Top Florida Accommodations to Book in 2025

Where to Stay in Florida – A Guide to the Best Places

The ‘Sunshine State’ is renowned for its theme parks, sandy beaches adorned with palm trees, and charming wildlife. Consequently, it has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the perfect holiday atmosphere filled with sun, sea, and sand.

This guide will provide insights on where to stay in Florida, breaking it down city by city, highlighting essential activities and accommodation options available. Let’s explore the best places to stay in Florida.

If you are in a hurry:

• Miami: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club
• Orlando: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
• Fort Lauderdale: Four Seasons Hotel And Residences Fort Lauderdale
• Naples: The Escalante

1. Florida Keys: Best for Relaxing

The Florida Keys offer an idyllic setting for relaxation. With a stunning landscape of beautiful beaches and luxury accommodations connected by the scenic 110-mile Overseas Highway, the region boasts over 800 keys, each with its unique charm. Whether you want to unwind on serene beaches or engage in exciting marine activities, the Keys provide endless relaxation opportunities.

For example, Key West is vibrant and lively, famous for Duval Street, perfect for both beach relaxation and nightlife. In contrast, Key Largo is suited for nature lovers, offering trails, dolphin encounters, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

Here are our top accommodation picks:

Luxury: Little Palm Island Resort features luxury bungalows around a heated pool. Enjoy a traditional beach bar or pamper yourself with a spa treatment at this secluded oasis.

Mid-range: Kimpton Lighthouse Hotel is a chic boutique hotel with various stylish rooms, complimentary breakfast, and access to a swimming pool, bar, and cafe.

Budget: Captain Pip’s Marina & Hideaway is a fantastic budget option on the bay, offering fishing docks, boat rentals, and spacious rooms. It’s ideal for an affordable getaway.

VRBO: Oceanfront Bungalow Haven – This stunning property opens directly onto the ocean, complete with a private dock and community amenities including a heated pool, sports courts, and marina.

Things to do in Florida Keys

• Relax on one of the beautiful white sandy beaches
• Road trip through the Overseas Highway
• Experience paragliding and feeding tarpon in Islamorada
• Go scuba diving
• Explore Long Key State Park
• Visit the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States

2. Miami – Best for First-time Visitors

Miami enchants visitors with its gorgeous beaches, lively nightlife, and exhilarating attractions. Known for its vibrant social scene and rich cultural offerings, it is a top destination for first-time Florida visitors.

Moreover, Miami boasts beautiful palm beaches and plenty of watersports while also showcasing its urban charm through a variety of attractions. Each experience you have will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Where to Stay in Miami

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club stands out as a premier luxury hotel with impressive outdoor pools, restaurants, and beachfront access.

Mid-range: Sole Miami is an elegant mid-range property offering chic accommodations with stunning views and access to a private beach.

Budget: Viajero Hostels Miami provides affordable stays close to the beach, featuring bright dorm and private room options, as well as multiple pools for relaxation.

VRBO: Luxury Condo with Bay Views – This delightful condo is perfect for couples or solo travelers, featuring a stunning balcony with river and bay views.

Things to do in Miami

• Relax at South Beach and Miami Beach
• Take a day trip to Everglades National Park
• Explore the art galleries in South Beach

3. Orlando: Best for Families

Orlando is the ultimate destination for family fun, boasting an array of theme parks and attractions. Known for renowned locations like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, this city is perfect for keeping everyone entertained from dawn till dusk.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes offers an extraordinary luxury experience with multiple restaurant options and outdoor pools within a private, expansive setting.

Budget: Wyndham Garden Orlando Airport is an informal yet budget-friendly choice with pools, a restaurant, and convenient services like an airport shuttle.

Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is excellently located near Universal Studios with all the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay.

VRBO: Surburban Oasis Suite offers a leafy, suburban atmosphere with acces to a covered pool and spa helpful for relaxation after thrilling theme park adventures.

Things to do in Orlando

• Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios
• Experience the Magic Kingdom
• Challenge yourself at Tree Trek Adventure Park

4. Naples: Best for Golf Courses

Naples is distinguished as a luxurious destination boasting beautiful beaches and over ninety golf courses. This Gulf Coast city is a golfer’s paradise while also offering splendid shopping and relaxation opportunities.

Where to Stay in Naples

Budget: Collins Hotel Naples is the best value option, including complimentary breakfast and access to an outdoor pool.

Mid-range: Park Shore Resort features condo accommodations with a homely vibe, also offering swimming pools and tropical gardens.

Luxury: The Escalante brings a Mediterranean luxury experience, complete with a spa and heated outdoor pool.

VRBO: Fifth Avenue Condo is ideally located on Fifth Avenue, offering easy access to shops and dining, as well as proximity to the beach.

Things to do in Naples

• Visit local museums
• Explore Sanibel Island
• Shop on Fifth Avenue South

5. Tampa: Best for Culture

Tampa is a vibrant cultural hub full of diverse influences, unique neighborhoods, and culinary delights. Offering plenty of recreational activities and easy access to nearby beaches, Tampa caters to a multifaceted visitor experience.

Where to Stay in Tampa

Budget: Gram’s Place Bed and Hostel provides a creative bohemian environment with affordable dorms and private rooms.

