Florida’s nickname, the Sunshine State, perfectly highlights why it’s so alluring to travelers. Whether you’re staying on the beach with waves lapping just outside your door, in a historic town with Old Florida charm or in a bustling city filled with dining, drinks and attractions to entertain the whole family, visiting Florida guarantees a good time for all types of travelers. Encounter the abundant wildlife of the Everglades, lounge on pristine white sand beaches, check out the nightlife or experience thrills at world-famous theme parks—all in one of the most-visited states in the U.S.
With thousands of oceanfront options and hotels situated in the heart of cities, like vibrant Miami, family-friendly Orlando and historic St. Augustine, finding the best resorts in Florida can be overwhelming. Looking at important details like cleanliness, amenities and comfort, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best resorts in Florida to help you choose the perfect accommodations for your unforgettable getaway to the Sunshine State below.
Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa is located in upscale Delray Beach, just steps from the sandy shore that creates stunning balcony views from each room. The buzzing downtown area is within walking distance for unlimited dining, shopping and nightlife. However, the lush tropical gardens, a beach club with cabanas, two outdoor pools overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and onsite dining mean you may not want to leave this eco-friendly resort.
Enjoy the coastal-chic design with clean rooms that feel as comfortable and rejuvenating as a fresh ocean breeze. Choose from multiple onsite dining options to simplify mealtime and visit the gym and spa to prioritize your wellness while you’re here. Nearby, the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center features a nature boardwalk, while Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a peaceful place to stroll and enjoy sushi. Check out restaurants close by, like the French Cafe Boulud, Oceans 234 for fresh seafood or the gourmet La Goulue Palm Beach bistro.
Courtesy of The Don CeSar
2. The Don CeSar
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL, 33706
Amenities: Oceanfront,
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$$
The Don CeSar or the “Pink Palace,” is one of the most iconic resorts in Florida, nestled on the shores of St. Pete Beach and overlooking the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s an ideal place to stay for glitzy, Old Floridian charm with modern updates and amenities. Marble fountains, sky-high ceilings and luxurious guest rooms evoke the glamor of the 1920s with bonuses like four restaurants, two heated pools, a relaxing spa and fitness classes for guests.
Step out your door to relax on the white sand beach with a cocktail or cold drink in hand, stop by the sports bar for a delicious lunch, use the provided kayaks and paddleboards and gather around the fire pits at night. You can take the local shuttle to reach nearby attractions, like John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk for unique shops and eateries or The Dali Museum to see reality-bending works by the famous artist. Restaurants like Caretta On The Gulf in nearby Clearwater Beach and Maritana Grille in St. Pete are excellent options for a special night out.
Courtesy of The National Hotel
3. The National Hotel
Address: 1677 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33139
Amenities: Oceanfront, 2 restaurants, beach club, large infinity pool
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$$
The National Hotel is a historic, adults-only boutique hotel located on the sugar-soft sands of Miami Beach. It’s one of the top resorts Florida has to offer with classic and uniquely Miami accents, like velvet seats, animal print and original terrazzo floors. Unwind with a cocktail at the heated 205-foot infinity pool or head down to the beach to claim your cabana and watch the cruise ships come in.
With two restaurants and a full bar, your favorite meals and drinks are always within reach. Stroll the grounds to admire the lush tropical plants and gardens in this delightful slice of peace in the heart of Miami Beach. Foodies will love that the resort is near some of Miami’s best-rated restaurants, including NAOE, Pao by Paul Qui and The Surf Club Restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller. The resort is close to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden and the Miami Beach Golf Club for a fun day out.
Courtesy of The Resort at Longboat Key Club
4. The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Address: 220 Sands Point Rd, Longboat Key, FL, 34228
Amenities: Marina, golf, pool, 3 restaurants, gardens and spa
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$$
The Resort at Longboat Key Club is a sprawling resort on a barrier island just north of Siesta Key. It’s the jewel of the Gulf of Mexico, featuring endless recreation and coastal scenery to whisk you away in your own slice of paradise. The resort’s marina is a fantastic jumping-off point for charters and fishing or snorkeling excursions, while the championship golf courses, tennis courts and spa offer plenty to entertain you onsite.
The outdoor pool overlooks the ocean with incredible views, while your private balcony affords stunning glimpses of the waves, tropical gardens and pristine white sands below. Choose from three restaurants and bars to satisfy any craving or order room service to enjoy a quiet meal. At the beach club, cabanas and kayak rentals promise days of fun and sun.
Address: One LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL, 33884
Amenities: Family-friendly entertainment, heated pool, themed rooms, onsite dining
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Price: $$$
Our Florida best resorts list wouldn’t be complete without one of the best family-friendly options: LEGOLAND Hotel Florida Resort. Decked out in all things LEGO and splashes of color, kids will revel in a stay here with special amenities like a mini golf course, a huge, resort-style pool, six room themes to choose from, botanical gardens and trails following the shores of Lake Eloise. From sliding down the water slide and playing in the lobby’s castle to riding the Disco Dance Party Elevator, this is the place to stay if you’ll be getting tickets to LEGOLAND theme park next door.
Watch movies in the LEGO club room, hang out by the fire pit, attend a hands-on Master LEGO builder’s workshop or book a pontoon boat ride during your stay. With free daily breakfast, three onsite restaurants, nightly entertainment and separate sleeping areas for kids, it’s a resort the entire family can enjoy. Peppa Pig Theme Park is just three minutes away, while restaurants like Blue Palmetto Cafe and L'incontro Italian Restaurant in nearby Lake Wales offer great options for a more upscale dinner out.
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