Thanks to its endless miles of coastline, countless beautiful islands, and unmatched picture-perfect climate, the Sunshine State boasts some of the best places to visit in the United States. In fact, the hardest part of planning your vacation to Florida will be deciding exactly where to vacation in Florida. From the animated spirit of Panama City Beach to the laid-back atmosphere of Anna Maria Island, you’ll find Florida family vacations, solo adventures, and spring break trips galore. With so many possibilities, your choices are nearly endless. But fear not—we’ll break down the 17 best places to vacation in Florida for you. So, no matter what kind of trip you’re planning, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable time.
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Table of Contents
- 1. Destin
- 2. Orlando
- 3. St. Augustine
- 4. Sarasota
- 5-7. The Florida Keys
- 8. Naples
- 9. Palm Beach
- 10. Amelia Island
- 11. St. Petersburg
- 12. Marco Island
- 13. Pensacola Beach
- 14. Boca Raton
- 15. Sanibel Island
- 16. Miami Beach
- 17. Anna Maria Island
- Next Vacay: The Best Deals on Flights to Florida and Beyond
1. Destin
If you’re looking for a small-town vibe packed full of big-time fun, Destin is the perfect Florida vacation spot. Tucked away in the Florida Panhandle, Destin lies along the Emerald Coast, where the waters glimmer turquoise green and the white sand beaches are almost blindingly white. They’re the perfect launching point for everything from snorkeling tours to dolphin-watching excursions and more.
But Destin isn’t just a beach destination. Once you tear yourself away from the waves, it doesn’t disappoint with activities. Consider spending a day practicing your swing on the city’s many golf courses or hiking the trails at Henderson Beach State Park. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is an ideal spot for families looking to cool off.
Be sure to save space in your itinerary for a day trip. With Panama City only an hour away and sites like Camp Helen State Park, Gulf World Marine Park, and the ever-popular Panama City Beach a short drive from Destin, you may just find yourself hitting the road in search of adventure.
Where to Stay: Henderson Beach Resort
2. Orlando
Central Florida means no sand and no surf, but there’s still sun and fun aplenty. Orlando may not have any beaches, but what it lacks in sand, it makes up for with endless attractions that make it one of the best family vacation spots in Florida. We’ll be surprised if you can pry yourself away from interacting with princesses at Disney World, your favorite movies at Universal Studios, and delightful sea creatures at Discovery Cove.
And if the theme parks start to bore? Then, Orlando makes the perfect home base for some epic day trips. Take a drive to the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach, or head out to the Daytona International Speedway to check out the home of the Daytona 500.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Orlando packs the perfect blend of magic, kid-friendly fun, and romance!
Where to Stay: The Alfond Inn at Rollins
3. St. Augustine
For a history-inspired getaway, the oldest city in the US is easily one of the best places to vacation in Florida. St. Augustine stands out as one of the most picturesque cities in Florida, largely due to its Spanish Colonial influences. And those influences are everywhere, from its narrow streets and balconied houses to landmarks like the impressive Castillo de San Marcos and the gorgeous Lightner Museum. The historic walking tours and scenic boat tours will keep you invested in every twist and turn around this cobblestone city.
Get in some exercise, biking through St. Augustine’s nature reserve or climbing giant dunes on Ponte Vedra Beach. And this is Florida we’re talking about, so beautiful beaches are a standard.
It would be all too easy to spend days exploring every inch and corner of St. Augustine. But with spots like Daytona Beach an enticing hour’s drive away and nearby Flagler Beach offering up cozy vibes with open-air restaurants and Atlantic views, you’ll likely find time for a trip or two in your itinerary.
Where to Stay: The Saint Augustine Beach House
4. Sarasota
Looking for the best places to visit in Florida for an unforgettable beach vacation? Sarasota won’t disappoint. Even locals can’t deny the draw of award-winning beaches like Siesta Key, a quartz beach with white sand so fine that it resembles powder. Lido Beach is another beauty. A bit more secluded and quieter than its sister beach, it offers access to scenic trails, boutique shopping, and stellar dining experiences.
