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From world-renowned beaches bordered by small towns and big cities to island escapes and even all-inclusive resorts, Florida offers a seemingly endless variety of destinations perfect for an escape with your partner. To help you choose your next romantic getaway in Florida, we’ve rounded up the best of the best.
![Two beach chairs at the beach facing the sunset at Casa Monica Resort & Spa in St. Augustine.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-42b3-d819-ad83-76b737180001/casa-monica-exterior.jpg?update-time=1663271690268&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Casa Monica Resort & Spa)
Head to St. Augustine if you and your soul mate appreciate history. Start your visit exploring Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you and your significant other can drink from the mythical spring early settlers believed had anti-aging properties. Then, spend some time at the aptly named Old Jail before visiting the town’s famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Round out your trip by signing up for one of St. Augustine’s spooky ghost tours.
If you and your beau would rather explore at your own pace, plan a leisurely stroll up and down St. George Street. This downtown, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with old-world structures that house boutique shops, eateries and art galleries, including local favorites like Whetstone Chocolates and the Spanish Bakery & Café. Later, you’ll have the chance to fall in love all over again on a romantic sunset cruise, amid a horse-drawn carriage ride or after climbing to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.
Where to stay: After a day of sightseeing, share a bottle of wine and gourmet international cuisine at lovebird-approved restaurants like Collage and Michael’s before retreating to one of several enchanting properties located within the town center. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens boasts impeccable service, beautiful grounds, and well-appointed rooms and suites, which feature charming details like fireplaces, coquina walls and rain showers; verandas are also offered in select suites.
Meanwhile, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, an Autograph Collection property, appeals to couples in search of old-world charm, spacious accommodations and an exclusive atmosphere (thanks in part to the pool cabanas and private beach club).
![Florida resorts](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000171-98d7-d084-affd-9ddf8bff0000/3-bungalows-key-largo3-credit-bungalows-key-largo.jpg?update-time=1587407341910&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo)
Located on the sun-kissed island of Key Largo, around 70 miles south of Miami, Bungalows Key Largo appeals to couples in search of an adults-only, all-inclusive escape. One of few all-inclusive resorts in Florida, the resort offers luxuries spanning an in-town courtesy car to complimentary valet parking, along with amenities such as free cruiser bikes and daily yoga sessions. While here, go for a dip in one of two outdoor pools, relax on 1,000 feet of private beach, or get out on the water in one of the resort’s kayaks or paddleboards. For an additional cost, lovebirds can even pamper themselves with decadent treatments like a bamboo massage or mineral bath at the resort’s on-site spa.
For dinner, enjoy coastal Mexican cuisine with your beau underneath a bevy of palm trees at the beachfront Sea Señor restaurant, then grab a cocktail under the Sunset Tiki Bar’s thatched roof. When you’re ready to bed down, you’ll get to kick back in an exclusive bungalow that comes with a pillow-top mattress, rain shower and private veranda with a soaking tub. All bungalows feature garden or ocean views, but for a separate sitting area with a sofa bed, opt for the King Bungalow. For additional romantic perks, Bungalows Key Largo offers vacation packages for special occasions ranging from honeymoons and babymoons to engagement and elopement celebrations. With the popular “Romance Package,” couples will receive extras like chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of sparkling wine and rose petals upon arrival.
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(Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa)
Twosomes who crave peace and quiet will love visiting Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, a Noble House property. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Key West on Little Torch Key, this adults-only property is solely accessible by seaplane or boat. Inside all of the British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, visitors will discover details like vaulted ceilings, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers. Dial up the romance even further by adding on a turndown package that includes perks like a bottle of Champagne, a drawn bath for two and chocolate-covered strawberries. But while the resort is certainly laden with luxury, what makes Little Palm Island’s suites ideal for couples is what they lack: Guests won’t find TVs or telephones inside the accommodations, an intentional move by the resort to help travelers disconnect from everyday stress.
