orlando Florida

When thinking of this central Florida city, there’s always one place that comes to everyone’s mind – Disney World ! Although there is more to visiting Orlando than just this world famous theme park, you can’t miss a trip to the happiest place on earth! Although it may seem like Disney World is just for kids, it can actually be more fun to take your significant other on a trip (there’s tonnes of romantic things to do in Orlando ) and leave the kids at home! For couples we recommend visiting Disney World Orlando at night as it is so much more romantic. There is also surprisingly yummy sushi in Orlando and we all know sushi is always a good idea!

Enjoy making memories at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a Victorian style resort just one stop away from Magic Kingdom park. Guests at the resort can be delighted by a nightly lighted water parade along the resort’s lake, experience world class Disney employee customer service, and free transportation to the park. To explore more of what Orlando has to offer, book a stay at Buena Vista Suites Orlando , an all suite hotel located 1.5 miles from the park. Guests can enjoy a complimentary American style breakfast buffet before heading out to one of the many attractions in this area.

Book an unforgettable dolphin encounter at Discovery Cove for your chance to get up close and personal with these fun, lovable marine mammals or enjoy an otherworldly experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

More Romantic getaways:

• Romantic getaways New England

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

View all posts

THE 10 BEST Florida Couples' Activities

Best things to do in florida for couples.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Center
• Clearwater Beach
• International Drive
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Universal Islands of Adventure

2. Discovery Cove

Recommended Experiences for Couples (556)

3. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort

4. NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

5. Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

6. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

7. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

8. Clearwater Beach

9. Hollywood Beach

10. McCarthy's Wildlife

11. Stetson Mansion

12. Disney Springs

13. Fun Spot America

14. Lincoln Road

15. Busch Gardens

16. Mallory Square

17. Bayside Marketplace

18. St. Augustine Wild Reserve

19. Ocean Drive

20. Duval Street

21. The Wizard of Oz Museum

22. Duncan McClellan Gallery

23. Revs Institute

24. Hatchet Hangout - Axe Throwing St Pete

25. Bear Creek Feline Center

26. Wonder House

27. Happily Ever After Fireworks

28. Lock & Load Miami

29. Equestrian Adventures of Florida

30. Faena Theater

What travelers are saying

The Most Romantic Getaways in Florida

When planning a couples getaway in Florida, a few cities often get singled out. And don't get us wrong— Miami and Fort Lauderdale will always be a good idea. But once you spend a couple days in some of the more popular locales, consider setting off and exploring the more unexpected sides of the state. In just a few hours' time, you could be sailing off the Florida Keys or basking on shell-covered shores along the southwest coast.

From hidden romantic getaways in Florida to the perfect beach resort and spa stay, couples looking for a romantic getaway have plenty of places to choose from. Whether you're after an affordable boutique hotel in a cosmopolitan city or you prefer a cozy cottage by the sea, here are 10 of the best couples getaways in Florida.

Romantic Getaways in Florida in this Article:

Amelia Island

St. augustine, sanibel and captiva islands, fort lauderdale, st. petersburg.

As you cross over the Royal Park Bridge linking Palm Beach to the mainland, you'll instantly slip into island time. The town may be known for its ritzy reputation, but Palm Beach is more than just a Rodeo Drive-style shopping stretch on Worth Avenue. Cruise the coast admiring the mix of 20th century Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival mansions before settling into one of the iconic, grand dame hotels.

Things to Do: Linger on the terrace under the signature black-and-white parasols at Lola 41 (the famous burger with foie gras sauce really is worth the visit) before cycling along Worth Avenue and the Palm Beach Lake Trail—you'll spot yachts on one side and an impressive display of historic homes on the other. If you plan to do one museum, the Norton Museum of Art in nearby West Palm is our top pick; don't leave without strolling through the Lord Norman Foster-designed "museum in a garden," dotted with outdoor sculptures by the likes of Keith Haring and Paul Manship. Another spot to check off your list: Seafood Bar at The Breakers, where you'll have full ocean views as you sip cocktails at the long, L-shaped bar that doubles as an aquarium with fish swimming beneath your drinks.

Where to Stay: Hotels are among the many highlights here, but one that has been a mainstay for the society scene for some time is The Colony . Poolside restaurant Swifty's is a local favorite for a reason—the people-watching is as good as the classic American cuisine; go for the crab cakes or bacon-wrapped meatloaf—you won't regret it.

Located in northeast Florida, Amelia Island—just 20 minutes from the Georgia border—is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Couples can hide away on the laid-back island, whose 13 miles of beaches never get crowded. The best part? Mild temps make this destination a year-round one. A mix of nature, history, adventure and culture, Amelia Island offers a recipe for romance in the form of horseback riding on the beach , seaside live music and kayak tours past salt marshes and desert-like dunes.

Things to Do: Soak up the Southern charm on a horse-drawn carriage ride of Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach , a Victorian seaport village that has a colorful past and has attracted everyone from Gilded Age millionaires to pirates and bootleggers. Browse the mix of shops that stretch from the harbor to Centre Street before dining at one of the many independent eateries like modern American Burlingame or David's Restaurant and Lounge .

Where to Stay: Located on the tip of the barrier island, Omni Amelia Island Resort has it all: the largest pool deck in the region, access to preserved marshlands where you can kayak or paddleboard, a championship golf course and uninterrupted ocean views.

From bustling South Beach with its buzzy bars and restaurants to artsy Wynwood and booming downtown, Miami's many growing neighborhoods are great for affordable romantic getaways as well as splurge-worthy ones. An insider tip: If you want to stay at one of the more over-the-top resorts, summer is when you're most likely to snag a deal.

Things to Do: Get acquainted with the city's Art Deco architecture on a walking tour of South Beach or discover a newer side of Miami strolling around the street art in Wynwood, ending the afternoon with happy hour at Uchi and dinner in the tree-clad courtyard at nearby Mandolin Aegean Bistro . Shoppers will love browsing the over-the-top boutiques in the Miami Design District or the iconic, open-air pedestrian mall, Lincoln Road, a defining strip on South Beach.

Where to Stay: One of the top spa resorts in Florida, Fontainebleau is a great spot for a honeymoon or holiday where you can shake off stress in what Martha Stewart has called "the most beautiful spa in America." A lesser-known spot on Miami Beach, The Plymouth Hotel sits in an Art Deco landmark building on the corner of Collins Park, just a block from the beach and within walking distance of the heart of the neighborhood's nightlife.

What could be more romantic than an island city where the highlight of the evening is a sunset celebration? Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West's gingerbread mansions and tin-roofed conch houses are just as charming today as when Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffett called them home.

Things to Do: The allure of Key West is its laid-back attitude. Days are spent lounging on sidewalk cafes like Moondog Cafe and Bakery , jamming out to live music at Sloppy Joe's , and eating your way around the city's many seafood joints, like the upscale Little Pearl restaurant and wine bar in the Old Town or the open-air Conch Republic Seafood Company along the marina. Day trip on a catamaran to Dry Tortugas National Park for some of the best snorkeling (complete with dolphins and sea turtles) in the Keys.

Where to Stay: Situated just off Key West, Sunset Key Cottages sits on a 27-acre private island with white-sand beaches and Old Florida-inspired cottages showing off views of the water. For something closer to the action, stay next to Mallory Square in the historic Old Town at Ocean Key Resort and Spa .

The oldest city in the US is teeming with Southern charm, from the horse-drawn carriages parading down cobbled roads to the intimate cafes and Caribbean-style beaches. History buffs can check historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos off their list, while art lovers can browse galleries near downtown or indulge in handcrafted truffles and bonbons at Claude's Chocolate .

Things to Do: Catch live acts at Colonial Oak Music Park or the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall , or sample local spirits at the St. Augustine Distillery , a former power and ice plant complex from 1907. For craft brews, make your way to Dog Rose Brewing Co. , where you'll also find live music, taco food trucks and hot dog carts, as well as a menu of bar snacks that includes homemade sea-salt chips.

Where to Stay: Sleep in luxury at the Moroccan-inspired Casa Monica Resort and Spa, Autograph Collection in St. Augustine's historic district. The resort blends old and new world charm with touches of the Mediterranean and is conveniently located within walking distance of landmarks like St. George Street.

Sister islands near Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva are some of the most untouched islands you'll find in Florida. Couples who want a beach getaway without any semblance of spring break will fall head-over-heels for these low-key islands blanketed in white sand and so many shells that beachcombers' bent-over stance has been coined the "Sanibel Stoop."

Things to Do: Hop on a boat and cruise to Lovers Key State Park for a day on the sand or a stroll along nature trails. A manatee or bald eagle spotting is almost guaranteed. Tour the historic Edison and Ford Winter Estates (the family homes of the infamous innovators) or sail to one of the largest barrier islands in Florida, Cayo Costa, for swimming and shelling.

Where to Stay: Although you'll already feel secluded in nature, the 330-acre retreat and wildlife nature reserve at South Seas will make it really seem like you're far away from the outside world. Vacation rentals include beach and bayside villas, cottages and condos, plus resort-style amenities like taco food trucks and a yacht harbor and marina.

The former spring break destination has shaken off its party reputation and refined its act with upscale neighborhoods like gay-friendly Wilton Manors and revived coastal communities like Hollywood. The spot where 90 percent of turtle nesting takes place in Florida, Fort Lauderdale is an unexpected natural beauty that's at the gateway of the Everglades and is lined with 300 miles of inland waterways.

Things to Do: Explore the "Venice of America" by gondola (yes, the same whimsical style boat you'd find in Italy) or step things up a notch with a luxury yacht cruise along the coast. For something more active, paddleboard or kayak down the city's many rivers and canals before posting up by the water for lunch at Coconuts on the Intracoastal (the coconut shrimp is a must). In the evening, head to The Wilder for Instagram-worthy craft cocktails or dine above Las Olas at Rooftop 1WLO , where you'll have sweeping views of the Fort Lauderdale skyline.

Where to Stay: For something with European flair, stay at The Pillars Hotel and Club along the Intracoastal, a plantation-style home with a pool shielded by palm trees and a dock with views of the yachts cruising past.

Sarasota's claim to fame is being the winter home of the Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey Circus (waterfront museum The Ringling is certainly worth a visit), but the Gulf Coast city south of Tampa deserves more recognition. Counting 35 miles of coastline and six barrier islands, couples have all the ingredients they need for a seaside getaway minus the crowds.

Things to Do: The world-renowned beaches are Sarasota's selling point, so start on Siesta Beach's crystal-quartz sand before exploring the island and its vibrant nightlife and dining via free trolley. You'll also want to make time to go hiking at Stump Pass Beach State Park on Manasota Key, where swimming is fantastic year-round and your chances of spotting manatees and gopher tortoises are high.

Where to Stay: Call it a night in super sleek The Sarasota Modern , a boutique hotel near downtown that's just a few minutes from the beach. If you really want to treat yourselves, book the top-floor residential suite , where you can soak with your other half in the clawfoot bathtub and admire views of the city and sea from the expansive terrace—preferably with a glass of wine in hand.

Orlando might be a theme park mecca, but the city offers couples much more than just Mickey Mouse. An easy weekend getaway, Orlando is teeming with shopping and spas, world-class restaurants and craft breweries . When you're ready to work off all that food and wine, head out to Wekiwa Springs State Park and go canoeing through the Spanish moss and oak trees.

Things to Do: Ride roller coasters or drink Butterbeer at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure , or hop between Walt Disney World Resort's four parks. If you're coming in summer, the water parks are one of the best ways to cool off. Another way to escape the Florida heat: the Orlando Museum of Art , whose collection of American art includes paintings by Georgia O'Keefe. Airboat tours set off a short drive from Orlando and whisk you through swamps in the northern part of the Everglades, or you can make the trip over to NASA's Kennedy Space Center .

Where to Stay: If you're planning on spending your days at the theme parks, sleep nearby at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort or the flagship, Victorian-style Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa . For something on the more boutique side, stay in Winter Park at The Alfond Inn , where art lovers can admire the rotating collection of contemporary art in the lobby and dine on Florida-fresh fare at Southern-style Hamilton's Kitchen .

Home to one of the top-ranked beaches in the US, St. Petersburg feels like both a coastal retreat and a somewhat sleepy Southern town. A calmer alternative to nearby Tampa's bustling city life, St. Pete is dotted with urban parks and mangrove tunnels—plus a thriving arts scene that counts the Salvador Dalí Museum as one of its world-class offerings.

Things to Do: Stroll around the Central Arts District downtown on a four-block tour of nearly 30 murals, or sample the city's renowned craft beer at Green Bench Brewing Co.'s beer garden and tasting room. Soak up the sun and live entertainment at laid-back Jimmy B's Beach Bar on white-sand St. Pete Beach.

Where to Stay: It's hard to get more romantic than The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, Autograph Collection , which unfolds along downtown St. Petersburg's waterfront. The Golden Age, 1920s-era resort is the perfect place for couples to unwind, whether that be in a cabana by the retro-style pool or on a sunset cruise through the bay from the Vinoy Marina.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

12 Most Romantic Places in Florida

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

Looking for a romantic getaway? Florida is sure to fulfill all your desires, with powdery white beaches, the yearning call of seabirds, succulent seafood, glowing sunsets, and the sound of island music carrying over warm breezes. From secluded beaches to lush gardens to resorts that will keep you well-pampered, these Florida destinations are sure to make your heart flutter. Whether you're seeking a much-needed winter getaway with your loved one or hope to escape the city and soak up some small-town charm , pack your bags and rekindle your romance in one of these sweet spots in the Sunshine state.

Dry Tortugas, The Florida Keys

For adventurous couples, a trek out to a remote island makes for an exciting, Robinson Crusoe-style getaway. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the Dry Tortugas are a collection of seven islands managed by the National Park Service and located almost 70 miles west of Key West. Upon arrival, start your adventure at Fort Jefferson on Garden Key, a historic coastal fortress covering 16 acres and surrounded by crystal clear water. Spend the day snorkeling in and around natural coral reefs; then camp out at night and watch the sky bloom with millions of magnificent shining stars. This far-flung voyage isn't for the faint of heart—you'll need to bring everything because there are no frills and no facilities. Get there via Dry Tortugas Ferry or Key West Seaplane Charters.

Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne

While Miami is the center of 24/7 action in South Florida, there's an idyllic island just south of South Beach that feels miles away from the party scene. Venture over the causeway out to Key Biscayne and you'll instantly be transported to an island state of mind. At the island's end, you'll find the beachfront Cape Florida Lighthouse inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Climb the 109 winding steps up the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County (dating back to 1846), and at the top you'll find panoramic views that will take your breath away . You'll instantly see why this is a hotspot for marriage proposals. The park is open 365 days a year, but the lighthouse is only open Thursday through Monday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. So if you plan to get down on one knee, you'll need to plan ahead.

Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales

Wander through meandering gardens full of romantic recesses and lush backdrops of magnolias, azaleas, camellias, and towering moss-draped oak trees. One of Florida's most beautiful secret destinations , Bok Tower Gardens is a historic sanctuary located in little-known Lake Wales. Surrounded by blossoming orange groves, the 250-acre garden and 205-foot tall singing tower is a National Historic Landmark dating back to 1921. Reflecting pools filed with Koi fish and an ornate brass door frame the foundation of the neo-Gothic art deco singing tower, as it plays carillon music on the hour until the grounds close. The best time to go is during the quieter weekdays when you'll have ample time to stroll together and have the fairytale-style gardens mostly to yourselves.

Greer Island, Longboat Key

Escape the crowds that flock to the idyllic beaches along Florida's gulf coast and stake out your own island paradise . Locals call it Beer Can Island, but its official name is Greer Island, and it's located at the northern tip of Longboat Key. With its tangled array of petrified driftwood shooting up from the sand, it's the landscape that makes this beach stand out from the rest. Spend the day on Greer Island, and then dine at the ultimate date night hotspot in Longboat Key: Euphemia Haye Restaurant & Haye Loft. With its expansive wine list, nightly live music, and impressive, made-from-scratch dessert bar, your evening is guaranteed to have a sweet ending.

Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Exuding southern charm, the Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach district is the centerpiece of Amelia Island's Victorian Era architecture and mellow ambiance. Take in the sights while listening to the leisurely clip-clop of hooves during a horse-drawn carriage ride. Browse a quirky mix of shops and restaurants like Ship's Lantern Gift Shop, Fernandina's Fantastic Fudge, and Joe's 2nd Street Bistro. Then head down to the marina to view a gorgeous sunset on the water. Visit the seaport village during the second Saturday of each month, when local artists open their galleries and showrooms for an eclectic art walk.

1,500 Feet in the Air, Kissimmee

Talk about flights of fancy. It's no wonder so many couples get engaged while floating in a hot air balloon, and a central Florida town called Kissimmee is ground zero for these memorable betrothals. There are a variety of hot air balloon operators who will help you plan a serene sunrise flight, including Painted Horizons Hot Air Balloon Tours, Bob's Balloon Rides, and Maverick Balloon Adventures . Seal the deal with a kiss in Kissimmee and your happily-ever-after will unfold with a sentimental start.

McKee Botanical Garden, Vero Beach

Featuring one of Florida's largest collections of water lilies, McKee Botanical Garden is a soothing sanctuary arrayed with majestic orchids and teeming with tens of thousands of tropical plants. With its meandering paths, waterfalls, and restored architectural treasures, it's no wonder couples choose this 80-acre paradise in Vero Beach for weddings and photo shoots. The garden hosts special events year-round, including the annual Waterlily Celebration every June. The event celebrates the crown jewel of the gardens: a collection of more than 80 species of fragrant water lilies. Take a deep breath and inhale the aroma of this magical garden in Vero Beach .

Honeymoon Island, Dunedin

Just like the name implies, Honeymoon Island is a picturesque sanctuary of aquamarine water and powdery white sand. When a businessman purchased Hog Island in the 1930s, he constructed a collection of Tiki-style cottages and told a journalist at LIFE Magazine that it was the perfect place for honeymooners. The name Honeymoon Island stuck, and the getaway by Dunedin has been beckoning beach-goers ever since. While the cottages are no longer there, the 200-acre island is now part of the Florida State Park system and remains a refuge for sweethearts.

Worth Avenue Clock Tower, Palm Beach

For couples who want to experience all the glitz and glam that Florida's Gold Coast has to offer, there's no better place than Worth Avenue— Palm Beach's sophisticated style mile. Kick off your indulgent getaway by snapping a photo under the iconic clock tower where Worth Avenue intersects with the Atlantic Ocean. Then shop an impressive collection of luxury boutiques like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. Dine at high-end restaurants like Café Boulud Palm Beach and Renato's. Then retire at the luxurious Brazilian Court, a romantic boutique hotel with a 1920s-era allure. The Mediterranean style resort has hosted the who's who of celebrities throughout its storied history.

