Cheeca Lodge

Dreaming of an escape to the Sunshine State? Florida is an all-time favourite, whether it's for families, friends or couples looking for some beachfront bliss on a private island paradise. The top resorts in Florida really do have it all - from spoiling spas and top class cuisine to wonderful water sports and private beaches, surrounded by turquoise waters and towering palms. Our experts have narrowed down the choice and highlighted their favourite resorts so you can start planning your own special getaway to the sun... 

For a romantic escape

Largo Resort

  • Seriously romantic, Little Palm Island offers muslin-draped beds, rolltop bath tubs and glorious ocean views. It boasts a beach, salon, spa, private marina, yoga and outdoor pool and, as the resort can only be reached by seaplane or boat, it really is secluded. A perfect couples' hideaway.
  • Set along Islamorada’s shores, Islander Resort is a laidback, romantic retreat with wonderful ocean views. Start your day with beach yoga, relax in the saltwater pools or on your terrace, then enjoy a cocktail at the beachside bar. Full of tropical charm.
  • Largo Resort has just nine rooms, so it's an intimate option set on a private beach in Key Largo. The cute cottages offer lovely views and there's even a meditation garden with a waterfall for ultimate relaxation. An infinity pool, paddleboards, kayaks and a private dock are all available to guests.

For a spoiling spa

Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

  • Amrit Ocean Resort on Singer Island is a wonderful retreat with holistic treatments at the vast spa, rooms with circadian lighting, and aromatherapy baths. Unwind on the beach or by the rooftop pool, soaking in the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, savour wholesome cuisine, join an evening yoga experience and just enjoy your wellness journey.
  • A rooftop boutique spa with soothing spaces and relaxing cabanas is a real draw at Pelican Grand Beach Resort. Set on its own private beach in Fort Lauderdale, this expansive resort offers a wide range of water sports on site and oceanfront dining. Unwind in style here.
  • Be pampered in paradise at Cheeca Lodge, a 27-acre spa resort offering Atlantic views and a wide range of activities. Experience luxuries like a heated lap pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, and expert therapists, plus a beautiful private beach.
  • If you fancy a Heaven in a Hammock massage then Ritz Carlton Amelia Island is the place to be! This luxury beachfront resort is the perfect setting for a spa and wellness retreat.  Enjoy the indoor and outdoor pool, championship golf course and private beach cabanas. 

For the theme parks

Loews Portofino Hotel

  • Situated within the Universal Orlando site, Loews Portofino Hotel has an unapologetic Italian theme - expect architecture, cuisine, music and entertainment to match. With free shuttles to nearby amusement parks, enjoy a different one every day, hit the man-made beach, play golf or shop to your heart's content. 

For a stylish stay

The Biltmore

  • Situated on an 18-hole golf course, The Biltmore is an elegant hotel that oozes glamour. There's a huge swimming pool with Renaissance-style sculptures, a luxurious spa and plush furnishings throughout. Located in exclusive Coral Gables near Miami Beach and downtown Miami, it's in a great spot for city exploring.
  • Ocean's Edge Hotel & Marina is a stylish choice with seaside-inspired soft furnishings and decor. A range of water sports are available at the resort, and there are six swimming pools here, making it a great option for active guests. Set on the coast in Key West, it's perfectly placed for a stress-free beach break.
  • Set in a 1950s Art Deco building, Ritz Carlton South Beach is big on style. Spacious rooms boast ocean blue, warm gold and rich coffee palettes with incredible views. The bathrooms are pretty special too with lots of marble and free-standing tubs, plus there's a sultry bar and oceanfront dining.

For a private island

Sunset Key Cottages

  • Sunset Key Cottages are set on a private island just minutes from the city, but it feels as if the hustle and bustle is a million miles away! Complete with a spa, pool, restaurant and white sand beaches, it's the perfect place to chill, or you can take the short 7-minute ferry ride into Key West and party on Duval Street.

