Darija Stojanovic 
Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay in Florida! The Sunshine State is one of my favorite places in the U.S., and I have nothing but lovely memories from my visit here.
I want you to have an amazing time as well, so I researched all the must-visit places in Florida and found top-rated hotels for all budgets. This way, after reading the article, you’ll know exactly which places to add to your bucket list and which hotel to book!
Stick until the end, as I also prepared a bonus section with the best unique hotels to stay in Florida!
Now, of course, I recommend you start your trip from Miami. As you know, the place needs very little introduction. Then, depending on your interest (whether you’re more into city life, beaches, or national parks), add other Florida destinations to your itinerary.
Wherever you stay, please book your hotel in advance! It’ll help you secure the best deals on rooms!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Eager to book right now? Then check out this list of the best hotels in Miami, Florida:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Miami – where to stay in Florida for the first time
- 2. Orlando – where to stay in Florida for families
- 3. Florida Keys – the best place to stay in FL for relaxation
- 4. Fort Lauderdale – where to stay in Florida for spring break
- 5. Tampa – nice part to stay in Florida for culture
- 6. Naples – best area to stay in Florida for the beaches
- Other great areas to stay in Florida
- BONUS: Unique places to stay in Florida
- FAQs about the best places to stay in Florida
- Final thoughts on where to stay in Florida
Here’s a map of all the areas to stay in Florida that I will be talking about in this post:
1. Miami – where to stay in Florida for the first time
This iconic city in South Florida doesn’t need a big introduction! Just picture those incredible beaches, top-notch hotels, fantastic nightlife, and the holiday atmosphere you can feel 24/7!
Miami caters to all types of tourists. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or maybe you want to enjoy a laid-back holiday, there’s no end to the things to do in Miami!
First stop?
Obviously, the beach! South Beach (Miami Beach, map) is a legendary place, and its golden sands and incredible hotels bring tourists (including celebrities) from all around the world.
You also might want to skip the beach for just a day and visit the downtown area of Miami. Think waterside shopping malls (map), green spaces (map), amazing street art (map), and much more.
One of the must-visit sites in Florida, the Everglades National Park, is located less than an hour’s drive from Miami! Fort Lauderdale (more on it later), another amazing city in Florida, is just a 30-minute ride, so you’ll have plenty of options for day trips if you base yourself in Miami!
This being said, if you plan to move around a lot, it’s best to rent a car in Miami. Otherwise, you can use the city’s public transportation system (including Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus). The bus ticket starts at $2.25 for a ride, and you can pay with your card or use the EASY Card available at the city’s kiosks (better and cheaper for day passes).
EVERGLADES TIPS: You will need a car to get to the Everglades National Park (even tours start at the park territory, and those that include hotel pickup are too expensive). There is no public transportation. Make sure to fuel up since the park area is vast and gas stations nearby are limited. Best time to visit is from November to March during the dry season.
Now, let’s check out the best hotels in Miami. If the one you like is sold out for your dates, check out our post on where to stay in Miami for other top-rated hotels!
Other accommodation options in Miami
Things to do in Miami
- Chill all day on Miami Beach
- Visit the Everglades National Park on an airboat tour
- Do some people watching in Ocean Drive (map)
- Visit the Freedom Tower in the downtown area
- Go on a cruise for celebrity home sightseeing
- Shop until you drop in Bayside Marketplace
- Explore the Art Deco Historic District (map)
- Take a short trip to Fort Lauderdale
2. Orlando – where to stay in Florida for families
Planning the PERFECT family vacation?
Hop on board because we’re about to embark on a short trip around Orlando, Central Florida! Famous for its theme parks and known as the world’s Disney capital, this city is the ultimate family destination.
The area in and around Orlando is home to over 18 theme parks! Not even 2 weeks in Orlando would be enough to see them all! Get an Orlando CityPASS for discounts if you plan to visit multiple ones!
Universal Studios and Walt Disney World are two of Orlando’s most important theme parks (where the kids will probably want to be 24/7).
But don’t worry, parents, there is something for you too! Lake Eola Park (map) is beautiful for casual strolls, and the 400-foot-tall Orlando Eye (map) offers fabulous panoramic city views!
