Best place to stay in florida on the beach

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Florida is one of the most popular destinations for a beach vacation in the US, especially during winter. Luckily, the Sunshine State knows how to make its visiting sunseekers feel uber welcome, with numerous fab beach resorts that make any length of stay feel luxurious.

A slew of fantastic accommodations line the sandy coasts, enticing visitors to dine in their first-class restaurants, indulge in their luxurious spas, and rest peacefully in comfortable rooms. Now for the hard part: deciding which of these epic beach resorts to stay in during your vacay.

That's where we come in. We'll help you choose the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and soak up the rays on your next Floridian beach holiday. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly hotel, plush five-star resort, or an intimate boutique accommodation, you'll find it in our list of the best beach resorts in Florida.

1. Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami

Accommodation: Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

A whole lot of glamor awaits visitors to the Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach. Located on the golden sands of Miami's Sunny Isles Beach, this posh wonderland is a treat for all your senses. Bright turquoise water sparkles from the Atlantic shore, which is backed by towering palms leading guests to a perfectly sized hotel so glamorous, they won't want to leave.

Winner of the 2020 AAA Five Diamond Award and frequently voted the best resort in the US, this magnificent property has everything you'd ever want in a Floridian vacation. Four and a half miles of pristine sand, 54 lavish guest rooms, and 44 immaculate suites invite visitors to truly relax. Add a treatment or three at the remarkable spa, and you'll beg to prolong your stay.

Choose between three oceanfront pools (because one wouldn't be enough in this sunny locale); rent a cabana for added shade and privacy; or park yourself on a comfy, red-cushioned sun lounger. Kids are more than welcome here, with a children's program designed to ensure they have plenty of fun activities and educational opportunities to keep them busy.

Il Mulino New York, the resort's acclaimed Italian restaurant, offers spectacular views and even better food, while Ke-uH serves up an incredible example of Japanese fusion at its best. Looking for something more casual? Visit the oceanfront Costa Grill.

Address: 17875 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

2. 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami

Accommodation: 1 Hotel South Beach

The 1 Hotel South Beach is a LEED certified, eco-friendly resort boasting high-end design and featuring reclaimed materials and energy efficient heating and cooling systems. The linens are sustainably sourced. This five-star haven knows how to remove the guilt from vacationing.

As if that wasn't enough to satisfy your inner activist, the farm-to-table meals served on-site are organic, not to mention locally sourced and sustainable. Have seconds and leave that guilt behind. Habitat's Mexican dishes are especially delish, while the Japanese fare served at Watr at the Rooftop is as enjoyable as the impeccable view.

This stunning resort spans 600 feet of Atlantic shoreline and boasts a holistic wellness spa and impressive fitness and wellness "sanctuary," Anatomy, which offers programs that teach the science of strength conditioning.

Bring the kids along for a fun experience they'll never forget. For an additional fee, the Seedlings kids' club will educate your little ones on the importance of the environment and how they can start taking good care of our world. They'll also engage in fun activities (like obstacle courses) and make interesting crafts.

Address: 2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida

3. The Setai, Miami Beach

Accommodation: The Setai, Miami Beach

It may be set in the busy Art Deco District near South Beach, but The Setai is a tranquil, plush resort so inspired, you'll hate to leave the grounds. The three pools are a work of art in themselves: serene and beautiful, surrounded by tall, orderly palms. The service is stellar, and the landmark building this resort calls home is packed with high-end Asian-inspired décor that enhances the Art Deco façade.

No luxe resort is complete without a lavish spa. Luckily, the Valmont Spa won't disappoint. Turn back the clock with age-defying treatments, and restore your energy with a massage or facial.

When it comes time to eat, you're in for a treat. Both the on-site Jaya and Ocean Grill restaurants feature fresh, local ingredients and a phenomenal menu. Japón, a Japanese restaurant, will open soon and promises to be just as impressive.

Nothing beats an Ocean Suite at this impressive beach resort in Florida. Available in one to four-bedroom options, these 55 exclusive accommodations offer views so impressive, you'll have trouble averting your eyes from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Each suite offers extra amenities including, transfers by luxury cars, daily private breakfast, airport transfers, and valet parking.

Have a bottomless budget? The Grand Suite boasts three bedrooms, a media room, spa room, and cedar sauna, so you can enjoy being pampered in utter privacy. It's over 3,550 square meters, has a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, a bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, and a handmade bed. Talk about luxurious!

