An island with sandy beaches, palm trees and cool drinks is nearly everyone's idea of an ideal vacation. The Florida Keys, comprised of 882 islands, offer an array of activities: scuba diving, sunbathing, swimming, art galleries, fine dining and entertainment. Stretching for 120 miles from Key Largo in the north to Key West in the south, this romantic destination is a perfect weekend escape. Here are some of the best island getaways in Florida.


Sunset Key Cottages

Sunset Key Cottages

© Westin

Sunset Key Cottages, A Westin Resort is located on a 27-acre island in the Florida Keys. Guests are accommodated in one- to three-bedroom cottages with outdoor verandas which face the ocean or the fragrant resort gardens. In the morning, a complimentary breakfast basket is delivered. Guest room interiors are decorated with Caribbean island touches and Old Florida furnishings.

The Spa offers treatments in stylish spa suites with private bathrooms and French doors that open to a private patio, perfect for relaxing afterwards. Guests receive additional relaxation time after the treatment to fully take advantage of this beautiful space. Available treatments include facials, wraps and massages. Latitudes Restaurant has an indoor dining room decorated with photos of Ernest Hemingway and an outdoor patio overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Dine under the stars surrounded by romantic tiki torches. The restaurants serves entrees that incorporate locally-sourced fish and tropical fruit. More info

245 Front St, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 305-292-5300

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The Gasparilla Inn & Club

The Gasparilla Inn & Club

© The Gasparilla Inn & Club

The Gasparilla Inn & Club is an elegant hideaway surrounded by sandy beaches on Gasparilla Island, known for its slower pace of life and spectacular views. Guests are accommodated in rooms and suites at the inn, or in private cottages and villas, some with lanais and fireplaces. Couples and families have access to a diverse range of activities, from championship golf and tennis to spa services, fitness and boating.

There are many fun activities to choose from: explore the shore in a kayak, go paddle boarding, sign up for an eco tour or take a romantic sunset cruise around the island. Be sure to allow some time to get pampered at the spa and enjoy its luxurious facilities, including the steam rooms, saunas and relaxation areas. The fitness center offers fitness classes, personal trainers and a 80-foot heated lap pool. Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island is a quiet village with no traffic lights where you will find charming shops, restaurants and friendly locals. The best way to get around the island is in a golf cart or by bike.

500 Palm Ave, Boca Grande, FL 33921, Phone: 877-403-0599

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Little Palm Island

Little Palm Island

© Little Palm Island

Located in the sunny Florida Keys, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is a luxury private getaway for couples seeking romance. The resort has 30 thatched-roof bungalows that will remind you of the South Pacific. The resort is located offshore of Little Torch Key and accessible only by boat or seaplane. For your romantic honeymoon, book one of the bungalows with a private verandah overlooking the ocean. Some of the guest accommodations feature private outdoor showers and jetted tubs. Find out where to go snorkeling in Florida on your getaway.

28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042, Phone: 305-872-2524

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Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, Holmes Beach

Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, Holmes Beach

© Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, Holmes Beach

Offering the ultimate water-side resort for fun-loving couples, the Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club is beautifully nestled on Santa Maria Island on Tampa Bay. The beautifully appointed Villa Condos or Vacation Rentals will make you feel at home immediately. All offer amazing views and the cool and calm palette ensures a tranquil holiday atmosphere. Everything an active couple needs is available on site; activities include paddling, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, sailing and fishing trips. There is also an on-site spa and fitness facility and an outdoor heated pool. The cherry on the top is the 50-slip marina, should you wish to arrive by boat. Explore the beaches in Florida for a relaxing vacation.

Waterline Marina Resort and Beach Club, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 844 853 9443

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Orchid Key Inn

Orchid Key Inn

© Orchid Key Inn

Combining traditional architectural design with a taste of modern luxury, Orchid Key Inn is a relaxing retreat in the heart of Key West. Lush tropical gardens surround 24 beautifully appointed rooms and suites which feature marble floors, plush décor, and state-of-the-art technology, including climate control and i-Home sound systems. Relax in style on the elegant sun deck, take a dip in the heated swimming pool, or head to the whirlpool spa. A dedicated concierge team is available to secure restaurant reservations and help you decide which attractions to visit. The inn serves a complimentary Continental breakfast overlooking the pool. The Orchid Bar serves snacks and light meals during the day and exotic cocktails in the evening as the sun dips below the horizon. The hotel is near famous Key West attractions such as the Hemingway House, art galleries, theaters, bars, and restaurants. There are many great things to do in the Florida Keys.