The neighborhoods in Orlando offer a wide range of activities. Southwest Orlando (map) and Celebration areas are perfect if you want to be close to the theme parks, but they are often the most crowded.
If you still want to relax during this holiday in Orlando, then maybe choose a hotel in Thornton Park (map), a residential neighborhood that’s more tranquil than the rest.I recommend a car rental in Orlando, but you can also use the LYNX bus system (from $2 per ride) or the free circulator bus service that operates throughout the Downtown area!
Other accommodation options in Orlando
Things to do in Orlando
- Spend a fun day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Relax and play a game at MetroWest Golf Course
- Cool off during the hot days at Volcano Bay Theme Park
- Visit the Disney Boardwalk
- Explore the Kennedy Space Center and wake up the inner astronaut in you
- Catch the fireworks show at Walt Disney World Resort in Celebration
- Hit the hiking trails of Orlando
- Join a narrated helicopter tour of Orlando’s theme parks
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3. Florida Keys – the best place to stay in FL for relaxation
Still not sure which Florida town to pick for your holiday? If you’re looking just to relax, you’ll love the Florida Keys!
This tropical destination features white-sandy beaches, palm trees, and tons of places where you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere! For those of you who might not know, the Florida Keys is an archipelago made up of many different keys or islands (that’s why we wrote an entire post on it).
Located in the Southern tip of Florida, 90 miles (120 km) away from Cuba, this place has a Caribbean vibe and some great restaurants! With more than 800 islands, the archipelago sure offers things to do and see for all types of tourists.
Key West is probably the most popular island, but Islamorada and Key Largo are also highlights! Why? Well, Key West has so many historical attractions, restaurants that serve delicious food, and a great vibe! Islamorada is the Sport-Fishing Capital of the World, while Key Largo is the Diving Capital, where you can try jet-skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
FUN FACT: In Key West, you can visit the Southernmost point of the continental USA! It’s right here (map)! There’s a nice monument there so you can eternalize the moment when you’re on the spot!
And if you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in the Florida Keys, you should head to Marathon (map), which hides great beaches, a turtle hospital (map), and beautiful state parks.
A lot of towns in the Florida Keys are entirely walkable, but there are also public bus systems running in and around them. You can rent a car for the greatest comfort or if you plan to move around the area a lot, but otherwise, you can get around without a car. It’s easy to find parking in Key West (street parking, public garages, etc), but for smaller places, parking can be a hassle.
Other accommodation options in the Florida Keys
Things to do in the Florida Keys
- Go on a sunset sailing boat tour in Key West
- Visit the iconic Mallory Square in Key West (map)
- Explore the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park (map)
- Go bar hopping on lively Duval Street in Key West (map)
- Join a dolphin-watching tour in the Florida Keys
- Chill on Smathers Beach in Key West (map)
4. Fort Lauderdale – where to stay in Florida for spring break
Fort Lauderdale is located just 30 minutes North of Miami, and it’s Florida’s favorite destination for spring break! Whether you’re traveling with a family (but maybe more if you’re a student), there’s no better place to be for seaside fun at this time of the year!
Think beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, more affordable hotels compared to Miami, and tons of events and festivals (don’t miss the Tortuga Music Festival in April!).
Fort Lauderdale is called “the Venice of America” due to its 300+ inland waterways resembling the iconic canals of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. You can take boat tours through them just like in Venice!
Most of the hotels in the area are located around Fort Lauderdale Beach (map), while the best nightlife is in Las Olas Boulevard (map) Downtown. If you want to escape the noise and crowds but still be close to everything, consider Lauderdale-by-the-Sea (map) North of Downtown.
TIP: Use the Brightline express train to get to Miami or West Palm Beach! It’s fast, comfortable, and affordable (from $10)! You can also rent a car even if you’re only staying in Fort Lauderdale. The waterway canals are also used for public transport, but they’re slower.
The area is super popular with tourists, we even have a special article where we share in detail the best places to stay along with top-rated hotels. Check it out for more travel inspo!
