Travel Guides Beach Vacations
Sierra Vandervort
While California and Hawaii often steal the spotlight, Florida’s coastline stands strong with its own unique beauty. With its endless stretches of powdery sands, crystal-clear waters, and diverse range of coastal cities, Florida stands as a prime destination for those seeking the perfect combination of beachside relaxation, culture, and natural beauty.
When booking your Florida escapades, you more than likely want to find a spot that’s as close to the beach as possible. Luckily for Gulf and Atlantic travelers, there’s an inexhaustible number of beachside hotels in Florida. But with so many options, you might find it hard to choose. Fear not; we’ve combed the coast and rounded up the best of the best. Explore pored over lots of Florida hotel options and these are the ones that really stood out. At the heart of each of these beach-side retreats lies the warm appeal of Florida’s coastal charm. From luxurious wellness retreats on pristine sandy shores to family-friendly attractions with a flair of Southern charm, the Floridian coast offers a diverse range of experiences along its coastline.
Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale
Google Reviews
Give a nod to the classic yacht club living at the Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale. At this resort, you can dive into the lively energy of the city or wander out to the marinas for some seaside exploring. It’s a great spot for those wanting to soak up the charm of Florida yacht culture.
This Four Seasons spot sits right on the beach, providing a luxurious retreat for sun-seekers. The hotel offers a beautiful pool area with comfortable loungers, cabanas, and poolside service. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the Florida weather. If you’re looking for some rest and relaxation, treat yourself to a spa day at the hotel’s spa, where you can indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments. What stands out the most about this space is the Beach Concierge, a team ready to help you plan a more active beach-loving getaway that’s more than just a laze in the sun.
What also makes this resort enticing is its proximity to Fort Lauderdale’s cultural and recreational offerings. Fort Lauderdale is often called the “Venice of America” due to its extensive canal system. Hop on the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi for a unique way to explore the city’s waterways. It operates on several routes, allowing you to see different parts of the city, including downtown, shopping areas, and dining districts. Then, as night falls, discover the city’s vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and diverse dining options before returning to your suite.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Google Reviews
Welcome to Islamorada, a Floridian village that wears its laid-back vibe like a badge of honor. This is the Sport-Fishing Capital of the World, so if you’re into hooking some big ones, it’s your kind of heaven. Pack your bags and get ready for some Florida Keys magic at Cheeca Lodge & Spa.
This spot is a treasure trove of activities waiting for you to dive into. Snorkeling? Yep. Sea kayaking? You bet. Scuba diving? Absolutely. And who can forget movie nights on the beach? They’ve got that covered, too. When you’re ready to satisfy those taste buds, you’ve got three top-tier restaurants to choose from: Atlantic’s Edge, Mia Cucina, or Nikai Sushi. They’re all about dishing up top-notch, coastal-inspired eats.
Explore the waters on a kayak or paddleboard. Or, if biking is your thing, grab a rental and pedal your way around town. If you’re looking to break a sweat while on vacay, there are courts for tennis, pickleball, basketball, and even sand volleyball. Plus, yoga classes and water aerobics are offered regularly. And if you’ve got the little ones with you, the hotel offers Camp Cheeca, an educational and entertaining wildlife program for kids 12 and under.
JW Marriott on Marco Island
At the JW Marriott on Marco Island, the good times roll along three miles of prime Gulf of Mexico coastline. Plus, you’ll have a unique beachfront view, since Marco Island is the only developed land of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, a chain of islands off the southwest coast. This iconic resort on the island is known for its tropical ambiance, excellent dining, and an array of recreational activities.
What makes this pick so special is the unmatchable energy of Marco Island. It offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings, with a peaceful and serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. The biggest draw is the island’s rich variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and numerous bird species. The nearby Everglades National Park provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature walks. Foodies will also have a field day here with a whopping 12 on-site restaurants at your fingertips — you can go on a culinary adventure without even leaving the hotel.
If golf is your jam, you’ll be stoked to know they’ve got two championship courses. The hotel is family-friendly, so no worries if you’ve got the little ones in tow. But if you’re looking for a bit of adult-only time, there’s a private, adults-only rooftop pool that’s all about relaxation. Oh, and don’t miss out on Tesoro, the upscale Mediterranean spot that’s just for grown-ups.
Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
For wellness enthusiasts, escape to Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. This modern wellness center is designed to support both physical and mental well-being. The unique aspect? They’re committed to a wellness approach that doesn’t necessitate sacrificing life’s pleasures. Carillon represents a seamless blend of well-being and serenity — a retreat that sidesteps strictness in favor of embracing a fulfilling experience.
