Surely 60 million people can’t be wrong? One of the biggest tourist magnets in the U.S., the Sunshine State has been a longtime favourite for lively holidays with friends and family, or romantic couples’ beach trips. The lure is not only the destination — Florida is choc-full with fabulous hotels. Accommodation options range from romantic hideaways in the Florida Keys and all singing all dancing beach resorts to family friendly hotels and swish skyscrapers in Miami, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Our selection of the best places to stay in Florida really does have it all!
The state’s most famous city is undoubtedly glitzy Miami, where the party never stops. Base yourself here for beautiful beaches, a fascinating cultural blend, amazing food and architecture, and an epic party scene. Lively Palm Beach is also very chic, and has some stunning hotels in Art Deco buildings.
For fun-filled family holidays, look to Tampa, on the Golf of Mexico, or Orlando. One of the world’s foremost amusement park destinations, Orlando is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando — the kids will love it!
The Florida coastline is bursting with buzzy beach destinations: Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, Boca Grande, the Treasure Coast and more. St Augustine is unusual in that it is the site of the oldest continuously-occupied European settlement in the country. It’ll be a sure-fire hit with history buffs (as will Amelia Island, a charming destination up near the border with Georgia).
Beyond Florida's cities, you'll find a nature watcher’s paradise. Alligators, herons, manatees and sea turtles, osprey and eagles, dolphins and tarpon all dwell in the state's wetlands and swamps. Boat tours of the Everglades are very special for bird spotters and wildlife enthusiasts. For a more laid-back beach break, venture south to the string of islands which make up the Florida Keys. Key West, Islamorada and Key Largo are some of our top picks for tranquil honeymoons or more active family trips.
Hugely diverse and very exciting, the Sunshine State is endlessly entertaining. We've highlighted some of the best places to stay in Florida to get you started!