17 Unique Resorts In Florida Worth Staying At

Think Florida’s all theme parks and chain hotels? Think again. Tucked between its coastlines, swamps, and charming towns are resorts that break the mold—in the best way. We’re talking private islands, retro surf motels, historic hideaways, and design-forward stays that feel anything but ordinary.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, looking to unplug, or just want a hotel with serious character, these standout spots prove Florida’s got way more to offer than just sunshine.

1. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – Florida Keys

Accessible only by seaplane or boat, this exclusive sanctuary redefines the meaning of getting away from it all. No phones, no TVs, no children under 18—just pure tropical serenity spread across five acres of paradise.

Little Palm Island combines thatched-roof bungalows with white-sand beaches and crystal waters. Indulge in world-class dining featuring French and Pan-Latin cuisine while dolphins play offshore, creating memories impossible to capture in mere photographs.

2. The Pearl Hotel – Rosemary Beach

Sophisticated yet unpretentious, this boutique gem sits in the heart of charming Rosemary Beach. Each elegantly appointed room features handpicked furnishings and spa-inspired bathrooms with oversized soaking tubs.

The Pearl Hotel combines coastal comfort with European flair. Just steps from powdery white sand beaches, guests enjoy complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, while the rooftop lounge offers craft cocktails with Gulf views that stretch for miles.

3. Henderson Beach Resort – Destin

Luxury meets nature in this coastal sanctuary bordering 200 acres of pristine state park. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of emerald waters and sugar-white beaches that define the Emerald Coast.

Henderson Beach Resort seamlessly blends upscale amenities with outdoor adventure. Families appreciate the lazy river and kids’ club, while adults treasure the adults-only pool and full-service spa. Nature trails wind through coastal dunes, creating perfect sunrise walking opportunities.

4. The Gasparilla Inn & Club – Boca Grande

Time slows down at this century-old grande dame nestled on Gasparilla Island. Wicker furniture, botanical prints, and classic coastal decor create an atmosphere of refined elegance without pretension. The Gasparilla Inn embodies Old Florida at its finest.

Croquet lawns, championship golf, and afternoon tea traditions continue as they have since 1913. Sunrise beach walks and sunset cocktails bookend days spent in barefoot luxury on this exclusive Gulf Coast island.

5. Everglades Adventure Resort – Clewiston

Wild Florida comes alive at this rustic-luxe outpost on Lake Okeechobee’s edge. Forget predictable hotel experiences—here, alligator spotting replaces pool lounging as the favorite pastime. Everglades Adventure Resort offers comfort amid wilderness.

Elevated cabins provide surprisingly plush accommodations after days spent on airboat tours. Expert naturalists lead daily excursions into America’s most famous wetlands, revealing secretive orchids and elusive panthers to wide-eyed visitors.

6. River Ranch Resort – Lake Wales

Cowboy dreams meet Florida reality at this 1,700-acre dude ranch in Central Florida’s heartland. Authentic Western experiences include twice-weekly rodeos where professional cowboys demonstrate roping and riding skills. River Ranch Resort transports guests to the Wild West.

Accommodations range from traditional lodge rooms to glamping tents and Conestoga wagons. Horseback riding through Spanish moss-draped trails, mechanical bull riding, and cookouts under starlit skies create memorable multigenerational adventures.

7. Bungalows Key Largo – Key Largo

Adults-only paradise awaits at this all-inclusive sanctuary where every accommodation is a private waterfront bungalow. Floating tiki boats deliver cocktails directly to guests lounging in the crystal-clear Florida Bay.

Bungalows Key Largo perfects the art of barefoot luxury. Each 900-square-foot bungalow features outdoor soaking tubs and garden showers. Zen Garden Spa treatments, sunset cruises, and five unique dining venues create an atmosphere where shoes are optional but relaxation is mandatory.

8. The Lodge At Wakulla Springs – Wakulla Springs

History whispers through marble corridors in this 1937 masterpiece built by financier Edward Ball. Handcrafted ceiling artwork and original furnishings transport guests to Florida’s golden age of hospitality.

The Lodge sits within Wakulla Springs State Park, home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal manatees, alligators, and countless bird species. The spring’s constant 70-degree temperature provides perfect year-round swimming in crystal-clear waters.

9. Ocean Key Resort & Spa – Key West

Vibrant energy flows through this colorful retreat positioned at the exact spot where Duval Street meets the Gulf of Mexico. From private balconies, guests witness spectacular sunsets that draw nightly crowds to nearby Mallory Square. Ocean Key Resort embodies Key West’s free-spirited personality.