Food is undeniably a big part of wellness. An intriguing dining experience awaits at the Tambourine Room by Tristan Brandt. This intimate enclave, accommodating just 18 guests, showcases an enticing fusion of French and Asian cuisines. The restaurant even earned the prestigious Michelin Star, attesting to its authenticity and quality. At The Corner Store, you can load up on healthy juices and smoothies artfully crafted to optimize your wellness goals, be it weight loss or improved energy.
This resort’s focus is wellness, and it boasts a world-class spa offering a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and holistic therapies (IV therapy, chakra balancing, and salt bath immersions). The menu of spa and mental health treatments is sourced from Eastern and alternative medicine to create personalized treatment plans that aim to enhance your overall well-being. Guests can also join fitness classes or work out at their own pace. They also provide customized treatment plans, making it an excellent choice for first-time wellness vacationers looking for a personalized experience. You can also utilize their website to tailor your getaway according to your specific treatment requirements or health condition.
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
In the heart of Palm Beach, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has captured the attention of luxury seekers around the world. This independent property set itself apart as a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awardee, a distinction that only a handful in the region have accomplished. Similarly, it has been recognized with the revered AAA Five Diamond Award, solidifying its reputation for exceptional standards and living up to the promise of a remarkable stay.
Guests are welcomed into rooms and suites that exude coastal elegance, thoughtfully styled with furnishings and decor by renowned designer Jonathan Adler. As you explore the grounds, the sprawling resort unfolds across an impressive 42,000 square feet. Nature lovers will find solace in the spa’s lush tropical garden, where hanging chairs sway gently, inviting moments of undisturbed R&R. Cabanas, cascading waterfalls, and playful hot tubs, often accompanied by cheerful rubber duckies, add to the happy ambiance at this resort.
At $500 a night, it’s a luxury choice. But the resort’s exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail have earned it a devoted following. Patrons consistently rave about the genuine care and thoughtfulness that enhance their experience, making the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa a destination you can trust. They’re also super dog-friendly, a pleasant surprise for a luxury hotel.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is a luxurious ode to the enduring charm of Southern Florida. Immersed in the timelessness of West Indies Colonial design, this luxury hotel relishes in the tranquility that graces its remarkable oceanfront property.
In stark contrast to the dynamic energy of Miami’s public beaches, The Ritz-Carlton in Key Biscayne offers a secluded haven, providing a welcome respite from the bustling Magic City. This refined retreat sits on a private five-mile-long barrier island and beckons to landlocked travelers with a peaceful ocean sanctuary that coexists harmoniously with the lively heartbeat of downtown.
Families will love the exclusive Ritz Kids program, a unique and educational initiative offered by The Ritz-Carlton hotel chain, in collaboration with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society. This program is designed to provide young travelers with engaging and environmentally focused experiences during their stay at Ritz-Carlton properties, particularly those located in coastal and marine environments. Ritz Kids offers a range of hands-on, interactive activities that are both fun and educational. These activities can include beachcombing, nature walks, wildlife spotting, and even snorkeling adventures. The program emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation and instills a sense of responsibility toward protecting the oceans and their inhabitants. Participants are encouraged to develop an understanding of marine life and the role they can play in preserving it.
The Don CeSar
Towering over the wistful dunes of St. Pete Beach, The Don CeSar has stood as a cherished emblem of elegance and leisure since its creation in 1928. Restored to its full splendor, this historic haven beckons to its guests, inviting them to embrace a rich narrative where romance and merriment seamlessly entwine.
The coral pink exterior and distinctive architecture of this iconic resort pay homage to Mediterranean castles and imbue The Don CeSar with regal allure. This facade earned the hotel its reputation as Florida’s beloved “Pink Palace,” a title hailing back to its debut amidst the spirited ambiance of the Great Gatsby era. Staying at this hotel allows you to enjoy the same ambiance as former guests like Clarence Darrow and F. Scott Fitzgerald
Guests can choose a regal beach-front room or shack up in one of the newly constructed beach house suites, Airbnb-style accommodations with personal beach access and full home amenities. At the award-winning restaurant Maritana, guests and locals can enjoy coastal-inspired cuisine sourced from regional farms. Then after a night stroll along the powdery white sands, stop by the charming enclave of Uncle Andy’s Market for a delightful assortment of cherished treats and artisanal ice creams.
Faena Miami Beach
At Faena Hotel Miami Beach, you’ll be greeted by a captivating horizon of pristine white sands and the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the ocean. Inside, this resort’s meticulously crafted ambiance pays homage to the elegance and allure of the glamorous 1950s, beautifully embracing the classic red and white sailor stripes throughout their decor. With their Instagram-worthy red-striped umbrellas, Faena showcases a harmonious fusion of art, history, and contemporary luxury, seamlessly weaving together the allure of the past with the modern comforts discerning travelers seek today.