Lovers Key, Fort Myers Beach

No round-up of romantic places in Florida would be complete without Lovers Key State Park , a popular setting for beachside weddings. Rumor has it that back in the early 1900s, only adventure-seeking couples made the effort to get out to the collection of isles including Lovers Key and three other barrier islands off the coast of Bonita Springs: Black Island, Inner, and Long Key. At the turn of the century, the islands were only accessible by boat, but today they are connected by a series of causeways and reachable by car. A new discovery center serves as a starting point for learning about sea turtles, manatees, and other wildlife found around the island.

Shell Hunting, Sanibel Island

When you take the three-mile causeway over sparkling bay waters to Sanibel , you know that you're about to arrive somewhere special. Step back in time in this quiet beach community without high rises, stoplights, or chain restaurants. You'll find protected beaches, some of the best shelling in the world, 25 miles of bike paths, and the lush mangroves of the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge . Rent a cottage or stay in a beachfront suite at the Casa Ybel Resort, making certain to cool off with a frozen drink at the Coconuts Poolside Bar & Grill .

5th Avenue South, Naples

Luxuriate in Naples , a shopper's paradise with upscale resorts, spas, and dining concentrated on historic 5th Avenue South . Then visit the city's powdery white public beaches or climb the observation tower at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park for expansive views of wild Florida. Take a sunset cruise on the Naples Princess luxury yacht or a romantic evening walk in the Naples Botanical Garden . No matter where you go, you're sure to feel pampered in this cultured city on the Paradise Coast.

Related Articles

7 Romantic Florida Getaways for Couples to Take in 2024

If you like pina coladas and gettin’ caught in the rain, then Florida is the place to go for a romantic vacation! Though we do have both of those things, in all seriousness, there are so many vacation spots in Florida for couples, no matter what type of trip you are looking for. From gorgeous beaches to exciting cities, you can find an endless number of ways to have a Florida getaway for couples

In this post I will share my recommendations for the top romantic Florida getaways for couples.  Each idea is listed by destination. I will highlight the unique qualities of each of these vacation spots for couples, as well as resort and restaurant recommendations.  I have also made sure to include Florida couples vacation ideas for a variety of price ranges and interests. Read on to find out what I think are the best vacation spots in Florida for couples!

Table of Contents

St. Augustine

First up for a romantic Florida vacation is St. Augustine ! This historic town is filled with stunning architecture from Spanish Renaissance Revival to Neoclassical, perfect for a hand-in-hand stroll. If the Instagram opportunities were not enough, there are also lively bars and a distillery, nearby beaches, and interesting attractions, like the masonry fort and lighthouse!

For couples going to St. Augustine, I definitely recommend staying in a bed and breakfast downtown. Places like the Augustin Inn have a cozy charm and are in a central location, so you can walk to restaurants and not worry about parking! These usually go for less than $200 per night during the off season, but get more expensive and sell out early during Christmas and Spring Break. If you want to make it a more affordable Florida couples trip or prefer to be by the water, we have also had a great experience at the Courtyard Marriott in St. Augustine Beach . This is right across from the beach and only fifteen minutes away from Downtown.

While taking a couple’s trip in St. Augustine, I recommend visiting at least one attraction (Castillo de San Marcos, the Lighthouse or the Lightner Museum) as well as the St. Augustine Distillery. For an extra dose of romance, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town! If you happen to go during the holidays, you will even be treated to the gorgeous Nights of Lights. Lastly, make sure to visit delightful restaurants like The Floridian, Blue Hen Café, and Cousteau’s while you are there.

Miami Beach

Going in a totally different direction than St. Augustine, Miami is another wonderful spot for a romantic Florida getaway. It’s known as a party city and you can definitely find bars, clubs and events for entertainment all night long. However, the Magic City has much more to offer than drinking and dancing!

Foodies will love it here, as you can find some of the most extravagant restaurants by famous celebrity chefs here, alongside hole in the wall street food gems. The beaches are also picturesque with extremely clear water. Nature lovers will even be happy to know that it is less than an hour away from two national parks! The list goes on and on, but expect to find boating, art, shopping and plenty of drinking around every corner.

I recommend staying at my favorite hotel, The Confidante ! This is just north of the touristy area with a lovely beachfront access, daily pool parties and stylish guest rooms. Though you are more than welcome to enjoy the beach and going out on the strip, I recommend planning at least one day trip either to Wynwood , Little Havana, the Everglades or Key Biscayne. It is impossible to narrow down restaurant recommendations to just a few, so make sure to check out my Miami Beach restaurant guide before going on your own South Florida couples vacation.

Some may roll their eyes and think a trip to Disney World is the opposite of a romantic Florida vacation. But a couple’s trip Orlando does not have to include theme parks! If you love Disney like I do, you can definitely enjoy the magic of Disney and get a resort hotel and go to the signature restaurants for a fun splurge. However, for a more unique weekend getaway for couples, I recommend staying near Downtown Orlando instead.

One of the most romantic Florida resorts perfect for couples is the Alfond Inn in Winter Park . This puts you right in the middle of downtown Winter Park, so you can walk to   date night spots like Prato, Bosphorus and The Wine Room. This is also very close to some excellent Orlando activities for couples, like exploring the Leu Gardens, taking a sunset kayak tour on the lake, or visiting the Enzian Theater.

Another option is to stay right in Downtown Orlando, one of the best cities in Florida for couples. At the Grand Bohemian Orlando , couples can be pampered at the spa and spend time at the rooftop pool. This is also within walking distance to the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, Swan Boat rides on Lake Eola and many outstanding, yet affordable restaurants and bars. Whether you spend a weekend in Orlando checking out a different part of the city, or spend a week mixing in theme parks and culture, the City Beautiful offers so many romantic things to do .

The Florida Keys

Ever since the Beach Boys name dropped the Keys in Kokomo, this southernmost point has been known as a romantic Florida destination. We can attest to this, as Sunset Key is actually where Andrew proposed to me! This area holds a special place in my heart ever since and I will never forget our magical trip exploring Key West, Marathon Key and Bahia Honda State Park.

To get the full Florida Keys experience, I recommend staying in Key West at least for a couple nights and within walking distance to Duval Street. We stayed at the Albury Court Bed and Breakfast and loved the delightful guest room and patio. Staying in this area makes sure you can enjoy the live music and drinks at bars and also visit the legendary Hemingway House, without dealing with parking difficulties.

If this is more than a weekend trip, I recommend staying at another Florida key once you are done sightseeing. This area has the most adults only hotels in Florida, including the Bungalows in Key Largo , Little Palm Island Resort on Little Torch Key and the H2O Suites Hotel in Key West . For a Florida getaway that is all-inclusive, the Bungalows in Key Largo are one of the few options in the state, and visitors love the activities, variety of food and drinks, and privacy. If you are looking for a little slice of paradise to enjoy with your partner, the Florida Keys is a remarkable destination.

Personally, I think Naples is one of the best Florida beaches for couples. Miami rivals it for me, but Naples is better for a lowkey experience. Andrew and I took a long weekend couples trip to this South Florida locale two years ago and had one of the most relaxing trips ever! It’s a beautiful place to slow down and take in the gulf coast vibes.

We stayed right on the intercoastal at the Hyatt House Naples and found it to be an ideal Florida resort for couples. The style was modern coastal, there was a large pool and we spent every night strolling the boardwalk and spotting dolphins. It also put us within walking distance to 5th Avenue South, where we dined at romantic Italian restaurants like Osteria Tulia and Vergina.

I recommend visiting Naples, Florida between May and November when it is the off season. This is the best way to take an affordable Florida getaway for couples. The hotels have very cheap rates, especially in September when we went. Many of the restaurants offer dining deals too! While you are here, you can enjoy water activities galore from paddle and boat tours to fishing on the pier and shelling on the beach. If the weather isn’t too humid, I also recommend the Naples Botanical Garden or the Naples Zoo for a romantic date.

Rosemary Beach

If you are looking for a Florida vacation for couples in the Panhandle, I think Rosemary Beach is the best destination. Though the entire 30A area has sugar sand beaches, turquoise water and rainbow sunsets, this town has one of the best Florida beaches for couples. It has not gained the popularity of Destin and Panama City Beach yet, so you can enjoy the beauty with some seclusion.

The most elegant resort to stay at is The Pearl Hotel which is steps from the beach and many restaurants. The stylish pool, bar and balconies also add a romantic touch to your couples getaway. This resort can be a splurge, so if you are looking for a more affordable spot, check out vacation rentals and bungalows on Airbnb.

Though the beach, the sunsets and the seafood are high on the list of things to experience in Rosemary Beach, renting a bike and exploring should also be a priority. Other than that, this is definitely meant to be a relaxing vacation with your sweetheart. For couples that love being by the water, Rosemary Beach is a prime choice, especially if you plan to drive down from the Midwest.

Lastly, I want to recommend Sarasota as a versatile Florida couples getaway option. This may seem similar to Naples, but I think it offers enough of variety to also include it here. Whether you are looking for a weekend trip or a week long stay at the beach, this area works for both. It has a thriving downtown, multiple museums and theaters and is close enough to St. Petersburg and Tampa for day trips.

Sarasota is another awesome city in Florida for couples and when we went, we were thrilled to stay close to downtown at the Hyatt Regency . This was very affordable for a couples vacation, with rates under $150 in the offseason, and free kayaking and bike rentals included in the stay. If you prefer to be close to the beach, the Siesta Key Palms Hotel and Lido Beach Resort , are romantic Florida resorts on the water.

While plenty of time should be budgeted to relaxing at the beach and strolling St. Armand’s Circle, I also recommend taking a bike or kayak tour for sightseeing. Other romantic things to do here include a visit to the Ringling Museum, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens or the Myakka River State Park. No couples trip to Sarasota would be complete without a delicious waterfront meal at Ophelia’s on the Bay enjoyed with sunset views either! Between the foodie scene and the tropical activities, any couple could find something to love about Sarasota.

Know Before You Go: My Top Romantic Florida Getaways for Couples Ideas

I hope this post gave you some ideas for fun and romantic Florida getaways! Andrew and I usually travel just us two, and these seven options really stood out to us as being the best vacation options for couples. No matter if you are looking for a relaxing beach trip or an affordable city escape, there is no shortage of places to go in the sunshine state. Here are some things to keep in mind for your own Florida couple’s vacation.

• Weather-wise, the best time to visit Florida is November through May, when the humidity is lower and there are not as many storms. However, if you don’t mind dealing with the heat and risk of hurricanes, you can make it a much more affordable couples’ getaway in Florida in the summer and fall.
• For beach trips, keep in mind the east coast beaches are wavier with more coarse sand, whereas the gulf coast beaches are calmer with sugar sand. In the summer, some think the gulf coast is too warm to be refreshing though!
• Renting a car is ideal for most Florida vacations, as public transportation is limited. If you don’t plan to rent a car, I recommend visiting Miami or Orlando and using Uber or Lyft.
• Many ask me about all-inclusive hotels for a romantic Florida getaway, but unfortunately, there are not many options for that in Florida! The only few I have seen are Little Palm Island Resort, Club Med in Port St. Lucie, and the Bungalows in Key Largo. Some hotels offer food and drink packages, so be sure to ask about that!
• If you are seeking an Adults Only Hotel for your couples vacation, I have only found a handful of options, mainly in Miami. For those looking to get away from kids, I recommend picking a hotel that is upscale and, in a city, or a bed and breakfast.
• For tips on what to pack for your Florida vacation, check out my packing guide here with a complete checklist!

What’s your favorite place to go for a romantic Florida getaway? I love all of these, but Key West or Naples are my top picks. If you are looking for things to do with your partner in Florida, check out my Florida date ideas post here!

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Florida (FL) » 15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Florida

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Florida

Sub-tropical Florida is a fab place to spend a romantic weekend getaway. For one thing, the ‘sunshine state’ clocks up an impressive 230 days of sun each year, providing the perfect excuse to sink your toes into sand as warm as the Gulf of Mexico’s waves.

Then there’s a rich culture which spans Spain and Latin America via the Caribbean, a clutch of theme parks that can be found nowhere else, and the world famous Everglades National Park. That’s surely enough to keep even the most active of vacationers busy for a couple of days.

In short, throughout Miami, Orlando , the Keys, and everywhere in between, you and your special someone will find true paradise in the US’ southernmost state.

Here’s our pick of the 15 best romantic getaways in Florida :

1. Ritz-Carlton – Key Biscayne

Bask in the luxurious intimacy of the Ritz Carlton in Key Biscayne , an island off the coast of Miami . You’ll be off the beaten path of the city traffic of Miami, and will be able to soak up the gorgeous beaches with your own private balcony.

To get away from the vacationing families, you and your sweetie can take a dip in the adult-only tranquility pool on site. And to heed the call of the state’s Latin American influences, partake in the Ritz’s nightly tequila tastings.

Travel back in time to the Ritz’s 1940s Cuban bar and lounge, RUMBAR. As live Latin music fills the air, high ceiling fans and rich-dark wooden features bring you to the sultry heyday of Havana. Choose between over 85 rums, piscos, and cachacas at RUMBAR, with fresh fruits of the tropics for specialty cocktails.

Website: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/miami/key-biscayne

2. The Biltmore – Miami

Sparkle in the elegance of the Biltmore, a stunning 192os-built hotel that looks like it was picked up from Europe and taken to Miami . A National Historic Landmark, the Biltmore isn’t small with over 270 rooms. However, with 150 acres of landscaped ground to explore, seclusion and tranquility is still pretty much guaranteed.

The perfect care of the lavish gardens and Biltmore’s courtyards complement the marble columns, barrel vaulted ceilings, and carved mahogany designs which swirl aroun the resort like some sort of Mediterranean dream. And when the Miami heat starts to weigh you down, I can’t recommend cooling off in the country’s largest pool enough.

Website: http://www.biltmorehotel.com/

3. Brazilian Court Hotel – Palm Beach

This romantic Florida pick is situated unobtrusively on a quiet residential street a couple of blocks from the boutique stores and high-end dining of Worth Avenue in Palm Beach . As such, it’s location is second to none. It’s beach club provides the opportunity to soak up the rays hand-in-hand, while a series of courtyards in this historic residence provide no end of hidden corners too.

Bringing together the best of the old and new worlds, rooms are decadent but not ostentatious. There’s a wealth of warm polished mahogany furniture, alongside wisteria fabric wall panels which add further personality. So to does each rooms curated selection of black and white photographs, specially chosen for just the right vibe by photographer Terry O’Neill.

Website: https://www.lhw.com/hotel/The-Brazilian-Court-Hotel-Palm-Beach-FL

4. The Villa Casa Casuarina – Miami Beach

Ever heard of the famous Italian designer Gianni Versace? You know, bags, accessories, clothing, that sort of thing? Well, before it was converted into a boutique hotel, Villa Casa Casuarina on Miami Beach was nothing less than the great man’s mansion. Unsurprisingly, Versace’s touch for design and elegance are evident everywhere. If you need just one example, how about this. Forming a swimming pool out of a thousand mosaic tiles wasn’t enough, so Versace made sure it was accented with 24-carat gold throughout. I wouldn’t have expected anything else.

Tying in with the grandious palatial architecture, The Villa Casa Casuarina’s cuisine also reflects Italian inspiration. At Gianni’s, the location’s decadent restaurant, authentic Italian food will melt in your mouth as you dine under the stars. Savor a grilled octopus salad, delight in a fresh lobster pasta second course, or indulge in a filet mignon entrée, all prepared by renowned Executive Chef Thomas Stewart.

Website: http://vmmiamibeach.com/

Also check out my guide on Miami Beach .

5. Mandarin Oriental – Brickell Key

Live large at the cosmopolitan Mandarin Oriental on the Brickell Key right off the coast of Miami. Staying at this exclusive destination will not only be an amazingly luxurious experience, but it will also give access to the only spot in Miami where you can find a private beach with both a water and a city skyline panorama. Perfect for a romantic getaway then.

But this Asian-inspired hotel defines elegance too. Rated a 5-star resort, I can’t think of anything better than taking your loved one to the spa suite for a couple’s massage, accompanied by champagne and strawberries. Meanwhile, on the private beach, the hotel’s personal beach butlers are on hand to pamper you both. And when you’re ready to grab a bite to eat, you can sit down to the fusion cuisine of Peru’s most famous chef, Gaston Acurio, at La Mar.

Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/miami/brickell-key

6. B Ocean Resort – Fort Lauderdale

Just steps off the gorgeous turquoise waters of Ft. Lauderdale , on a broad expanse of soft sand, this gem makes for the perfect beach getaway for couples. As if to prove it, it was the resort of choice for Marilyn Monroe and husband Joe DiMaggio among others. Here’s why…

At B Ocean Resort you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic from intimate balconies and patios in each sophisticated suite. Hungry? No problem. B Ocean Resort has five options to choose from – plus in-room dining. Whether you and your significant other want to participate in Ft. Lauderdale’s famous water-sport scene or just sit back in the sun, B Ocean provides it for you.

Website: http://www.bhotelsandresorts.com/b-ocean/

7. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Orlando

I can’t talk about Florida without mentioning Disney. In the state where Mickey and Minnie are royalty, there’s a place where adults can play, too.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you’ll get wrapped up in the magic that encompasses the place. In an incredible blend of nature and architecture, you’ll roam through the resort with zebras, giraffes, elks, antelopes, exotic birds, gazelles, and wildebeests… like you’re straight-up in The Lion King singing about being born to be king.

Animals aside, this Orlando resort has one of the most-impressive collections of African art in the US. But it’s the two pools, one with water park, which are most likely to attract your attention first. Add to these an upgrade to a room or suite with access to the club lounge (providing complimentary refreshments throughout the day) and you’ve got a match made in heaven.

Website: https://www.disneyworld.co.uk/resorts/animal-kingdom-lodge/

I’ve also got a great post on what to do in Orlando .

8. Carillon Hotel – Miami

Beyond the limits of a standard vacation, the 5-star Carillon Hotel in Miami offers a wellness retreat for guests like few others. Decompress at the largest spa in Miami—an astounding 70,000 sq. ft.—and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with the plethora of treatments and facilities, from the Finnish Sauna to Experiental Rains.

Stylishly contemporary, and right on the shore, it’s palm-shaded outdoor pools lead directly to sands which stretch for miles. But the best ocean views are reserved for the floor-to-ceiling windows of rooms – though panoramas of the Miami skyline are also available. Revitalize yourself and your relationship at this indulgent resort that caters to your comfort from the first seconds after arriving.

Website: http://www.carillonhotel.com/

9. The Breakers Resort – Palm Beach

As their logo puts it, “Once you stay, you’ll understand.” This idyllic, Italian-Renaissance resort has attracted travelers to the beautiful shores of Palm Beach since it opened in 1896. Thoroughly up-to-date while maintaining a feeling of historic grandeur, you’ll want for nothing here. The service is impecable, interiors luxurious, and location hard to beat.

Guests can cool off from the hot Florida sun in one of the Breakers’ four oceanfront pools, or walk directly out into the ocean waters with the Breakers’ beach access. For lovers craving extra privacy, slink into one of the private bungalows to claim your own little slice of heaven. All bungalows are poolside and offer concierge services 24 hours a day.