Other accommodation options in Fort Lauderdale
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
- Explore the Downtown area, notably Las Olas Boulevard
- Join a fun 4-hour deep sea fishing trip
- Be in awe from the nature at the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (map)
- See the famous yachts of Fort Lauderdale on a segway tour
- Take a riverfront gondola tour with an iconic local tour company (map)
- Get your ticket for the beautiful Flamingo Gardens
5. Tampa – nice part to stay in Florida for culture
Located only a 2-hour drive from Orlando, Tampa lies on Florida’s Gulf Coast in Tampa Bay, and it is the nicest destination for history buffs, beach lovers, and families!
The scenery is stunning, and there are plenty of museums to explore, but it’s not just that. One of the most famous areas in Tampa is Ybor City (map), a National Historic Landmark that used to be the Cigar Capital of the World around 1900.
Now, everyone comes here to party and have a good time. But there are also many art galleries here you should check out!
Downtown Tampa is where all the leading boutique shops and restaurants are. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Ybor City, so you might want to pop here for a few hours as well.
Although many people associate Florida’s theme parks with Orlando, you’ll be surprised to learn that the tallest and fastest coasters in the Southeast are located in Busch Gardens Theme Park here in Tampa!
Tampa is a very bikeable city, so you can rent one (City Bike Tampa, map, is a good dealer). Other fun ways to explore Tampa include the free TECO Historic Streetcar to move around Ybor City, or pirate water taxis with 15+ stops along Tampa’s Riverwalk (day pass is $20).
TIP: Despite the fun transport options, you would still benefit from a car rental in Tampa. Everything is spread out and you’ll definitely want your own ride if you plan to explore multiple neighborhoods or towns. Parking can be expensive in central areas though, and even most hotels charge around $45 per day for a parking spot. Epicurean is slightly outside of Downtown and offers valet parking for $20 per day.
NOTE: For the best beaches, head to Clearwater Beach (map) nearby known for its signature super fine sand! Check out this quick guide with the best Clearwater Beach hotels for more details!
If you decide to stay in Tampa, I included the top-rated options for you below. And for more details and tips on best places to stay, check out our article where we share the 6 tourist-favorite areas!
Other accommodation options in Tampa
Things to do in Tampa
- Join a guided city tour in a golf cart
- Learn new things about the city’s history at Tampa Bay History Center
- Spend a fun day at the Busch Gardens Theme Park (map)
- Visit the Florida Aquarium with skip-the-line-tickets
- Check out the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
- Visit the Ybor City Museum
- Try Cuban Sandwich, one of the most popular foods in Florida at Mandy’s (map)
- Drive to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (map)
6. Naples – best area to stay in Florida for the beaches
Today, we’re not talking about Italy’s Naples. We’re going to explore Naples city in Florida located a 2-hour drive West of Miami.
I’m a sucker for picturesque places, the kind of vacation spots that you recognize from postcards and travel agency’s websites. Naples is precisely that! Known for its many sugary beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and world-class golf courses, this city in Florida is excellent for people who love to be on the beach all day, every day!
I can’t say that I’m that kind of person. Still, once in a while, I get this urge to go somewhere where I can chill on the beautiful beaches without a care in the world! And Naples looks like the perfect place for that (as does Fort Myers, which also has many nature reserves).
The city’s name is not random. The beaches helped Naples gain its name, as most of them resemble the ones in Naples, Italy! And I agree, they sure share the same kind of vibe, and I can’t wait for you to discover it as well!
Walking and biking is the best way to get around Naples, but you can also use the public transport (including the Naples Trolley that goes connects the tourist spots). Rent a car if you plan to move around a lot.
If any of the hotels below are booked out for your dates or you want a full-detail immersive guide on Naples, we have a special article for you dedicated to the topic!
Other accommodation options in Naples
Things to do in Naples
- Catch a sunset near the iconic Naples Pier (map)
- Spend a fun day on Naples Beach (map) on the Gulf Coast
- Visit the Conservancy of Southwest Florida (map)
- Swim and sunbathe on Lowdermilk Beach (map)
- Play golf at Stonebridge Country Club (map)
Other great areas to stay in Florida
To be honest, Florida has much more than just 6 places worth exploring! That’s why I decided to slightly expand the list with a few other amazing places you can add to your bucket list:
- West Palm Beach – If you’re coming for nightlife and a tropical Florida vacation, West Palm Beach is another great option! This vibrant city has a rich history, beautiful beaches, and plenty of good hotels for all budgets. To help you plan ahead, see our guide on the best things to do in Palm Beach!