The resort’s famous Sunset Pier restaurant floats above turquoise waters, serving island cuisine with calypso music. After exploring Old Town’s attractions, guests retreat to island-inspired rooms featuring hand-painted furniture and tropical colors.

10. The Don CeSar – St. Pete Beach

Affectionately known as the “Pink Palace,” this grand dame of Gulf Coast hospitality has been welcoming guests since 1928. The Don CeSar blends Jazz Age glamour with modern luxury across its striking coral-colored façade.

Famous visitors from F. Scott Fitzgerald to Franklin D. Roosevelt have graced its halls. Today, guests enjoy two beachfront pools, a world-class spa, and dining options that showcase fresh seafood against breathtaking sunset backdrops.

11. Faena Hotel – Miami Beach

Theatrical luxury defines this Mid-Beach masterpiece where red velvet, gold leaf, and animal prints create spaces that feel more like film sets than hotel rooms. The lobby’s centerpiece—a 9-foot woolly mammoth skeleton dipped in 24-karat gold—sets the tone for the unexpected.

Faena Hotel redefines Miami glamour. Created by visionary Alan Faena, the property features a 150-seat theater, world-class art installations, and the acclaimed Pao restaurant by Paul Qui. The crimson-striped beach area offers attentive service beneath signature red umbrellas.

12. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens – St. Augustine

Secret gardens connect nine historic homes dating from 1790 to 1910 in America’s oldest city. Brick pathways wind through courtyards filled with heritage plants, fountains, and fire pits perfect for evening storytelling.

The Collector preserves St. Augustine’s architectural legacy. Each uniquely designed suite features antiques alongside modern comforts. The on-site Well Bar occupies St. Augustine’s first liquor distillery building, serving craft cocktails with ingredients from the property’s herb garden.

13. Postcard Inn – St. Pete Beach

Surfboards decorate the walls of this reimagined 1950s motel where retro vibes meet modern comforts. Vintage Florida postcards and surf photography create a nostalgic atmosphere that celebrates beach culture. Postcard Inn attracts a laid-back crowd seeking affordable beachfront fun.

The lively beach bar serves frozen drinks beneath swaying palms, while fire pits light up evening beach gatherings. Rooms feature beachy details like distressed wood headboards and colorful local photography.

14. Hotel Haya – Tampa

Ybor City’s cigar-rolling history comes alive in this stylish property housed in historic buildings from the district’s heyday. Original brick walls and wrought iron balconies frame spaces filled with contemporary Cuban-inspired design.

Hotel Haya pays homage to Tampa’s Latin roots. Named for cigar manufacturer Ignacio Haya, the property features a restaurant serving modern takes on Cuban classics. Morning cortaditos in the café transform to handcrafted daiquiris by night as guests prepare to explore Ybor’s legendary nightlife.

15. The Alfond Inn – Winter Park

Art transforms this sophisticated boutique hotel into a living museum where over 300 contemporary works rotate through public spaces. Profits benefit Rollins College scholarship funds, making each stay an investment in education.

The Alfond Inn combines cultural immersion with understated luxury. Located in upscale Winter Park, guests stroll to Park Avenue’s boutiques and restaurants. The stunning glass-domed conservatory hosts elegant events, while the rooftop pool offers a peaceful retreat after days exploring nearby cultural attractions.

16. Playa Largo Resort & Spa – Key Largo

Modern luxury meets island sensibility at this relatively new addition to the Upper Keys. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular bay views from public spaces designed to blur the lines between indoors and out. Playa Largo Resort celebrates its oceanfront setting with multiple water-centric experiences.

Guests choose between the main resort, standalone bungalows, or a private three-bedroom beach house. Water activities range from parasailing to sunset cruises, while hammocks strung between palms provide perfect afternoon napping spots.

17. Opal Sands Resort – Clearwater Beach

Curved architecture ensures every room offers front-row Gulf views at this contemporary beachfront property. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies bring turquoise waters and sugar-white sands into each living space. Opal Sands Resort maximizes its prime location on America’s top-rated beach.

The zero-entry pool seems to merge with the Gulf horizon, while beach attendants deliver refreshments to guests’ umbrellas. Local artists’ marine-inspired works decorate public spaces, celebrating Florida’s coastal beauty.