Address: 2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida

4. Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach

It's hard not to fall in love with the Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach. Like all resorts in this luxury chain, you'll find the best of the best when it comes to service - we're talking sunglass cleaning while you soak up the rays on the private beach, and delivery of ice water to your lounge chair. Would you expect less from a five-star, five-diamond resort? No wonder it's been dubbed one of the best beach resorts in Florida.

There's plenty of fun to be had on-site, with poolside movies, culinary classes, and an entire water sports team at your beck and call. They help guests arrange beach-based activities, like paddle boarding, snorkeling, and surfing, while those who prefer their fun on land can enjoy tennis, basketball, volleyball, or croquet on this lovely barrier isle.

While the Four Seasons presents a perfect backdrop for a romantic vacay (there's even a five-star spa, perfumery, and boutique shops), kids are more than welcome to enjoy the vast amenities. The complimentary Kids For All Seasons Program keeps them happily entertained, and those four and under eat free. Older kids should check out the Teen Game Room.

The 194 spacious rooms and 14 suites are immaculately designed with a modern yet glamorous feel and bright colors that enhance the picturesque view. As for dining, you'll find plenty of worthy options including, Florie's, Seawway, and snacks by the pool.

Address: 2800 South Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach, Florida

5. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, Palm Beach

Accommodation: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Another Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond Award winner, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a lavish boutique hotel worthy of your hard-earned dollars. In addition to boasting seven acres of soft, sandy beach, this top tier Florida beach resort is home to the 42,000-square-foot Eau Spa, complete with a wishing well and whipped cupcakes.

Fresh seafood and top American cuisine await diners at the romantic Angle restaurant, while guests can dine inside or outside on Italian dishes while gazing at the spectacular view at Polpo Palm Beach. Speaking of views, it's hard for an eatery to get closer to the ocean than Breeze Ocean Kitchen.

Roast s'mores around the outdoor fire pit at the Stir Bar & Terrace while being lulled by waves crashing upon the shore. Then head back to your stylishly decorated, uber comfortable room and enjoy the ocean breeze while swinging on the hanging chair on your private balcony.

In the morning, hit the waves on a paddleboard or surf your way to shore on a boogie board. Kids can join the popular AcquaNuts program to climb a "reef," hang out in a "Grotto," have a beauty treatment, or watch or perform in a show at the Oyster Pearl Theater.

Address: 100 South Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, Florida

6. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Miami

Accommodation: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

Love to be pampered? The Carillon Miami Wellness Resort won't disappoint. Devoted to improving the health and wellness of all its guests, this top beach resort in Florida boasts a massive spa and fitness center and a seemingly endless list of classes and treatments. We promise you'll leave in much better shape–mentally and physically–than you were in when you arrived.

Not sure where to start? No worries. The resort's Wellness Concierge will help create a bespoke regime perfect for your wellness, and vacation, goals. Perhaps you'll begin in one of the heated, outdoor pools, or lounge on the beach before indulging in a hydrotherapy, cupping, or cryotherapy session.

Rooms here are housed in private luxury apartments that feature one or two bedrooms, a living room, large bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen.

For those times when you'd rather eat out, you'll find plenty of mouthwatering options. The Strand at Carillon Miami is an oceanfront Mediterranean restaurant perfect for larger meals, while the Seaglass Café offers a more casual, pool- or beachside environment to enjoy a tasty lunch. Or order in and enjoy a meal in your suite.

Address: 6801 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida

7. The Breakers, Palm Beach

Accommodation: The Breakers

There's no shortness of luxury at The Breakers, a Renaissance-style masterpiece located in upscale Palm Beach on Florida's east coast. Since 1896, this iconic hotel has graced the idyllic golden shores of the Atlantic Ocean, welcoming visitors who like their vacations served with a large side of opulence.

Children are welcome to enjoy this affluent property along with their parents, which helps to boost it to a top spot on this list of the best beach resorts in Florida. Special family rooms are on offer, as well as a 6,100-square-foot Family Entertainment Center boasting a playground, playroom, and plenty of activities to keep little ones (and even teens and tweens) happily occupied.

Enjoy a snorkeling excursion to the resort's own reef; borrow a kayak; or try surfing, paddleboarding, or boogie boarding at the private beach. Back on land, you can borrow a bike to explore the property, indulge in a spa treatment, play tennis or golf, or stretch your shopping muscles at the on-site boutiques. Then, jump into one of the four pools.