1004 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 305-296-9915

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The Gardens Hotel in Key West

The Gardens Hotel in Key West

© The Gardens Hotel

Located just steps away from the famous Duval Street, The Gardens Hotel is set within The Peggy Mills Botanical Key West Gardens, providing its guests with plenty of privacy and magnificent tropical garden surroundings.

The estate houses 17 guest suites which range from beautiful garden cottages to historic rooms and the exclusive Carriage House. Individually designed and decorated in chic Bahamian plantation style, guest rooms feature private entrances, wide outdoor verandahs, luxurious marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, and ultra-modern amenities, including Kuerig coffee makers. Begin the day with a delicious al fresco-style breakfast on the porch overlooking the gardens, before spending the day next to the heated pool. Request a massage poolside as you sip cocktails from the pool bar. In the evening d’vine Wine Gallery offers an excellent selection of wine for evening sundowners. More info

Browse our best places to visit in Florida guide for more ideas.

526 Angela Street, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 800-526-2664


Hawks Cay

Hawks Cay

© Hawks Cay

If you are looking for a unique getaway in Florida with a great variety of water activities, visit Hawks Cay, a 60-acre resort. The hotel is home to the renowned Offshore Sailing School and offers fishing, swimming pools, kids clubs, a chance to interact with dolphins, and a full-service spa. Dive Duck Key offers scuba diving lessons, kid's courses and guided trips.

You can stay in one of the guest rooms, suites and villas featuring classic West Indies. If you are planing on trying many activities, look for specials and packages to save on your trip. The resort often offers packages for couples and families. During the day, try water skiing, snorkeling, parasailing and kayaking. In the afternoon, take a sunset cruise or visit the spa. Calm Waters Spa is the perfect place for relaxing. Try the signature Key Lime Mojito Body Treatment.

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61 Hawks Cay, Boulevar, Duck Key, FL 33050, Phone: 888-395-5539


Cheeca Lodge

Cheeca Lodge

© Cheeca Lodge

Spend your vacation relaxing in the sun, getting pampered at the spa and enjoying an array of watersports at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in the Florida Keys. The resort has a white sandy shore with palm trees, a wooden fishing pier, two heated swimming pools and a choice of activities, including parasailing, windsurfing, kayaking, sport fishing and sailing. Guest can play tennis on lighted tennis courts, take romantic walks in the landscaped gardens and play golf. If you want to arrange a tour or charter a boat, the full-service resort concierge can help you arrange anything ranging from deep-sea charter fishing trips to scuba diving at some of the famous dive sites in the Keys. The spa offers a selection of wellness treatments, daily fitness classes and innovative therapy. For kids kids ages 5 to 12, the hotel offers Camp Cheeca, which includes fishing off the pier, snorkeling in the lagoon, races and other activities. Adults-only Beachfront Bungalows have a private balcony with a spectacular view of the ocean. From the bungalow, you'll have direct access to the ocean via a spiral staircase, and a private patio below.

81801 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Phone: 305-712-7166

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Coconut Palm Inn, Key Largo

Coconut Palm Inn, Key Largo

© Coconut Palm Inn

Offering couples one of the most romantic getaway destinations in Florida, the Coconut Palm Inn is nestled on the southern tip of fabulous Key Largo. This hidden gem offers the perfect combination of luxury accommodation and laid-back island ambiance – you could not get closer to the beach if you tried. You can spend your days relaxing on a hammock on the beach or get active on the water – kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available. Other laid-back activities include cycling around the island or enjoying a beach BBQ and some fun beach games. After watching a spectacular sunset you can enjoy s’mores around the beach fire pit.