When you’re ready to venture outside your digs, you can arrange off-site fishing excursions, scuba diving outings and more through the concierge or take advantage of the resort’s countless amenities. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including couples massages and an aromatherapy bath, while the beach is the place to go for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The outdoor pool also features front-row views of the ocean, lounge chairs, and a bar that serves tropical cocktails and casual bites. For more substantial meals showcasing fresh seafood, grab a bite to eat in the resort’s dining room. Enhance the mood even further by arranging a private dinner on the beach at sunset.
![Romantic getaways Florida](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000175-dd65-dfb3-a1f7-fdfdad360000/2-the-don-cesar-courtesy-of-the-don-cesar.jpg?update-time=1605737400521&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of The Don CeSar)
Opened in the late 1920s as a tribute to real estate scion Thomas Rowe’s lost love, The Don CeSar regularly welcomes vacationing couples to St. Pete Beach, a community just west of St. Petersburg. Upon entering the “Pink Palace,” you and your sweetheart will feel as if you’ve stepped back in time thanks to the property’s old-Florida details, such as retro tile floors, wicker furnishings and palm leaf print. This Roaring ’20s vibe is especially apparent in the lobby bar, which plays live jazz music and serves a selection of sophisticated cocktails and small plates. For a more romantic setting, grab a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor before enjoying a sunset, or cuddle by one of The Rowe Bar’s outdoor fire pits. Maritana, the main restaurant, is the place to go if your ideal date night involves dressing up and savoring gourmet seafood.
Later, you can go for a dip in one of two heated outdoor pools, pamper yourselves at the full-service spa or borrow loaner bicycles to check out nearby attractions like Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that sits a little more than 5 miles south of the property. When it’s time to bed down, you and your partner will enjoy charming digs decorated with blush-pink tones and beds dressed in plush linens. Some previous guests said basic rooms are small, so for more elbow room, reserve one of the hotel’s penthouses, whose two-story layouts come with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.
![Miami South Beach sunrise with lifeguard tower and coastline with colorful cloud and blue sky.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ed-d301-af97-afedfac20000/5-miami-beach-stock.jpg?update-time=1662755141977&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
For a dose of art and culture in a chic atmosphere, travel to bustling Miami Beach. In this ritzy seaside community just east of Miami, you’ll discover miles of gorgeous sand and boulevards lined with upscale shops. Begin your vacation sunbathing at Lummus Park, or head north to Haulover Park for some fun in the sun sans clothing. If you and your partner would rather get out on the water than gaze at it from the shore, you can sign up for a private sailing charter; take to the skies on a parasailing trip; or rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, Jet Skis and powerboats through a reputable outfitter like Miami Tours & Water Adventures.
After soaking up some rays, get a dose of contemporary art at The Bass – a top Miami-area museum – then explore the lush Miami Beach Botanical Garden or admire the incredible structures that constitute the Art Deco Historic District on a guided tour. If your stomachs start to grumble, sit down for an Italian-inspired meal in Casa Tua’s garden; the tropical plants, hanging lanterns and candles will help set the mood. Another top dining option involves savoring plates of salmon tartare, wagyu beef gyoza or truffle risotto at the rooftop restaurant Juvia.
Where to stay: In the evening, hang your hats at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, one of the best hotels in the city. Past guests praised the attentive staff and clean accommodations (which include amenities like iMac computers and minibars) but said it was the property’s on-site facilities that set it apart from the rest. Duos can swim in one of 11 pools, lounge on the beach and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, among other activities.
![Romantic getaways Florida](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000175-dd65-dfb3-a1f7-fdfdbee00000/3-sanibel-island-getty-images.jpg?update-time=1605737366171&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
Few Florida destinations are as serene and laid-back as Sanibel Island, which continues to make a remarkable recovery following damages sustained from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Situated about 25 miles southwest of Fort Myers on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island appeals to couples seeking rest and relaxation. While there are no shortage of fun activities – such as shopping along Periwinkle Way or bird-watching at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge – lovebirds will likely spend the bulk of their time at Sanibel Island’s beautiful beaches. Turner Beach and Blind Pass Beach are especially popular for shelling, while the shoreline by the Sanibel Island Lighthouse is an excellent place to spot wild dolphins.
