Florida is home to some of the most luxurious and picturesque resorts in the country, offering everything from beachfront escapes to historic hideaways. I’ve spent a lot of time with my family and friends all around Florida, discovering which stays are the most enjoyable and feature the best ameneties.
If you’re planning a trip, I’ve created a shortlist to help you narrow down the top places when it comes to amazing spots to stay, including options in different cities, towns, and villages. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic retreat, or a wellness-focused stay, these 12 best Florida resorts deliver world-class hospitality, breathtaking scenery, and unmatched comfort.
Best Florida Resorts to Add to Your Bucket List
1. Gasparilla Inn & Club – Boca Grande
A timeless icon on Gasparilla Island, the Gasparilla Inn exudes Old Florida charm with its elegant architecture, historic ambiance, and world-class fishing. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful, refined retreat. It’s served guests for 112 years and remains warm and welcoming. As far as the island goes, the resort is in a prime location. It sits near pristine beaches with gorgeous aquamarine waters.
This spot is still on my bucket list and I can’t wait to get here one day soon with or without the kids!!!
2. The Colony Hotel and The Breakers – Palm Beach
The Colony Hotel, with its iconic pink façade and boutique luxury, is a favorite among stylish travelers. If aesthetics are just as important to you as service, you won’t regret booking here. The place is also extremely accomodating for kids, offering a comprehensive kids menu and plenty of activities your little ones will love!
Just a short distance away is The Breakers. It offers grand opulence, oceanfront pools, and top-tier golf, making this Palm Beach stay a dream destination. My hubby and I stayed here a few years ago for my babymoon, and I wrote full review so you know exactly what to expect. The private lounge, rooftop terrace, and delectable nibbles were such a treat.
3. The Pearl – Rosemary Beach
Nestled in the charming town of Rosemary Beach, The Pearl is a sophisticated seaside retreat featuring stunning Gulf views, personalized service, and a boutique feel that blends seamlessly with the town’s European-inspired architecture—it’s another example of resort design done beautifully well. Don’t miss out on sipping a drink at sunset at the rooftop bar either! Outside of the hotel, there is plenty to do in the town, from shopping to dining at delicious restaurants, all of which you can read about in my Rosemary Beach weekend guide.
4. Ponte Vedra Inn & Club – Ponte Vedra Beach
A legendary oceanfront resort, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club combines historic charm with modern luxury. Golf enthusiasts will love its championship courses, while the spa and private beach provide relaxation at its finest. The truly think the beach access alone makes it one of the best Florida resorts. At almost 100 years old, it’s another timeless and iconic Florida hotel. You can rent paddleboards, play a round of golf, or get a complimentary shuttle over to its sister lodge.
It has been years since we stayed at this resort, before kids in fact, but I would love to bring the kids back here.
5. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
This Ritz-Carlton gem offers an idyllic beachfront setting, world-class dining, and a luxurious spa. Enjoy horseback riding on the beach, golf with ocean views, and impeccable service that defines the Ritz-Carlton experience. The natural surroundings and miles of sandy shoreline make it a tranquil getaway to escape from everyday stresses, even if just for a little while! If you are part of the hotel’s club, you get access to Amelia Island’s private lounge and a personal concierge service to make your stay even more special.
6. Four Seasons Resort Orlando
For the ultimate luxury family getaway, Four Seasons Orlando offers a serene oasis minutes from Disney. With a five-acre water park, an adults-only pool, and exquisite dining, it’s a dream for both kids and adults. It’s all in the details at the Four Seasons, and my family and I were constantly delighted by their thoughtful touches from goodie bags and dress-up outfits for the kids to the bathroom mirror TV, so my husband didn’t miss a beat watching the National Championship game! I wrote a full review of FS Orlando, so you can get the full picture of what this resort offers.
7. Islands of Islamorada – Florida Keys
A secluded paradise in the Florida Keys, Islands of Islamorada offers private villas with stunning ocean views, personalized service, and easy access to some of the best fishing and diving in the world. If you’re after a peaceful, rejuvenating vacation with upscale amenties, you can’t go wrong with this resort. It’s also perfect for couples or groups with different likes. There are water sports, tennis, and golf tee opportunities for the active, can’t-sit-still people in your life and plenty of poolside loungers and 600 feet of private beach for the people who want to simply chill out.
8. The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club – St. Petersburg
A beautifully restored historic resort, The Vinoy blends timeless elegance with modern amenities. With a marina, golf course, and vibrant downtown St. Pete nearby, it’s the perfect mix of upscale and convenience. It’s part of the Autograph Collection, which is Marriott’s independent luxury hotels, and its iconic pink color and palm-tree-lined entry are hard to miss. Borrow bikes and explore the area, charter a boat from the marina, or indulge in a private personal styling appointment! We love this resort and have stayed here a couple of times for friends & family weddings and I love the old Florida charm of it every time. The location is perfection.
9. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
Fresh from an extensive renovation, The Ritz-Carlton Naples is a beacon of beachfront luxury. Indulge in fine dining, rejuvenate at the spa, or simply soak up the sun on its pristine Gulf Coast beach. The luxury golf club is also a perk for avid golfers, featuring two seprate courses. Although the five-star hotel is a perfect escape for couples, it’s perfect for family trips too thanks to the water slides and homemade ice cream at Moka.
10. Portofino Island Resort – Pensacola Beach
Inspired by the Italian Riviera, Portofino Island Resort offers luxury condos with sweeping Gulf views, top-tier spa services, and endless water activities, making it a standout on Florida’s Emerald Coast. There is something here for everyone and the location makes it feel as if you have your own private island. Even in the low season when beach days might be off the cards, there are so many activities for both kids and adults to enjoy, from the nearby adventure park to massage packages to tennis. I’m a little biased to this location because it is right here in my hometown of Pensacola.
11. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
Set to redefine luxury on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the St. Regis Longboat Key offers unparalleled oceanfront elegance, exquisite dining, and an exclusive beachside experience in Sarasota’s most coveted location. Make the most of the white-sand beaches and warm waters during your stay—and the views overlooking them—as they’re just outside your window. Although it’s upscale, kids can enjoy their time here too. This is especially thanks to the Under the Sea Lagoon experience, where they can see (and even swim with) fish and other marine creatures.
12. 1 Hotel South Beach – Miami
A stylish, eco-conscious retreat in the heart of South Beach, 1 Hotel combines sleek design with sustainability. With a rooftop pool, oceanfront views, and a world-class wellness program, it’s a top choice for luxury travelers. Trips to Miami are always a blast, but this resort offers a wonderful little slice of heaven away from the hectic pace of the city. The food and rooftop bar are worth experiencing, and the hotel is located close to other fun activities, like the botanical garden and the Bass Museum of Art.
Florida’s resorts offer something for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking laid-back beachside luxury, a historic retreat, or a family-friendly adventure. Which one is your dream getaway? Let us know in the comments!