The resort is also located in Miami Beach’s Faena District, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood located in the heart of Miami Beach. It’s known for its unique blend of contemporary art, culture, and stunning architecture. Throughout the Faena District, you’ll encounter intriguing art installations that add to the neighborhood’s artistic ambiance. The District regularly hosts cultural events, including live performances, art exhibitions, and music festivals. Staying at the Faena means you’re just steps away from these cultural experiences. It’s also located near the iconic Art Deco Historic District of Miami Beach where you can take a stroll and admire the well-preserved architecture from the 1930s and 1940s. The Faena is an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate luxury, art, and cultural exploration.
From the captivating aesthetic to the dutiful poolside butlers ready to supply you with fruit-infused water, the charm of the Faena Hotel Miami Beach is not lost on the discerning eye.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Google Reviews
Nestled along a pristine and secluded stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, the Pelican Grand Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale offers guests a truly unparalleled opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of the beach just steps away from their hotel room. This oceanfront haven invites travelers into a world of timeless charm, where the resort’s unique character combines with the intimate atmosphere of a boutique hotel to set the stage for an unforgettable beachfront escape.
What makes the Pelican Grand Beach Resort even more extraordinary is its rarity in a city known for its bustling urban life and limited direct beachfront accommodations. In a destination where beachfront properties are often scarce, this resort stands out as a distinct gem, providing guests with exclusive access to their own private beachfront oasis.
The resort’s architecture pays homage to the grandeur of the past, with traditionally Southern wrap-around porches that evoke a sense of nostalgia and relaxation. Here, you’ll find yourself tempted to while away the hours in a cushioned rocking chair, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze and the mesmerizing rhythm of the waves. One of the resort’s standout features is the Lazy River, where you can float along in a tube and let your cares drift away. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It’s a chance to unwind in a setting that seamlessly marries the historic charm of the region with the comfort and coziness of a boutique hotel.
Sandpearl Resort
Sandpearl Resort is located directly on the beautiful Clearwater Beach, providing easy access to the soft sand and warm Gulf of Mexico waters. If you’ve never been to Florida and don’t know where to start to plan a vacation, you can’t go wrong with the Gulf side’s gentle waters. This is the perfect pick for a laxy beach-lover who doesn’t care to leave the comfort of the resort. You can lounge on the beach, swim in the ocean, or partake in various water sports. With suites that boast captivating oceanfront panoramic views, Sandpearl Resort ensures the natural beauty that envelops the resort is never hidden.
Nestled amidst the inviting embrace of Clearwater Beach’s soft, powdery sands, Sandpearl Resort embodies the quintessential beachfront experience. Bask in the simple pleasures of beachside living as you gather around a gently crackling fire for family s’mores night. Or take some sand sculpture lessons, learning the intricacies of crafting artful structures from seasoned professionals. Alternatively, find solace in a gently swaying hammock, allowing the rhythmic lull of the waves to guide you into a peaceful slumber.
The resort has several dining options, including the Caretta on the Gulf restaurant, which offers upscale dining with stunning views of the Gulf. You can also enjoy casual dining at the Tate Island Grill or sip cocktails at the beachside bar. Depending on the season, the resort may host live music or other entertainment events for guests to enjoy in the evenings.
Acqualina Resort & Residences
This swanky hideaway by the sea is situated on 4.5 acres of sun-soaked beachfront in Sunny Isles Beach in northeast Miami, Florida. As a family-owned and operated establishment, Acqualina curates a collection of 98 distinctive rooms and suites, each with architectural aesthetics reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa. Perched alongside an inviting stretch of coastline, this resort exudes an air of European grandeur against the seaside backdrop. This is the perfect pick for anyone in need of some extra pampering during their getaway.
The resort’s Mediterranean villa-inspired design has been recently revamped, revealing a new, lavish gallery lobby. Among its other in-house gems is the renowned Il Mulino New York – Miami restaurant, bringing a taste of the Big Apple to coastal Florida. This restaurant is highly rated by Google reviewers and cherished by locals and visitors for its delectable Italian creations and steadfast commitment to impeccable service. During your weekend away, seek a moment of indulgence at the Acqualina Spa, a two-story sanctuary, or take a relaxing dip in the pool designed exclusively for adults.
It’s worth noting that Acqualina Resort has earned the #1 Beachfront Hotel in the U.S. title from the reputable travel platform TripAdvisor, placing it within the top 1% of hotels worldwide. For those captivated by the Acqualina allure, the resort takes pride in offering 188 residences, each affording sweeping ocean vistas. In this refined haven, one can seamlessly embrace the essence of Acqualina Resort & Residences.