For family fun

Tranquility Bay Resort

  • Five heated swimming pools and a water slide will keep everyone entertained at Sundial Beach Resort. Spacious self-catered accommodation with large living areas are ideal for families, and the resort offers a range of fun outdoor activities including kayaking, volleyball, fishing, tennis, cycling and paddle boarding.
  • The Boca Raton is another great family stay with its huge selection of sports facilities. The vast water sports centre has almost everything you can imagine, plus there are two championship-quality golf courses, 30 tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools and a kids' club. There are also 10 restaurants, bars and cafes here so there's something to suit all tastes. 
  • Located at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach, The Atlantic Hotel & Spa offers family fun in spades. Jet skiing, paddle boarding and waterskiing are all available, plus there's an elevated pool, gym, spa and family-friendly restaurant. All rooms boast balconies making the most of those fabulous views.
  • Set on a 330-acre nature reserve, South Seas Island Resort is home to dolphins, manatees, bird life and scenic coastline - perfect for families who want to appreciate their surroundings. There's a kids' club here, plus nature walks, three pools and cycling trails. With a marina, water park and private beach, it's an ideal family destination.
  • If you fancy self-catering, the fully-equipped 2 and 3 bed beach houses at Tranquility Bay Resort provide a great family option. There are age-graded activities for children, including diving lessons, snorkelling and scuba classes, plus three swimming pools, a beachside bar and international restaurant.
  • WaterColor Inn & Resort is a great choice for a relaxing and comfortable family getaway. There's a children's palyground, kids' club, outdoor pool, golf course, plus complimentary kayaks or paddleboards to rent. Homemade cookies delivered to your room with the nightly turndown are a lovely touch.
  • Families are well catered for at The Henderson near Dustin State Park. There's private beach access, a fantastic kids' club, ice-cream and sweet parlour, spacious suites and child-friendly menus. Two outdoor pools and four restaurants should keep everyone happy.

For golf lovers

Villas of Grand Cypress

  • Villas of Grand Cypress is a suites-only resort with championship golf courses in a gorgeous setting. There are plenty of other activities on offer here with sailing, cycling, swimming in the outdoor pool, fishing and tennis. And as it's next to Walt Disney World, it's great for the kids too.

Still not sure? 

20 Top Florida Resorts

Cheeca Lodge

Islamorada (Florida)

This 27 acre spa resort offers Atlantic views and a wide range of activities - fishing, snorkelling, tennis, paddle boards - an endless list. Three restaurants available to suit every palate, italian, seafood and sushi plus any cocktail combination you can think of or just a thirst quenching beer.

  • Restaurant - Italian, Seafood and Sushi restaurants
  • Fishing - A private fishing 525-foot pier is the perfect spot for guests to try a hand at fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Sights nearby - Miami Seaquarium is a great day trip for all the family.
  • Kayaking - Kayaks are readily avalaible in the saltwater lagoon.
from CA$321 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Tranquility Bay Resort

Marathon (Florida)

Fully-equipped 2 and 3 bed beach-houses set on pristine white sands overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Soothing pastel tones complement light woods and wicker accents. Three swimming pools, beach-side bar, international restaurant, and the chance to enjoy a range of activities, from golf to kayaking.

  • Families - With the opportunity to rent houses, rather than rooms, families can easily be accommodated.
  • Fishing - Fishing charters organised by the concierge service (fish the flats, hit the reef, maybe a wreck, or go offshore)
  • Kids Club - There are age-graded activities for children, including diving lessons, snorkelling and scuba classes.
  • Restaurant - Butterfly Cafe serves international cuisine
from CA$272 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Little Palm Island

Little Torch Key (Little Torch Key)

This tropical resort with beach, salon, spa, private marina, yoga and outdoor pool is the ultimate in beachside romance. Dine in the dining room or request a more intimate affair on the beach or in your bungalow. Swim with dolphins, learn to scuba dive, or simply watch the sunset from your porch.

  • Weddings - The island and resort is a magical location for an elegant and enchanting destination wedding
  • Romantic - Seriously romantic with muslin draped beds, roll top bath tubs and glorious ocean views
  • Diving - Looe Key Reef Dive Center is 2.1 km from the resort.
  • Remote - The resort can only be reached by seaplane or boat
from CA$1242 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Villas of Grand Cypress

Orlando (Florida)

Spectacular suites-only resort hotel right by Orlando's top theme parks. Activities include golf, sailing, cycling, swimming in the outdoor pool, fishing and tennis. Interiors are warm and inviting with understated modern furnishings, elegant bathrooms and sleek living areas. Dining options abound.