But the beach isn’t the only draw. Sarasota is also home to a fun “circus” culture and a thriving art scene. You can’t visit the city without stopping in at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art to learn about the history of the circus in Sarasota before catching a live show at the Circus Arts Conservatory. Explore Sarasota’s art scene at galleries like Art Uptown Inc., which showcases exhibitions by regional artists in the community. And for a memorable night out, try attending a performance at the Sarasota Opera House.
Where to Stay: The Westin Sarasota
5-7. The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are home to not just one but several of the best places to vacation in Florida. This part of South Florida boasts the only living coral barrier reef in the US outside of Hawaii. That makes the Florida Keys pretty unique as a whole, but each of the Keys offers visitors something special.
5. Key Largo
Key Largo is first among the Keys, and you’ll find no shortage of beauty here, including beautiful sunsets. Because they’re coral islands, the Keys don’t have many beaches. However, they make up for that by being the perfect places to dive, snorkel, and explore the ocean below its surface.
And just what will you find down there? Under the surface in Key Largo, you’ll find one of the largest artificial coral reefs: Spiegel Grove. At one point, it was the most extensive artificial reef in the world. Since its sinking in 2002, it’s slipped to third place, but it still makes for an incredible scuba diving experience.
Key Largo is also just a short trip away from the Homestead entrance of Everglades National Park!
Where to Stay: Kona Kai Resort
6. Islamorada
If you’re looking for a quaint village getaway, then Islamorada is your next Florida vacation spot. The entire village spans six islands, which translates to plenty of fun near, in, and around the water. All this enviable access to the water might be one of the reasons Islamorada is seen as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World.
Even if you’re not interested in fishing, Islamorada has plenty to make your family vacation memorable. Check out the picturesque beaches on Long Key, the 1800s ruins at Indian Key Historic State Park, and dolphin experiences at the Theater of the Sea.
Where to Stay: Amara Cay Resort
7. Key West
Any of the Keys would make for a great Florida vacation. But among them, it’s the town of Key West that takes the crown as the most popular tourist destination.
Included among the friendliest places in the US, Key West is easily the most lively of the Keys. Depending on your mood, you can get loud and wild in Lower Duval or head to Upper Duval for a classier, more sophisticated night out on the town.
When you’re not partying the night away, Key West offers plenty of outdoor adventure. Take a walking tour through the town’s streets and gardens—from Bayview Park to the Hemingway Home and Museum—or take a boat tour out on the water to try spotting some dolphins. And you also can’t miss a truly magical stroll through the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to see hundreds of beautiful butterflies fluttering about.
Where to Stay: Havana Cabana At Key West
8. Naples
Naples is a charming stop along Florida’s Paradise Coast, with everything from outdoor adventures to high-end shopping experiences. You’ll find just enough to keep you busy without feeling overwhelmed.
Relax on the beach at Lowdermilk Park or take a stroll through the Naples Botanical Garden. If you’re in the mood for a more adventurous outing, try out the gator feedings and boat rides at the Naples Zoo. But it doesn’t get more adventurous than Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a part of the West Everglades, where you can revel in the state’s untouched beauty and enjoy a proper swamp walk while keeping your feet blissfully dry.
Naples is also a prime location for day trips north. Head to Bonita Springs to kayak around the four barrier islands that make up Lovers Key State Park or Fort Myers to lounge on the beach and soak up the sun. Whether you stay in the city or spend a little time outside it, Naples is one of the best vacation spots in Florida for a laid-back getaway and an affordable family trip.
Where to Stay: Inn at Pelican Bay
9. Palm Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect playground to while away your days in the sun, look no further than Palm Beach and the broader Palm Beach County. Compelling art and cultural scenes blend vibrant nightlife venues with endless natural beauty and plenty of spots to admire it.
As with any escape to Florida, one can’t go wrong with a trip to the beach. And because the beaches here are located along the Atlantic Ocean, the surf scene gets a major kick with some serious waves when the wind picks up. For day plans that include a bit less sand and waves, visitors can’t miss a trip to the Flagler Museum, built in Henry Flagler’s awe-inspiring mansion, or a stop at the Breakers Hotel for some truly iconic shots. Plan animal encounters with a visit to the Palm Beach Zoo or Manatee Lagoon. And when night falls, Clematis Street and Downtown West Palm Beach await with cocktails, live music, and more.