The Setai Miami Beach
Looking for a Meditteranean-style retreat without leaving the country? The Setai Miami Beach is a captivating resort that blends Eastern and Western influences along the vibrant stretch of Collins Avenue, the primary street for hotels and shopping in Miami. Located right on South Beach — a famous hotspot that has travelers buzzing — The Setai Miami Beach resides within a charmingly restored 1936 Art Deco landmark, a hallmark of the city. With 87 cozy rooms to pick from and an additional 50 ocean suites, The Setai has you covered if you’re seeking a swanky escape. Picture minimalistic Cali-sensed luxury with a distinctly Asian flair — that’s the essence of The Setai Miami Beach.
Many Setai guests are impressed by the resort’s rockstar chef Vijayudu Veena, who dishes out culinary magic in not one, but two killer restaurants – Jaya and the Ocean Grill. Jaya offers culinary excellence from Thailand, India, China, and Japan, while Ocean Grill presents artful Mediterranean cuisine featuring specialty seafood and meats. For fashionable Miami Beach nightlife, there’s The Bar. For those who prioritize self-care, the Valmont Spa is your go-to. Their menu is all about helping you feel amazing and keeping that youthful spark alive. They’ve even sourced fancy goodies from Switzerland to bring top-tier anti-aging secrets to their guests.
1 Hotel South Beach
At the heart of 1 Hotel South Beach is a commitment to sustainability. The hotel provides both minimalistic luxury and values deeply rooted in environmental stewardship. Set against the backdrop of South Beach’s pristine shores, this retreat is a captivating blend of natural allure and contemporary refinement. Here, the essence of eco-consciousness is interwoven throughout the guest experience.
Stepping into the lobby, you’ll find a nature-based design that feels lighter-than-air. Throughout the lobby and the rest of the resort, locally sourced and repurposed materials come together to create a space that’s as environmentally conscious as it is welcoming. The entire property also uses energy-efficient practices and commitment to green energy sources. In an effort to reduce single-use plastics, each room is equipped with a filtered water station. Even the mattresses, fashioned from organic, non-toxic materials, embody the resort’s ethos.
It probably comes as no surprise that the wellness programming at 1 Hotel South Beach is also top-notch. Each experience is designed to nurture the body, mind, soul, and the planet. Stop in for a holistic treatment at the Bamford Spa, enjoy organic, locally sourced cuisine at PLNTHOUSE, or forage for your own seasonal ingredients at the Lobby Farmstand. With a rooftop bar and four on-site pools adding to its charms, the resort is a tribute to mindful, natural living. For those who champion sustainability and seek a destination that aligns with their values, 1 Hotel South Beach is a dream come true.
The Breakers Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach is a five-star hotel with roots tracing all the way back to 1896, making it an integral part of Florida’s cultural landscape. Here, you’ll find yourself wrapped in its storied history and lavish allure.
For those looking for an exclusive escape, The Breakers offers 25 cozy poolside bungalows. Each has its own concierge, making sure your stay is smooth sailing all the way. Forgot your toothpaste? Need a dinner recommendation? They’ve got you covered. Tennis and golf are also on-site, so if you’re up for a friendly match or a swing amidst the stunning surroundings, you’re in luck. And if you’re bringing the whole family along, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained — think mini-golf, an on-site arcade, and even free bikes you can rent to explore the town together. Now that’s a recipe for a memorable family getaway. But the main event here is the famous Sunday Brunch. It’s a big deal that brings both locals and out-of-towners together, and you definitely don’t want to miss it. They start you off with all those breakfast classics, then roll out an amazing parade of flavors that builds up to a jaw-dropping 30 dessert options.
Little Palm Island Resort
Google Reviews
There’s no need for hustle and bustle at Little Palm Island Resort in Little Torch Key, an island in the lower Florida Keys. This is your ticket to an adults-only paradise where thatched roof bungalows, inspired by the British West Indies style and timeless traditions, set the scene for your getaway. Imagine being surrounded by nothing but endless turquoise waters as you step into the tranquil embrace of your own private island. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind and find peace and quiet. Located just off the Florida Keys, this little slice of paradise is the perfect spot to escape the daily grind and recharge.
Now, let’s talk adventure. If you’re up for some underwater exploration, there’s scuba diving and snorkeling to whisk you away into the mesmerizing Coral Reefs. And here’s a cool idea: how about meeting some dolphins? The Dolphin Research Center offers a chance for an unforgettable encounter that’s bound to leave a lasting impression. And for those dreamy evenings, you might want to consider snagging a reservation for a private sunset dinner. Of course, it’s good to know that this level of paradise doesn’t come cheap. With rates starting at a cool $2,000 per night, it’s an investment in your peace of mind and well-being. But sometimes, a bit of indulgence is just what the doctor ordered.