  • Swimming Pool - Spacious outdoor swimming pool with poolside snackbars
  • Sights nearby - Located next to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
  • Views - There are views of the North Course golf course
  • Restaurant - There are seven restaurants at the resort
from CA$487 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

WaterColor Inn & Resort

Santa Rosa Beach (Florida)

Relaxing and comfortable vacation destination on pristine sands of Florida's panhandle. With a kids' club, on-site golf course and outdoor pool, as well as complimentary use of bicycles, kayaks, and canoes, there is no shortage of fun activities. Interiors are modern and cheerful. Waterfront dining.

  • Families - A fantastic destination for families, as this hotel understands kids (fantastic kids' club, cookies on pillows at turn-down)
  • Kids Club - Camp WaterColor has a low counselor to child ratio (8:1) that encourages boundless creativity, care and fun.
  • On the beach - The hotel boasts a private beach.
  • Swimming Pool - Year-round outdoor pool
from CA$419 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Ocean's Edge Hotel & Marina

Key West (Florida)

This stylish resort is located by the sea in Key West. Guestrooms have a nautical theme, with a royal blue and crisp white colour palette and seaside-inspired soft furnishings. With six swimming pools and watersports activities available, this resort is perfect for a family beach break.

  • Families - Families are well-catered to at this hotel, with family suites available and lots of child-friendly activities
  • Beach Life - Set on the coast in Keys West, Florida, this hotel is perfectly placed for a stress-free beach getaway
  • Active Holiday - A range of watersports are available at the resort, making it a great option for active guests
  • Fishing - Enjoy a family fishing adventure with a hotel package; enquire with your room reservation
from CA$333 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Sunset Key Cottages

Key West

A luxurious Key West stay. Set on a private island just minutes from the city but feeling a million miles away! Cottages range from two to four bedrooms and the design throughout has a real country club feel. Complete with a spa, exceptional service, a restaurant and a host of on-site activities.

  • Families - Private cottages, some with their own pools, give the feel of a private family holiday with the convenience of hotel amenities
  • Beach Life - Beautiful white sand beaches wrap the tiny island that this resort sits upon
  • Romantic Break - Exclusive and private, the perfect choice for a romantic break
  • Fishing - Charter a deep sea-fishing excursion for the day
from CA$1101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Fort Lauderdale (Florida)

A has-it-all resort set on its own private beach in Fort Lauderdale. Spacious rooms have a coastal feel with wicker chairs, palm-print fabrics and private terraces overlooking the ocean. From the spa to the tubing river pool, this is a 'drop your bags and unwind' sort of place.

  • Beach Life - Boasting its own stretch of white sand beach - this is the perfect summer getaway
  • Families - With activities to suit all, this is the perfect choice for a family getaway
  • Spa - Pure Spa is a rooftop boutique spa where Swedish well being is the name of the game
  • Restaurant - Ocean 2000 offers sophisticated oceanfront dining
from CA$414 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Loews Portofino Hotel

Orlando (Florida)

Expansive resort modelled on a traditional Italian lakeside town. Spacious rooms have fresh nautical colour-schemes and plush soft furnishings. Enjoy multiple dining venues, live entertainment, Kid's club, three pools, water slides and free shuttles to nearby amusement parks. Family holiday heaven.

  • Groups - Groups of friends will love the variety of different attractions and facilities - there's something to match everyone's interest
  • Sights nearby - Within Universal Orlando site enjoy Universal Studios, Harry Potter World and Islands of Adventure & Volcano Bay theme parks
  • Families - As well as endless entertainment, there are family-friendly suites, interconnecting rooms, baby-sitting and cribs available
  • Active Holiday - Enjoy a different amusement park every day, hit the man-made beach, play golf or shop to your heart's content
from CA$509 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

Amelia Island (Florida)

A luxury beachfront resort, situated on Amelia Island. Rooms are elegant and stylish with soft pastel shades, private balconies with sweeping ocean vistas and marble bathrooms with stand-alone tubs. Enjoy the indoor and outdoor pool and beach access. An activity-packed stay ideal for families.