Coconut Palm Inn, 198 Harborview Drive, MM92 Bayside, Key Largo, FL 33070 305 852 3017

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Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

© Casa Marina

Perfect for an anniversary vacation, Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is a landmark getaway that has hosted famous musicians, dignitaries and celebrities since the 1920s. The best feature is a private sandy beach with many activities. Key West is a sunny city lined with palm trees, Victorian homes and houses on the National Register. There are numerous dive shops and charter boats. It features museums, galleries, theaters and sidewalk cafes which you can visit on foot or by trolley.

1500 Reynolds St, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 305-296-3535

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The Marker Waterfront Resort in Key West

The Marker Waterfront Resort in Key West

© The Marker Waterfront Resort

The Marker Waterfront Resort in Key West is a new hotel with plush accommodations and three pools where you can spend your days in lounge chairs surrounded by swaying palm trees and warm ocean breezes. Ask for one of the Key West harbor rooms to watch boats arriving and leaving the harbor. You may also like: 25 Best Small Town Honeymoon Destinations in the U.S. featuring Key West.

200 William Street, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 305-501-5193


The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Florida

The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Florida

© The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is located on a 13 mile barrier island in northeast Florida. This luxury beach resort offers championship golf, attentive service and programs for families. The resort also features a tennis complex, Massage and Fitness Center, indoor and outdoor heated pools, three restaurants, and 1.5 miles of sand-dune lined beaches. The course at the Golf Club of Amelia Island was designed by Mark McCumber and Gene Littler and incorporates the natural surroundings of the island. There are five other nearby courses. The kid's program is offered to families with children ages 5 to 12. The program features a number of activities, including beach games, arts and crafts, and nature programs. On Fridays and Saturdays, parents can spend romantic time alone while kids participate in the Kids Night Out program. There is also professional nanny service There are 449 guest rooms, including 62 Club rooms and 43 suites. Although all hotel rooms offer ocean views from the room balconies or patios, you should book one of the direct oceanfront rooms for best views.

Guests can choose from three restaurants, two lounges and 24 hour In-Room dining. Cafe 4750 serves regional specialties. The nearby historic Fernandina Beach is a quaint seaside village with Victorian houses, boutiques and art galleries. The resort is located about 25 minutes by car from Jacksonville International Airport and 10 minutes from the Fernandina Beach Airport which can accommodate private aircraft. Browse the best family vacations in Florida.

4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, Phone: 904-277-1100


Florida Islands: Fisher Island

Florida Islands: Fisher Island

© Fisher Island

Fisher Island Hotel and Resort is a private island in Florida. The hotel is accessible only by auto-ferry, boat or helicopter. The hotel is a perfect hideaway for couples and honeymooners looking to relax on the beach while staying in an elegant hotel. The hotel is located 10 miles from Miami International Airport and a short ferry ride from the famous South Beach. You will have access to a sandy beach, marina, golf, tennis and a spa. The resort is home of a P. B. Dye designed championship golf course with ocean views. The Spa Internazionale overlooks the Vanderbilt Marina and offers relaxing treatments such as the Hawaiian four hands massage. Browse beaches in Miami and South Beach getaways for more ideas.

One Fisher Island Drive, Fisher Island, FL 33109, Phone: 305-535-6000


Ocean Key Resort

Ocean Key Resort

© Ocean Key Resort

Ocean Key Resort is located between Key West Harbor and Mallory Square in the Florida Keys. There is a wellness center offering a menu of relaxing treatments and a fitness center where you can tone your muscles. For the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation, sign up for one of the rituals. Hot Tin Roof restaurant offers its patrons spectacular sunset views and conch-fusion cuisine. Sunset Pier restaurant offers waterfront dining where patrons get to sample Tropical and Caribbean cuisine as well as nightly music and dancing. Enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the sunset. Ocean Key Resort has 100 guest rooms and suites with private balconies. Ask for a room with a view of the ocean. Nearby attractions include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West Trolley Tours, Key West Aquarium and the Southernmost Point in the Continental USA. Browse our things to do in Florida guide for more ideas.

