Best Family Resorts in Florida
I found that family resorts in Florida offer an unbeatable mix of sunshine, adventure, and relaxation, making them some of the best spots for an unforgettable getaway. Within just a short drive, you can experience world-famous theme parks, pristine beaches, nature-filled state parks, and vibrant cities packed with family-friendly attractions.
What really makes these destinations special is how well the resorts are designed for all ages with sprawling pools with water slides, kids’ clubs with endless activities, and spacious accommodations that make everyone feel at home. From beachfront escapes to resorts just steps from Orlando’s magical parks, you’ll find the perfect base to keep both kids and parents happy. Here are some of the most unique family resorts I came across that I think you’ll enjoy on your next Florida adventure.
1. Lounge in Gulfside Luxury at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort
We drove 110 miles west from Miami to Naples (about 2 hours across the Tamiami Trail through the Everglades).
I found LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort in Naples, Florida to be a charming coastal escape that feels both luxurious and relaxed at the same time.
Set right on the Gulf of Mexico, the resort gave me some of the best beachfront views—sugar-white sand, gentle waves, and fiery sunsets that made every evening feel magical.
My favorite part was how versatile the resort felt—it worked perfectly for a romantic weekend getaway but also offered plenty of activities for a fun family vacation.
The rooms were spacious and elegant, with private balconies overlooking either the Gulf or the resort’s lush golf course, creating a stay that felt both scenic and serene.
I loved the poolside cabanas and beachfront service, which made it easy to spend the day relaxing with a cocktail or enjoying fresh seafood without ever leaving the sand.
The dining at Baleen was one of the best highlights, with gourmet dishes served right on the beach under the stars—it was my favorite kind of romantic dinner setting.
For those who love golf, the resort’s 18-hole championship course added another layer of luxury and recreation, while the spa offered indulgent treatments that made relaxation effortless.
One of the most underrated aspects for me was the warm and attentive service, which made the entire experience feel personal and thoughtful.
Whether I was lounging on the beach, enjoying a round of golf, or savoring a sunset dinner, every moment at LaPlaya felt special.
For me, LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort is one of the best hidden treasures in Florida—perfect for a romantic retreat or a family getaway filled with sunshine, elegance, and Gulf Coast charm.
A downside? The resort’s luxury comes with a steep price tag, especially during peak season. Families on a tighter budget may find dining and extras like golf or spa treatments quickly add up.
Plan your LaPlaya family getaway:
- Address: LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort , 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples, FL 34108
- Cost: Rates typically $400+ per night; dining and golf additional
2. Step into Pink Palace Glamour at The Don CeSar Hotel
I headed 25 miles southwest of downtown Tampa (about a 40-minute drive) to St. Pete Beach, a barrier island city with just under 9,500 residents. Stretching along 7 miles of powder-soft Gulf Coast shoreline, it’s known for calm waters and fiery sunsets.
The first glimpse of The Don CeSar Hotel rising above St. Pete Beach felt almost surreal. Its rosy pink towers glowing against the blue sky like something from a dream. Nicknamed the “Pink Palace,” it carried an old-world glamour that made me feel I had stepped back into another era.
My husband, my son, and I stepped into the lobby together, and I could feel the mix of elegance and play right away.
Perched right on the Gulf of Mexico, the hotel gave me some of the best beachfront views I’ve ever experienced, with sugar-white sand and stunning sunsets that made every evening unforgettable.
My favorite part was the mix of history and luxury—this legendary hotel has been welcoming guests since 1928, and it still carries that glamorous, old-world charm while offering every modern comfort.
The rooms were stylish and comfortable, with ocean or city views, plush bedding, and a breezy, coastal vibe that instantly made me feel relaxed.
I loved lounging by the pools surrounded by cabanas and palm trees, where poolside service made it easy to spend the day soaking in the Florida sun with a cocktail in hand.
Dining was one of the best highlights, from gourmet meals at Maritana to casual beachside bites at The Rowe Bar—every experience felt fresh, flavorful, and perfectly paired with the ocean views.
The Spa Oceana was another favorite for me, offering indulgent treatments and a rooftop terrace where I could unwind while overlooking the Gulf—it was pure serenity.
The hotel’s history also gave it a special charm; I loved knowing that it has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and even served as a hospital during World War II.
For me, The Don CeSar is one of the most underrated gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast—perfect for a romantic weekend getaway or a fun family vacation filled with sun, history, and coastal luxury.
Plan your Don CeSar getaway:
- Address: The Don CeSar Hotel, 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
- Cost: Rooms typically $300–$500 per night; dining and amenities priced upscale
3. Play, Swim, and Recharge at Hammock Beach Resort
I drove an hour south from Jacksonville (about 70 miles via I-95) to Palm Coast, a planned community of around 95,000 residents. Tucked between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, the city is surrounded by nature preserves.
I found Hammock Beach Resort to be one of my favorite oceanfront getaways.
Set right on the Atlantic coastline, the resort gave me some of the best views of endless beaches and rolling waves—it felt like the perfect setting for a weekend escape or a longer vacation.