  • Families - An excellent luxury family choice with superb facilities for all ages including golf, spa and kids club
  • Golf - The resort has an 18-hole championship golf course and private instruction at The Academy
  • Local exploring - Explore the 12 miles of beach and the cycling trails to discover Amelia Island
  • Beach Life - Guests can enjoy direct beach access and private cabanas
from CA$354 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Atlantic Hotel & Spa

Fort Lauderdale (Florida)

A luxury hotel set on Fort Lauderdale's beachfront. Spacious traditional rooms feature balconies overlooking the aquamarine ocean and marble bathrooms with large soaking tubs. With an elevated pool, spa, gym, and onsite restaurant - this is a family-friendly stay primed for a sunshine break.

  • Families - With spacious suites and rooms, the beach a stone throw away and lots of activites, this hotel is ideal for families
  • Beach Life - Lounge on the hotel's beach loungers and have cocktails delivered to you
  • Spa - The spa uses BABOR skin care products and offers treatments such as deep tissue massages and facials
  • Great walks - Amble down the promenade and discover Fort Lauderdale
from CA$320 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Henderson

Destin (Florida)

A family-friendly resort set near Dustin State Park. Spacious and elegant rooms feature coastally-inspired hues, large balconies and deep soaking tubs. Indulge at the full-service spa, sip on a handcrafted cocktail, taste the freshest seafood and lounge by the pool or on the beach. Paradise!

  • Beach Life - Food and beverage beach service plus activity rentals are organised by the property on Destin's stunning beaches
  • Families - Private beach access, a fantastic kids club, ice-cream and sweet parlour, spacious suites and kid-friendly menus
  • Spa - Spa offers treatments, a whirlpool tub, Himalayan Salt Suite, sun-lit relaxation spaces, and a full-service salon
  • Kids Club - Poppy's kids club offers day and nighttime services and includes a meal, craft, and themed activities
from CA$314 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Biltmore

Miami (Coral Gables)

An iconic renaissance style resort, built-in 1926, set in the glamorous suburb of Coral Gables. Stylish old-charm rooms have luscious plums, silver sage, and accents of regal gold tones. Lounge by the world-famous pool, unwind at the spa or play a round of golf. A real family favourite.

  • Families - From golf and tennis camps to the Culinary Academy, the resort offers spacious rooms and activities-perfect for families!
  • Swimming Pool - The resort has the largest swimming pool in the continental United States
  • Total relaxation - Unplug from technology and lounge by the pool or unwind at the spa
  • Spa - The spa features eucalyptus infused steam rooms, which boosts mental clarity and combats stress as well as Himalayan salt saunas
from CA$361 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Ritz Carlton South Beach

Miami (South Beach)

A landmark 1950s Art Deco building, set on South Beach. Spacious rooms boast ocean blue, warm gold and rich coffee palettes with incredible ocean/city views and luxe marble bathrooms with stand-alone tubs. Family orientated resort with oceanfront dining, beach access, pool, games, spa and kids club.

  • Beach Life - Soak in the crystal blue waters and white sands on the hotel's exclusive chairs on South Beach, just a few hundred metres away
  • Local exploring - Taste traditional Cuban fare, gaze at the magnificent Art Deco buildings, discover artists, shop boutique and designer labels
  • Families - With a Ritz Kids Club, spacious rooms and ample facilities, the resort is aimed towards families
  • Restaurant - DiLido Beach Club serves Spanish, French and Greek fare. Fuego y Mar serves Mexican, Cuban, Venezuelan and Colombian flavours
from CA$278 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Largo Resort

Key Largo (Florida)

An intimate luxury resort set on a private beach in Key Largo. Stylish and comfortable cottages and rooms with kitchen spaces, lush garden views and walk-in showers. Aquatic adventurers will love this resort with its paddleboards, kayaks and a private dock available to guests. An island paradise!