Website: http://www.thebreakers.com/

10. Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Escape from the swarm of tourists on this quiet island of Islamorada (translated as “the purple island”), commonly known at the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.”

You and your loved one can rejuvenate in the high-end suites, complete with marble bathtubs, private ocean-view balconies, and West Indies décor, while relaxing away from the crowds. Outside the spacious guest rooms, couples can enjoy the laid-back ambiance of Islamorada. Explore why the island is deemed the Sportfishing Capital, with nearby charter boats that will show you up to over 500 species of fish right off the shore.

At the end of the day (or beginning—time is irrelevant in paradise), visit the Cheeca’s oceanfront Tiki Bar for a true taste of the Caribbean . The bar can concoct any signature drink for you, but the fresh lime agave margaritas and hand-crafter mojitos are the Tiki’s specialties.

Website: http://www.cheeca.com/

11. Sunset Key Cottages

Nestled perfectly on a private island (the last of the Florida Keys ) a stay at Sunset Key Cottages is the closest you’re going to get to Cuba while remaining on the right side of US law. And because Sunset Key is the furthest Key from the mainland, it’s also beautifully quiet and secluded—perfect for a romantic getaway with your loved one.

Couples stay in their own brightly colored, private cottages with a hint of Hemingway chic among lush tropical gardens and turquoise waters. Wrap around verandas lie just feet from almost-empty white sands, while upscale cuisine is available at the award-winning Latitudes Restaurant. And all just 160 miles from Miami.

Website: http://www.sunsetkeycottages.com/

Also see :  25 Best Things to Do in Florida

12. St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort – Miami

Travel to Hollywood without ever having to leave the US East Coast when you stay at St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort in Miami. Regularly lined with luxury cars outside, decked out in glamorous décor inside, and worth $1 billion, the St. Regis exudes extravagance. Guests are greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne, and then escorted to their room by a personal butler.

Sip on your morning coffee with your significant other on your own private oceanfront balcony, and relax in the adults-only pool on site, or in the two-person cabana on the beach. And to wind down at the end of the day, soak in a two-person tub at the 5-star resort’s spa. When you’re ready for dinner, the ocean-view restaurant on site serves gourmet cuisine, while the St. Regis Bar hosts a live jazz band every night.

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/miaxr-the-st-regis-bal-harbour-resort/overview/

13. Barefoot Beach Hotel – Madeira Beach

On the other side of the Florida peninsula, the Barefoot Beach Hotel sits on beautiful shores brushed by the waters of the Gulf. Situated on Madeira Beach, known for its clean sands, the hotel boasts a range of amenities, from outdoor pools and beach cabanas to a heated spa and barbecue area. All are fully accessible to disabled travelers too.

Should you seek some time outside of your beachfront or poolside studio suite, I suggest renting one of the hotel’s scooters and riding the two blocks to historic John’s Pass, the quaint fishing village full of unique shopping, fresh seafood restaurants, and water activities.

Website: http://www.barefootbeachhotel.com/

Further reading :  40 Places to See in Florida Before Your Kids Grow Up

14. Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort – Hollywood

What came first, the Jimmy Buffet song or the hotel? At Margaritaville, located on the legendary Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, Jimmy Buffet’s lyrics come to life.

Often compared to the funky beach towns of California, Hollywood Beach attracts all those looking for a laid-back vacation to wash away all their troubles and just chill. Oozing sultry tropicalness, Margaritaville is a place to flop down and do almost nothing except gaze at the Atlantic ocean from your bed.

When hunger strikes, there’s nine different dining options to choose from, which buzz from early evening until late at night.

Website: http://www.margaritavillehollywoodbeachresort.com/

15. The Setai – Miami Beach

Slip into sleekness at the Setai, which Forbes has dubbed one of the “Sexiest Hotels in America.” Built in 1938 as the famed Vanderbilt Hotel and refurbished continuously since, this 5-star hotel boasts modern luxury where east and west meet.

The Setai is so sleek that celebrities are known to frequent the spot, and the hotel even has a recording studio designed by Lenny Kravitz. But even those who sadly lack the voice of a rock star will appreciate The Setai’s Collins Avenue location, alongside direct beach access, a spa, fitness center, and even Tesla charging points.

Website: http://www.thesetaihotel.com/

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Florida:

• Ritz-Carlton – Key Biscayne
• The Biltmore – Miami
• Brazilian Court Hotel – Palm Beach
• The Villa Casa Casuarina – Miami Beach
• Mandarin Oriental – Brickell Key
• B Ocean Resort – Fort Lauderdale
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Orlando
• Carillon Hotel – Miami
• The Breakers Resort – Palm Beach
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa
• Sunset Key Cottages
• St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort – Miami
• Barefoot Beach Hotel – Madeira Beach
• Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort – Hollywood
• The Setai – Miami Beach

Budget Travel Buff

10 Romantic Getaways in Florida for Couples

If you love pristine white sand beaches, warm weather, luxury resorts, award-winning dining, and amusement theme parks, Florida is for you. There is no shortage of romantic places in Florida as the Sunshine State has an abundance of sun, cozy romantic resorts with spas, honeymoon cabins, romantic restaurants, great natural Florida springs , and many more.

You can also snorkel to explore the underground world with your partner. Here are some of the best romantic getaways in Florida where couples can relax, enjoy a peaceful weekend and reconnect with each other in a romantic setting, surrounded by stunning beaches and shimmering sunsets.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

Best Time for Romantic Florida Getaways for Couples

Florida is also known as the Sunshine State of the country. So, you can assume that it gets sunlight throughout the year. Tourists come to visit Florida from all over the world to enjoy its year-round idyllic temperature, fantastic theme parks, and gorgeous beaches. And yes, there are some nude beaches too in Florida and these beaches are great to relax if you both are open-minded.

Winter and spring months(December to April) are the best time to be in Florida. Be aware that public holidays and long weekends during this time draw huge crowds to the theme parks and beaches. Be sure to book your flight tickets and accommodations much further in advance to avoid disappointment. Summer in Florida is usually hot and humid.

Travel Tip:

If you are looking for the cheapest flights, I highly recommend you choosing WayAway , a popular flight aggregator that provides travelers with the best rates on flight tickets. Its innovative search finds the best option for specific dates. So you will definitely find the most low-cost tickets!

#1 Key West : Romantic Getaways in Florida

A visit to Key West is just what the love doctor prescribes. The warm weather, pleasant breeze, mesmerizing beach, and delightful sunset create a perfect setting to enjoy a romantic vacation in Florida for couples far from the busy life.

Located at the southernmost point of the Sunshine State, Key West is one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Florida Keys that offers a vibrant nightlife, exotic islands and beaches, eclectic cuisine, and a wide range of couple activities.

Romantic Things to do in Key West

• Key West is incomplete without boating and sailing. Couples can rent a sailboat or choose a group tour and explore the waters.
• The sunsets in Key West are really magical. It feels more romantic when you enjoy it with your sweetheart while sipping a tropical drink.
• Check out the iconic Key West Lighthouse, one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Florida . Visitors can climb up the 88 steps of the tower and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the ocean from the top.
• Key West is also famous for its colorful coral reef. Reserve a spot for a snorkeling or scuba diving tour and enjoy a unique experience of visiting coral reefs and other sea creatures.
• For a full-day adventure, book a tour to Dry Tortugas which is accessible only by seaplane. Discover this remote island, the ruins of Fort Jefferson, and other adventure activities.
• If you love camping with your families, here is our sorted list of the best places for camping in the Florida Keys .

Other Romantic Water Tours in Key West:

• Experience a sunset you’ll never forget on this Key West Sunset Champagne Catamaran Cruise
• Combine a snorkel session on North America’s only living coral reef with a Key West sunset during this Key West Snorkel and Sunset Sail
• Watch the Key West Sunset on this tour: Sunset Sip and Sail with Open Bar, Live Music, and Appetizers

Best Time to Visit   Key West for a Honeymoon

The Winter season is the busiest time in Key West. But if you are looking for a less crowded honeymoon getaway, March through May is the best time to visit Key West when the winter crowds disappear, the hotel rooms become reasonable and the weather is still pleasant.

Honeymoon Resorts in Key West

Located in the old town area of Key West, Opal Key Resort & Marina is a luxurious waterfront hotel that features an outdoor heated pool and hot tub.  With an Old Florida vibe, You can feel the salty ocean breeze from the balcony of your room with an old Florida vibe. Swim in the outdoor heated pool or have a romantic dinner with freshly caught seafood.

Related Post: 10 Advantages and Disadvantages Of Living In The Florida Keys

#2 Honeymoon Island, Dunedin

Dunedin, Florida, is a hidden gem for couples seeking a romantic escape. Nestled along the Gulf Coast, this charming coastal town offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and unique experiences. Couples can explore Honeymoon Island State Park, known for its pristine beaches and breathtaking sunsets, making it one of the cheapest places to visit in Florida for an unforgettable romantic picnic.

Even many people from other states like New York and Texas are moving to Florida for its stunning scenic view. But you should remember there are some downsides too. Here you can read why I regret moving to Florida .

Romantic Things to do in Honeymoon Island

• Couples will be amazed by the blue turquoise water of this island. You can bring your pet along with you. It is a popular dog-friendly beach in Florida  where you can enjoy your date with your pet too.
• Rent a kayak and explore the inlets and mangrove waterways around Honeymoon Island. Lucky couples might see dolphins chasing their prey.  
• Book a luxurious beachfront private dinner for two to experience a unique getaway in Florida . Enjoy a gourmet multi-course meal on the beach with a bottle of champagne.
• Hike the Osprey Trail and get lost in nature with your partner while observing wildlife like armadillos, tortoises, osprey, egrets, and blue herons.
• Enjoy a romantic evening in North Beach and watch the spectacular sunset together.
• Take a ferry to Caladesi Island State Park and discover its uncrowded less rocky beaches and turquoise waters.

Best Time to Visit   Honeymoon Island for a Honeymoon

Spring is the best season to visit Honeymoon Island State Park for couples and honeymooners looking for cheap romantic getaways in Florida.

Romantic Resorts in Honeymoon Island

Stay in Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach for a romantic getaway on Honeymoon Island. This romantic Florida hotel is a couple’s paradise for its fantastic balcony, refreshing ocean breeze, outdoor pool, and spa center.

#3 Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is such a romantic place where couples love to create memories that will last a lifetime. It is a couple’s heaven, surrounded by white sand beaches. This beautiful barrier reef island in the Gulf of Mexico has a rich history with pirates, Calusa Indians, and Spanish adventurers .

Sanibel Island offers moments of romance and intimacy for couples through its wide range of unique restaurants, shops, and wedding venues. Moreover, it’s a quiet serene place and creates an ideal romantic ambiance for lovebirds to spend quality time. The sand of this island is very spectacular.

Romantic Things to do in Sanibel Island

• Just relax on the beach or walk along the shore with your partner hand-in-hand. Take a deep breath and feel the calmness of the beach.
• Sanibel Island and Fort Myers are famous for colorful seashells. Collecting seashells with your better half could be very romantic. Shelling in Florida is such a great way to have fun with your partner.
• Sanibel Island is very close to nature. Couples love to visit J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge that features a variety of natural wildlife amidst mangroves, lakes, and mashes. This is a perfect place to take some amazing couple pictures.
• Don’t miss the sunset on the beaches of Sanibel Island and Fort Myers. Bowman’s Beach and Sanibel Lighthouse Beach are two popular sunset spots that we recommend.
• Celebrate Christmas in Captiva Holiday Village, and make some memories with gorgeously decorated palm trees, boat parades and many more. Read more about Christmas getaways in Florida .
• Shopaholic couples must visit Shop on Sanibel for some amazing shops and restaurants.
• The Butterfly Estates is a great place to enjoy nature and to see various types of colorful butterflies.

Best Time to Visit   Sanibel Island for a Honeymoon

December to April the best months to get the idyllic weather. This is the time when most tourists visit Sanibel Island. If you plan to collect the best shells, plan your journey in October-November.

Honeymoon Resorts in Sanibel Island

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is an excellent choice for couples looking for romantic accommodation in Sanibel Island. It just steps from the beach and the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy the cool ocean breeze and the sounds of the surf from your room. This beach resort offers a heated pool, free bike rentals, Wi-Fi, and all the helpful amenities.

#4 Clearwater Beach

Clearwater is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida . With a combination of great weather, picturesque beaches, and plenty of adventures, Clearwater is a popular honeymoon destination in Florida. Located just 45 from Tampa International Airport, this Florida beach town sits on the barrier island and offers a variety of shopping, fine dining, water activities, and plenty of attractions to enjoy.

Romantic Things to do in Clearwater Beach

• From Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina, Couples can charter a private boat tour or book a sightseeing cruise , or dolphin adventures .
• Looking for something more adventurous? You can choose either a paddleboard tour or a kayak tour and get a chance to be close to nature and wildlife. It is one of the beaches with clear water
• Surprise your loved one by booking a table for a romantic dinner at Caretta on the Gulf. It’s a cozy restaurant and nicely decorated with a beautiful ambiance.
• Take a romantic boat ride in Lake Tarpon, a popular lake in Florida located just 30 minutes from Clearwater beach.

Best Time to Visit   Clearwater Beach for a Honeymoon

October to January are the best months to visit Clearwater beach for couples. During this time, you will find low humidity, fewer tourists, and pleasant weather.

Honeymoon Resorts in Clearwater Beach

We are huge fans of Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa . This beachfront hotel is within 5 minutes walk of Pier 60. The hotel overlooks a private beach. Couples can relax by the pool or enjoy some romantic moments at the on-site tiki bar that serves various types of tropical cocktails.

Read Next :

• 8 Amazing Breweries in Tampa
• 10 Best Natural Springs near Tampa
• 12 Unforgettable Day Trips From Tampa

If you are looking for truly unique date ideas in Florida, Miami should be on the upper side of the list. Known for its turquoise water, white sandy beaches, wild nightlife, Cuban community, and international food scene, Miami is one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Florida. Surprisingly, you will find here plenty of free things to do in Miami . You can also check out some affordable places to live in Miami .

Although Miami is widely popular for its cultural heritage and party atmosphere, it has a romantic side too. Miami has some of the best Florida beaches for couples . You must visit Miami to experience the best couple getaways in Florida. The most romantic places of this Magic City include idyllic estates in Italian Renaissance gardens and the lush mangrove forests that can provide couples with intimate moments among the serenity of nature.

Romantic Things to do in Miami

• You can’t visit Miami without exploring Miami Beach and other quiet beaches to avoid crowds . Spend some relaxing time on the beach or just walk along the boardwalk in Miami Beach. South Beach could be a perfect place for people looking for a romantic getaway in the US .
• For a romantic sunset, book a Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach .
• Couples can rent bikes from bicycle rental shops and explore this romantic Florida city together. The South Beach area has the perfect terrain for bike riding. For better exploration consider taking a guided Miami Beach Bike Tour .
• Foodie couples can indulge themselves in some authentic Cuban food and culture tours in Little Havana . It is a great opportunity to learn Cuban culture.
• Check out South Pointe Park Pier that offers some of the best panoramic views of the ocean with the city skyline as a backdrop.
• Book a cooking class and get hands-on experience together on a new cooking skill. It’s fun as well as romantic.

If you want to escape the busy city life of Miami, check out these less crowded magical hidden gems in Miami .

Best Time to Visit   Miami for a Honeymoon

Miami remains very crowded during peak season(November to February). The best time to visit Miami for a romantic vacation is the spring season(mid-February to May) when the weather is warm but not humid with fewer crowds.

Honeymoon Resorts in Miami

If romance means impeccable service Acqualina Resort and Residences is a perfect match. This 5-star luxury resort is located on the quiet beaches of Sunny Isles. This oceanfront resort offers a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.

The resort features gourmet dining options, spa treatments and modern guestrooms, furnished private balconies, and modern amenities. The resort can also create an intimate candlelit dining experience on the beach for couples.

For a romantic cabin getaway in Miami, Florida, you can check out Urban Farm Cabin. It is a cozy cabin that has a farm full of chickens, emus, goats, and bees.

Don’t forget to bring back some amazing souvenirs from Miami to keep your romantic vacation memorable.

Read Next: 8 Best Walkable Beach Towns in Florida for Vacation

Destin could be the next destination for couples who are looking for a romantic beach getaway in Florida. This Florida beach town boasts white sand beaches and blue turquoise water making it a perfect beach town to live in Florida . Destin has its own charm and offers visitors optimal weather conditions year-round and several sightseeing excursions.

Among many other things, Destin is well known for its romantic bed and breakfast, Henderson Park Inn. Book a weekend at the lovely bed and breakfast and enjoy a boxed lunch of your choice for a beachside picnic-style afternoon.

Take one of the many bicycles the bed and breakfast offers and ride through the pleasant neighborhood or along a scenic beach road. With the beautiful crystal beaches, you will want to participate in many water sports, like parasailing and cruising on a glass-bottom boat tour .

Romantic Things to do in Destin

• Bring some towels and enjoy a laid-back vacation with your partner on the sugar-white sands of a Destin beach. Or just walk along the beach and collect seashells.
• Book a helicopter tour from Timberview Choppers  for a bird’s eye view of this beautiful city and the gulf. It offers some of the best views of Destin Harbor, Okaloosa Island, Panama City, and other marvelous spots.
• Take your sweetie on a romantic sunset cruise to visit the Emerald Coast. Enjoy the serene natural beauty of Destin Harbor, Choctawhatchee Bay, and Crab Island at sunset.
• Enjoy a romantic date at Marina Cafe, a great restaurant overlooking the Harbor. To make your date memorable, they have a candle-night dinner option too.

Best Time to Visit   Destin for a Honeymoon

April and May is the best time to visit Destin. During this time, the water is warm and the temperature and crowd are moderate.

Honeymoon Resorts in Destin

Couples will be spellbound when they check-in Hampton Inn & Suites Destin . Guests can enjoy a partial gulf view from their room. The resort features an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and free WiFi.

• 13 Best Party Beaches in Florida For Good Music and Dance
• 11 Best Beaches in Southwest Florida: Escape to Paradise

#7 Santa Rosa Beach

Looking for anniversary getaways in Florida? Located in South Walton County, Santa Rosa is a popular romantic getaway in north Florida that offers lots of activities and attractions ideal for couples. With 26 miles of white, sugary sand and excellent turquoise waters, Santa Rosa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida for couples . 

If you are romantic and looking for a romantic stay for a honeymoon in Florida, you must visit Santa Rosa. The city is brimming with local art galleries, great dining, brewery, state parks, and many more.

Romantic Things to do in Santa Rosa Beach

• Turquoise water and sugar-white shoreline are perfect for beachcomber. From swimming to paddle boarding and kayaking, couples will find plenty of ways to have fun together.
• Sip on a refreshing drink and explore the town on Emerald Coast Pedal Tour.
• Coastal dune Lake is a must-visit thing in Santa Rosa Beach. This is one of the few places around the world where you can see this natural phenomenon.
• Indulge in the couple’s spa. Rejuvenate your soul and body by a soothing massage or body treatment on your romantic Florida getaway.
• Dine at a world-class in Santa Rosa Beach. Goatfeathers Seafood Restaurant and La Crema Tapas Bar both are very popular here and offer different types of mouthwatering seafood and continental dishes.