0 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040, Phone: 305-296-7701


Palm Beach Marriot Beach Resort and Spa, Singer Island

Palm Beach Marriot Beach Resort and Spa, Singer Island

© Palm Beach Marriot Beach Resort and Spa

Located on Singer Island on West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach resort and spa is a magical romantic getaway destination. The resort is perched on a private white sand beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. You can soak up the sun on the beach or retreat to a private pool cabana where you can look out at the ocean, cocktail in hand. The resort also boasts a spa and fitness center; you can fit in a work-out or surrender yourself to the expert hands of the spa team for a massage, facial or body treatment. All the condos at the resort are beautifully appointed and there is a great restaurant on site.

Palm Beach Marriot Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa, 3800 North Ocean Drive, Singer Island, FL 33404, 561 619 8727

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Cape San Blas Inn, Cape St. Joe

Cape San Blas Inn, Cape St. Joe

© Cape San Blas Inn

Overlooking lovely St. Joseph Bay on the Gulf Coast of Florida, the Cape San Blas Inn is perfect for a romantic getaway. The resort is directly across the road from the soft white sands of the beach, in an area which has not yet seen too much commercialization. In this tranquil atmosphere you can totally relax and do as much or as little as you like. At the back of the inn there is a boardwalk leading to an outdoor hot tub. The inn also provides bicycles, canoes, a kayak and a SUP board for those who would like to explore the tranquil waters of the bay. There are many restaurants where you can dine on the freshest Gulf Coast fish and sea food.

Cape San Blas Inn, 4950 Cape San Blas Rd, Port St. Joe, FL 32456, 850 229 7070

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Cedar Key Harbor Master Suites

Cedar Key Harbor Master Suites

© nanantachoke/stock.adobe.com

Located dockside, right on the edge of the fabulous Gulf of Mexico, the Harbor Master Suites are a popular choice for a romantic sea-side getaway. Each of the comfortable suites has been individually appointed to provide a comfortable and romantic home-from-home atmosphere. Almost all the suites have private balconies where you can enjoy amazing sunsets and watch the dolphins play as you sip a cocktail. Cedar Key boasts a large range of shops, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy your meals if you don’t feel like cooking. Local outfitters have everything you need to enjoy a variety of wonderful water sports all year round.

Cedar Key Harbor Master Suites, 390 Dock Street, Cedar Key, FL 32625, 352 543 9320

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Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Beach

Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Beach

© Sandpearl Resort

Occupying a prime position on Clearwater Beach, right on the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Sandpearl Resort is a great choice for a romantic coastal vacation. The 700 ft beach boasts powder-white sand and loungers and umbrellas are available. If you prefer to relax poolside you will find a wonderful zero-entry lagoon-style pool which is temperature controlled all year and surrounded by comfortable loungers. The rooms and suites at the resort are all coastal themed to set the scene for a wonderful getaway. On-site dining includes the 4-diamond Caretta’s, for fine dining fare and the Tate Island Grill and the Marketplace for lighter meals and snacks. Key Largo beaches are sandy and relaxing

500 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767, P 727 441 2425

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Double Tree Beach Resort Tampa Bay (North Redington Beach)

Double Tree Beach Resort Tampa Bay (North Redington Beach)

© topntp/stock.adobe.com

Located between Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg Beach, on the shores of the stunning Gulf of Mexico, this resort is a popular destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. All the comfortable rooms have private balconies – you can book a sea-facing room for romantic sunset views. The hotel is right on the beach – no roads to cross - which means you can be in the water in minutes. You can try your hand at some water sports, swim or just soak up some sun. The resort has an on-site restaurant and there are several other dining options within easy walking distance. Southern Florida beaches are fun to explore.

Double Tree Beach Resort, Tampa Bay, 17120 Gulf Blvd, North Redington Beach, FL 33708, 855 605 0318 ,p>Best underwater hotels


Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Island

Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Island

© Bilmar Beach Resort

Located right on the beach at lovely Treasure Island, adjacent to St. Pete Beach, the Bilmar Beach Resort is a great place to enjoy a romantic couple’s vacation. The resort boasts newly-renovated guestrooms and suites which welcome visitors with bright and cheerful Caribbean colors to set the scene for your holiday. You can upgrade to a suite to enjoy all the comforts of home, including separate seating and dining areas with great views. The resort has on-site dining and many of the suites have kitchenettes for your convenience; there are also several other restaurants within an easy walk. There are 2 swimming pools and a variety of water sports on the beach.