Where to stay: Local accommodations here run the gamut from charming cottages and inns to beachfront resorts and hotels. Couples who prefer boutique-style properties will love staying at Island Inn, which features an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, a restaurant and 500-plus feet of pristine shoreline.
![Aerial of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/0000018a-cda0-dfe2-a99e-edad912f0000/fort-lauderdale-marriott-harbor-beach-resort-credit-marriott-harbor-beach-resort.jpg?update-time=1695666966238&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort)
Take your partner to Fort Lauderdale if having a mix of things to see and do is just as important as sticking to a budget. Spend some time lounging on the beach – Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach earn rave reviews from visitors for their crystal-clear waters, clean sand, and proximity to restaurants and hotels. You may also want to prioritize Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where couples can rent tandem kayaks and pedal boats. Outside the park, you’ll find countless other ways to keep yourselves occupied, whether you’re exploring the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District on a bike tour or paddleboarding along Fort Lauderdale’s famous waterways.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to traveler-approved eateries like Kaluz Restaurant for fresh seafood, premium cuts of meat, and comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads. Diners also loved Steak 954 and Casablanca Cafe, which serves up specialties such as baked escargot. Meanwhile, couples seeking an enchanting ambiance can opt for an exclusive gondola dinner cruise along the city’s New River.
Where to stay: Check in to the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort, where you and your partner can lounge by the pool, enjoy a couples massage at the spa and go for a stroll on the beach at sunset. For a romantic dinner, make reservations at the hotel’s signature restaurant 3030 Ocean, which specializes in fresh seafood and oceanfront views.
![The newly reimagined Citricos inside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., nods to “Mary Poppins Returns” with subtle design cues. Starting July 15, 2021, guests can dine “underneath the lovely London sky” in a fanciful garden setting surrounded by the glow from decorative lamps and chandeliers. Bookings for Citricos will begin July 1, 2021. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ff-db7c-afc7-2bffc70f0000/8-citricos-grand-floridian-walt-disney-world-resort.jpg?update-time=1662756522932&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Matt Stroshane/Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort)
Reserve a room at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa if you and your significant other are kids at heart. Unlike other properties on the Walt Disney World Resort grounds, this hotel – situated less than 25 miles southwest of central Orlando – offers an opulent setting made for couples. While you and your partner will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Grand Floridian’s easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is only one stop away on Disney’s monorail, the hotel’s Victorian-style architecture and upscale amenities shouldn’t be overlooked. Inside the grandiose lobby, sweethearts can forget about life’s stresses while listening to live piano music. What’s more, the hotel’s two zero-entry pools provide a quiet atmosphere ideal for adults. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can participate in property activities like making s’mores by a fire pit or watching movies beneath the stars.
Following a day of relaxing or Orlando theme park hopping, get dressed up for a romantic evening on-site. You can start the night toasting to your love at the Enchanted Rose, an elegant lounge with four areas inspired by “Beauty and the Beast,” including an outdoor patio and a library. Then, treat yourselves to dinner at Cítricos. Featuring decor inspired by the film “Mary Poppins Returns,” this upscale restaurant serves mouthwatering Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. To explore Orlando’s culinary offerings outside of the hotel, guests can reserve a table at traveler-approved restaurants Kres Chophouse or Capa. After filling up on gourmet fare, retreat to your guest room or suite. You can upgrade to an Outer Building suite with a direct view of Cinderella Castle, or choose a club-level room for extras like health club access and admission to a lounge with complimentary refreshments.
You may not immediately think of Destin when planning a romantic getaway in Florida, but this quiet town on the Florida Panhandle makes a perfect escape for twosomes. In addition to offering ample outdoor activities, such as fishing and sunset cruises, this laid-back town overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is where you’ll find the Henderson Park Inn. At this adults-only, all-inclusive Florida hotel, you and your sweetheart will have access to all kinds of amenities, including loaner bicycles, daily happy hour beverages and the use of a fitness center. You can also check out the hotel’s sister property – Henderson Beach Resort – to lounge by the upper-deck pool or unwind at the spa.
