Planning a trip to the Sunshine State? Florida, with its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and diverse attractions, offers something for everyone. Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your vacation experience, whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a cultural immersion.
Best Places to Stay in Florida: A Guide for Every Traveler
From luxurious resorts to charming bed and breakfasts, Florida boasts a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. This guide will explore some of the best places to stay in Florida, highlighting their unique offerings and catering to different travel preferences.
Beachfront Bliss
For those seeking sun-kissed shores and turquoise waters, Florida’s coastline offers an array of beachfront hotels and resorts.
Urban Escapes
Florida’s vibrant cities, such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, provide a plethora of stylish hotels and trendy boutique accommodations.
Family Fun Destinations
Families with children will find plenty of options in popular destinations like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and the Florida Keys, where resorts and hotels offer kid-friendly amenities and entertainment.
Nature Lovers’ Paradise
For those seeking tranquility and connection with nature, Florida’s state parks and nature reserves offer cozy cabins, campgrounds, and eco-friendly lodges.
Best Places to Stay At In Florida
Florida, the Sunshine State, is a haven for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cities, and diverse natural wonders. With its plethora of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to charming bed and breakfasts, finding the perfect place to stay can be a breeze. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled trip, Florida has something to offer everyone.
This guide explores some of the best places to stay in Florida, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Dubrovnik Croatia)
Coastal Escapes
Florida’s stunning coastline is dotted with idyllic beach towns and bustling coastal cities.
Miami Beach
Known for its Art Deco architecture, vibrant nightlife, and pristine beaches, Miami Beach is a popular destination for those seeking a glamorous getaway.
- The Setai Miami Beach: This luxurious resort offers stunning ocean views, a world-class spa, and multiple dining options.
- The Betsy Hotel: A boutique hotel with a literary theme, featuring a rooftop pool, a curated library, and art exhibitions.
- Freehand Miami: A trendy hostel with stylish private rooms and shared dorms, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
South Beach
South Beach, a vibrant and energetic neighborhood within Miami Beach, is renowned for its iconic beaches, trendy restaurants, and pulsating nightlife.
- The Fontainebleau Miami Beach: A historic landmark hotel with a glamorous ambiance, featuring multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
- The Sagamore Hotel: A boutique hotel with a retro-chic design, offering a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- The Plymouth South Beach: A stylish hotel with a focus on sustainability, featuring a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar.
Key West
The southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West is a laid-back island paradise known for its colorful architecture, lively bars, and stunning sunsets.
- The Southernmost House Hotel: A historic mansion with a stunning oceanfront location, featuring a restaurant, a bar, and a pool.
- Casa Marina Key West: A beachfront resort with a relaxed atmosphere, offering multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
- The Perry Hotel Key West: A stylish hotel with a modern design, featuring a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
Theme Park Paradise
Florida is home to some of the world’s most renowned theme parks, making it a dream destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Orlando
Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, offers a wide range of attractions, from the iconic Walt Disney World Resort to Universal Orlando Resort.
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort: These two luxury hotels are conveniently located near all four Disney parks and offer a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, restaurants, and a spa.
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: A retro-themed resort with a fun and affordable atmosphere, featuring a lazy river, a bowling alley, and multiple dining options.
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: A luxurious Italian-inspired resort with stunning views of Universal’s CityWalk, offering a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
Nature and Wildlife
Beyond its theme parks and beaches, Florida boasts an abundance of natural beauty, from lush forests to sparkling springs.
Everglades National Park
A vast and unique ecosystem, the Everglades is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, and wading birds. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Gatlinburg Tennessee)
- Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center: Located within the park, this visitor center offers exhibits, ranger programs, and access to hiking trails.
- Shark Valley Tram Tour: A guided tram tour that takes visitors through the heart of the Everglades, offering opportunities to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
- Airboat Tours: A thrilling way to explore the Everglades, with airboat tours offering close-up views of the park’s unique ecosystem.
Sanibel Island
Known for its pristine beaches and abundant shelling, Sanibel Island is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Sanibel Island Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the island and the Gulf of Mexico.
- J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge: A 6,400-acre refuge with diverse habitats, including mangroves, beaches, and freshwater marshes.
- Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum: A world-renowned museum dedicated to the study and conservation of shells.
City Escapes
Florida’s vibrant cities offer a blend of culture, history, and entertainment.
Tampa
A bustling port city with a rich history, Tampa offers a variety of attractions, including the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Ybor City, a historic Cuban district.
- The Tampa EDITION: A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar, located in the heart of downtown Tampa.
- The St. Petersburg EDITION: A luxurious hotel with a waterfront location, featuring a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- The JW Marriott Tampa Water Street: A modern hotel with a prime location near the Tampa Riverwalk, offering a variety of amenities, including multiple restaurants and a spa.
St. Augustine
The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is steeped in history and charm.
- The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens: A boutique hotel with a unique collection of art and antiques, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of historic St. Augustine.
- Casa Monica Resort & Spa: A historic hotel with a Spanish Colonial Revival design, featuring a rooftop pool, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
- The St. Francis Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of historic St. Augustine, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
Recap
Florida offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious resorts to charming bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect place to stay for your dream vacation. Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked beaches, thrilling theme parks, or natural wonders, Florida has something to offer everyone.
When planning your trip, consider your interests and budget. Research different areas and read reviews to find the best place to stay for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular beach destinations in Florida?
Florida boasts numerous stunning beaches. Some of the most popular include South Beach in Miami, Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, Panama City Beach, and the beaches along the Gulf Coast. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Big Bend)
What type of accommodation is best for families in Florida?
Florida offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, such as all-inclusive resorts, vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms, and hotels with kids’ clubs and pools. Consider your family’s needs and preferences when choosing.
Are there any budget-friendly options for accommodation in Florida?
Yes, Florida has budget-friendly options like hostels, motels, and vacation rentals. You can also find deals on hotels during the off-season or weekdays.
What should I consider when choosing a location to stay in Florida?
Think about your interests and desired activities. Do you prefer bustling city life, relaxing beaches, theme parks, or nature escapes? Consider factors like proximity to attractions, transportation options, and your budget.
What is the best time of year to visit Florida for good weather?
Florida enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit for ideal temperatures and fewer crowds is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November).