Mid-range: Sleep Inn and Suites Tampa South features modern amenities and a convenient breakfast each morning, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Luxury: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay offers a luxurious experience with access to nature trails, pools, and fine dining.

VRBO: Downtown Apartment with Hillsborough River Views is a stunning riverside property, ideal for those wanting tranquility in the city.

Things to do in Tampa

• Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
• Experience Busch Gardens Theme Park
• Explore Ybor City

6. Panama City: Best for Watersports

Panama City, located on the panhandle of Florida, is famed for its incredible coastline and abundant opportunities for thrilling watersports. It is a prime destination for engaging in activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, sailing, and kiteboarding.

Where to Stay in Panama City

Budget: Sleep Inn & Suites offers a comfortable, smart stay with great reviews at reasonable prices, along with complimentary breakfast.

Mid-range: Seychelles Beach Resort by Vacasa features vacation condos perfect for self-catering, each with cool balconies and kitchen facilities.

Luxury: Grand Panama Beach Resort by Emerald View Resorts provides upscale condos with stunning sea views along with a tiki bar and large pool.

VRBO: Beachfront Condo with Gulf Views is perfect for those needing stunning views and direct access to the beach.

Things to do in Panama City

• Enjoy watersports on Panama City Beach
• Visit Shipwreck Island Waterpark
• Explore St. Andrews State Park

7. Fort Lauderdale: Best Small City Atmosphere

Fort Lauderdale presents a quieter, more laid-back alternative to major tourist spots like Orlando and Miami. Renowned for its picturesque canals and rich cultural landscape, it’s ideal for those seeking both recreation and relaxation.

Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel And Residences Fort Lauderdale provides an upscale experience with coastal views, a luxurious spa, and two swimming pools.

Mid-range: Snooze Hotel offers a cheerful atmosphere with a rooftop terrace showcasing beautiful views of the city and ocean.

Budget: Ocean Beach Club is conveniently located right on the beach, featuring comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

VRBO: Corner Unit with Ocean Views provides stunning beachfront access with comfortable accommodations.

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

• Shop on Las Olas Boulevard
• Experience a gondola ride through the canals
• Visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

8. West Palm Beach: Best for a Beach Town Vibe

West Palm Beach delivers a charming town atmosphere with vast waterfront parks and natural beauty. It is the perfect destination for those looking to soak in some sun while also enjoying cultural attractions.

Where to Stay in West Palm Beach

Budget: Economy Inn West Palm Beach is a straightforward budget property with basic essentials and simple amenities.

Mid-range: Sabel House Bed and Breakfast offers an inviting mid-range stay with vintage-style accommodations and afternoon tea service.

Luxury: The Breakers Palm Beach is a luxury resort providing breathtaking Italian-rennaissance styled designs.

VRBO: Tropical Cottage near the Beach is an ideal romantic getaway location with a charming pool and nice amenities.

Things to do in West Palm Beach

• Relax on Palm Beach
• Spend time at the Norton Museum of Art
• Stroll through Grassy Waters Preserve

9. Jacksonville: Best on a Budget

Jacksonville is a welcoming destination located near the Georgia border, known for its affordability relative to other Florida cities. It is perfect for travelers looking for coastal access without breaking the bank.

Where to Stay in Jacksonville

Budget: Sonesta Simply Suites Jacksonville offers spacious accommodations with features such as a gym and free parking.

Mid-range: Marriott Jacksonville Downtown features a rooftop pool and comfortable amenities, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring.

Luxury: Ponte Vedra Inn & Club provides a high-end experience complete with a golf course, multiple pools, and a spa.

VRBO: Historical Jacksonville Home is a spacious rental ideal for groups, offering stylish accommodations.

Things to do in Jacksonville

• Visit Kingsley Plantation
• Explore Shipwreck Island Waterpark
• Tour the historic downtown of Fernandina Beach

Florida FAQs

As you prepare for your stay in Florida, here are some frequently asked questions to keep in mind.

What is the best month to go to Florida?

The ideal months to visit Florida are March or April. Springtime yields warm temperatures and generally drier weather, avoiding the summertime’s rainy and hurricane-prone season.

What is the most beautiful place to stay in Florida?

The Florida Keys are often considered the most beautiful destination, with their stunning beaches and vibrant wildlife making them a top choice.

What are the best hotels in Florida?

Top hotels in Florida include Four Seasons Miami, Orlando Ritz Carlton, and Four Seasons Hotel And Residences Fort Lauderdale. Choosing based on budget and region will help narrow down your options.

What are the best places to stay in Florida for beaches?

Florida’s best beach accommodations can be found in the Florida Keys, Miami, and West Palm Beach, each offering unique styles and experiences.

What are the best places to stay in Florida for a family?

Orlando and West Palm Beach rank as the best family-friendly locations, with abundant entertainment options and a relaxed atmosphere.

With countless choices like Key West, Miami Beach, or family-fun-filled Orlando, Florida promises a vibrant experience. Each destination brings a unique charm, ensuring you enjoy the picturesque landscapes, beaches, and cultural richness during your visit.

For further inspiration, explore our guides on the best places to visit in Florida and best beaches in Florida. Enjoy your time in the Sunshine State!