Best Time to Visit   Santa Rosa Beach for a Honeymoon

April to June is often considered the best time to visit Santa Rosa Beach. People looking for a romantic getaway in Florida on a budget can visit Santa Rosa in November as you will find plenty of cheap hotel deals during this month.

Honeymoon Resorts in Santa Rosa Beach

Watercolor Inn is an excellent romantic getaway in Santa Rosa, Florida for couples. The resort has romantic beach-facing rooms including all modern amenities. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of bicycles, and kayaks to explore the unique coastal dune lake and the lush trails. Get a couple’s massage and body treatment at the Watercolor InnSpa before you retire to a day on this pristine beach.

#8 Palm Beach

Located just behind Orlando , Palm Beach is a perfect Florida destination for couples to spend a romantic trip in the Sunshine State. With an abundance of beaches, upscale hotels and restaurants, and romantic activities, Palm Beach won’t disappoint the honeymooners planning a romantic getaway in South Florida. Rather couples can create some romantic moments that they can cherish throughout their life.

Romantic Things to do in Palm Beach

• During your romantic getaway in Palm Beach, treat your special one to a special spa day at Kaffee’s Garden Spa. Select the special spa package and enjoy two hours of pure bliss in a rejuvenating atmosphere.
• It doesn’t get more romantic than watching the phenomenal sunset views of the Intracoastal Waterway from the deck of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.
• Your romantic getaway in Palm Beach would be incomplete without an intimate dinner at Table 427. They serve the city’s best Mexican cuisine.
• It is a great place for adventure-loving couples. From paddleboarding, kayaking to snorkeling and scuba diving, you will find plenty of outdoor activities in the Palm Beach area.

Best Time to Visit   Palm Beach for a Honeymoon

Late spring (April to May) and the early fall (September to October) are the best time to visit Palm Beach. You will be greeted by the pleasant temperatures that fluctuate between the mid-60s and high 80s.

Honeymoon Resorts in Palm Beach

The Breakers Palm Beach is a beautiful getaway spot for couples on a romantic Palm Beach vacation. This luxury hotel has a collection of oceanfront rooms. The best on-site amenities are the four oceanfront pools, 2 championship golf courses, and an indoor-outdoor spa. There are several dining options in the hotel that offer everything from fine dining to cocktails and desserts.

#9 Amelia Island

If you want a peaceful and affordable romantic getaway in Florida, Amelia Island is the place for you. The East Coast barrier island has 13 miles long sandy beaches, beautiful resorts, and a spa to enjoy with your loved one. But there is more for lovely couples in Honeymoon Island than just beachcombing and tasting various seafood items.

The unspoiled beach of Amelia Island is one of the few places in Florida where couples can enjoy romantic horseback riding on the golden sands during sunrise.

Romantic Things to do in Amelia Island

• A romantic stroll along the beach with your sweetie hand in hand is a perfect way to spend quality time together. Bonus: you can find nice shells on the beach.
• Explore the scenic coastal paths and winding mountain trails on two wheels together.
• Amelia River Cruises  is highly recommended to watch the beautiful sunset, the coastal scenery, and wildlife.
• Pamper yourselves by booking a couple’s spa package. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers outstanding service with its indoor whirlpool, salt base spa pool, sauna, and showers.
• Explore the historic Downtown Fernandina Beach which boasts historic buildings, restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Best Time to Visit   Amelia Island for a Honeymoon

For a romantic getaway in Amelia Island, the ideal time is during spring (May to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is charming, and the crowds are less.

Honeymoon Resorts in Amelia Island

Located on the island’s 13 miles of coastline, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island offers a welcome barrier between you and the world with southern hospitality. This fantastic beach resort promotes extreme relaxation in a luxurious setting. You can enjoy ocean views from your private balcony and delicious meal from their award-winning Salt restaurant.

#10 Lover’s Key State Park, Fort Myers

Choosing Lover’s Key State Park as your next romantic Florida getaway could be an excellent idea. Located just south of Fort Myers Beach, Lover’s Key State Park is a well-known destination for couples looking for a honeymoon destination in Florida.

This adventurous park consists of four barrier islands, canals, and tidal lagoons and has plenty of spaces to relax on the beach. This is a great place to find wildlife including dolphins, manatees, and birds.

Romantic Things to do in Lover’s Key State Park

• Lovebirds can enjoy swimming in the Gulf of Mexico or grab a picnic basket and some towels for a private picnic in the sand.
• Lover’s Key State Park is a hidden gem in southwest Florida where you can see incredible wildlife that includes dolphins, manatees, egrets, ospreys, and even bald eagles.
• It is popular for outdoor activities. Take your sweetheart for a standup paddleboard tour or kayak tour and explore the mangroves.
• Hike the Black Island Trail and Eagle Trail that offer spectacular views into secluded mangroves and estuaries. You might see some endangered species such as Bald Eagles, West Indian Manatees, the American Alligator.

Best Time to Visit   Lover’s Key State Park for a Honeymoon

March through May are the ideal months to plan a getaway in Lover’s Key State Park. The weather is perfect, the water is warm and the beaches are less crowded during this time.

Honeymoon Resorts in Lover’s Key State Park

Couples love staying at Lover’s Key Resort which features an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant. Situated on a small island, this beach resort offers magical water views, gracious amenities, top-notch service, and spacious accommodations for romantic getaways.

Check out the cheapest flights with wayaway.io . Be sure to find the most low-cost tickets to any destination you want!

• What to wear in Florida for a romantic vacation?
• 10 Most Romantic Getaways in California for Couples
• 8 Romantic Weekend Getaways in Colorado Springs
• 20 Romantic Getaways in Texas That Will Steal Your Heart

Similar Posts

11 best places to kayak with manatees in florida in 2023.

Florida, the Sunshine State is full of wonders. You not only get to experience the warm weather throughout the year pristine beaches, and the scenic beauty of nature, but you also get a dose of adventure when in Florida. If you are a nature lover and wish to do something fun in the lap of…

10 Best Campsites in Florida You should Reserve Right Now

Sandy beaches, flora and fauna, trails, and parks – camping is the best way to take in everything that Florida has to offer. Ever wondered what’s the best place to camp in Florida? There are a handful of national parks with overnight camping options administered by Florida State Park. Whether opting for the comfort of an RV,…

12 Best Places To Live On The East Coast Of Florida In 2023

The Atlantic coast of Florida is highly in demand among people to make it their permanent address.   If you are planning to relocate to the east, then you should know the best places to live on the East Coast of Florida. This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those…

13 Most Romantic Florida Beaches for Couples in 2023

The blog takes you miles and miles of the best Florida beaches for couples to plan the best memorable trip. Also, walking around the best pedestrian-friendly towns in Florida can ignite a great romance between the two of you! The coastline of the Sunshine State is blessed with white or golden sugary sand, crystal clear water, and…

12 Great Day Trips From Tampa For Less Than $150

Located in the sunshine state of Florida, Tampa is a beautiful city to explore. With amazing waterways, happening city life, lovely restaurants, and spending time with kids in zoos, there are many places to enjoy on your day trips from Tampa. To get the flavor of the city, a Tampa day trip is a must…

6 Great Anna Maria Island Snorkeling Places to Explore

On the western side of Florida’s Central Gulf Coast sits Anna Maria, a quaint picturesque beach town on the Florida Gulf Coast that is a great destination for snorkeling. Also, it is one of the most attractive places in Florida, from watching gorgeous sunsets to relaxing on the beach, Anna Maria Island has a lot of exciting things…

I was looking for some beautiful honeymoon places in Florida. South beach of Miami us truly a romantic place. It has a amazing vibe and a splendid food scene that every traveler would love to enjoy.

Thank you, Alex, for your kind comment.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Honeymoon Destinations

15 Romantic Things to Do in Florida for Couples

So many options, so little time.

Westend61 / Getty Images

With white sand beaches, year-round sunshine, and exquisite dining, Florida is an obvious choice when looking for your next romantic getaway in the U.S. There are tons of fun things to do in Florida for couples, while also keeping things spontaneous and romantic. 

“For a romantic trip to Florida and to stay in a luxury hotel , I would budget at least $1,000 per day if you’re traveling between December and July. In the low season, you could get away for less,” reveals Florida-based travel advisor Kristina Miller.

Meet the Expert

Kristina Miller is a Florida-based travel advisor at Wanderlust Travel Adventures, a Virtuoso Agency .

Regarding the best time to visit, Miller says that the winter season in Florida is gorgeous. “Days are often sunny and hover in the high 70s. In the spring, the beaches start to warm up. And even though summer is hot and humid, it's great beach weather when the ocean feels like bath water.” If visiting in the fall , you may experience more afternoon thunderstorms and the risk of hurricanes, but Miller claims there are often amazing deals to be had, especially on dining and spas. 

Also, taking your romantic trip to the next level is never a bad idea. “Ask your hotel to set up a private beach dinner surrounded by candles or choose a room with an expansive ocean-view balcony. Some hotels even have private plunge pools,” she offers. 

Are you looking for a romantic getaway with your better half? Keep reading for 15 fun things to do in Florida for couples. 

Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Orlando

Getty Images

Going on a new adventure brings you together as a couple, so taking a ride on a hot air balloon is always a fun idea. There are a variety of hot air balloon companies in Orlando, like Bob’s Balloons . Couples can ride over the Orlando, Kissimmee, Disney World, or the Davenport areas on a flight customized just for them.

Horseback Riding in Amelia Island

Fulfill your dream of a romantic sunset horseback ride on Amelia Island. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to stroll into the ocean on the back of a horse. You’re likely to spot birds and other wildlife while soaking in the amazing scenery during your ride.

Dine With a Personal Champagne Cart in Destin

Courtesy of Champagne Social Co.

Roses, a candlelit dinner, chocolate-covered strawberries, and Champagne. Did those words spark an image of a romantic dinner with your partner? Now imagine it on the beach in the panhandle of Florida with a luxury Champagne cart, a picnic completely planned for you, and a personalized playlist. Sound ideal? Champagne Social Co. is Destin, Pensacola, and Santa Rosa’s go-to luxury drink and picnic service; it’s a women and BIPOC-owned and operated business started by two creative sisters.

Try Scuba Diving in Key West

Take advantage of the Florida waters and arrange a day full of water exploration. Couples can go scuba diving in Key West. Beginners can head to Captain’s Corner , a PADI-certified Dive Center that has Key West’s only on-site training pool. And if you’re both already certified to dive, hop on the boat and enjoy getting up close and personal with the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world.

Spot Dolphins in Naples

If you're looking to experience dolphin sightings, you've come to the right place. Naples has some of the most reported dolphin sightings, especially if you’re by the Naples Pier. Whether you’re in the area in the early morning or later in the evening, there’s a good chance you’ll see one.

Set Up a Romantic Picnic in Sunken Gardens

Couples looking for a unique way to dine outside without the hassle of packing a picnic, Sunken Gardens has a unique new offering. St. Pete Picnic Co. and Gather ‘Round and Graze have partnered to create a curated picnic experience at this natural botanical paradise . Picnics start at $165 and can be customized and built on from there.

Take Kitesurfing Lessons in Key Biscayne

Adventurous couples can take a break from sunbathing and try kitesurfing in the Miami area. Similar to surfing or wakeboarding, kiteboarding is a surface water sport that uses the power of the wind. It’s a fun way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the warm waters.

Arrange Romantic Waterfront Dining in Clearwater

At the end of the day, plan a romantic dinner by the water, or take a sunset cruise. Of course, you can keep things simple and just snuggle up on a blanket on the beach to wait for the perfect sunset. Top outdoor waterfront dining includes Teak , Bon Appetit , and Island Way Grill .

Stroll Through the Sculpture Exhibition in Rosemary Beach

Courtesy of Visit South Walton

Many couples admire Rosemary Beach simply for its unique design style that places everything within a short walk from the town center. However, the public art on display gives visitors another reason to slow down and enjoy the scenery. The Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition is an art show of contemporary outdoor sculptures on display throughout the town.

Explore the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami

While in Miami , visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens with free admission. According to the website, the museum is “an enduring, inclusive, and innovative place that inspires people to embrace the cultural vitality and environmental sustainability of the world around us.” They recently opened up a farmer’s market where couples can taste the artistry of local vendors as they explore the farm and village.

Go on a Culinary Journey in Miami

Courtesy of MILA Miami

The Miami area is adored for having a wide variety of culinary indulgences to choose from. Located in the heart of South Beach, MILA Miami , a 250-seat rooftop restaurant, has become the new “it” location with an energetic setting and new inventive menus . Other quality restaurants couples should try are Mr. Chow , Zuma , or Buya .

Enjoy a Couples Spa Treatment in Sandestin

Treat yourselves to a couples massage , you won’t regret it. For example, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has a special couples massage treatment at the resort’s award-winning Serenity by the Sea Spa . It’s offered in a specially designed private room for side-by-side massages and is popular with honeymooners . So are the relaxing and indulgent side-by-side spa pedicures!

Ride a Seaplane Over the Keys

Photo by Alec Douglas / Unsplash

Take an exhilarating ride over Key West from your own seaplane. You’ll cruise above the water for a unique vantage point to view sea life in the crystal blue waters below, including dolphins, tarpons, rays, hammerheads, and maybe even a manatee if you’re lucky. Check out Key West Seaplane Adventures or Keys Seaplanes to book your own.

Visit Lovers Key Beach in Bonita Springs

Experience the beauty of The Westin Cape Coral’s waterfront location, filled with extensive activities and elegant spaces. A short drive away, take a trip to Lovers Key Beach , a stunning two-mile-long sandy beach in Lovers Key Park. Spend the day lounging on the beach or take advantage of the many water sport options available to travelers, including kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, biking, and more.

Plan a Dog-Friendly Getaway in South Beach

Photo by Joël de Vriend / Unsplash

If you’re a couple that has a fur baby , take them with you because Florida tends to be extremely dog-friendly . Couples can stay at the pet-welcoming Kimpton Surfcomber . The hotel has a spa, cabanas, and direct access to the beach and South Beach Boardwalk with complimentary bikes. Couples who want to be more social can grab a craft cocktail at The Social Club , or dine al fresco at High Tide Beach Bar and Grill .

Related Stories

20 Best Cities in the U.S. for a Romantic Getaway

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Florida

23 Unique Bachelorette Party Destinations That Aren't Las Vegas

The 25 Best U.S. Honeymoon Destinations

20 Adventure Honeymoon Destinations for Thrill-Seeking Couples

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in the Florida Keys

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Fiji

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Napa Valley

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Spain

9 Amazing Destinations for Your Winery Bachelorette Party

The 50 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Italy

Where to Have Your Destination Wedding in Florida

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in the Maldives

28 Islands That Are Perfect Tropical Honeymoon Destinations

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Puerto Rico

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

24 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

From Jacksonville to Miami, here are 24 of the best weekend getaways in Florida.

SloMoe/Getty Images

From beach breaks to urban escapes, few spots beckon like the Sunshine State when it comes to fabulous and within-reach weekend getaways. Make it a city stay in Tampa’s buzzing downtown, plan for golden sands and high fashion in Palm Beach, or get a taste of laid-back Florida style on Amelia Island. Splurge on a short luxurious stay at one of Florida's best resorts . Read on for the best Florida weekend getaways, and start planning your next Sunshine State escape. 

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

A city break close to some of the dreamiest white-sand beaches in the U.S. awaits when you spend the weekend in Tampa , a stone’s throw from the glorious Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s west coast. The city welcomed its first true five-star hotel when The Tampa Edition opened in downtown’s revitalized Water Street Tampa district in late 2022. Spend your time strolling the Tampa Riverwalk’s urban parks, museums, and restaurants, and detour to the city’s best food hall at Armature Works , a former street car warehouse reborn as a hip indoor-outdoor hangout along the Hillsborough River.

St. Petersburg

SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images

With hundreds of murals by renowned street artists enlivening its urban corridor, the new cutting-edge St. Pete Pier (complete with a rooftop tiki bar, on-site conservation center, and bay beach), and historic cotton candy-pink hotels like The Vinoy and The Don CeSar , downtown St. Pete makes for a cheerful weekend away. The Dali Museum houses the largest collection of works by Salvador Dali outside of his native Spain. Nearby Central Avenue and Bayshore Drive are lined with cafes, boutiques, and breweries to explore.

pawel.gaul/Getty Images

Art, fashion, Florida’s best food scene, and an international feel make Miami one of the best weekend escapes in all of the U.S. Stay in Miami Beach at a stylish hotel like the oceanfront Faena or The Setai, or go for a more urban base in downtown Miami at East Miami or the Kimpton Epic Hotel . Two of Florida’s most incredible national parks — Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park — can transport you into nature surprisingly close to the urban metropolis. 

Fort Lauderdale

Yacht spotting, restaurant hopping, and biking, walking, and rollerblading along the beachfront promenade are just a few ways to spend a weekend getaway in Fort Lauderdale, where culture awaits within steps of the sand. Park your car for the weekend and explore the town on foot or aboard the Water Taxi , with stops near buzzing Las Olas Boulevard and Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale , as well as out at the beach.

Julie Culy/EyeEm/Getty Images

Roughly equidistant from Miami and Orlando along Florida’s east coast, Vero Beach is an upscale beach town with a walkable and compact pedestrian center where you’ll find a weekly farmers market, beachy boutiques, and oceanfront restaurants just steps from the sand. Hotel options offer something for everyone, from the romantic Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa and the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa to the quirky Driftwood Resort . 

Amelia Island

Ruth Peterkin/Getty Images

On Amelia Island, located just south of the Georgia border, marshy grasslands stretch to the horizon, golden beaches unspool for mile after lonely mile, and shrimp and grits are a staple on local menus. Rent a bike to explore the historic sites and undeveloped beaches at Fort Clinch State Park and pedal past downtown Fernandina’s cozy restaurants and shops. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is oceanfront on a sublime stretch of coastline.

Michael Warren/Getty Images

North of Orlando, Ocala is Florida’s horse country, home to farms and ranches (where champion Arabians are bred) and unique rolling landscapes in the otherwise flat state. The Equestrian Hotel is the place to stay, with a fabulous on-site spa, horse arenas that host regular competitions, and a glorious heated pool. Nearby, visit Rainbow Springs State Park to swim in crystal-clear spring-fed waters or paddle a canoe on the river to spot wading birds, turtles, and perhaps alligators, too.

Pgiam/Getty Images

You can pair time on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico sands with luxury shopping and fabulous dining when you make Naples your weekend escape. For a calming gulf-front stay, it’s hard to beat Edgewater Beach Hotel or LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort. Naples is a good launching point for day trips to nearby Everglades National Park , too, which you can adventure into during boat tours from nearby Everglades City.