When hunger starts to set in, make your way to the Henderson Park Inn’s Beach Walk Café to savor delectable seafood and meat dishes. (Keep in mind, though, that the all-inclusive plan does not cover dinner here.) With the restaurant’s “Toes in the Sand” private dining experience, you and your partner can enjoy an intimate sunset dinner on the beach. Once you’ve finished your meal, retire to one of the hotel’s plush rooms or suites. The Presidential Suite offers amenities ranging from a whirlpool tub to a spacious private balcony, while the Studio Suite is the only suite equipped with a kitchenette.
![Romantic getaways Florida](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000175-dd65-dfb3-a1f7-fdfddbf20000/4-amelia-island-getty-images.jpg?update-time=1605737348965&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island draws twosomes in search of secluded shores, lush vegetation and ample activities. Spend your visit lounging on the 13 miles of beaches – complete with soft Appalachian quartz sand – and strolling hand in hand beneath Spanish moss-covered oak trees. For a more active getaway, explore the island on a 6-mile bike ride through Fort Clinch State Park before hitting the links at one of Amelia Island’s five world-renowned golf courses. In the evening, lovers can head to Peters Point Beach Front Park for a sunset horseback ride along the coast, and round out the night with a romantic dinner for two at traveler-approved restaurants like Le Clos or Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, an AAA Five Diamond award recipient.
Where to stay: For those looking to pamper themselves during their vacation, Amelia Island offers a variety of luxurious hotels. Bed down at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for access to a spa with sea-inspired treatments, multiple pools with private cabanas and an oceanfront tennis court; the accommodations here feature romantic touches like terraces with fire tables and plush bathrobes. Or, couples can opt for a stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort, a 1,350-acre property that boasts an adults-only infinity pool, a spa, a steakhouse, and 400-plus guest rooms with ocean-facing balconies or patios.
This colossal South Florida property – which has been a fixture in Palm Beach since 1896 and sits less than 2 miles from downtown West Palm Beach – features an extravagant appearance that pays homage to Rome’s Villa Medici. After driving down the palm-lined driveway at The Breakers, past manicured lawns and a Florentine Fountain, step into the grandiose lobby to admire beautiful Venetian chandeliers hanging from painted ceilings. Though standard accommodations come outfitted with everything you need for a romantic date night in (think: minibars, plush bathrobes and flat-screen TVs), you may want to upgrade to a Flagler Club room or suite to make your stay extra memorable. These accommodations, which sit on two restricted floors of the resort, come with exclusive perks like chauffeured Tesla car service, a cocktail hour, and access to a private lounge and rooftop terrace.
Outside your room or suite, you’ll find numerous amenities made for twosomes. Head to the resort’s private beach to enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing; lounge by the adults-only infinity pool; tee off on the state’s oldest golf course; or treat yourselves to a personalized couples massage at the spa. When you’re ready to eat, sit down for a meal at the property’s steakhouse or seafood bar, both of which earn rave reviews from past patrons. Another top dining option is nearby Renato’s, an Italian-inspired eatery with an enchanting outdoor courtyard.
![](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ff-db7c-afc7-2bffc6670000/jw-marriott-marco-island-beach-resort.jpg?update-time=1662756487169&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort)
At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in southwest Florida, you and your significant other will instantly feel at ease while lounging on the resort’s 3-mile-long private beach or challenging each other to a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. The resort also houses a 24,000-square-foot spa, where you can unwind in the steam room or soothe aching muscles during a couples massage. Should you crave a Caribbean-inspired cocktail or bite to eat, head to the on-site Quinn’s on the Beach – in the evenings you can witness both a gorgeous sunset and fire dancers putting on an incredible performance.