  • Beach Life - Have a beach day at the resort's private beach with games avaliable
  • Active Holiday - Adventure seekers won't go bored in the "Dive Capital of the World"
  • Total relaxation - Relax by the pool and watch the sunset from the pier
  • Diving - Discover the area’s stunning dive sites with the resort's scuba and snorkeling partners
from CA$419 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

South Seas Island Resort

Florida

Expansive luxury Sanibel resort spread over a manicured nature reserve. Impressive range of activities, facilities and dining options will suit those who like a fly'n'flop holiday but want to be kept busy; there's tennis and golf plus a marina, water park and private beach. Ideal family destination.

  • Beach Life - The resort is home to two and a half miles of pristine white-sand beach with cabanas, turquoise water and swaying palms
  • Families - Family rooms and villas, waterslides, pools, kid's club and babysitting ensure all the family have a great vacation
  • Active Holiday - Fill days with endless activities including kayaking, boating, swimming, golf, tennis, cycling and nature walks
  • Swimming Pool - Three resort pools and two H2Whoa! Water Slides means endless options for where to spend the day
from CA$621 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sundial Beach Resort

Sanibel Island (Florida)

Classic family-friendly beach resort on the water's edge. Spacious self-catered residences with large living areas are great for downtime; there are several pools, spa, resort dining & endless outdoor activities all minutes from a long stretch of white sand. Great option for fly'n'flop beach breaks.

  • Active Holiday - The resort offers a range of fun outdoor activities including kayaking, volleyball, fishing, tennis, cycling and paddleboarding
  • Families - Multi-room condos, entertaining children's programs, multiple pools and direct beach access make this a fab family option
  • Beach Life - Tropical island paradise; picture a mile-long white sandy beach, perfect warm waters and swaying palm trees
  • Restaurant - Indoor and outdoor dining options with Gulf views include Sea Breeze Café, Shima Japanese Steakhouse & Turtle’s Pool & Beach Bar
from CA$654 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Boca Raton

Boca Raton (Florida)

A vast sprawling resort set on a beautiful stretch of private beach. Set around an original 1920s core — the architecture is glamorous and elegant. You'll wish for nothing here with endless sports facilities (including two golf courses), swimming pools, a spa, and countless restaurants.

  • Family - There's a huge selection of sports facilities plus the beach, pools, and kids club make this ideal for family getaways
  • Architectural - Expect Spanish revival architecture with Moorish and Gothic influences that combine to feel very glamorous
  • Golf - Spread across 356 acres, the resort boasts two championship-quality golf courses
  • Artworks - The property's own Sponder Gallery boasts $70 million worth of artwork
from CA$830 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Amrit Ocean Resort

Palm Beach (Singer Island)

A tranquil stay on Florida's Singer Island, where a luxurious resort blends serene ocean vistas with wellness. Enjoy holistic spa treatments, rooms with circadian lighting, and aromatherapy baths. Savour wholesome cuisine amid natural beauty — a perfect combination of Eastern and Western indulgence.

  • Spa breaks - Bask in this holistic resort merging luxury and wellbeing, with a vast spa focusing on mindfulness, fitness, and relaxation
  • Total relaxation - Indulge in relaxing luxury with ocean-front terraces, circadian rhythm lighting, and personalized aromatherapy baths
  • Restaurant - Vegetable-forward, globally inspired cuisine at TULĀ; cocktails and bites from LALA; coffee, tea and prepared snacks from Jeevi
  • Great walks - Visit John D. MacArthur Beach State Park for eco-adventures, snorkeling, and scenic trails
from CA$3173 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Islander Resort

Islamorada (Islamorada)

Set along Islamorada’s turquoise shores, this laidback retreat blends coastal charm with sleek interiors - think colourful artwork and breathtaking water views. Enjoy beachfront dining, saltwater pools, and endless activities from snorkelling to bocce ball. Relax, unwind, and embrace island time.

  • Beach Life - A laid-back escape with beachfront access, saltwater pools, and watersports, perfect for soaking up Islamorada’s tropical charm
  • Fishing - Cast a line from the fishing pier and reel in the thrill of Islamorada’s legendary waters, teeming with game fish year-round
  • Yoga - Start your day with beach yoga, where gentle waves and expert instruction create the perfect blend of movement and mindfulness
  • Learning - Discover the fascinating history of the Florida Keys at the Islamorada Discovery Center, packed with stories and exhibits
from CA$561 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Jan Gooderham

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