Bilmar Beach Resort, 10650 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL 33706, 877 834 0441

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Inn on the Beach, St. Pete Beach

Inn on the Beach, St. Pete Beach

© Avirut S/stock.adobe.com

The shimmering azure waters of the stunning Gulf Coast welcome visitors to the Inn on the Beach. Here you can cast off your cares and stresses and embrace the traditional Florida beach lifestyle for a few days. The inn is located at the Pass-A-Grille end of St. Pete Beach, where if offers couples a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, while still being close enough to St. Pete’s when you fancy some bright lights and nightlife. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets from their sea-facing rooms, take a picnic basket to the beach for sunset bubbles or go for long romantic beach walks. There are many restaurants within easy walking distance and a whole range of water sports are available close by. Check out these cool day trips in South Florida.

Inn on the Beach, 1401 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706, 727 360 8844

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The Hotel Zamora, St. Pete Beach

The Hotel Zamora, St. Pete Beach

© The Hotel Zamora

The lovely Hotel Zamora is one of the newest hotels on St. Pete Beach, combining beautiful Spanish architecture with modern, elegant guestrooms and suites. Fabulous King or Queen Beds, walk-in rain showers or huge soaking tubs set the scene for a romantic getaway. For a special occasion, you can request a room with private balcony overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf. If you can tear yourself away from your luxury room you will find a lovely large pool with loungers, a water-side terrace ideal for cocktails and many other unique touches. There is a fitness room and paddle boards, kayaks, fishing rods and bicycles are available to rent. More info

Browse top hotels in the Florida Keys.

The Hotel Zamora, 3701 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706, 727 456 8900

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Port d'Hiver Bed & Breakfast, Melbourne Beach

Port d'Hiver Bed & Breakfast, Melbourne Beach

© Port d'Hiver Bed & Breakfast

The Port d’Hiver B&B occupies a prime position on a wonderful barrier island, just 200 feet from the soft white sands of the beach. All the luxury rooms and suites are designed to indulge – think ocean views, whirlpool tubs for 2 and gourmet breakfasts. In addition, this boutique establishment goes the extra mile to set the scene for romance, offering a long list of wonderful packages and add-ons for special occasions like proposals, anniversaries, honeymoons and more. The afternoon wine hour is the perfect start to a romantic evening which could include a gourmet private dinner or bubbles on the beach. A decadent breakfast is served on your private terrace every morning. Best time to visit Key West

Port d’Hiver B&B, 201 Ocean Ave, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951, 321 722 2727

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Costa d’Este Beach Resort and Spa, Vero Beach

Costa d’Este Beach Resort and Spa, Vero Beach

© Costa d’Este Beach Resort and Spa

Offering direct access to the soft sand beach and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Costa d’Este Beach Resort is great for a romantic getaway. This luxury establishment belongs to Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who have spared no expense to provide everything you could desire for your romantic interlude. The rooms and suites are modern and elegant, designed to encourage relaxation. All have beautiful bathrooms with double showers. The full-service spa offers a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, as well as fitness center and sunrise yoga on the beach. Delicious dining is available on site and you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like snorkeling, cycling, paddling and fishing. Read about the best Florida weekend getaways for a relaxing vacation.

Costa d’Este Beach Resort, 3244 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL 23963, 776 562 9919


Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa, Jensen Beach

Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa, Jensen Beach

© Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa

Beautifully positioned on Jensen Beach, Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa has been voted one of the top 30 resorts in Florida by Conde Nast readers. The resort boasts 178 guestrooms and suites, all of which are carefully outfitted to encourage rest and relaxation. The design reflects the many moods of the ocean and all rooms have private balconies with ocean, pool or sunset views. Visitors are just steps from the golden sands of the beautiful beach and there are two heated outdoor pools for year-round bathing. There are plenty of fun activities available in the immediate area and an on-site spa for pampering top-to-toe treatments.

Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa, 3793 NE Ocean Blvd, Jensen Beach, FL 34957

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