Most accommodations here offer balconies that face the Gulf, but if you don’t mind splurging for newer digs and additional privacy, previous visitors suggest booking a Paradise by Sirene room or suite. Located on the top four floors of a private tower that only permits guests ages 21 and older, these accommodations include extras like access to an adults-only rooftop pool, daily breakfast for two and concierge services in their nightly rates. Guests can also enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tesoro, that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
![Romantic getaways Florida](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000175-dd65-dfb3-a1f7-fdfde3b90000/5-acqualina-resort-courtesy-of-acqualina-resort-residences-on-the-beach.jpeg?update-time=1605737332933&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach)
Feel worlds away from busy Miami Beach without sacrificing proximity to its top attractions by staying at the serene Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from its perch in Sunny Isles Beach, a town situated about 10 miles north of South Beach, this award-winning property offers all kinds of relaxation-focused amenities. Guests can arrange a treatment in the ESPA-affiliated spa’s Royal Spa Suite, equipped with a two-person rainforest shower and a private wraparound balcony. Then, reserve a cabana for additional privacy and pampering while enjoying the adults-only pool, or sink your toes in the sand at the 400-foot-long beach. To satiate your appetite, surprise your beau with a picnic or private dinner on the beach. A highly regarded Italian restaurant with charming terraces and an excellent selection of wines is also located on-site.
Past guests praised the hotel’s kind and attentive staff, and many said the resort’s smaller size added to its tranquil atmosphere. Standard rooms are spacious at 600 square feet and feature everything from Jacuzzi tubs to minibars to private balconies. Meanwhile, suites offer even more square footage and additions like dining chairs and separate living rooms. Enhance your stay by booking the resort’s “Ultimate Spa Package for Two,” which covers an oceanfront room or suite, four spa treatments, a welcome amenity, and a spa lunch for you and your partner, among other perks.
![Naples, Florida, USA town skyline on the water at dawn.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ed-d301-af97-afedf9930001/14-naples-stock.jpg?update-time=1662755141674&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
A romantic getaway to Naples is all about spending time outside while also enjoying the finer things in life. In this luxe coastal town on Florida’s Gulf Coast, you’ll discover uncrowded beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and an abundance of high-end shops interspersed between alfresco dining and boutique art galleries. Stroll hand in hand along a favorite beach, or venture approximately 30 miles northwest of town to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where you can admire verdant vegetation and spot alligators, otters and more. If you’d rather surround yourself with water views and sunsets, you’ll have your pick of beautiful beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach Park and Clam Pass Park.
Balance your time in nature with some retail therapy. Downtown’s Fifth Avenue South is where you’ll find a variety of locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques and specialty shops. Later, satisfy your appetite at one of the best restaurants in Naples; top romantic eatery options include BALEEN, Campiello’s or Bleu Provence with its extensive wine collection.
Where to stay: Because Naples offers a ritzier vibe than most beach destinations in Florida, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for accommodations here. Those who love to golf should seek out a room or suite at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, which features two Greg Norman-designed courses at its famous Tiburón Golf Club, plus an outdoor pool and restaurant that overlook the links. For lodging closer to the water, choose the centrally located Inn on Fifth. Situated a few blocks east of the beach on Fifth Avenue South, this property offers accommodations with Juliet balconies or terraces, a spa, and a rooftop pool.
![](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ff-db7c-afc7-2bffc6da0000/the-boca-raton-beach-club.jpg?update-time=1662756443641&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of The Boca Raton Beach Club)
Couples who want to spoil themselves while on vacation should consider a room or suite at The Boca Raton Beach Club, part of the larger Boca Raton resort. Nestled on a private peninsula in the Palm Beaches resort town of Boca Raton, just north of South Inlet Park, this luxurious property aims to please with its plethora of perks. Inside the modern accommodations, twosomes will find minibars and floor-to-ceiling windows alongside marble bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs. Select upgraded rooms and suites also come outfitted with lanais, sun decks or balconies that provide phenomenal ocean views.