Looking for privacy by the pool? Rent one of the 25 open-air bungalows, which come complete with a bathroom, shower, lounge area, and dining table. You'll also have a dedicated concierge and exclusive dining options.

Speaking of food, The Breakers offers world-class dishes at a number of restaurants, ranging from an open-air gazebo by the beach to the more glamorous The Circle, an architectural masterpiece featuring 20-foot frescoed ceiling

Address: 1 South County Road, Palm Beach, Florida

8. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

Few resorts can top the level of service offered at a Ritz-Carlton property. The Five Star, AAA Five Diamond luxury property gracing the pristine shores of Naples Beach is a prime example of the company's innate ability to pamper guests beyond their wildest dreams. Once you add in the unbeatable sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico, you'll beg to extend your stay.

The 447 guest rooms are as lavish as you'd expect from a resort of this caliber, with suites boasting balconies, soaking tubs, and plenty of room to stretch. Families are more than welcome, and the three-bedroom royal suite can house everyone while offering four balconies to enjoy the spectacular view.

Kids will enjoy the fun and educational programs offered at Ritz Kids®, while their adults can indulge themselves at the 51,000-square-foot spa (book extra time to enjoy the serene private pool).

When they've tired of playing in the sand or splashing in one of the two glorious swimming pools, guests can hop aboard the free shuttle to The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort. Merely three miles away, the perfectly manicured greens found on the two 18-hole courses found at this luxurious property beckon golfers who appreciate a high level of class served with their game.

Address: 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, Florida

9. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

It's easy to see why the Ritz-Carlton has been dubbed one of the best resorts on Amelia Island. Set on the pristine, Fernandina Beach, this barrier island resort is the perfect place to enjoy a beach vacation with a side of top-notch service and luxurious amenities.

In addition to water activities like paddleboarding and surfing, guests are encouraged to spend time on the 18-hole championship golf course, and relax with a treatment or two at the on-site spa, some of which make use of honey harvested from the resort's own beehives.

This love of using local elements stretches to the resort's restaurants. You'll find delectable farm-to-table meals and other dishes highlighting some of the area's freshest ingredients. Salt is a unique spot, where the chefs make use of over 40 salts from across the globe when creating their signature dishes.

Whether you're looking for a luxury room or high-end suite, you'll be more than comfortable in the plush offerings at this five-star resort.

Address: 4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Amelia Island, Florida

10. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, Miami

Accommodation: The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort

It's no secret that the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an idyllic wonderland. This five-star, AAA five-diamond award-winning resort is spectacular.

Far enough from South Beach to be tranquil, but conveniently located across from the Bal Harbour Shops, guests at this five-star beach resort are given the best of both worlds: serenity with a side of excitement.

Choose from one of the 227 elegant rooms featuring plush beds, eye-catching designs, and luxurious amenities. You can opt for a lower key ocean-view room, upgrade to a deluxe oceanfront suite, or break the bank on the grand Presidential Suite, depending on your mood (and budget).

No matter which accommodation you pick, you're in for a relaxing treat, with plenty of space to stretch out and stunning ocean views to enjoy.

Spend an afternoon in the 14,000-square-foot spa; splash about in the pool; or build a sandcastle with the kids, who are offered kid-sized slippers and bathrobes to use during their stay. Feeling parched while lazing by the pool or beach? It won't be long before smiling staff arrive with cold water infused with fresh fruit.

Tempt your taste buds in the Greek Atlantkós restaurant, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at La Gourmandise, or take things to a more casual level at BH Burger Bar.

Address: 9703 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, Miami, Florida

11. Nobu Miami

Accommodation: Nobu Miami

If you've ever been lucky enough to dine in a Nobu (they're found in major cities worldwide, including New York, Houston, London, Milan, and Hong Kong), you'll be able to predict just how incredible a Nobu resort will be. Five-star accommodations and unbeatable service are to be expected, and the hotel's food offerings will obviously go above and beyond.

Designed to resemble a Japanese beach house, this upscale resort features impeccable design elements and great attention to detail. The rooms are cushy and modern with Zen layouts, waterfall showers, and private balconies.

The restaurants are intricately crafted and so stunning, you might mistake them for an art gallery. Even more enjoyable are the phenomenal dishes so delectable, you'll dream about them long after you've taken your last bite.