My favorite part was how versatile the property was, offering something for everyone: romantic corners for couples, fun-filled activities for kids, and plenty of relaxation for all.
The accommodations ranged from spacious suites to multi-bedroom villas, making it one of the best options for both families and groups who want comfort and convenience.
I loved the pool complex, complete with a lazy river and water slide, which made it feel like a mini waterpark right by the beach—perfect for a family getaway.
Golf lovers would find the two championship courses to be a highlight, especially the Ocean Course designed by Jack Nicklaus, which quickly became one of my favorite features of the resort.
The dining options were another highlight for me, from casual bites by the pool to fine dining with coastal-inspired flavors that showcased fresh Florida seafood.
The spa offered a serene retreat where I could fully relax, and it paired perfectly with long walks on the quiet beach just steps away.
What stood out most was the warmth of the service—every detail felt thoughtful, making the stay feel personal and memorable.
For me, Hammock Beach Resort is one of the most underrated treasures on Florida’s east coast, ideal for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or even a golf retreat by the sea.
A downside? With so many villas and large spaces, it leaned more toward a condo-resort atmosphere than a traditional hotel. Families seeking an intimate, boutique feel may find it less personal.
Plan your Hammock Beach getaway:
- Address: Hammock Beach Resort, 200 Ocean Crest Dr, Palm Coast, FL 32137
- Cost: Rooms and villas typically $250–$400 per night; golf and dining additional
4. Soak Up Sunset Views and Coastal Elegance at Wyndham Grand Clearwater
From Tampa, I drove 25 miles west (about 40 minutes) across the Courtney Campbell Causeway to Clearwater, a Gulf Coast city of around 117,000 people. Its star is Clearwater Beach, a broad stretch of sugar-white sand regularly ranked among America’s best.
Set directly on Clearwater’s award-winning beach, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach gave me stunning views of white sand and turquoise waters that felt like the perfect backdrop for a weekend getaway.
My favorite part was the spacious, contemporary rooms, many with private balconies that overlooked either the Gulf or the Intracoastal Waterway—it was the kind of view I never wanted to leave.
The resort felt just as perfect for a romantic escape as it did for a family vacation, thanks to its versatile design and welcoming atmosphere.
I loved the pool deck, which overlooked the beach and made it easy to spend the day soaking up the Florida sunshine with a cocktail in hand.
The dining options were some of the best in the area—DocK’s Poolside Bar & Grill for casual bites, and Ocean Hai for elevated Asian-fusion cuisine that quickly became my favorite spot for dinner.
The spa was another highlight, offering indulgent treatments and a calm, relaxing space that balanced out the energy of the beach scene outside.
In the evenings, I enjoyed walking along the lively beachfront promenade, where shops, cafés, and entertainment added to the getaway vibe.
The staff were warm and attentive, always going above and beyond to make the experience feel special and memorable.
For me, Wyndham Grand Clearwater is one of the best and most underrated stays on Florida’s Gulf Coast—perfect for a romantic weekend, a family trip, or simply a relaxing beach escape with every luxury at your fingertips.
A downside? Its prime location means crowds, both on the beach and around the hotel. Parking can be expensive and limited, and the busy atmosphere might not suit travelers looking for quiet seclusion.
Plan your Wyndham Grand Clearwater getaway:
- Address: Wyndham Grand Clearwater, 100 Coronado Dr, Clearwater, FL 33767
- Cost: Rooms typically $250–$400 per night; parking ~$30/day
5. If Family Fun and Villas Are Your Style, Head to Reunion Resort
Kissimmee isn’t only about theme parks, it’s surrounded by lakes and wetlands that feel worlds away from roller coasters.
Spread across 2,300 acres, Reunion Resort in Kissimmee gave me the best mix of fun, luxury, and convenience—it felt perfect for both a romantic weekend escape and an extended family vacation.
My favorite part was the wide variety of accommodations, from spacious villas to multi-bedroom vacation homes complete with private pools, game rooms, and full kitchens—ideal for families or groups wanting extra space and comfort.
Golf lovers will be in heaven here, with three signature courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson—one of the best golf experiences I’ve come across in Florida.
I loved the five-acre water park with its lazy river, slides, and splash zones, which made it one of my favorite places to relax and have fun with family.
The dining options were another highlight, from casual poolside eats to the rooftop Eleven steakhouse, where sunset views and cocktails made for a romantic night out.
The resort also offered endless activities—tennis, pickleball, bike rentals, and fitness programs—so every day felt full of variety and adventure.
The spa was a serene retreat where I could unwind, perfectly balancing out the excitement of nearby attractions like Disney and Universal.
What stood out most was the staff’s warm hospitality and the thoughtful touches throughout the property that made the stay feel special and memorable.
For me, Reunion Resort is one of the most underrated gems in Central Florida—a perfect blend of luxury, fun, and family-friendly adventure that makes every getaway unforgettable.
A downside? Because it’s a large resort with many rental-style accommodations, I sometimes felt less like I was in a traditional hotel and more like a neighborhood. That made it easy to spread out, but a little less personal in service compared to smaller resorts.