Duos interested in getting some vitamin D may want to spend the bulk of their time swimming and sunbathing at the resort’s private beach or three oceanfront pools. For those who need a break from the water, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and 16 tennis courts available to test your athletic skills. In the evening, clink glasses with your sweetheart at the chic Colin Cowie-designed lobby lounge.
![Taken in Vero Beach Florida](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ed-d301-af97-afedf9d90000/16-vero-beach-stock.jpg?update-time=1662755141744&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
Choose charming Vero Beach for a romantic trip away if you and your partner appreciate art and love spending time outside. Situated on Florida’s east coast about 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, this idyllic town offers ample ways to pass the time. Craving some outdoor solitude? Stop by Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, a natural oasis known for its diverse bird population and excellent stargazing opportunities. If you’d rather stay within town limits, grab a pair of paddleboards or kayaks from Orchid Outfitters and head to Round Island Riverside Park. In this quiet park by the Indian River, you can paddle past wild manatees (taking care not to disturb them) or admire them from the 400-foot-long boardwalk; you’ll also find beach access across the street in Round Island Oceanside Park. Meanwhile, couples seeking a dose of culture can check out nearly 900 pieces on display at the Vero Beach Museum of Art or McKee Botanical Garden’s impressive collection of sculptures and native plants.
Where to stay: After a leisurely day of exploring town, split a bottle of wine and Florida-inspired bites like conch fritters at The Tides – or watch the sun dip below the ocean’s surface while savoring fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and more at Ocean Grill. Both restaurants sit within walking distance of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa, two beachfront hotels made for couples. The Kimpton property features tropical accommodations, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by swaying palm trees. Meanwhile, Costa d’Este offers sunrise yoga classes, water sports equipment rentals, and ocean-facing rooms and suites.
![Exterior of Hemingway House in Key West, Florida.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/0000018a-cd9e-db90-a79a-edfe07220000/key-west-hemingway-house-credit-laurence-norah-florida-keys-news-bureau.jpg?update-time=1695666799994&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Laurence Norah/Courtesy of Florida Keys News Bureau)
Key West attracts couples seeking dreamy accommodations set amid a laid-back island atmosphere. Look for lodging at the well-appointed Ocean Key Resort & Spa, where every guest room comes with a personal balcony and whirlpool tub, or opt for a charming personal cottage at Sunset Key Cottages. Located on a private island and only reachable by boat, this enchanting property features luxe amenities like fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms. Here, couples can relax at the resort’s serene spa during the day and, in the evening, dine at the award-winning beachfront restaurant Latitudes. Recent diners complimented the terrific service and delicious menu but said the view was what really made their experience unforgettable.
When you’re not lounging around your resort, spy a six-toed cat at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, watch the sun go down from Mallory Square or grab a drink with your beau along bustling Duval Street. Plus, thanks to its abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs, Key West is a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive. If you’re looking to up the romance factor even further, take an exhilarating seaplane tour with your sweetheart to Dry Tortugas National Park, which sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West and is known best for its 19th-century fort and cobalt-blue waters.
![Green beach loungers and umbrellas at white sandy beach](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000183-23ed-d301-af97-afedfa400000/18-fort-myers-stock.jpg?update-time=1662755141847&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Getty Images)
From stunning beaches to historic estates, couples will find plenty to see and do in this southern Florida locale. Explore nearby Lovers Key State Park on a guided ecotour, or plan your visit for winter to spot wild manatees at Manatee Park. For an unforgettable Fort Myers date night, board the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, an interactive show where lovebirds can put their sleuthing skills to the test while savoring delectable meat dishes and sipping on specialty cocktails. Round out your romantic getaway to Fort Myers with a chocolate-making class at Norman Love Confections, where you and your other half can learn how to create decadent sweets like truffles and fudge. When your stomach starts to rumble, check out romantic restaurants like Bayfront Bistro & Bar and The Veranda, where couples can fill up on specialties like veal piccata and Chilean sea bass.