Anna Maria Island

EyeMark/Getty Images

About an hour south of Tampa, Anna Maria Island has a quaint, Old Florida feel, with houses painted Easter egg hues, long powdery beaches, and no chain restaurants or mass resorts in sight. Rent a Surrey bike or golf cart to cruise around the island and explore, and don’t miss the local evening ritual — gathering at the beachfront SandBar restaurant to watch the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico.  

Kubrak78/Getty Images

For a Florida getaway that mixes world-class art with spectacular beaches in small-town surrounds, Sarasota is the spot. Hit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art , set on 66 tropical acres in the heart of the city, to scope its impressive European collection. Go restaurant and bar hopping in sophisticated St. Armand’s Circle, then decamp to the sands of nearby Longboat Key, where beachfront hotels like Zota Beach Resort and The Resort at Longboat Key Club beckon for swimming and sunbathing. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Whether you come to pack in the theme parks at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando or prefer to explore Orlando’s leafy downtown and nearby Winter Park, this Central Florida city has something for every type of traveler. The city’s food scene is booming, both at the parks and further afield, with Capa and omakase star Soseki among the Orlando restaurants boasting newly awarded Michelin stars. Cool off in freshwater springs during kayak outings at spots like Wekiwa Springs State Park , or try some offbeat wellness at the state’s first Beer Spa . 

The Space Coast

BrettCharlton/Getty Images

Some of the closest beaches to Orlando await less than an hour east of the city along Florida's Space Coast, where rockets regularly launch from Cape Canaveral and a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must. Take surf lessons along Cocoa Beach, where pro surfer Kelly Slater grew up, or along nearby Melbourne Beach. Time your visit for the summer months for the chance to see sea turtles laying their eggs during guided evening tours along Canaveral National Seashore and within Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge .

Anna Muradas/Getty Images

Just a 90-minute drive south of Miami, the Upper Florida Keys’ oasis of Islamorada is a Caribbean-feeling escape complete with snorkeling on coral reefs and offshore game fishing. When you stay at Hawks Cay Resort on neighboring Marathon, you can leave right from the property’s docks for excursions and stay in private vacation villas with all the amenities of home.

Warren-Pender/Getty Images

Experience a historic Central Florida getaway about two hours south of Orlando in the quaint town of Sebring. Stroll the gorgeous old-growth nature trails at Highlands Hammock State Park , head out on an airboat ride at Arbuckle Creek, or watch gators cruising a pond while you do some Florida wine tasting at Secret Gardens Winery.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Glittering Gulf of Mexico waters and powdery sands, with lots of ways to get out into nature off the beach, too, make the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area appealing for a few days away. You can snorkel along artificial shipwrecks on the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail or cycle along the Blackwater Heritage State Trail’s 8.1-mile paved route through habitats with excellent birdwatching. 

Panama City Beach

benedek/Getty Images

Panama City Beach might be known as a spring break destination, but it makes for an inviting getaway all year long. Its beaches reach peak beauty within St. Andrews State Park , where you can go birding, set out by bike to explore, or hop a passenger boat to undeveloped Shell Island, a barrier island just offshore. 

Everett Atlas/Getty Images

For a true Old Florida experience and some of the state’s best seafood, plan a weekend getaway to the quaint Gulf Coast hamlet of Cedar Key. On this cluster of islands fronting the Gulf of Mexico, commercial fishing is still a way of life, and flip-flops are as fancy as resort wear gets. Clam chowder, mullet dip, and Cedar Key oysters are among the local seafood specialties to try. When it comes to lodging, there are a few small inns and hotels as well as atmospheric vacation rentals perched on stilts at the water’s edge.

The Palm Beaches

Mariakray/Getty Images

Take your pick between West Palm Beach’s lively downtown (and a stylish urban stay at The Ben ), Delray Beach’s laid-back surf town scene, or posh stays at spots like The Breakers and Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa . Lovers of art and culture adore this stretch of Florida for its world-class museums and gardens like the Norton Museum of Art and the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . Amrit Ocean Resort is set to open along the coast here in 2023, adding to the area’s luxurious offerings.

Jacksonville

With beautiful beaches like Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Neptune Beach and happening downtown neighborhoods like San Marco, Avondale, and Riverside, Jacksonville has a good balance of beach and city attractions. Be sure to venture out to the Florida fishing village of Mayport to buy some Florida shrimp fresh from the boats. 

St. Augustine

With a compact and walkable downtown, the 17th-century  Castillo de San Marcos , and miles of golden beaches perfect for beginner surfers, St. Augustine mixes history and fun in the Florida sun. Stay right in town at the historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa or stay about 30 miles north along the oceanfront at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club and make St. Augustine a day trip between beach time.

xbrchx/Getty Images

There’s no need to rent a car to get around when you plan a weekend trip to Key West. Pedal a bike, rent a scooter, or ride the trolley to visit historic sites like The Hemingway Home & Museum and the island’s best deep-water beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park . Take in some Key West-style cabaret at La Te Da , do the Duval Street bar crawl, or book a sublime private island stay at Sunset Key Cottages , reached by a quick private boat shuttle from the docks right near Mallory Square.

JillianCain/Getty Images

Central Florida’s Lake County is pocketed with beautiful freshwater lakes and is home to some of Florida’s best birding. Make the historic lakefront town of Mt. Dora, 30 miles northwest of Orlando, your base and spend your days shopping for antiques, heading up on seaplane tours to see the lakes from overhead, and picking juicy citrus from local farms during orange and grapefruit season.

Fort Pierce

dosecreative/Getty Images

Home to one of Florida’s best weekend farmers markets , held every Saturday morning right along the Intracoastal Waterway, and a marina full of charter fishing boats, Fort Pierce is a Florida surprise. The city’s compact, historic downtown is home to the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery , devoted to Florida-inspired art, the Manatee Observation and Education Center , and the Sailfish Brewing Company , with beers brewed from local ingredients. 

Hutchinson Island

Cavan images/Getty Images

Easy to overlook when you’re not in the know, Martin County’s stretch of coastline along South Hutchinson Island sports some of Florida’s most scenic and uncrowded beaches beloved by kite surfers and sun seekers alike. Towns like Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Hobe Sound are full of spots locals like to keep to themselves, including the unusual limestone beach at Blowing Rocks Preserve , where rare leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles lumber ashore to nest. 

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Florida Chevron

The 21 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

By Terry Ward

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Many things can be said about the Sunshine State, but there's no denying its pull as a year-round destination for a weekend getaway or, if you can swing it, something longer. Particularly during the winter months, when much of the country is shoveling snow and scraping ice, the best things to do in Florida incorporate clear blue skies, wide and welcoming beaches, and a steady drip of Vitamin D that packs a powerful endorphin punch.

There's more than 1,300 miles of glorious coastline to explore here, from Northwest Florida all the way south to the Florida Keys, not to mention your choice of big cities, glitzy coastal enclaves and laid-back surf towns for a base. Favorable weather, affordability, water absolutely everywhere and appeal as a multi-generational vacation spot are just a few of the factors that make the state so attractive to visit. If you’re stumped on where to start, we’ve got you covered on the best weekend getaways in Florida to take—and our favorite to-dos to cross off on each one.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Florida’s it city right now is Tampa , which has found a place atop nearly every superlative list of late when it comes to American cities on the make and where to move. The buzz has much to do with downtown’s new wellness district, Water Street Tampa , anchored by luxury hotels like The Tampa EDITION and the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street (with Tampa’s highest rooftop bar, Beacon ) and booming with fun places to eat, among them brunch-favorite Boulon Brasserie , gastropub The Pearl , and happy hour hotspot Lona for margs and tacos al pastor.

Make time to stroll or bike along the Tampa Riverwalk to spots like Armature Work s, a stylish food hall within an old streetcar warehouse, and Stones Throw to slurp oysters in the open air along the Hillsborough River. Don’t sleep on Tampa’s other fun neighborhoods for some of the best things to do in Florida, like leafy Hyde Park just south of downtown along Hillsborough Bay where Palisociety just opened the intimate little Palihouse Hyde Park Village , a boutique hotel within walking distance of boutiques, parks and scenery new restos like Ro (come for nigiri and sashimi made with fresh fish flown in from Tokyo’s market). When you’re ready to hit the beach, St. Pete, Clearwater and pretty little Pass-a-Grille, a local’s favorite for sunset and sunbathing on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, are less than 40 minutes away.

Florida’s beaches take the limelight, but the state’s lake-covered interior is nothing short of spectacular in its own tranquil right–particularly in the central region of the state nicknamed the “Heartland” in and around the adorable towns of Sebring and Lake Placid (less than two hours south of Orlando).

Start at Highlands Hammock State Park , with a boardwalk trail through a cypress swamp among the miles of walking trails and diverse environments home to more rare and imperiled species than even the Everglades. Airboat Wildlife Adventures takes guests on thrilling airboat tours with gators to be seen everywhere in the backwaters of massive Lake Istokpoga (if the captain asks if you want the tame or wild version, go wild every time). And you can tour pretty Lake June and try tubing with Lake June Pontoons . The best restaurants to bookmark in the area include Faded Bistro & Beer Garden , ensconced in tropical gardens, Morty & Edna’s Craft Kitchen for delicious breakfasts alongside the Saturday market in Lake Placid and Cowpoke’s Watering Hole , where real Florida countryside vibes and steakhouse eats await.

Make the quaint Inn on the Lakes , fronting Lake Jackson in Sebring, your base and wake up to sunrises that paint the sky crimson and ibises strolling the lakeshore below your balcony. Major auto races throughout the year draw crowds just outside of the pretty town to the Sebring International Raceway . And there are more natural escapes at every turn, too, in this lovely and little-discovered region.

Crystal River

Most people come to the sleepy little Gulf Coast Florida town of Crystal River , about an hour north of Tampa, to swim with the many, many manatees that descend on spectacularly beautiful and cerulean freshwater springs like Three Sisters within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. They come, muck like human sun-seekers drawn to Florida, to stay warm and survive the cooler winter months (November to March). You can head out on pontoon or paddling tours to snorkel with the gentle giants, an absolutely unforgettable experience, with operators like Birds Underwater Dive Center or Paddles Outdoor Rentals . And while you can’t approach them, don't be surprised if they come right up to you for a nuzzle, which is perfectly acceptable and simply epic. The Plantation on Crystal River , an old-school hotel with a lagoon-style pool and rooms right on the river, also runs manatee tours right from its watery doorstep. There are a few great waterfront seafood restaurants to hit in these fascinating Florida backwaters, too, including Waterfront Social , with a tiki bar on Kings Bay, and West 82 Bar & Grill for great grouper tacos and fish sandwiches.

Mount Dora and Lake County

To the north and west of Orlando, the great little lakeside towns of Clermont and Mount Dora in Lake County make for a different kind of sunny Florida getaway where you can spend time shopping antique treasure troves, snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Alexander Springs Recreation Area and kayaking the mile-long Dora Canal between neighboring lakes with operators like Adventure Outdoor Paddle .

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

On flight-seeing seaplane tours with Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures , splash down in Lake Dora and spot for alligators as you fly over wild stretches of the Ocklawaha River. And don’t miss cocktails and a meal at The Goblin Market in Mount Dora’s historic downtown, where you can stay in style nearby at the Lakeside Inn , surrounded by oak trees draped with curtains of Spanish moss.

Pensacola and Perdido Key

You’re practically in Alabama by the time you venture this far into Northwest Florida, but it’s worth making the journey for some of the prettiest sands in the land as well as the interesting historic neighborhoods that await in Pensacola and the blizzard-white strip of blissful beaches along the barrier island of Perdido Key. For an urban stay, opt for the exquisite 15-room boutique hotel, Lily Hall , which opened in downtown Pensacola in 2023 within a historic Baptist church and is home to speakeasy and restaurant Brother Fox and Sister Hen .

Beyond Pensacola’s sublime beaches, experienced scuba divers love this stretch of Florida, too, for the chance to dive the wreck of the USS Oriskany–an 872-foot-long aircraft carrier-turned-artificial reed that’s just one of the fascinating underwater sights to explore along the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail .

The Palm Beaches

What’s great about the Palm Beaches is that you can make your stay here as fancy or buttoned down as you like. Will you bed down at one of the grand oceanfront dames, like The Breakers Palm Beach , Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa , or the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach , and spend your time sunning or at the spa? Or base across Lake Worth in downtown West Palm Beach instead at The Ben , a boutique hotel within walking distance to Las Olas Avenue’s shops and restaurants (use the complimentary house bikes to pedal across the bridge to hot Palm Beach restaurants like Henry’s Palm Beach and Sant Ambroeus) . You can go big on the greens at PGA National Resort . Or something quirkier, like a ship container Airbnb along the river in Jupiter at Headwaters Eco Retreat .

For some of Florida’s best snorkeling, no boat required, hit the Underwater Snorkeling Trail at Phil Foster Park , where you might spot oddities like octopuses, frog fish, and even eagle rays in the shallow waters near the Blue Heron Bridge in the Intracoastal Waterway.

Cocoa Beach

With an ongoing schedule of rocket launches , thanks to the commercial space industry here, Florida’s Space Coast—just east of Orlando on the Atlantic coast—is booming. For an authentic beach vacation close to nature where the focus is on the sun, surf, and sand, Cocoa Beach delivers with its pretty beaches and easy access to nature. There’s not much in the way of luxury resort life here, but Beach Place Guesthouses promise a lovely oceanfront stay with hammocks and palm trees everywhere and loaner surfboards at the ready. Make time for the short drive north to Titusville, where you can head out after sunset on bioluminescent paddling tours into the Indian River Lagoon with A Day Away Kayak Tours . Scout for alligators, manatees and roseate spoonbills while driving along the Black Point Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge , popular with birders. During the summer months, ranger-led sea turtle walks depart from here for a chance to spy nesting sea turtles laying their eggs on nearby Canaveral National Seashore.

Winter Park, Orlando

Orlando’s theme parks are just one reason to plan a trip to the city. What many travelers don't realize is that Orlando has far more to offer than park-hopping, including one of Florida’s most exciting food scenes, especially in the Mills 50 district, home to a surprising array of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian restaurants.

Explore the pretty bricked streets of the Winter Park neighborhood (which feels, dare we say, almost European?), near downtown, from a home base at boutique an art-centric property, Alfond Inn , within walking distance of buzzy restaurants like Italian favorite, Prato , and the Saturday morning Winter Park Farmers’ Market. You can head out by boat to tour the chain of lakes nearby, too.

Early 2024 will see the opening of Conrad Orlando in the sprawling Evermore Orlando Resort , with its sparkling man made lagoon and lavish vacation homes for rent. And near the airport, the neighborhood of Lake Nona and the Lake Nona Wave Hotel are ideally situated for strolling out to markets, dining and entertainment at places like Boxi Park and just getting some exercise in fresh air on pathways lining the area’s many lakes. In downtown Orlando, AC Hotel Orlando Downtown is within walking distance of the city’s green lung, Lake Eola Park, that hosts another excellent weekly farmers market on Sundays, complete with a beer garden under a canopy of live oak trees.

St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach

Two wings of the same bird, St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach, just west of downtown Tampa , deliver some of Florida’s most enviable white sand beaches, each with a distinct beach town ambience. Edgier St. Petersburg is known for its vast collection of street murals scattered throughout downtown, the Dalí Museum (with a great onsite cafe serving Spanish tortilla and crema Catalana) and grand hotels like the cotton candy-hued Don CeSar (on the beach), or The Vinoy , which recently emerged from a comprehensive renovation in 2023.

The spectacularly modern and intuitive St. Pete Pier —with its bikeable perimeter, rooftop tiki bar, beach on the bayfront, playground, and art installations—has completely upgraded the downtown St. Pete experience for pedestrians and is a joy to stroll.

Clearwater Beach gets crowded during peak vacation times but skews extra family friendly, with sands that are particularly powdery, shallow waters for swimming, nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60, and stylish beach resorts fronting the Gulf of Mexico that include the Sandpearl Resort , Opal Sands Resort , and the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach .

Panama City

Spring breakers make for Panama City Beach. But neighboring Panama City proper is a Panhandle revelation home to an Oyster Trail with a dozen restaurants proffering the fruits of the local Gulf and a burgeoning Mural Trail , too. Less than a five-hour drive from cities like Atlanta , Birmingham, New Orleans , and Jacksonville, Panama City—with its historic downtown and easy access to the nearby sugar sand beaches of Panama City Beach—might surprise you. Right downtown, the History Class Brewing Company is a brand new gastropub that nods to the city’s history with old time artifacts in its design, and mango and guava infused wheat beer on tap. Don’t miss a visit to nearby Historic St. Andrews , ten minutes away, a funky fishing village with streets lined with oyster shells, a few decent waterfront restaurants for a seafood meal, and pretty Oaks by the Bay Park, with its highly Instagrammable and ancient oak tree, "Old Sentry," estimated to be more than 250 years old. Stay nearby at The Pearl in Rosemary Beach, where a boardwalk over the dunes leads to the most beautiful beach.

Jacksonville Beaches

The first major beach resort area you hit heading south along Interstate-95 into Florida, the Jacksonville Beaches are a string of several laid-back and surf-centric communities. Atlantic Beach—home to the oceanfront One Ocean resort, retro boutique hideaway The Hotel Palms and miles of dunes backed with stately oceanfront homes—and the friendly little surf community of Neptune Beach are our favorites for their untrammeled-by-the-masses appeal. If you’re here on the third Thursday of the month, the monthly Art Walk in Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach is a perfect outdoor outing before grabbing dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, like the open-air Sliders Oyster Bar or Flying Iguana , with excellent margs and guacamole prepped tableside.You can mingle with the locals during a beach cleanup event organized by Beaches Go Green .

St. Augustine

It’s an easy 33-mile road trip south from Jacksonville to visit St. Augustine, which claims to be the oldest city in the U.S. and is home to historic sites and preserved buildings, such as the 17th century Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (check the website for closures), a Spanish fortress with a commanding waterfront location. If you’re a surfer, catch some waves at Vilano Beach before sunset cocktails just back from the breakers at The Reef .

Naples and Marco Island

Continuing south from Fort Myers, the areas of Naples and nearby Marco Island make up Florida’s Paradise Coast, which has a tropical feel thanks to the mangroves (and mangoes, when in season, from late May to October) everywhere. You’re also close to one of the most renowned wilderness areas in the U.S., Everglades National Park . The Gulf Coast Visitors Center entrance is in Everglades City—an easy road trip of less than an hour southeast of Naples—where you can head out on pontoon boat cruises into the Ten Thousand Islands then feast on stone crab claws for lunch at the dockside Camellia Street Grill as air boats and fishing boats cruise by. For a beautiful beach stay that will facilitate all those nature outings and plenty of strolls past the outdoor cafes along Naples' Fifth Avenue, make your base LaPlaya Beach Resort or Edgewater Beach Hotel in Naples. Another beachfront beauty, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is better than ever after emerging from comprehensive renovations in 2023, with a brand new tower and Champagne lobby bar among the many upgrades.