Between Palm Beach and West Palm Beach, you’re in for a Florida vacation filled with glitz, fun, and classic Florida sun.
Where to Stay: Casa Grandview
10. Amelia Island
For a Florida getaway that’s just as beautiful as it is quiet, there’s Amelia Island. Located just off the East Coast, this barrier island is a must-visit destination in Florida.
The beaches are one of this island’s biggest draws and among the best places to visit in Florida. Spend your vacation digging your toes into white and gold sands, peeking at the tallest sand dune in Florida, Nana’s Dune, and making a splash in crystal-clear, blue waters. Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach is perfect for early morning strolls along the quaint, tree-lined streets. And all around town, you’ll spot fun reminders of the town’s pirate history, from the Amelia Island Museum of History to Pirate Playground. Amelia also claims two impressive Florida landmarks: the oldest lighthouse, the Amelia Island Lighthouse, and the oldest bar, Palace Saloon.
For families and travelers hoping to soak in plenty of calm, natural beauty, and sunshine, Amelia Island is the place to plan your next getaway.
Where to Stay: The Addison on Amelia Island
11. St. Petersburg
You can’t say you’ve been to the Sunshine State without visiting the vacation destination known as the Sunshine City. St. Petersburg set the record for the longest number of consecutive sunshine days in the world.
The terrific weather year-round means it’s never the wrong time to plan a vacation to this particular Florida destination. Here, the beach is always calling your name, from St. Pete Beach—named the number 1 beach in the US in 2021 by Tripadvisor—to Clearwater Beach. If you’re dropping by the latter for a visit, don’t miss a trip to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where you can take a kayak tour around the bay, meet rescued animals, and more.
Of course, there’s more to St. Petersburg than its beaches. The exhibits and family events at the Salvador Dalí Museum are a hit with visitors, along with experiences at other art galleries, including the Chihuly Collection of glass sculptures and blown glass demonstrations at the Morean Arts Center. From the fun of the St. Petersburg Pier to the thrills of Busch Gardens, St. Petersburg is an adventure-packed destination for all ages.
Where to Stay: The Cordova Inn
12. Marco Island
Marco Island is a Florida destination famed for its beauty. But this Florida vacation spot is more than just a pretty face. Beyond being a gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands off Florida’s Gulf Coast, Marco Island boasts stunning beaches, mangrove islands, and world-class shopping, dining, and golf courses.
Go hunting for shells on the soft white sands of Tigertail Beach, kayak out on the lagoon, or head over to South Beach to catch a magical sunset. With endless miles of bays, islands, and estuaries to explore, an excursion into the wilderness is also the perfect way to pass the time. Take a tour through mangrove islands to learn all about these coastal trees and spot the fascinating wildlife that lives among them. Or head into the Everglades in Big Cypress Preserve or Everglades National Park.
Marco Island is the perfect vacation spot for relaxing or diving into adventure; whatever you decide to do, the choices are endless and all yours!
Where to Stay: Olde Marco Island Inn & Suites
13. Pensacola Beach
While Destin may boast some of Florida’s best beaches, mark Pensacola Beach down as your Florida getaway for an authentic Gulf Coast vacation. The lack of major development keeps crowd numbers down and makes for some stunning ocean views throughout the town. Alongside the gorgeous waters are the soft, white-sand beaches that make these locales some of the best places to visit in Florida.
For the best views, walk along the piers at Pensacola or Navarre Beach, keeping an eye out for turtles and dolphins. Or hike the nature trails at Live Oaks Nature Preserve, where you’ll find lovely views and private beach areas to enjoy the sand and surf in solitude.
The draw of relaxed, laid-back summer fun is boosted by affordable prices and the shimmering emerald waters that are synonymous with spots like Pensacola Beach.