- Sarasota – Sarasota makes a great day trip destination from Tampa, but you can also spend 2 days here without getting bored. Miles of sandy beaches, urban city life, modern art, and delicious food – you’ll find it all here! Check out the best areas to lay your head in Sarasota.
- Jacksonville – Florida’s most populous city with a stunning culture (I mostly remember visiting museums here) and plenty of attractions for all types of travelers. Here’s where to stay in Jacksonville.
- St. Augustine – The oldest city in the U.S. and one of the most beautiful ones I visited. Ideal for history lovers! Check out my article where I discuss the 4 best places to stay in St. Augustine.
| 🌆 Top city: | Miami |
| 🏨 Best hotel: | Mandarin Oriental |
| 👪 Best city for families: | Orlando |
| 💰 Cost of traveling: | medium |
BONUS: Unique places to stay in Florida
Florida is an amazing state with so much natural beauty, amazing beaches, and the best weather. Add in unique hotels, and you get a perfect seaside vacation. Check out the 3 BEST unique hotels in Florida that I sorted by budget:
- Luxury: The Don CeSar – One of the oldest hotels in St. Pete, founded in 1928, continues to attract guests almost a century later! Try water sports and chill at the 2 private beaches in this hotel known as “Pink Palace” among the locals!
- Mid range: Jules’ Undersea Lodge – Stay in the only underwater hotel in Florida and feel like a submarine, plus join diving courses and immerse in many other activities organized by this amazing place!
- Budget: Houseboat – Stanford, FL, is home to this awesome houseboat with 2 bedrooms and a tiny deck area for romantic dinners. If you’re traveling as a couple and want a budget-friendly place to stay, definitely check this place out.
We have an extended guide with 20 unique places to stay in Florida, so make sure to check it out for more ideas!
FAQs about the best places to stay in Florida
🏖️ What’s the best city to stay in Florida?
Miami is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Florida. The beaches are stunning, and the hotels, like Mandarin Oriental, are pretty awesome as well.
🌅 Where should I stay in Florida for vacation?
It depends on the type of vacation you want. Miami and Naples are great for beaches, but if you’re planning a family trip, then you might want to consider the Florida Keys, Orlando, or Tampa.
🌆 Which are the best hotels in Florida?
Some of the top hotels to stay in Florida are the Mandarin Oriental in Miami and Isla Bella Beach Resort in the Florida Keys.
🛫 What are the best hotels in Florida near Miami International Airport?
EB Hotel and Candlewood Suites are 2 of the top-rated hotels near Miami International Airport.
🗺️ Which side of Florida is better to visit?
It depends. The West side with the Gulf waters is better for families with small kids as there are fewer waves. The Atlantic side is better for water activities and has slightly cooler water.
🌴 Where to stay for the first time in Florida?
Stay in Miami if you’re visiting Florida for the first time and want to be in the center of all the action.
📅 What is the best month to visit Florida?
Aim for spring and fall months for your visit. September in the fall and January through April are the best months to visit Florida.
🏖️ What are the best places to stay in Florida on the beach?
Miami and Naples are amazing places to stay in Florida if you’re into beach vacation. There are plenty of hotels for all budgets, amazing water sport activities, and tons of attractions to keep you busy.
👪 What are the best places to stay in Florida for families?
Orlando is definitely the best place to stay in Florida for families. It’s home to over a dozen theme parks, and there are some pretty nice beaches nearby.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Florida
I don’t know about you, but I’m craving some beach time right now! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Florida, America’s Sunshine State!
There are so many amazing hotels in this post, and to help you make the best decision, I’ll give you my top 2 favorite ones, both located in Miami:
- Mandarin Oriental – A great hotel with an infinity pool, the best option for luxury travelers
- citizenM Miami – A modern hotel ideal for couples headed on a weekend getaway
I highly recommend booking your hotel in advance. Tourists from all around the world come to visit these cities, and they sell out super fast!
If you have any questions about Florida or other suggestions for our readers, leave a comment below! I’ll answer ASAP!
Safe travels,
Darija
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