Just south, on Marco Island, the JW Marriott Marco Island is known for its excellent rum bar on the beach, world-class spa and dedicated adults-only wing, Paradise by Sirene, with Balinese-inspired rooms and a private rooftop pool and sundeck.

Less than two hours south of Orlando, Vero Beach is the spot along Florida’s Atlantic Coast where things start to take a turn toward the truly sub-tropical, South Florida vibe—you’ll notice it in the emerald tangles of palms and sea grapes, and the that-much-bluer-than-justp-north hues of the water lapping the coast here. Lanai suites at the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa —a boutique oceanfront spot that's just a quick stroll to all the shops and cafes downtown—make for a comfortable and convenient stay. And nearby Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa , also oceanfront, is particularly appealing for a couples escape, with stroll-out suites on the ground floor that are just steps from the beachfront hot tub and sand.

Make time to check out nearby Sebastian Inlet, popular with surfers and anglers, and plan to kayak into the Indian River Lagoon with a rental from the Environmental Learning Center, where you’ll also find boardwalks and marine life exhibits to explore. For something fun with kids in tow (or if you're feeling lucky), rent a metal detector from the Mel Fisher Treasure Museum and try your hand at treasure hunting at Wabasso Beach—after all, this is the Treasure Coast, and people still regularly find loot (coins, jewelry and the like) from the 1715 fleet of Spanish treasure ships that wrecked in a hurricane just offshore.

Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce, and Jensen Beach

Often overlooked by people beelining it between Vero Beach and Fort Lauderdale on Florida’s East Coast, Fort Pierce and Hutchinson Island just, in St. Lucie and Martin counties, are the spots to channel a slice of forgotten Florida on miles of uncrowded beaches (you can even go horseback riding on the sand here). Base yourself beachfront at Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa in Jensen Beach where you can get around easily by bike to explore. The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center , on Hutchinson Island, fronts the Intracoastal Waterway and rehabilitates sea turtles, rays and nurse sharks, which swim in pretty lagoons fed by Indian River. Fort Pierce has a cute downtown area anchored by Sailfish Brewing Company and is the place to head out on a charter fishing trip into the Gulf Stream to troll for mahi.

Beaches of South Walton

For the kind of water you thought only lived on screen savers and sand so fine you’ll want to pop it into an hourglass, the beaches of South Walton in Florida’s Panhandle rise to the top. Vacation rentals where you can sip your morning coffee as dolphins pass by just offshore are plenty in spots like Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, and Seaside. In Sandestin, Hotel Effie , has a swanky rooftop pool and lounge. And iconic gulf coast properties like the WaterColor Inn , fronting the Gulf of Mexico, put you right along Scenic 30A, where you can drive with coastal views, stop to paddle in freshwater dune lakes (a rare phenomenon that happens only here and a few other places in the world, including Madagascar) or make a stop for some beer-tasting at the Grayton Brew Company . Ecotourism opportunities get you out enjoying Florida’s nature at every turn along this stretch of coastline, whether by ebike along the sandy backroads or from the seat of a kayak, exploring Northwest Florida’s best watery trails.

Anna Maria Island

Often overlooked by visitors drawn to the big name beaches of St. Pete and Clearwater, this largely residential island just south on the gulf coast, less than an hour from Tampa and about 30 minutes north of Sarasota, is a slice of old Florida many don’t realize exists. Anna Maria Island is a great place to score a vacation rental on a canal or fronting the Gulf of Mexico. ( Pineapplefish has the prettiest of the bunch), or you can stay in nearby Holmes Beach at the Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club , with slips for travelers with boats in tow.

The best beachfront hotel to open of late is Mello on the Beach , an adorable low-rise property just steps from the sand that channels a Palm Springs vibe with mid century-inspired furniture, pastel color pops everywhere and a boomerang-shaped pool stocked with fun floaties.

Anna Maria Island is blissfully bereft of chain stores and golf carts are the preferred mode of transport. You can pedal around by bike everywhere, too, with a Surrey (or regular) bike rental from Beach Bums.

Sarasota and Longboat Key

To mix an artsy town with some of Florida’s most gorgeous gulf beaches, spend your vacation exploring downtown Sarasota and the neighboring beaches of Longboat Key, less than 90 minutes south of Tampa. Make a gulf front room at Zota Beach Resort or a beachfront condo with several bedrooms just back from the dunes (and a lovely beachfront barbecue area for grilling) at Sand Cay Beach Resort your base on this sublime stretch of coastline. For more luxury on the beach, level up with a stay at The Resort at Longboat Key Club , located at the pristine southernmost tip of Longboat Key. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is also slated to up the accommodation ante here in 2024 with a magnificent beachfront setting, 166 rooms and luxury condos.

When you need a break from the sand and sun, cross the bridge to downtown Sarasota, home to the magnificent Ringling Museum of Art, named for the circus baron and housing an incredible collection of European Old Masters paintings within bayfront grounds landscaped with tropical flowers and trees. For contemporary art, the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College , inside the town's gothic style former high school, is worth a visit. And when it’s time for slurping more oysters with river views, Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar is just a short drive south.

Miami Beach

Miami is booming with vacationers who wouldn’t have Florida any other way—that is, with its warm-as-the-Caribbean waters and intoxicating multicultural vibe. Miami Beach always beckons for a stay fronting the Atlantic Ocean at ultra-luxe spots like The Setai or The Faena , and Art Deco icons like adults-only property The National Hotel. But downtown Miami and neighborhoods like Brickell, Wynwood ,and the latest creative hub Little River are worth toweling off for to explore. Off the sand, book a room overlooking Biscayne Bay at the Mandarin Oriental Miami or the Kimpton EPIC Hotel , with one of the city’s most swoon-worthy rooftop pools. Make time to venture away from the sand and city and onto the water itself with a boat tour into Biscayne National Park that departs from Coconut Grove with the Biscayne National Park Institute and visits spots like Stiltsville (where wooden houses over above the clear water) and Boca Chita Key.

Not to be lumped in with Miami Beach, just south, pedestrian-friendly Surfside sprawls across a short half-square mile and beckons with tangible family-friendly appeal. The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club (a Gold List winner for 2024) is a favorite thanks to its Art Deco style, incredible bar program with a seasonal retro-chic cocktails, complimentary kids club, adults-only pool, and gorgeous beachfront setting. Surfside’s compact downtown district, along Harding Avenue, just a few blocks from the beach, brims with boutiques and restaurants (beeline it for the crunchy spicy tuna latkes at Josh’s Deli). From May to November—during walks along the beach in the mornings, in particular—keep your eyes open for sea turtle hatchlings making a break for the ocean.

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys and Key West might be one of the best weekend getaways in Florida that connects you with what a true vacation in this state is all about. Made mostly of coral, the islands that make up the Keys aren’t known for their beaches at all, although there are a few of those (the stretch at Bahia Honda State Park , good for snorkeling right from the beach in grassy flats just offshore, is one of the finest). Your best bet for watery fun in the Florida Keys, however, is to get out onto—and, preferably, into—the turquoise waters via boat trips, snorkeling excursions, or on a kayak or stand up paddle board. You’ll want to be back on land in time for the ritual of sunset spectating, of course, to toast with something tropical and frosty. Key West has the bulk of the resorts and hotels, as well as endless restaurants and bars to explore. But low-key, world class resorts abound throughout the Florida Keys, and include two noteworthy adults-only havens: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , on its own private island, and Bungalows Key Largo . To feel like you're in Santorini, with white washed buildings and water views at every turn, Isla Bella Beach Resort on Marathon is truly transporting, too.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

25 Interesting Weekend Getaways In Florida

April 3, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you looking for a list of the most interesting weekend getaways in Florida? This guide has all of the best options for Florida weekend getaways!

Since Florida is filled with so many amazing destinations, that means there are tons of awesome options for a weekend getaway in Florida. Relax on a beach on a beautiful island, immerse yourself in the culture and history of a city, or escape into nature at a natural spring.

Bring a friend, a significant other, a family member, or explore solo as you take a few days to get away.

Whichever options you choose, there are some great weekend getaways in Florida to enjoy.

Explore Amelia Island

If you’re hoping to take a little trip to the north of the state, Amelia Island might be one of the best weekend getaways in Florida for you!

There are a few must-do things during your time on Amelia Island. First, go horseback riding on the beach – you’re not allowed to do so anywhere else in Florida.

Second, spend some time scouring the shores for shark teeth. These black or white treasures can be hard to spot for beginners, but they’re well worth the effort!

And finally, be sure to explore the fun-filled Fernandina Beach historic district. Stop at one of the best restaurants in town before hitting the beach.

Amelia Island is truly one of the best weekend getaways in the south that you shouldn’t miss!

Where To Stay On Amelia Island: The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island has a flair for luxury, perfect for splurging on a Florida weekend getaway. However, there are a variety of hotels in Amelia Island for every budget.

Enjoy The Nature Of Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest is perfect for those who are trying to escape the city and into nature. Between the springs, trails, camping spots, and lakes, you’ll get to enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs are both located in Ocala National Forest. These two springs are perfect for kayaking, swimming, and scuba diving. It’s no wonder that they are two of the best natural springs in North Florida .

If visiting stunning natural springs sounds like your perfect way to spend weekend getaways in Florida, check out our in-depth tips for visiting the beautiful Juniper Springs !

If you’d prefer to stay dry, Ocala National Forest also has hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails.

Where To Stay Near Ocala National Forest: To remain close to this beautiful national forest, consider staying at the nearby Hampton Inn & Suites Ocala .

Seep in the History of St. Augustine

Colonized by Spanish explorers over 200 years before the establishment of the United States, St. Augustine is a city with great historical significance. While there are, of course, modern elements in St. Augustine, many of the most interesting things to do in the city have a bit of history.

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the greatest example of this. The fortress was built to protect the Spanish-occupied city from other interested parties and is arguably one of the best things to see in Florida .

In addition to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, you can also check out the shops on George Street, soak up the sun at St. Augustine Beach, and find the secret to longevity at Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archeological Park.

For history lovers, St. Augustine is a great place for weekend getaways in Florida…particularly for those who like to be spooked! Check out a ghost tour or even stay in one of the haunted hotels .

Where To Stay In St. Augustine: If you’ve come to St. Augustine for the history, that doesn’t have to end once you’re done perusing the town. Even if you’d rather not stay in one of the haunted hotels, you can still spend the night at one of the many historic inns dotting the city, such as At Journey’s End Bed & Breakfast .

Relax At Ginnie Springs

Arguably one of the prettiest springs in Florida , Ginnie Springs is also one of the most affordable romantic weekend getaways in Florida.

While there are hundreds of springs in Florida, there are a couple of features that set Ginnie Springs apart from the others.

First, the seven springs that makeup Ginnie Springs have some of the clearest waters found in any of Florida’s natural springs. Second, the limestone of these seven springs is built in such a way that there are tons of underwater caves for divers to explore.

Spend your time at the springs swimming, paddling, or tubing in the beautiful water.

Where To Stay Near Ginnie Springs: While you can camp at Ginnie Springs, you can also stay at the nearby Holiday Inn Exp ress & Suites Alachua – Gainsville Area .

Soak Up The Sun In Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach has long been known as one of the very best beaches in Florida . Consequently, it should be no surprise that Cocoa Beach is also one of the greatest weekend getaways in Florida.

While you can, of course, soak up the sun or enjoy a delicious happy hour at one of the local restaurants , Cocoa Beach’s surf scene is really where it gets its fame. Wake up early to see locals shredding the waves – or maybe try catching a few waves yourself if they’re not too big!

You can also head to the Ron Jon Surf Shop, which is the largest surf shop in the world, and wander around the Florida Surf Museum.

Where To Stay In Cocoa Beach: Situated within minutes of the Cocoa Beach city center and the miles of sandy coastline, the Beach Place Guesthouses are an ideal place to stay in Cocoa Beach.

Sail Around The Florida Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is a huge protected swath of land filled with some of Florida’s most amazing – and dangerous – wildlife. The Everglades is one of the best weekend getaways in Florida for those looking for adventure.

Most visitors to the Everglades National Park opt to take a wildlife tour by boat (specifically by airboat ) to have the best possible experience. By doing so, you’ll have a greater chance of seeing some of the coolest creatures in Florida, including alligators, manatees, and Florida panthers.

Where To Stay Near The Everglades National Park: If you’re hoping to stay as close to the Everglades as possible, consider staying at the Ivy House Bed & Breakfast in Everglades City.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious accommodation, head to Marco Island, where you’ll find the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort .

Explore The Hidden Gems Of Sarasota

Sarasota may be one of the most underrated weekend getaways in Florida. Situated on the Gulf Coast, Sarasota is home to beautiful beaches and fantastic weather.

But that’s not all there is to do in Sarasota. One of the best things to do in this seaside city is to pay a visit to The Ringling, the official state art museum of Florida and home to thousands of stunning pieces of artwork.

Another activity just as unique as The Ringling is Beer Can Island . Covered in fallen trees, this turquoise beach looks like a movie set! It’s perfect if you’re looking for something off-the-radar or for a cool photoshoot spot.

Where To Stay In Sarasota: The elegant Carlisle Inn Sarasota is a great pick for a weekend trip to this Florida city. Or you can stay in one of these Sarasota rentals !

Take A Dip In The Water In The Palm Beaches

The Palm Beaches, also known as Palm Beach County, is home to many different oceanfront cities, including West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach. All of these cities make for fantastic weekend getaways in Florida.

Each of the cities in The Palm Beaches offers something a little different. However, all of them are known for one thing: the beaches – and just about any water-based activity that you can imagine. Catch the sunrise at Delray Beach, get your adrenaline pumping at Rapids Water Park, and even dive for eels at Blue Heron Bridge!

Where To Stay In The Palm Beaches: It’s fairly well-known that The Breakers Palm Beach is the best place to stay in The Palm Beaches area. Why not choose this resort for your Florida weekend getaway?

Spend Some Quality Time On St. George Island

St. George Island may be one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Florida. As part of Florida’s “Forgotten Coast,” St. George Island is a wonderful, secluded place where you can get away to spend some quality time with your partner.

Your trip to St. George Island can be packed with activities or as relaxing as possible. You can stand up paddleboard through the water, dine on famous oysters, or stargaze under the unpolluted night sky. Climb the stairs of the historic lighthouse for some beautiful views!

Where To Stay On St. George Island: To get the most of the ocean during your time on St. George Island, why not stay at an oceanfront accommodation, such as the Gulf Getaway ?

Relax At Lovers Key State Park And Fort Myers

Fort Myers is a vacationer’s paradise. With endless sunshine and fresh seafood restaurants , you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to your dream tropical island! It also happens to be home to the Edison and Ford winter estates, a historic landmark once occupied by two of the greatest inventors in American history.

Situated right next to Fort Myers is Lovers Key State Park. With both saltwater and freshwater areas, this is where you want to go to catch a glimpse of Florida’s wildlife. Spot everything from manatees to shorebirds to dolphins!

Where To Stay In Lovers Key State Park And Fort Myers: Thanks to its ideal location and great service, the Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers – Colonial Boulevard is one of the most popular hotels in Fort Myers.

Head Out Into Nature At Rock Springs And Wekiwa Springs

If the trip to Ginnie Springs caught your eye, consider adding Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs to your list of potential weekend trips in Florida. Situated next to each other, these two springs near Orlando are filled with brilliant blue waters and gorgeous green nature.

Both of these springs have very similar activities: swimming, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Rather than driving between these two springs, you can actually kayak between the two, which is quite a fun adventure.

Where To Stay Near Rock Springs And Wekiwa Springs: The friendly staff and elegant décor make the Sheraton Orlando North a great place to stay when visiting Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs.

Do A Little Shelling On Sanibel And Captiva Islands

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are often referred to as sister islands. Despite their many similarities, each island has its own personality. As two of the best islands in Florida , they are great options for weekend getaways in Florida.

Sanibel Island is most well-known for its shelling . Its beaches are littered with shells from all sorts of sea creatures, including conches, scallops, and whelks. Do know that it is illegal to take shells if animals are still living inside!

Captiva Island is the quirkier of the two islands. While the shelling of Sanibel Island makes its mark through the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, there are gems that are unique to Captiva Island, including a Christmas-themed restaurant!

Where To Stay On Sanibel and Captiva Islands: The cute, oceanfront accommodation known as Tarpon Tale Inn is a wonderful place to stay on Sanibel Island.

Take In Everything Tampa Has To Offer

Tampa may be one of the most overlooked weekend getaways in Florida. This Gulf Coast city is filled with nature, culture, and even a touch of history, making it a great destination for just about everyone.

One of the things Tampa is known for is its beaches. With 361 days of sunshine per year, it’s no surprise that locals and visitors alike can be found lounging on Tampa’s best beaches .

Beyond beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Tampa . Ride thrilling rollercoasters at Busch Gardens, take a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, or see your favorite wildcats at the Big Cat Rescue. At night, take in the views from a rooftop bar or restaurant.

Where To Stay In Tampa: The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is one of the most in-demand accommodations in Tampa.

Take A Road Trip Through The Florida Keys

After Orlando, the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys may be the most visited part of the Sunshine State. With about 1,700 islands in the Keys, you’ll definitely have to pick and choose which ones are worth a stop on your road trip .

We recommend Key Largo, Islamorada, or Key West for fun weekend getaways in Florida.

Between these islands, there is so much to do. Wind your way through John Pennekamp Coral State Park on Key Largo. Take in the wide array of fish swimming around Islamorada. Or visit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. on Key West.

For planning epic weekend getaways to the Keys, we’ve created a whole Florida Keys Itinerary E-Book and Planning Pack !

Where To Stay In The Florida Keys: Between all of the islands of the Florida Keys, there are tons of places to stay, each with a different environment. If you’d like to stay on the most popular island of Key West, consider Courtney’s Place Historic Cottages & Inns .

Explore Key Biscayne 

Despite what its name implies, Key Biscayne is not part of the Florida Keys. Instead, this amazing Florida weekend getaway is just 15 minutes outside of Miami!

While on Key Biscayne, be sure to visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park for a little slice of untouched nature. If you’re a golfer, consider heading to the amazing Crandon Golf Course.

For a bit of adventure, take a boat tour of Stiltsville, a set of abandoned homes and businesses built of the coast of Key Biscayne.

Where To Stay On Key Biscayne: Why not splurge during your stay on Key Biscayne by staying at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami ?

Visit Manatees In Homosassa

Homosassa, Florida may be the unofficial manatee capital of Florida. Nearly all of the best things to do in this Florida city revolve around this gentle sea creature. It makes one of the best places for weekend getaways in Florida for animal lovers!

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is home to an underwater manatee observatory. Since it can be difficult to get a good glimpse of a manatee from above, this underwater observatory is perfect!

Just outside of Homosassa, there is the Three Sisters Spring in Crystal River . While there, you can actually swim with the manatees, which you are not allowed to do at most Florida springs.