Where to Stay: The Pensacola Beach Resort
14. Boca Raton
Also a part of Palm Beach County, Boca Raton is a glitzy getaway famous for its shopping, with plenty of high-end fashion stores and designer boutiques. Many stars also call it home, from Bon Jovi to Ariana Grande. But Boca Raton has a lot more to offer than just celebrity sightings or fabulous shopping experiences. Where Boca Raton truly shines is outside.
Outdoor adventures abound in Boca Raton, and we’re not just talking about beautiful beaches. Although you absolutely must check out spectacular spots like Atlantic Dunes Park, with its impressive dunes and tranquil beach, or Delray Beach, which locals consider a hidden treasure. But these don’t even scratch the surface.
Snorkel at Red Reef Park, have a picnic at Spanish River Park, and take the family to Sugar Sand Park, where everyone will have something to enjoy, from an ornate carousel to a playful science museum and beautiful nature trails—it’s basically a mini amusement park for kids. Suffice it to say that Boca Raton puts in the work to earn its reputation as a nature lover’s paradise.
Where to Stay: The Seagate
15. Sanibel Island
A charming escape with chill vibes describes Sanibel perfectly. This quaint island, just a short drive outside of Fort Myers, is known for its stunning views of the sky out over the water. Sunset is spectacular, and the sight of a sunrise over Lighthouse Beach Park is undoubtedly a good reason to roll out of bed early.
From collecting shells on Sanibel Island to lying out on the soft white sand of Captiva Island, every spot will give you something different. And as far as natural surroundings are concerned, Sanibel doesn’t disappoint. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge takes up more than half of the island and is one of the most popular spots to see everything from alligators to bottlenose dolphins and so much more.
Don’t just stick to the beaches here. Grab a bike, hop on, and explore firsthand everything this beautiful island has to offer.
Where to Stay: Sanibel Island Beach Resort
16. Miami Beach
Miami is a jack of all trades when it comes to travel destinations, which is why it is indisputably one of the best places to visit in Florida for a vacation.
South Beach’s thriving nightlife can be enjoyed everywhere, from hipster lounges to Latin dance clubs. For daytime activities, the Art Deco District awaits, with retro, pastel-hued buildings that’ll take up rows and rows of your camera roll. Find both on Ocean Drive, boasting a vibrant nightlife scene and colorful Art Deco buildings. But even outside of Miami Beach and South Beach, you’ll find a plethora of must-see neighborhoods. Explore the heart of Cuban culture in Little Havana and the soul of the Haitian community in Little Haiti. Or, enjoy the ritzy flair of Bal Harbour, the lush beauty of Coral Gables, and the family-friendly charm of Coconut Grove.
The beaches are pristine, the theme parks are entertaining, the history is fascinating, and the art and culture are unmatched. Miami’s charms are endless.
Where to Stay: The Savoy Hotel Miami Beach
17. Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a barrier island off Florida’s Gulf Coast, boasting an uninterrupted, seven-mile stretch of gorgeous white sand beach slipping into turquoise green waters. How’s that for a beach island getaway?
Shop at small boutiques and dine at quaint cafes, but don’t expect to find the likes of amusement parks, big buildings, or businesses. In fact, most buildings aren’t more than three stories. The few high-rise buildings on the island were constructed before the island’s height restrictions took effect. Additionally, many of the shops on Anna Maria are family or locally owned. You’ll be hard-pressed to find chain restaurants or stores here.
The lack of big business and emphasis on local charm only adds to the island’s “Old Florida” character, with 20th-century buildings and history around every corner. In short, Anna Maria is the place to be for a vintage Florida vacation in a destination that’s the definition of endearing.
Where to Stay: Seaside Resort And Spa
Next Vacay: The Best Deals on Flights to Florida and Beyond
Now that you know all the places where you can experience the best Florida vacations, it’s time to book your flight. So, how will you do it? Well, the smart answer is Next Vacay. From family vacations to group trips and going it solo, what better way to start your vacation than finding a great deal that doesn’t put your budget in the red before you even get started?
With weekly flight deals to some of the hottest destinations in Florida—from South Beach to Disney World, and so many more—you’ll be planning your next vacation in no time and scoring some major savings along the way!
So don’t put off your next trip. Sunshine and adventure await … with Next Vacay!
