Florida is a big state, and just because you live in one part of it, that doesn’t mean you can’t take a vacation in another. In fact, it’s a great idea; you can mix the familiar with the new and exciting. Yet it can be hard to decide where to stay when there is so much choice. With that in mind, here is 10 of the best Florida hotels to try as a local so you can explore your home state with ease.
1. Westgate Resorts
You can be sure of a good time when you book at Westgate hotel.
There are several Westgate Resorts in Florida to choose from. Whether it’s Westgate Lakes, which has its own waterpark and is close to the Orlando Disney theme parks, the Westgate Palace just minutes away from Universal Studios, the Westgate South Beach Oceanfront in Miami, or another location, you’ll get exceptional value for money.
Also expect great guest experience, a beautiful location, and all the amenities you could need. That includes swimming pools, restaurants, and much more.
If you’re staying in one of the Orlando hotels, you’ll even be able to use the hotel’s shuttle to get to the theme parks. Westgate in Florida offers so many options that no matter where you decide to take your vacation, you can be sure of a warm welcome.
2. Fisher Island Club
This is an exclusive resort in Florida. It boasts a high-end golf course, appealing to those who want a gorgeous course in which to spend the day.
If you’re a Florida resident, it might be that you’ve seen pretty much everything before, and you’re looking for something new and exciting. In that case, the Fisher Island Club might be the right option for you. It is expensive – it’s an exclusive resort – but for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, it could be ideal.
Located close to the bustling excitement of Miami, Fisher Island Club has a wide range of options when it comes to accommodation, and all of them are luxurious. In addition to gorgeous rooms and villas, there is a fine dining restaurant, a spa, saltwater pools, and the chance to play golf in a very exclusive area.
3. More Florida hotels: Omni Amelia Island Resort
A natural place to enjoy a vacation.
Amelia Island is a great place for Florida residents to spend some time because no matter your whereabouts in the state you call home, it won’t be here. The Omni Amelia Island Resort is a 1,350-acre area that couples and families alike can love.
You’ll be surrounded by natural beauty as far as the eye can see because the ethos in this particular resort is to let nature be nature. Although that doesn’t mean there isn’t a maintenance program in place, of course, it does mean that you can get as close to nature as you’re likely to find.
The rooms here are large and modern, and if you like sports, you can learn how to play or improve your golf and tennis games; professionals are on hand to teach you. There is an amazing restaurant on site too, and you’ll find a cocktail bar just waiting for you.
4. Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina
Indulge in relaxation on the white sand beaches at the Pink Shell Beach Resort. And be sure to stop by the gulf front pools!
Even the name of this stunning resort in Fort Myers Beach on the Gulf of Mexico sounds magical, and once you arrive, you’ll find that the place lives up to its promise. Although the beaches at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina are, in fact, bright white, as they all are in this part of Florida, the magic and beauty holds true.
Those surroundings stretch out a long way, too; in many directions, the beach is all you can see. Situated on 10 acres of gorgeous landscaping, Pink Shell Beach is a great option for locals and visitors alike.
When you’re not enjoying your fully equipped room or eating your complimentary breakfast, you might go dolphin spotting or sailing. Or, perhaps you’ll lounge around one of the three pools as you take in the exquisite resort experience.
5. The Diplomat Beach Resort: A top Florida hotel
Choose from ten restaurants, as well as poolside dining. Stop by the luxury spa, too, before your trip is done.
If you like to stay in boutique accommodation but you also like a name that you can trust, it can be hard to find a resort you’ll love. However, with the Diplomat Beach Resort, that’s exactly what you can have. It’s a boutique hotel, but it comes under the Hilton banner, giving you the best of both worlds.
Another mix that you’ll find here is vintage styling with modern touches and amenities. After a $100 million renovation, you shouldn’t be surprised to discover that everything looks and feels fantastic.
It’s the little touches that make a difference here, as well as the small-town feel you’ll get when you visit Hollywood. Two pools – and poolside dining – and ten different restaurants all under one roof make this the only place you need to go.
6. TradeWinds Island Grand
Try out an “aquabana.”
When you stay at the TradeWinds Island Grand in St Pete Beach, you can double up. In other words, you can also use the facilities at the nearby Guy Harvey Outpost.
That means you can enjoy the RumFish Grill with its impressive 33,500-gallon aquarium; if you have the chance to go there, you must. Back to the Island Grand, and you can hire out an “aquabana,” which is a water cabana. This is a unique treat that, again, isn’t one to miss.
Something else that makes this resort stand out is the views over the Florida Gulf, as far as the eye can see. You can even bring your dog, cat, or other pet to this pet-friendly resort!
7. Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach
Book a dolphin-watching tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
When you’re looking for a home from home, this classic resort with its gorgeous ambiance is definitely the right place for you. It’s luxurious but with a homely feel that you won’t get in many other places.
Surrounded by stunning scenery and with all the amenities you could ever need, it’s hard to find a better vacation than being at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort.
Walk only a few steps from the hotel, and you’ll be standing on the white sands of the beach. It’s just seconds away from the Gulf of Mexico’s bright blue waters.
Upgrade to a balcony suite, and those views are yours for your entire stay, from the start of the day to the end. There are a number of outings to partake in too, including deep-sea fishing and dolphin watching. Make the most of these extras, as well as the onsite spa.
8. Florida hotels include Aqualina Resort & Residences
Great location and an ideal vacation base.
If you’re not sure where to go on your Florida vacation, finding a great resort in the middle of two fantastic options is ideal. That’s what you’ll get with the Aqualina Resort and Residences.
This resort is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, making it a great base to explore both places. The resort spans almost five acres along Sunny Isles Beach, which leads to the Atlantic Ocean.
The outside is gorgeous, with some of the most spectacular views around, as well as a great pool. The interior won’t disappoint either, thanks to its stylish décor and the fact that you can eat at a number of excellent fine dining restaurants.
Be sure to enjoy a spa treatment or two. You’re worth it!
9. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry
Feel as though you’re in a private resort, from the posh room with marble bathrooms to the steak restaurant that features local seafood.
Sometimes, the location is the most important element of a vacation, especially if you’re a Florida resident. At the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry, you’re only 12 miles away from Miami, making it the ideal location for a fun-filled vacation.
Although you’re close to the city center, you’re far enough away to enjoy the tropical island feel of the resort. Thus, you can relax and recharge your batteries.
This resort is set on 300 acres of greenery and landscaping, and you’ll feel as though you’re on your own private island. There are two 18-hole golf courses, large gardens, and a waterpark for the family.
Don’t forget about the spa, either. Spending time there, whether for body therapy, fitness, or beauty treatments, can help you rejuvenate while on vacation.
10. The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Watch for turtles on the beach.
Situated in Sarasota on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Resort at Longboat Key is hard to miss with its iconic towers that rise high into the air. This resort is an award winner, complete with two golf courses and a tennis facility. The 20 Har-Tru tennis courts are legendary, making for a fun time with some friendly competition.
Plus, you’re only steps away from the beach. This beach is home to turtles, and you’re sure to spot some beetling about.
There are standard rooms all the way up to beautiful suites, and many have private balconies so you can take in the beautiful views. A cocktail and snack bar by the pool enhances the vacation.
If you’re looking for something more, why not try Portofino’s Restaurant for Italian cuisine, including freshly baked pizzas? Finish it all off at the onsite spa for a day well spent.
Concluding words on Florida hotels
Which one on the list above would you like to visit? Have you ever been to a resort?