Plan your Reunion Resort family vacation:
- Address: Reunion Resort, 7593 Gathering Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34747
- Cost: Villas typically $250–$500 per night depending on size; dining and golf add extra
6. Enjoy Boutique Bliss by the Shore at Beachside Village Resort
Just 7 miles north of Fort Lauderdale (a 20-minute drive), I reached Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a cozy seaside town of about 6,500 residents. Unlike its high-rise neighbors, this stretch of Atlantic shoreline is low-key and walkable.
Just steps from the sand, Beachside Village Resort gave me some of the best access to the beach—it truly felt like my own private seaside retreat for a weekend getaway.
My favorite part was the boutique, village-style setup, with pastel-colored buildings, lush landscaping, and cozy outdoor spaces that created a warm, homey vibe.
The accommodations were bright, clean, and comfortable, with kitchens and living spaces that made it perfect for longer stays or family vacations.
I loved lounging by the heated pools surrounded by palm trees, where the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, often with guests chatting like old friends—it felt like a true community.
One of the best aspects for me was the resort’s location—I could walk to shops, cafés, and the town’s fishing pier, making every day feel effortless and fun.
The staff made my stay unforgettable, with personal touches and genuine hospitality that made me feel more like a guest in someone’s home than at a hotel.
For couples, it’s a romantic and quiet spot to unwind, and for families, the spacious layouts and easy beach access make it an ideal getaway.
Every evening, I enjoyed strolling along the beach at sunset, knowing I had a comfortable and welcoming place to return to.
For me, Beachside Village Resort is one of the most underrated gems in South Florida—perfect for a laid-back, seaside escape that feels both personal and special.
A downside? The boutique size meant fewer amenities compared to larger resorts. Families looking for a big water park or multiple on-site restaurants might find it limited.
Plan your Beachside Village getaway:
- Address: Beachside Village Resort, 4553 N Ocean Dr, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308
- Cost: Rooms typically $200–$300 per night
7. Live the Iconic Miami Lifestyle at Fontainebleau Miami Beach
I crossed the causeway from downtown Miami (about 10 miles, a 25-minute drive) to Miami Beach, a barrier island city of roughly 80,000 residents. Famous for its wide sandy shoreline, the scene centers on South Beach — where neon-lit Art Deco hotels line Ocean Drive.
Located right on Collins Avenue, Fontainebleau Miami Beach gave me some of the best oceanfront views in Miami, with turquoise waters and endless white sand just steps away.
My favorite part was the way the property blends its legendary past—it opened in 1954 and hosted countless celebrities—with sleek, contemporary updates that make it feel fresh and exciting today.
The rooms were stylish and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, and balconies that made me feel wrapped in Miami’s vibrant energy.
I loved spending time at the poolscape, which is one of the best I’ve seen—multiple pools, cabanas, and lively bars created a fun, glamorous atmosphere perfect for both couples and friends.
Dining was another highlight, with world-class restaurants like Hakkasan, Scarpetta, and StripSteak by Michael Mina making every meal feel like a culinary event.
The nightlife was just as incredible, with the famous LIV nightclub on-site, where music, dancing, and Miami’s electric vibe carried late into the night.
The spa offered a serene escape from all the excitement, with luxurious treatments and a peaceful ambiance that gave me the perfect balance of relaxation.
What stood out most was the sense of history—I loved knowing I was walking in the footsteps of icons like Frank Sinatra and Elvis, yet enjoying every modern comfort imaginable.
For me, Fontainebleau Miami Beach is one of the best and most underrated luxury resorts in South Florida, perfect for a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or simply a glamorous escape filled with sun, style, and sophistication.
Plan your family vacation at Fontainebleau:
- Address: Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
- Cost: Rooms typically $400–$700 per night; dining and extras priced luxury
Conclusion
Traveling through Florida with my husband and son, I realized how many different versions of “family time” the state offered. One day we were swinging in hammocks by a quiet bay in the Keys, another we were sliding down water rides or walking hand-in-hand along wide, glowing beaches. Each resort gave us something new, a different pace, a different flavor, a different way to be together. What stayed the same was the feeling: Florida knew how to welcome us, whether through warm sand, fresh seafood, or the sight of my son laughing under the sun.
If you’re planning your own trip, think about the kind of memories you want to make. Do you want history and glamour? Look to the Pink Palace at St. Pete. Craving calm mornings and long, lazy afternoons? Hammock Beach or Vero might be your place. Or maybe you want to feel Miami’s energy pulsing around you while still letting the kids splash by the pool, then the Fontainebleau waits. Wherever you land, the rhythm of waves and the glow of Florida skies will be there to stitch the days together. That, more than anything, is what makes these resorts unforgettable for families.
My personal highlights:
What I love most is how Florida’s resorts give families the best of everything, Disney’s magical experiences, the unique island feel of Key Largo, the underrated charm of Naples, and beachfront fun in Destin. Each one feels special and has quickly become one of my favorite ways to enjoy Florida with kids.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
