When people think of the best vacation spots in Florida, their minds immediately go to overly trafficked Disney World resorts and three-star beach hotels. But what about vacation destinations for couples?
In truth, the Sunshine State is the US’s gateway to the majestic Caribbean, and as such, it’s absolutely teeming with hundreds—nay, thousands—of romantic places to visit for couples who have a taste for the finer things in life. The even better news is, if you live in Florida, you don’t even have to book a flight.
If you're looking for a romantic destination in South Florida, here are a few of the nicest luxury resorts and best anniversary trips our state has to offer.
Sunset Key Cottages
Key West is many amazing things, but it isn’t generally looked upon as a bastion of opulence. This is why it may come as a surprise that one of the finest places to go for an anniversary weekend is located barely a stone’s throw west of the original Margaritaville.
This 27-acre island is privately-owned, and offers all the usual appeal of a Florida Keys vacation, including impeccable beaches, perfect ocean surf, and excellent dining opportunities, including the award-winning Latitudes Restaurant. Throw in plenty of chances to indulge in activities like tennis and spa-going, and you have all the makings of a perfect romantic getaway in the keys.
This resort isn’t exclusively for couples, though. Sprawling four-room cottages ensure plenty of space for the whole family to stretch out and relax as they see fit, and Sunset Key sets itself apart by being decidedly pet-friendly as well, allowing well-mannered furry friends up to 30 pounds to join in on the fun.
Omni Amelia Island
A bit south of the border lies one of the most romantic getaways on the entire East Coast—especially if you both like golf.
Of course, we couldn’t make a list of our favorite Floridian vacation spots for couples without at least mentioning the endless acres of professionally designed golf courses dotting the land. The courses at Omni Amelia Island are well worth the drive, we can assure you. It’s an absolutely fantastic latitude and location to escape the worst of the sometimes-oppressive summer humidity, while still affording you close proximity to the Atlantic-side beaches that make life in Florida so grand.
If you and your partner both love golf, make sure to give yourselves plenty of time to explore all three courses. Then, in the evenings, enjoy all the traditional resort fare, including fine dining all around Fernandina Beach.
White Elephant Palm Beach
When people talk about the best weekend getaways for couples, this is precisely what they mean.
This converted old-world style hotel is a mecca for foodies, as it includes an opportunity to dine at the world-famous Lola 41 restaurant, which you’d normally have to fly all the way to Nantucket for. Excellent room service and poolside dining is also available, in addition to a wide range of beach activities, car and bike rentals, and fabulous sightseeing of glorious Palm Beach, which features numerous boutiques for high-end shopping opportunities. You can always get a luxury limo to chauffeur you around, but there's something truly intimate about strolling the beach together, hand-in-hand.
The Gasparilla Inn & Club
If you have an eye for that “Old Florida” charm, this spa resort for couples and families alike is a must-add to your bucket list. The building has stood for over a century, situated comfortably between Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico.
This is one of those resorts that truly does have it all—croquet, tennis, sport fishing, PGA-class golf, kayaking, and even scavenger hunts, if you’re feeling extra quirky on any given day. If you need a romantic resort near you to pop the question or renew your vows at, look no further than this very special spot. For the most incredible experience, be sure to book yourselves a luxurious beach cottage from which to watch the sunset over the open ocean. (Dare we say, this would make an excellent Christmas gift?)
The Pearl
Turning our gaze to the oft-overlooked panhandle, just off 30A we find one of the best getaways for couples in Northern Florida. Guests are greeted with a cocktail the moment they check in, and the pampering doesn’t stop until you decide to leave.
Part of this romantic resort’s charm is its location, nestled into the beachfront community of Rosemary Beach amidst a cornucopia of adorable shops and places to grab a bite. And, of course, the Gulf Shore’s trademark still, shallow waters that absolutely beg you to wade in.
The hotel itself is even more charming than its surroundings, with idiosyncratic clocktower-style architecture that juts above the local sights. At the top of the tallest tower is the highly recommended Pearl Suite, which delivers second-to-none views of the town and is sure to make an impression as one of the best couple’s vacations around.
The Villa Casa Casuarina
For our last entry, we’ll return to our home turf to recommend the absolutely stunning former home of Gianni Versace.
The Villa, built before World War II, has an incredibly rich history, with room after room of priceless art to behold as you take the grand tour of one of the all-time best places to travel as a couple. Ten custom guest suites are available, each an experience in and of itself, and complimentary breakfast is served daily.
When you’re not enjoying one of the many rooms, you can enjoy exclusive access to the breathtaking Thousand Mosaic Pool or have refreshments in one of the fine eating and drinking establishments located inside the villa. After this uniquely romantic trip, you’ll never see the city of Miami quite the same again.
What’s Your Favorite Romantic Vacation Spot for Couples in Florida?
With so many options, we’re sure we missed a few. If you have an idea for the best destinations for couples, we’re all ears!
While you’re helping us find our next potential island getaways, you can let us find you the perfect luxury import vehicle to make your next trip special. Give our Bentley dealership near Aventura a call at (786) 577-5218 and ask about a Bentley Bentayga for sale in Miami today.
