Florida has a little bit of everything travelers look for in a vacation. There are miles of sandy beaches, warm Gulf and Atlantic waters, charming coastal towns, historic communities, natural springs, wildlife preserves and some of the most popular attractions in the country.
With so many different places to visit, choosing where to stay in Florida can be just as important as deciding what to do once you arrive.
Whether you are planning a family beach vacation, a romantic getaway, a fishing trip or a relaxing week by the water, Florida has a destination that fits the trip.
Florida’s Gulf Coast
Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for calm, warm water, beautiful beaches and spectacular sunsets. The coastline stretches from the Panhandle all the way around the peninsula, with each area offering its own personality.
Panama City Beach is a popular choice for families and beach lovers, with miles of white sand and plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating and enjoying the Gulf.
Further south, Destin is known for its emerald green water, white sand beaches and boating and fishing opportunities. Nearby communities such as Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Beach offer a quieter coastal experience while still being close to the attractions of the Emerald Coast.
On Florida’s southwest coast, places such as Sarasota, Anna Maria Island and Siesta Key combine beautiful beaches with walkable communities, restaurants and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Florida’s Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic side of Florida offers a different experience. Here you will find long stretches of beach, historic towns, surfing communities and lively coastal cities.
St. Augustine is one of the most distinctive destinations in Florida. Founded in 1565, it is known for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets and centuries of history, along with its beautiful nearby beaches.
Further south, Cocoa Beach is popular with beachgoers and surfers and is also close to Florida’s Space Coast.
For travelers looking for a larger city experience, Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer beaches, restaurants, shopping and nightlife along with easy access to the Atlantic.
The Florida Keys
For a completely different kind of Florida vacation, head south to the Florida Keys.
The Keys stretch southwest from the tip of the Florida peninsula, connected by the Overseas Highway. Each island has its own character, but Key West is perhaps the best known.
Key West is famous for its colorful architecture, historic homes, sunsets, boating and laid-back island atmosphere. Other communities throughout the Keys provide opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and simply enjoying life near the water.
Florida Beyond the Beaches
Although Florida is famous for its coastline, some of its most memorable experiences can be found inland.
Central Florida is home to Orlando and its world-famous theme parks, making the area a major destination for families. But Florida’s natural attractions extend far beyond the theme parks.
The state is home to freshwater springs, wetlands, forests and wildlife areas where visitors can see manatees, alligators, birds and other native wildlife.
Crystal River, for example, is known for opportunities to see manatees in their natural environment. In other parts of the state, visitors can explore places such as the Everglades, paddle through quiet waterways or spend a day swimming in a clear freshwater spring.
Choosing the Right Florida Destination
The best place to stay in Florida depends on the type of vacation you have in mind.
If you want white sand beaches and Gulf sunsets, consider the Gulf Coast.
If you enjoy history and charming coastal communities, St. Augustine is worth a look.
If you want theme parks and family attractions, Central Florida is the natural choice.
If your ideal vacation involves fishing, snorkeling and island life, the Florida Keys offer something special.
And if you simply want to slow down and spend your days near the water, Florida has countless smaller coastal communities where you can do exactly that.
Looking for a Florida Vacation Rental?
One of the best things about staying in a vacation rental is having the opportunity to experience a destination more like a local. Instead of a standard hotel room, vacation homes can offer kitchens, outdoor spaces, multiple bedrooms and room for families or groups to spread out.
Landcombers is building a collection of independently owned vacation homes and unique places to stay around the world. As our collection grows, we are especially interested in connecting with homeowners and property managers who want to share their Florida vacation rentals with travelers.
Whether you are planning your next Florida getaway or you own a vacation home in the Sunshine State, Florida offers plenty of possibilities.
From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, the Keys to the Everglades, there is much more to Florida than one destination.
Combing the world for your perfect stay, Landcombers helps travelers discover vacation homes and unique places to stay in destinations worth exploring.