Where To Stay In Homosassa: As a relatively small area, Homosassa isn’t home to many hotels, resorts, and accommodations. That said, the Ri v erfront Treetop Bungalow is the highest-rated place to stay in Homosassa.

Immerse Yourself In The Culture Of Miami 

Miami is truly a one-of-a-kind city and makes for fun weekend getaways in Florida. There’s so much to do in this fun-filled destination, making a weekend in Miami a wonderful idea.

The two main highlights of Miami are the beaches and the culture, and you’ll have to experience both during your weekend getaway.

To experience Miami’s beach scene, head to South Beach. This well-known Miami beach has established a name for itself through its teal waters and never-ending fun. Combine your time in South Beach with a stroll along Espanola Way, where you can listen to wonderful music and dine on delicious food.

To experience Miami’s cultural scene, there’s both Little Havana and Miami’s Art District. In Little Havana, you can get a little taste of Cuba through food, drink, games, and music. While in the Wynwood Art District, you can peruse both street art as you walk and fine art in the many galleries.

Where To Stay In Miami: South Beach is the most famous part of Miami, so why not stay there at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach ?

Discover What Marco Island Has To Offer

Marco Island is nicely situated between two other amazing weekend getaways in Florida: Naples and the Florida Everglades National Park.

This island is filled with things to do . Walk along the breathtaking stretch of sand known as South Marco Island Beach. Enjoy a boat tour from the Isles of Capri Marina. Or maybe take some time to visit the Marco Island Historical Museum.

If you really would like to find an under-the-radar attraction, head to the abandoned Florida domes, one of the hidden gems of Florida . These domes were actually once part of a millionaire’s home, but, since they have been abandoned, they have become a resting place for many of the state’s sea birds.

Where To Stay In Marco Island: If you have a taste for luxury and want to stay close to everything that Marco Island has to offer, consider staying at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort .

Shop Your Way Through Naples

Naples is a posh counterpart to many of the other weekend getaways in Florida. Full of boutique shopping and golfing, Naples offers something a little bit different.

One of the main highlights of Naples is the shopping and it is abundant. Head to Third Street South or Fifth Avenue South to find all of the latest fashion trends. As for golfing, the Tiburon Golf Club/Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort is the most popular option.

Once you’re shopped out, take a boat tour and you might be lucky enough to spot some dolphins!

Where To Stay In Naples: Just as the city of Naples, Florida shares the name with an Italian town, the elegant Bellasera Resort draws inspiration from the Tuscan region of Italy.

Find Your Perfect Activity In Pensacola Beach

Situated along Florida’s panhandle , Pensacola Beach is often overlooked. But this city makes for one of the most amazing weekend getaways in Florida.

Pensacola Beach is one of those cities that has a little something for everyone. If you’re a history buff, check out Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas. If you’d prefer to take to the skies, pay a visit to the National Naval Aviation Museum. Or if you’d prefer to spend some time on the area’s famed beaches , head to the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Where To Stay In Pensacola Beach: If you want your accommodation in Pensacola Beach to be just as exciting as the activities you have planned, consider staying at Margaritaville Beach Hotel .

Kick Back on Key West

Rather than road-tripping through the Florida Keys, you can spend a perfectly wonderful weekend on Key West . While the Keys are all great options for weekend getaways in Florida, Key West is perhaps the most popular.

Wander through the colorful houses of the historic district, and say hello to the six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. Then soak up the sun on one of Key West’s beautiful beaches , and be sure to try some Key Lime Pie!

For a special stop near Key West, visit Dry Tortugas National Park for stunning views and the historic Fort Jefferson. This National Park is one of the southern-most parks in the US, and because of its remote location is a great place to relax.

Where to Stay In Key West: For one of the more unique weekend getaways in Florida, you can stay in a luxury yacht docked in a Key West marina!

Feel Like You’re In a Movie in Seaside

Did you know the 1998 film  The Truman Show was filmed in a real place? The charming beach town of Seaside sits in the corner of northwest Florida and makes a great location not only for film sets but for weekend getaways in Florida!

Some of the best things to do in Seaside include swimming at Seagrove Beach and eating along Airstream Row. You’ll fall in love with the pastel-colored houses and unique beach pavilions.

Plus, Grayton Beach State Park is right nearby, offering trails to hike or bike.

Where To Stay In Seaside: You can stay in this cute small home, S’more , that was featured in Designing for Small Homes. It’s just steps from the beach!

Stay At An All-Inclusive Resort

If you’re looking to relax during your weekend getaway in Florida, treat yourself to an all-inclusive resort! “All-Inclusive” means meals, drinks, and accommodations are all taken care of so that you can sit back and enjoy your time.

The all-inclusive resorts in Florida can make for some of the best weekend getaways in Florida, especially if you’re traveling with a significant other. If you really want some tranquility, try out one of the adult-only resorts!

Enjoy some peace and quiet, visit the spas, take advantage of water sports equipment, and drink as many cocktails as you’d like! All while not having to calculate how much it’s going to cost.

Where to Stay In An All-Inclusive Resort : For a laidback, all-inclusive stay right on the beach near Tampa, try Sirata Beach Resort .

Enjoy Nature In Destin

Another one of the perhaps underrated places for weekend getaways in Florida is Destin. There are many things to do in Destin , such as exploring nature or taking a swing on the many golf courses.

Like many of the beaches on the Panhandle, Destin’s beaches are warm and clear. Visit one of the most beautiful state parks, Henderson Beach State Park, where you can swim in emerald waters.

Destin is also known as “the luckiest fishing village in the world”! If you’re feeling lucky, you can take a charter boat for fishing, touring, or snorkeling. Whether you catch anything or not, you can still enjoy fresh seafood at some of the best restaurants in Destin.

Where To Stay In Destin : At Calypso Cottage , you’ll have private beach access plus two pools to choose from!

Go For A Ride in Orlando

If theme parks are your thing why not take a weekend getaway to Orlando? Home to both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, it’s one of the most popular places for weekend getaways in Florida.

At Disney World , you can pick which parks you want to explore, such as Epcot or Magic Kingdom. There you can eat, explore, and ride to your heart’s content. It is the most magical place on Earth, after all!

Meanwhile, Universal consists of Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Island of Adventure. At Universal is where you’ll find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

However, if theme parks aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of things to do in Orlando that aren’t park-related !

Where To Stay In Orlando : If you’re doing a weekend getaway at Disney, you might as well stay at a Disney resort, like Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort , which gives you a luxe experience without the hefty price tag.

We hope that whatever vibe you’re looking for that this list has inspired your weekend getaways in Florida! Even just a weekend away is enough time to explore a new or well-loved part of Florida.

16 Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, Florida

Are you traveling to Destin with your loved one and are looking for what to do? This article will give you the most romantic things to do in Destin, Florida !

Nicknamed the “Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast” for its vast expanses of powdery white beaches and emerald-green water waters, Destin has tons of fun things to do for couples.

There’s a little something for every kind of traveler from museums, galleries, historic sites, and fun experiences that will bring you closer as a couple.

Disclosure:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

Perched on the tip of the Continental Shelf, this seaside town, nicknamed “the world’s luckiest fishing village” is blessed with shallow waters making it a perfect destination for the adventurous couple.

Whether you want to rekindle your romance on a deep-sea fishing excursion, a moonlight stroll, or say I love you on a dolphin sunset cruise, this article will show you all the romantic things to do in Destin Fl.

Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, Florida

Regardless of whether you’re planning a romantic getaway in Destin Florida or are a local looking for new Destin date ideas, this post will help you.

1. Swing by the Destin History & Fishing Museum

Sschermerhorn , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re a history-loving couple, start your Destin trip at this quaint little museum which takes you back in time to the 1830s.

You’ll learn how Destin became an official city in 1984 and its historic fishing industry.

The museum also organizes various exhibits including one which explains Destin’s white-colored sand and emerald-colored waters, the history of diving in Destin, and many others.

It also houses various fish mounts on its walls, historic photos, maps, memorabilia, antique fishing equipment, the oldest seine fishing boat, and more. While here, don’t miss the historic post office too.

The museum personnel are knowledgeable and passionate locals who’ll regale you with tales of the town’s founding families and gigantic fish mounts.

Though visiting the History & Fishing Museum might sound unconventional for couples, it’s the perfect place to duck into during inclement weather.

Related Post: Airports near Destin FL

2. Go For A Sunset Dolphin Cruise for a Close Encounter

Imagine riding the waves in a small group boat cruise with the love of your life while curious and happy dolphins frolic about in their natural habitat and put on a show for you! Nothing beats this feeling!

While you can go on a cruise any time, we recommend going for this dolphin sunset cruise for a truly unforgettable spectacle of these majestic sea creatures with the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.

And since it’s not a crowded cruise, you’ll still have that romantic feeling rather than on a crowded one since this cruise is specific to only 14 people and sometimes fewer.

>>> Click here to book your dolphin sunset cruise before spots run out!

Another way to encounter dolphins is by going for this Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise . Unlike the usual cruises, this one uses a hydrojet to make it a more thrilling experience as you view dolphins, stingrays, and turtles along the way.

>>> Click here to book a spot on this hydrojet dolphin cruise .

3. Stroll the Atmospheric Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Among the fun things to do in Destin for couples is taking a walk down the pretty Destin Harbor Boardwalk which also is home to one of Florida’s largest fishing fleets.

This free activity will keep you entertained for hours on end. You can watch party boats, pontoons, and fishing charters sail in and out of the harbor, listen to the cries of the gulls, or even pick up exquisite souvenirs at the many bric-a-brac stores.

And when you’re done walking around, sit at one of the waterfront restaurants with spellbinding ocean views for a delicious meal of either oysters, shrimp & grits, or sushi rolls. Follow this up with a night of dancing at any of the harborfront Destin bars .

4. Go On A Destin Harbor Night Cruise

While cruising on the Destin harbor is rewarding during the day, you can take your experience to the next level by opting for this Destin nighttime cruise .

On this cruise, you’ll take in the beauty of the sparkling night lights of Destin’s skyline and their reflection on the water while you toast to your loved one.

The cruise is intimate with just 6 people allowed on board so you’ll feel like you rented your own boat.

Make sure that you carry your drinks, snacks, and a warm sweater before you go.

>>> Click here to book your spot on this Destin harbor night cruise before the cruise books out!

5. Hire Private Chartered Slide Pontoon Boat To Crab Island

Boat cruises on the Destin Harbor are no doubt romantic but what’s even more special is renting this private chartered pontoon boat to have the entire boat to yourselves.

Perfect for when you’re celebrating a special occasion or if you want to enjoy the Destin waters on your own, with a private chartered boat, you’ll have a private captain take you anywhere you feel like including the famous Crab Island .

On this cruise, you’ll have a chance of spotting dolphins and if you’re adventurous, you can go snorkeling or paddle boarding using the provided equipment! Honestly, you can’t ask for a more romantic thing to do in Destin than this.

If you want to treat your loved one to this activity, click here to book the private chartered slide pontoon boat in advance .

Not sure how to plan a trip to Crab Island, you can read our comprehensive guide to visiting Crab Island Destin .

6. Participate in Various Watersports

One of the fun and romantic things to do in Destin, Florida is to participate in various watersports, and luckily for you, Destin offers a number of them.

You can either go snorkeling or diving in Destin’s clear waters to discover the magical sea creatures with the love of your life by your side. There is nothing more romantic than that in our opinion.

For an adrenaline rush, consider taking on the high seas on a wave runner or a jet ski where you’ll have a chance to spot dolphins.

If that’s not your kind of thing, take to the skies with a parasailing adventure! How’s that for a romantic getaway in Destin’s proverbial blue skies?

And if you still have more time in your itinerary, head to Choctawhatchee Bay where you can kayak and paddleboard away on the tranquil waters of the gulf.

For active couples, this is truly one of the fun and memorable romantic ideas in Destin FL.

While you can go on some of these activities on your own, we recommend booking tours to elevate your experience and take away the stress of planning.

With tours, you’ll just sit back and have a lovely time with your loved one while the tour company takes care of everything for you.

Some of the watersports activities you can book include this Banana Boat Experience or this jetski adventure to Crab island where you’ll be able to spot some dolphins along the way.

For adrenaline couples, you have to  book this jetski adventure to crab island . Besides splashing around, you’ll have a chance of spotting dolphins. You can also opt for this banana boat experience for an amazing time with your loved one.

7. Enjoy a Relaxing Couple’s Massage

What better way to rejuvenate and burn off stress together than with a couple’s massage?

Schedule a session for the two of you and pick a massage therapy that suits your need!

The hugely popular Swedish massage will help restore all those lost energies as you soak in the ambient music and aromas but the Hot stone treatment will melt away all your stress. For radiant glowing skin, consider facial spas and treatments.

Don’t be too overwhelmed by all these choices! You can always ask for a recommendation from the well-trained staff and they will help you decide what suits your needs.

Not sure where to go? Some of the best massage places in Destin include Om Relaxation Spa , Massage Envy , and Ruyi Massage.

8. Book a Couple’s Photoshoot With a Professional Photographer

One of the most romantic things to do in Destin Fl is to go on a couple’s photoshoot with a professional photographer.

Yes, you can take photos with your phones but to make your Destin romantic getaway even more memorable, we recommend using a professional photographer.

There are quite a few in Destin but we recommend opting for this photographer ! Besides taking you to some of the most photogenic spots in Destin (both famous and hidden gems), the photographer will also direct your photo shoot in case you’re not sure how to pose as a couple.

And after the shoot, you’ll receive 45 perfectly edited photos that will remind you of your trip forever.

>>> Click here to book your private couple’s photoshoot in Destin .

9. Spend a Day At Henderson Beach State Park

While there are so many beautiful beaches in Destin , one that is perfect for a couple’s getaway is the photogenic Henderson Beach State Park just a short drive west of Destin center.

With its sparkling white sand dunes that tower into the skies, this protected strip features a boardwalk, pavilions, and barbecue grills, so carry your picnic essentials for a romantic picnic at the beach.

There are also hiking trails and bicycling options if you get tired of just laying on the sand.

And if you want to elevate your date, the park has campsites where you and your special one can spend a night under the skies.

Into fishing? At Henderson, you’ll experience for yourself why Destin is called the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. Anglers have been rewarded with catfish, flounder, pompano, and other kinds of fish.

10. Have a Laugh at the Maximum Magic Show

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Noah & Heather Wells (@noahwellsmagic)

Want to escape the beach and do something unique? Then head to HarborWalk Theater to watch this Maximum magic show .

Hosted by the award-winning duo, Noah & Heather Wells, these two illusionists will have you laughing your ribs out with funny jokes and questioning yourselves about what you’re watching with mindblowing illusions.

The show lasts a whopping 90 minutes, so if you’re looking for cool things to do in Destin at night, this is one not to miss.

You can book your tickets to the show from here !

11. Shop Until You Drop at Destin Commons

Photo via Destin Commons

Get all those retail needs met at the Emerald Coast’s top-rated outdoor shopping complex featuring world-famous brand stores that sell anything from beach essentials, and fashion accessories, to trinkets and souvenirs.

The complex is meticulously landscaped and boasts water fountains, restaurants, art galleries, and all sorts of entertainment for a fun day with your loved one.

If you’re into street art, be sure to check out the intriguing murals painted by local and international artists. You can even take fun and quirky photos in front of them to remember your romantic getaway in Destin.

More into movies instead? You can sink into a super comfy recliner at the in-house IMAX theater which boasts a range of screenings.

And to crown your visit, step inside one of the many Destin Commons dining options for a nice meal be it Gulf Coast burgers, chipotle-infused Mexican food, beef jerky, or sushi. You’ll find anything you’re craving here!

12. Have a Romantic Dinner Date at Beach Walk Cafe

Photo via Henderson Park Inn

Another no-brainer activity for couples in Destin Fl is going for a romantic dinner date.

Being a beach destination, there are so many beachfront restaurants in Destin where you can have a romantic dinner while taking the views of the sea, but we can’t think of a better restaurant than Beach Walk Cafe .

Located in Henderson Park Inn on a private beach, there is no better place for fine dining right on the beach than this cafe.

You can reserve their “VIP Toes in the Sand dining experience” to have a romantic table set for you right on the beach as you nosh on the perfectly prepared meals with local and fresh ingredients served with high-quality wines.

And at the end of the day, if you feel lazy to leave, you don’t have to! You can just check yourselves into this 4-star hotel and wake up to stunning water views in the morning.

If you choose to spend a night at Henderson Park Inn, make sure that you book a room in advance since they book out fast.

If Beach Walk Cafe is not your ideal date spot, then you can check out other seafood restaurants in Destin with harbor views or these Italian restaurants in Destin if you feel like Italian food!

Related Post: Where to Have Breakfast in Destin

13. Splash about at Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official Big Kahuna’s Water Park (@bigkahunaswp)

If you want to let your inner kids out, there is no better place to visit in Destin than Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park .

With over 40 rides including an idyllic lazy river to glide along and thrilling water slides, you can easily spend half a day or even a day having fun with your loved one.

The wave pool’s simulators are so real; you’ll feel the resistance and currents. Just perfect to prep you for a plunge in the ocean.

For those who can’t swim, don’t worry! The staff here is well-trained and you’re in safe hands.

All that splashing and sun basking aside, another worthy distraction at the Big Kahuna Water Park is its miniature golf course. Try your hand at golf in the adventure park before you head out to Destin’s scenic golf courses.

You should however note that this park opens seasonally — from mid-March for the Adventure park and mid-April for the water park.

14. Cozy up With Sea creatures and Gators

Another unique and fun couple thing to do in Destin FL is a trip to Gator Beach in Fudpecker’s Beachside Bar & Grill.

Gator Beach is the world’s greatest alligator park where you can get an up-close encounter with live gators including the rare albino alligator and learn about them from the various exhibits on display!

The best part is that entrance and watching the exhibits are completely free making it one of the best things to do in Destin for couples on a budget.

If you and your love are the adventurous kinds, get yourselves snapped holding a live gator!

You could even feed them by lowering the string attached to the end of a feeding pole, though this will require paying a couple of bucks. And don’t worry about safety because the safety of visitors is a top priority at Gator Beach.

Finally, don’t miss the giant skull of a prehistoric Floridian crocodile, the alligator nest, and other rare alligators at the Crocodilia Discovery Zone which is just next to the Bait Shack.

For something less dramatic, the playful penguins, seals, and sea lions await you at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park which is located just a 15-minute drive from Gator Beach.

With all this, there is no doubt that there are a ton of offbeat Destin activities for couples.

15. Take a Leisurely Stroll on The Beach at Sunset

It might sound like a cliche but strolling on a beach at sunset is one of the romantic date ideas in Destin you shouldn’t miss.

Most beaches in Destin have spectacular sunsets so choose one you prefer, hold hands, and stroll on the soft powder-like sand as you walk into a sunset while reminding yourselves how much you mean to each other.