Nobu Miami is a must-visit, obviously, but Ocean Social is an oceanside less formal affair that will thrill your palate. The dishes include masterpieces created by the famed Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Arrive hungry!

The outdoor pool is glorious, the beach is at your doorstep, and there's a fitness center on-site. What's not to love?

Address: 4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida

12. The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami

Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami

Another Miami superstar graces our list of the best beach resorts in Florida. Well loved for its impeccable service (you'll never go hungry or thirsty while relaxing at the pool or beach), the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour resort is set on a quiet section of semi-private beach that lies on a peninsula in North Miami beach.

Lap up the luxury in a private poolside cabana, or challenge your budget with a two-bedroom private floor package. It's just as it sounds: you'll enjoy a two-bedroom suite (including daily breakfast for four) on a floor of your own. To make you feel even more posh, this package includes a private pool cabana and access to a private section of the beach.

Grab a bite at the Artisan Beach House, or enjoy lunch at the Water's Edge as you soak up the rays by the pool. There's also a spa and fitness center on-site.

Hoping for some me-time? Sign the kids up for a few hours at Ritz Kids; they'll thank you for the fun time out.

Address: 10295 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, Miami

13. Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Ponte Vedra Beach

Accommodation: Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

What's a beach resort without a fantastic stretch of silky soft sand? Less than stellar, that's what. You won't have to worry about a rock-strewn base at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. An opulent resort favored by families and couples alike, this magnificent spot is a must for those looking for an unforgettable stay.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or explore the sand on a beach bicycle. When you've had enough sun, leave the beach behind in favor of alone time in your elegant oceanfront room. Each of the 262 rooms offers guests picturesque vistas and salty sea breezes that transform a mere holiday into a relaxing vacation.

Visiting Florida without golfing is akin to touring Rome without sampling gelato. Luckily, this lovely resort boats two beautiful lagoon-laden courses - the Ocean Course and Lagoon Course - that offer golfers a challenging, 18-hole game peppered with breathtaking scenery.

Not a golfer? Head to the tennis courts, partake in retail therapy at the on-site shops, or luxuriate in a few treatments at the outstanding 30,000-square-foot spa. Kids will adore the playground and four heated swimming pools.

The food at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is as delicious as its setting is serene. Choose to dine beachside at the Surf Deck Grille, enjoy lunch at the Surf Club Patio, grab a bite at the Golf Club Dining Room, or munch on an entrée beside a giant aquarium at the Seahorse Grill.

Address: 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

14. The Lodge & Club, Ponte Vedra Beach

Accommodation: The Lodge & Club Ponte Vedra Beach

The Lodge & Club is located on a pristine stretch of dune-backed beach that spans the Atlantic coast between St. Augustine and Jacksonville - the same that houses its classy neighbor, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. This AAA Four Diamond resort is a boutique beauty offering first-class charm and unbeatable amenities, not to mention spectacular ocean views.

A relatively small Florida beach resort in comparison to its larger sibling, this lovely lodge boasts 66 elegant rooms and suites. Due to its size, exceptional service, and lavish surroundings, a stay at this pretty site feels both intimate and luxurious. Plus, guests are free to enjoy the amenities at its sister site, including a free shuttle bus to transport them between resorts.

Boasting an adults-only oceanfront pool and Jacuzzi and heated lap pool complete with a children's section (including a waterslide and splash park), this beach resort will be beloved by kids and adults of all ages. Spend your days at the beach building sandcastles, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to experience the ocean firsthand.

Then, grab a bite by the ocean at the laid-back Oasis restaurant, relax in the Sea View Lounge, or savor the dramatic flavors on offer at the spectacularly gorgeous Sea View Grille - the views are as unbeatable as the tasty dishes!

Address: 607 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

15. Opal Sands Resort, Clearwater

Accommodation: Opal Sands Resort

You won't forget you're on the Gulf Coast while staying at the chic Opal Sands Resort on Clearwater Beach. This is one of the best resorts in Clearwater. Emerald waves can be seen glistening from almost every corner of this classy modern hotel, most notably from the floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies fronting each guest room.

Intriguing, maritime-inspired art adorns the walls of each room, as well as the rest of the hotel, highlighting the main reason you came: to enjoy the beach and vast sea beyond. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy more space to relax, plus a queen-sized sleeper sofa to house an extra child or two.