Where to stay: After spending the day reconnecting with your sweetie, couples can retire to upscale digs at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, a lovebird-approved property facing the Caloosahatchee River. Or, book your stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, a quiet beachfront retreat that offers exclusive amenities such as a full-service marina, a zero-entry pool and a relaxing spa.
![Cheeca Lodge & Spa pool at night.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/0000018a-cda1-d3cf-a9be-cdf1cf2a0000/cheeca-lodge-pool-credit-cheeca-lodge-and-spa.jpg?update-time=1695667047709&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa)
If you and your sweetie like to keep busy while on vacation, book a room at Cheeca Lodge & Spa, one of the best resorts in the Florida Keys. This tropical paradise offers myriad ways for couples to spend their romantic getaway. Work on your swing at the resort’s nine-hole golf course, challenge your partner to a volleyball tournament on the beach, cast a line from the property’s 525-foot-long pier or get out on the water in a clear-bottomed kayak. Later, you can give your aching muscles a break by taking advantage of the resort’s Xbox arcade, extensive book collection and game room, which features classics like air hockey, pool and ping-pong.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa is also home to three heated swimming pools, more than 1,000 feet of white sand beach and seven spa treatment rooms. Plus, with two outdoor bars and three top-notch restaurants serving everything from sushi to artisanal pizza, foodie couples will rejoice come dinnertime. When you’re ready to hit the hay, you’ll be treated to accommodations that feature either resort, lagoon or ocean views and come equipped with screened-in or open-air balconies, plush bedding and rain showers. While many travelers raved over the resort’s beautiful property and well-appointed rooms, others lamented that the beach can sometimes get overrun with seaweed, so consider elsewhere if you plan on spending the majority of your vacation lounging on the beach.
![Kayaks on beach at La Siesta Resort and Villas.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/0000018a-d204-d958-a38b-f20491e10000/islamorada-resorts-collection-la-siesta-resort-and-villas-credit-islamorada-resorts-collection.jpg?update-time=1695740628640&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Courtesy of Islamorada Resorts Collection)
Perfect for couples seeking seclusion in the Florida Keys, The Islamorada Resorts Collection comprises four hotels: Amara Cay Resort, Pelican Cove Resort & Marina, Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and La Siesta Resort & Villas. No matter which accommodations you choose, you’ll enjoy access to the amenities at all four hotels – including 55 boat slips, eight restaurants, two fitness centers, complimentary beachside yoga, daily scheduled events and water sports ranging from jet skiing to fishing charters. There’s also a lagoon-style pool at Amara Cay. When and if you decide to leave the property, you’ll enjoy its proximity to local attractions like the History of Diving Museum and the arts and culture district.
![Patio of White Elephant Palm Beach guest room.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/0000018a-cd9b-de6e-a38a-edffe4220000/white-elephant-palm-beach-credit-chi-thien-nguyen-elkus-manfredi-architects.jpg?update-time=1695666659800&size=responsiveFlow640)
(Chi-Thien Nguyen/Courtesy of Elkus Manfredi Architects)
Different from the region’s mega beach resorts, the White Elephant Palm Beach feels more like a private residence, with just 19 suites and 13 guest rooms. The aethestic varies from many local hotels, too, with black-and-white-striped awnings, terracotta roof tilings and hardwood floors throughout the property. Upscale accommodations are outfitted with custom-designed furniture including king beds with beautifully upholstered head boards, and two penthouse suites feature terraces overlooking Bradley Park.
Complete with a patio, pool and ice cream cart serving complimentary treats, the lush outdoor courtyard is the ultimate place to relax and recharge at this boutique hotel. And at the brand’s signature restaurant, Lola 41, you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine and seafood specialties.
If and when you and partner are ready to dig your toes in the sand, grab your complimentary beach gear and hop on the hotel shuttle (also complimentary), which will transport you to the beach a few blocks away. For other romantic rendezvous in Palm Beach, you can borrow bikes, be chauffeured into town via a BMW 7 Series luxury sedan or book an exclusive excursion aboard a Barton & Gray yacht.
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