16. Dance and Dine under the Stars on the Ocean

Bring your Destin sojourn to a close with a romantic dinner and intimate dancing on one of the city’s entertainment yachts with SunQuest Cruise .

At this splendid affair, you’ll be treated to a three-course meal of fresh seafood preparations, or prime steak among other delights.

You can also head up to the deck for glorious views while saying sweet-nothings to your loved one.

Besides food and views, there is also live entertainment and a full bar making the experience one of the top couple things to do in Destin, Florida.

And if you’re lucky, you might be treated to a spectral moonlit night on the ocean during your dinner cruise!

Final Thoughts on the Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, FL

Whether it’s culture, food, nature, or outdoor pursuits that you’re after, Destin delivers the goods and how.

This romantic little beach town has made its mark on thousands of vacationers over centuries and you’ll be surprised at the experiences that lie in wait.

Book those tickets and head down to one of Florida’s most sought-after destinations for a perfect romantic getaway.

Which romantic activity in Destin can’t you wait to do with your loved one?

But before you go, consider sharing romantic things to do in Destin FL if you found the article helpful!

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

15 Most Charming Towns and Cities Near Destin FL You Should Visit

Looking for stunning towns and cities near Destin FL to visit? From the bustling city of Tallahassee to the laid-back town of Grayton Beach, this article has them all! Nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin has achieved an impressive glow-up over the years having been transformed from a small fishing village to the sun-kissed popular…

15 Best Free Things To Do in Destin, Florida

Are you traveling to Destin on a budget and are looking for ways to save money? Then check out this list of the best free things to do in Destin, Florida. The sun-soaked city of Destin, Florida, might be renowned for its stunning white beaches and crystal-clear waters, but there’s a whole lot of activities…

10 Best Italian Restaurants in Destin, Florida

Want to enjoy Italian food while in Destin? Then look no further than our list of the best Italian restaurants in Destin, Florida! When you think of Destin, it’s most likely pristine beaches, clear emerald waters, and seafood restaurants that will come to mind. However, the city is also home to an incredible Italian culinary…

23 Best Things To Do In Destin, Florida

Traveling to Destin, FL but not sure what to do while you’re there? This article will show you all the best things to do in Destin, Florida for a fun trip! Located on the beautiful Emerald Coast in Northwest Florida, Destin is a city with humble beginnings of a small fishing village but has since…

10 Best Beachfront Restaurants in Destin FL

Want to dine while taking stunning water views? This article will show you the best beachfront restaurants in Destin Florida. With expansive white sand beaches, scenic ocean views, and a nostalgic boardwalk, it’s easy to see why Destin’s coastline provides the perfect backdrop for a meal by the water. A trip along the World’s Luckiest…

10 Best Bars In Destin, Florida

Want to wind your day with a drink in hand? From cocktails, and wines to draft beers, this list of the best bars in Destin Florida will show you where to go! Destin has an unrivaled seafood game and the bar scene is treading along the same path of excellence. The self-acclaimed “world’s luckiest fishing…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Florida Travel Blog  

Travel destinations, beaches and attractions and things to do in Florida. Documented by RESIDENTS of Florida.

Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys for Couples

Best florida keys hotels for couples.

The are hundreds of hotels in the Florida Keys. From mom-and-pop places along the highway to fancy hidden resorts on little islands, you can only get to by boat.

Most have advertisements, banners, roadside signs and websites claiming to be all things to all people. Many are great places, but not necessarily great places to stay in the Florida Keys for couples.

Over the last 35 or 40 years of traveling Florida as a resident, we have stayed in dozens of Florida resorts and hotels in the Keys. Many great hotels cater to families and specialize in children’s activities. These may not be the optimal places for couples.

What Options Do Couples Want for a Place to Stay in the Florida Keys

• Romantic Atmosphere : Couples often seek hotels that offer a romantic ambiance, with features such as cozy decor, soft lighting, and intimate settings. Rooms with features like fireplaces, jacuzzis, or balconies with scenic views.
• Privacy and Seclusion : Privacy is essential for couples seeking a romantic getaway. They often look for hotels that offer secluded accommodations, such as private villas, cottages, or suites, where they can enjoy each other’s company without interruption.
• Luxurious Amenities : Couples appreciate hotels that provide luxurious amenities to enhance their stay, such as plush bedding, upscale toiletries, robes and slippers, and in-room dining options. Access to amenities like spa services, gourmet restaurants, and champagne upon arrival can further elevate the romantic experience.
• Activities and Experiences : Couples look for hotels that offer a variety of activities and experiences to enjoy together, both on-site and in the surrounding area. This may include couples’ massages at the spa, wine tastings, cooking classes, outdoor adventures like hiking or horseback riding, or simply relaxing by the pool or on the beach.
• Location and Setting : The location and setting of the hotel play a significant role in couples’ decision-making process. Many prefer hotels situated in scenic or romantic destinations, such as beachfront resorts, island retreats, or charming inns, where they can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
• Personalized Service : Exceptional service and attention to detail are crucial for couples seeking a memorable and romantic experience. They appreciate hotels that go above and beyond to anticipate their needs and provide personalized touches, such as arranging special surprises or helping plan romantic outings or celebrations.

List of Places to Stay in the Florida Keys for Couples

Florida Travel Blog will identify the places to stay in the Florida Keys that we believe meet most, if not all, the key factors important to couples.

We will list the location, amenities and experiences we may have had at each location. They are in order of the destinations by mile marker from east to west – or from Key Largo to Key West.

Opal Reefhouse – Key Largo – MM103.8

We start off with a comparatively budget-friendly Key Largo Hotel/Resort.

The Opal Reefhouse in Key Largo stands as a luxurious oasis amidst the tropical beauty of the Florida Keys. Along the shores of Key Largo, this opulent resort offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, comfort, and natural splendor. 

Boasting stunning oceanfront views and lush tropical gardens, the Opal Reefhouse provides a serene and romantic retreat for couples seeking an unforgettable escape.

Guests of the Opal Reefhouse are welcomed with impeccable service and world-class amenities, including elegantly appointed suites and villas designed for relaxation and indulgence. 

Each accommodation is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of tranquility and luxury, with spacious living areas, private balconies or terraces, and lavish furnishings. Whether lounging by the infinity pool overlooking the turquoise waters of the Florida Bay, savoring gourmet cuisine at the resort’s waterfront restaurant, or indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the ultimate Key Largo experience at the Opal Reefhouse. 

We would note that the hotel is easy to travel to in the top of the Keys. Check  prices and availability here .

Playa Largo Resort & Spa – Key Largo – MM 97.5

Playa Largo Resort & Spa , situated on the bay shores of Key Largo, embodies the epitome of luxury and relaxation in the Florida Keys. 

This upscale resort offers guests a tranquil escape surrounded by the beauty of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with warm hospitality and a serene ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable stay.

The resort features elegant accommodations, including spacious guest rooms, suites, and waterfront bungalows, all meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and sophistication. 

Guests can unwind in style at the expansive beachfront infinity pool, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the full-service spa, or savor gourmet cuisine at the resort’s waterfront restaurants. 

With its stunning natural surroundings, world-class amenities, and attentive service, Playa Largo Resort & Spa offers a luxurious retreat where guests can create lasting memories in the heart of Key Largo.

This resort is part of the Marriott Autograph Collection. Great resort with several options for accommodations.  Check rates and more pictures here .

Baker’s Cay Resort – Key Largo – MM 96.5

Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo epitomizes luxury and relaxation in the heart of the Florida Keys. Amidst 13 acres of lush tropical foliage along the pristine coastline, this exquisite resort offers guests a secluded and tranquil retreat. 

With its stunning waterfront location and sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, Baker’s Cay Resort provides an idyllic setting for couples seeking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

The resort boasts a range of upscale accommodations, including spacious guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, all thoughtfully designed to blend modern comfort with island-inspired decor. 

Guests can indulge in a variety of resort amenities, from lounging by the infinity-edge pool and soaking up the sun on the private sandy beach to kayaking through mangrove-lined waterways and exploring the nearby coral reefs. 

We consider Baker’s Cay one of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys near Key Largo. As the largest Key, Key Largo has many attractions and things to do .

With its attentive service, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Baker’s Cay Resort offers a quintessential Key Largo experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Check prices accommodations and availability here .

Key Largo and Mile Markers in the Florida Keys

Key Largo is a tropical paradise known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Located just an hour’s drive south of Miami, Key Largo offers visitors a diverse array of outdoor activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to fishing, kayaking, and eco-tours through mangrove forests.

The Florida Keys have tours, charters, sunset cruises, eco-tours and many more activities for vistors.

Mile Markers are like addresses in the Keys. Each mile is marked with a green and white sign denoting the mile. Key West is mile 0 and Key Largo starts at mile 106.0. For a list of 133 mile markers and the locations of attractions at that location see this post from our previous trips .

Islander Resort – Islamorada – MM 82.1

The  Islander Resort in Islamorada  stands as a tranquil haven nestled amidst the pristine beauty of the Florida Keys. Set along a stretch of white sandy beach overlooking the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this luxurious resort offers guests a serene and idyllic retreat.

Accommodations at the Islander Resort range from spacious guest rooms to private cottages and beachfront villas, all thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of relaxation and comfort.

Guests can unwind in style at the resort’s sparkling swimming pools, lounge on the sun-drenched beaches, or embark on aquatic adventures such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing charters.

The resort also features a variety of amenities and activities to cater to every guest’s needs and preferences, including waterfront dining at the resort’s restaurants, pampering spa treatments, and organized excursions to explore the surrounding natural beauty of Islamorada. 

With its picturesque setting, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, the Islander Resort in Islamorada offers a quintessential Florida Keys experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on guests seeking an unforgettable island getaway.

For accommodations and pricing information . This location is our favorite view of all the best places to stay in the Florida Keys for couples.

Cheeca Lodge – Islamorada – MM 81.5

Cheeca Lodge & Spa , nestled along the shores of Islamorada in the Florida Keys, is a luxurious and iconic resort renowned for its upscale accommodations, world-class amenities, and breathtaking natural surroundings.

Situated on 27 acres of tropical paradise, Cheeca Lodge offers guests an idyllic retreat surrounded by lush gardens, swaying palm trees, and stunning ocean views. The resort’s accommodations range from spacious guest rooms and suites to private bungalows and villas, each elegantly appointed with modern amenities and luxurious touches to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Guests at Cheeca Lodge can indulge in a wealth of recreational activities, including golfing on the resort’s nine-hole executive course, swimming in the sparkling freshwater pool, and lounging on the private beach with cabanas and hammocks.

The resort also offers a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as fishing charters and eco-tours to explore the vibrant marine life of the surrounding waters.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s spa provides a range of pampering treatments and wellness services, including massages, facials, and yoga classes.

With its picturesque setting, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch amenities, Cheeca Lodge & Spa offers an unforgettable island escape for guests seeking the ultimate in luxury and relaxation in Islamorada.

This is one of our top upscale choices for the best places to stay in the Florida Keys for couples.

For rates and availability . For a  complete list of things to do in Islamorada .

Hawks Cay – Duck Key (north of Marathon) – MM 61.1

One of our favorite resorts, Hawks Cay Resort , on the secluded island of Duck Key in the heart of the Florida Keys, is a premier luxury resort destination renowned for its upscale accommodations, world-class amenities, and stunning natural beauty. 

Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Hawks Cay offers guests a serene and picturesque retreat that embodies the laid-back charm and tropical allure of the Keys.

Accommodations at Hawks Cay range from spacious guest rooms and suites to private villas and vacation homes, all meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. 

Each accommodation boasts modern amenities, stylish furnishings, and private balconies or patios with breathtaking views of the ocean, lush gardens, or marina. Guests can unwind in style at the resort’s expansive swimming pools, relax on the sandy beach, or embark on aquatic adventures such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing charters.

Hawks Cay Resort also offers a wealth of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to elegant waterfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The resort’s full-service spa provides a range of indulgent treatments and wellness services, while the on-site marina offers boat rentals, water sports equipment, and excursions to explore the surrounding waters. 

With its picturesque setting, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch amenities, Hawks Cay Resort offers an unforgettable island escape for guests seeking the ultimate in luxury and relaxation in the Florida Keys.

We must say this is a great family resort and if you go during the summer, children will be dominant. If you love water sports, fishing, kayaking, and similar activities, Hawks Cay is the place to be. We think they are budget-friendly off-season.

Rooms, villas and suites information here .  Best things to do in Marathon .

Tranquility Bay Resort – Marathon – MM 48.5

Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort in Marathon, Florida, offers guests a serene and picturesque retreat on the natural beauty of Florida Bay. 

Situated on 12 acres of lush tropical grounds overlooking the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this charming resort exudes a laid-back island vibe and timeless charm.  Accommodations at Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort range from spacious two-bedroom beach houses to luxurious three-bedroom waterfront homes, each thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities and coastal-inspired decor. 

The resort features an array of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including a sparkling swimming pool, white sandy beach, and water sports rentals such as kayaks and paddleboards. 

Guests can also indulge in fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine at the resort’s beachfront restaurant, or sip tropical cocktails at the Tiki bar overlooking the Gulf. 

When we stayed at Tranquility Bay we felt like privacy was built in the way the rooms were offset. The only negative was there were no elevators to the second-floor rooms.

With its tranquil setting, charming accommodations, and laid-back atmosphere, Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort offers an idyllic escape for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in the heart of the Florida Keys. 

This is another comparatively budget-friendly resort. It has privacy and a few amenities, but other resort hotels may offer more features. Room and rates can be found here.

Isla Bella Beach Resort – Marathon – MM 47

Isla Bella Beach Resort in Marathon, Florida, is a luxurious oceanfront retreat in the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Situated on 24 stunning acres overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this upscale resort offers guests a serene and picturesque escape that embodies the laid-back elegance and tropical charm of the Keys.

We really like Isla Bella because the resort sits at the base of the Seven Mile Bridge , the most famous bridge in Florida. It is also within walking distance to one of  the best Tiki bars in Florida , the Sunset Grill & Raw Bar.

Each accommodation boasts private balconies or terraces with breathtaking views of the ocean, lush gardens, or resort grounds. Guests can unwind in style at the resort’s stunning infinity-edge pool, relax on the sandy beach, or enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Isla Bella Beach Resort also offers a range of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale waterfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The resort’s full-service spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, with a variety of indulgent treatments and wellness services. 

With its picturesque setting, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, Isla Bella Beach Resort offers an unforgettable island getaway for guests seeking the ultimate in luxury and relaxation in Marathon, Florida.

Rates, rooms and more information.

Key West Places to Stay for Couples

Key West has close to one hundred hotels and resorts. The city offers many attractions and activities for couples. We are recommending two places we enjoy that are at the opposite ends of famous Duval Street.

However, in a post we wrote about hidden romantic places in Florida we suggested a third place in Key West  called Sunset Key . Read that article for a very unique place to stay in the Florida Keys for couples.

Best Things To Do in Key West

Casa Marina Resort – Key West 

The Casa Marina , now a Hilton Resort, located in Key West, Florida, is an iconic and historic hotel that exudes timeless elegance and luxury. 

Situated on a private stretch of white sandy beach overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this grand resort offers guests a refined and sophisticated retreat in one of the most picturesque settings in the Florida Keys.

Originally built in the 1920s, the Casa Marina has been meticulously restored to preserve its historic charm while offering modern amenities and comforts. The resort features a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, all elegantly appointed with upscale furnishings, plush bedding, and stylish decor. 

Our stay at the Casa Marina made us feel that we were secluded and secure from the fun around the clock mayhem of the streets of Key West. The resort exudes history going back a hundred years, yet it has all the amenities you would expect for a couples getaway in the Florida Keys.

World-class amenities and activities include swimming in the resort’s stunning infinity-edge pool, lounging on the private beach with cabanas and hammocks, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The resort also offers several dining options, including a beachfront restaurant serving up fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine, as well as a poolside bar and grill for casual dining and cocktails. The Casa Marina offers an unforgettable escape for guests seeking the ultimate in luxury and relaxation in Key West.

Room rates and more information here .

The Pier House  – Key West 

The Pier House Resort & Spa in Key West, Florida, is a luxurious and iconic hotel situated on the historic waterfront of Old Town Key West. Boasting a prime location overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

This upscale resort offers guests a sophisticated and tranquil retreat in the heart of one of the most vibrant and colorful destinations in the Florida Keys.

Accommodations at the Pier House Resort & Spa range from elegant guest rooms and suites to spacious beachfront cottages, all meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. 

When we stay at the Pier House, we prefer a room overlooking the garden and pool area facing the Gulf. The small very private beach is also in that area.

Guests of the Pier House Resort & Spa can indulge in a variety of world-class amenities and activities, including swimming in the resort’s outdoor heated pool, lounging on the private sandy beach, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing.

The resort also offers a full-service spa where guests can pamper themselves with a range of rejuvenating treatments and massages.

With its stunning waterfront location, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch amenities, the Pier House Resort & Spa offers an unforgettable island getaway for guests seeking luxury and relaxation in Key West.

The Pier House is located at 0 Duval Street giving an easy walking distance to all the attractions in Key West. This is our Key West choice for the best places to stay in the Florida Keys for couples.

Pier House Room information is here .  Other Key West hotels .

Final Thoughts – Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys for Couples

We love the Florida Keys and over the years have watched the popularity of the hotels, resorts, and attractions skyrocket with demand from both domestic and international travel.

Along with the increased demand came increased prices, less availability and stretched amenities.

We recommend trips to the Florida Keys be scheduled after season which is January 15th through May. Rates, availability and roadways will be more attractive and your couple’s trip to the Florida Keys may be more memorable.

Related Posts

Hidden Romantic Getaways in Florida

11 Best Beachfront Resorts in the Florida Keys

10 Romantic Getaways in Florida for Couples

More from Florida Travel Blog

Best Beachfront Hotels on Florida Gulf Coast in 2024

Navigating the Crown Jewels of Florida: What Are The Names of the Florida Keys?

10 Best Family Resorts in Florida

10 Romantic Getaways for Couples in Florida

Book your entire trip with one of these money saving partners!

Florida Travel Blog is an Amazon Associate, we may earn a very small commission from qualifying purchases. or other affiliate links. Your cost is not affected.

REGIONS SEARCH

The best of florida travel blog.

Indulging in Nature’s Wonders: Discovering Florida’s National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

Exploring the Greek Culture: Top 25 Things to Do in Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs Beaches – Looking for Hidden Gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast

From Ancient Seas to Modern Streets: Discover Tarpon Springs Florida Greek Heritage

Tempting 20 Day Trips From Sarasota Florida

Find a destination.

Florida Travel Blog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other similar arrangements. These are affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. These small commissions do not increase the cost to the consumer.

About Florida Travel Blog –  Sign Up For Our Newsletter –   Contact Us    –    Florida Road Trips   –   Florida History   –   Florida Recipes    –   Florida Day Trips  –  Orlando Vacation

Join our Mailing list!

Get all our latest posts and our monthly Florida Travel Newsletter with the latest posts and Florida Travel News.