The resort has four restaurants serving food so deliciously fresh, you'll want seconds. Sea Guini's handmade pastas and seafood are as divine as its stunning Gulf views.

Speaking of the Gulf, head to the beautiful beach to enjoy a slew of fun activities (including jet skiing). You can rent a cabana for more privacy.

Both children and pets are welcome here. Kids will love the zero-entry pool and water sports.

As for your four-legged family members, they'll adore Opal Paws' Sit, Stay & Play Package. It offers furry pals a gift bag of treats, plush dog mat, and food and water bowls during their stay.

Address: 430 South Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater, Florida

16. B Ocean Resort, Fort Lauderdale

Accommodation: B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale

Visiting a private beach is the best way to experience Florida's soft, sandy shores, which means guests of the B Ocean Resort in Fort Lauderdale are in for a treat. An exclusive span of caramel sand awaits travelers to this upscale resort on Fort Lauderdale Beach, beckoning them to enjoy the azure waves and as many water sports as they can fit into one day. It's one of the best beach resorts in Florida for good reason!

Two pools welcome visitors looking to cool off without fighting waves. Two restaurants featuring authentic South Floridian fare are on hand to satisfy hunger cravings and delight gastronomes, while the Mermaid Show at Wreck Bar provides a dining backdrop you won't forget.

Sick of tossing and turning on uncomfortable hotel mattresses? You'll sleep soundly on their uber comfy trademarked Blissful Bed®. Each of the 486 guest rooms and suites offer these dreamy beds, as well as bright, ocean-themed décor to top off your beach vacation.

Address: 1140 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Florida

17. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Little Torch Key

Accommodation: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Ever wondered how it feels to be treated like royalty? You'll find out during a stay at the exclusive Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. The only way to access this secluded luxury resort is by boat or seaplane, and no kids under 18 are allowed on the premises. So, if you're looking to truly unwind, this is the place to do it.

The star attraction on this idyllic barrier island consists of four acres of sugar-white sand backed by tall, waving palms. Set back from the turquoise waves lie 30 thatched-roof bungalows housing tastefully decorated suites.

One thing guests won't find here is technology. Each room is refreshingly free from televisions and phones, encouraging visitors to enjoy the gorgeous gifts nature has to offer in this picturesque locale. Visit SpaTerre for a massage, facial, or salt scrub; take a dip in the lagoon-like pool; or admire the views from your private porch.

When hunger calls, head to the on-site Dining Room restaurant for a meal worthy of the A-list celebs and presidents who often visit this little piece of paradise.

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, Florida

18. Treasure Island Beach Resort, Treasure Island

Accommodation: Treasure Island Beach Resort

While Treasure Island Beach Resort may lack the opulent spas found at many other accommodations on this list, you won't feel much need for a massage once you've spent a few hours at this relaxing locale. At this intimately sized resort, you'll find 77 well-appointed and spacious suites featuring lovely views of the Gulf or resort, and kitchenettes to make in-room snacking a cinch.

Head outside to bike, rollerblade, or walk along the boardwalk while gazing at the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. When you've had enough of the heat, jump into the warm, calm waters of the Gulf and float your way back to the sugar-white sandy shore.

The gorgeous beachfront pool is a must-visit, and you can enjoy a cool drink and tasty meal poolside while you relax. The BRGR Kitchen + Bar is a great spot for a comforting dinner.

Address: 10800 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, Florida

19. The Boca Raton Beach Club, Boca Raton

Accommodation: The Boca Raton Beach Club

With such a stunning location near the top attractions in ritzy Boca Raton, it's no surprise that The Boca Raton Beach Club revolves around its shining star: a spotless, private, golden beach. Boasting 356 acres of waterfront on both the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Boca, this lush spot is one of the best resorts in Boca Raton. It is a haven for vacationers looking to unwind while soaking up the luxury provided by a five-star hotel.

Floor-to-ceiling windows highlight the ocean view, while rainfall showers allow guests to luxuriate a little longer while washing away grains of sand from their day spent frolicking in the waves. Choose from a 250-square-foot room with a sun deck or a one- to three-bedroom suite, with a separate living room and ocean views.

The Beach Club offers access to a spa, fitness center, tennis courts, fitness studios, and three oceanfront pools (complete with cabanas). A meal at the fantastic oceanfront Beach Club Lounge offers impeccable dishes in a postcard-worthy setting.

Address: 900 South Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, Florida

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