419 Best Hotels in Florida, USA

Rooms at this hotel on the quiet end of Duval—a 20-minute walk from downtown—are modern and sophisticated, and although the area around it gets some car and foot traffic, the property is far enough from the hubbub that you can relax but close enough that you can participate if you wish. Each room has a sophisticated color palette of blues and browns, which is a nice change from the standard bright, tropical colors found in other hotels. Many of the accommodations in the property's Guesthouses section—which encompasses 50 units in the adjacent Avalon and Duval Gardens properties—are adults only, and all include complimentary Continental breakfast. Grab a cold drink and light snack from the pool bar and join the crowd around the pool, or venture across the street to the beach, where there's a restaurant and other amenities.

This luxurious private island retreat with its own sandy beach feels completely cut off from the world, yet you're just minutes away from the action: a 10-minute ride from Mallory Square on the 24-hour free ferry. On idyllic, 27-acre Sunset Key you'll find swaying palms, flowering gardens, and a delicious sense of privacy. The comforts are first-class at the cluster of one- to four-bedroom cottages at the water's edge, some with garden or ocean views. Baked goods, freshly squeezed juice, fresh fruit, and a newspaper are delivered each morning. Each of the accommodations has a kitchen, and the resort offers a grocery shopping service (for a fee, of course). The spacious four-bedroom cottages also feature private plunge pools and washers/dryers.

Ralph Lauren could have designed the rooms at this stylish, luxurious resort on a nice beach. The 87 two- and three-bedroom town houses have gingerbread trim, white-picket fences, and open-floor-plan interiors decorated in trendy cottage style. The picture-perfect theme continues with the palm-fringed pool and the sandy beach edged with a ribbon of blue bay (and echoed in the blue-and-white stripes of the poolside umbrellas). Guests look like models on a photo shoot: attractive young families enjoying themselves on the sunny decks, or at the casual outdoor bar and elegant restaurant. Small, single-level guest rooms are ideal for couples looking to save money.

Many of the cottages at this warm, affordable, pet-friendly resort—named for the sea-turtle nesting site across the street along Sarasota Bay—date from the 1940s, a romantic plus for yesteryear lovers. Some units have courtyards, and those on the bay side have the best view; only 10 of the cottages allow children and pets. The grounds are private, shielded by high wooden fences and palms, bougainvilleas, and other tropical foliage. If you really want to escape, use one of the resort's canoes or kayaks to paddle a short distance south to a beach dotted with sand dunes and sea oats.

Universal's nostalgic, mid-century-theme beach resort transports you to a 1950s Florida beach town with a modern twist; it also offers families a less-expensive but still benefit-rich alternative to on-site Universal properties. Extras include a 10-lane bowling alley, a Jack LaLanne fitness studio, early park admission, two pools (one with a slide), a lazy river, poolside activities, and free shuttle buses to and from Universal parks and CityWalk, as well as to nearby SeaWorld and Aquatica.

Thoughtful renovations throughout have preserved the glamour of yesteryear at the luxurious Vinoy, which opened in 1925 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. A stay here includes access to an expansive marina, pool attendants who can keep you well fed and hydrated while you sunbathe, and a Ron Garl–designed golf course with a stunning clubhouse. Although the beaches are 15 or 20 minutes away, the Vinoy is within walking distance of Beach Drive and attractions such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Dalí Museum, as well as shops and restaurants. It's worth spending a little more to enjoy fantastic views from a bayside room.

Fun, fresh, and funky, the W South Beach flaunts some of the nicest rooms in South Beach—even the entry category evokes a wow factor—each with its own kitchen and balcony with ocean views. The textured walls, whimsical accessories, and clean symmetries play out like a spread from Architectural Digest. Overall, the property represents the brand's evolution toward young sophistication, which means less club music in the lobby, more lighting, and more attention to the multimillion-dollar art collection lining the lobby's expansive walls (look for high-end contemporary art from famous names like Andy Warhol, Julian Schnabel, and Kenny Scharf). That said, the pool scene is everything and anything one could want from South Beach and the W brand—tight bodies, cabanas, and a gorgeous crowd sipping mojitos. The beach is just steps behind with a private area for W South Beach guests. Although the hotel does not boast an art deco facade, its interiors are far more eclectic and superior to neighboring hotels.

At the crown jewel of the area's latest—and largest—planned resort community, nature meets seaside chic in dune-level bungalows that have private courtyards with outdoor showers and upper rooms that have huge balconies and walk-in showers with windows overlooking the Gulf so you can see the sea while you scrub. Standard rooms come with a king-size bed and a queen sleeper sofa, but consider one of the three rotunda rooms for something larger and more spectacular. Included in the room rate are parking, Wi-Fi, one hour of canoeing, one hour of tennis, and bicycle use.

The sister property to Nantucket’s fabled White Elephant Resort, this black and white stunner is a total transformation of the former Bradley Park Hotel, which was one of the first hotels in the area in the 1920s. The 32-room and suite property has the feel of a private residence, with each accommodation offering a private outdoor space. Rooms are outfitted in hardwood floors, Carrara marble, woven rugs, and L'Occitane bath products. Pratesi linens, robes, slippers, and Turkish towels add to the luxe vibe. Among the amenities, guests have complimentary use of Priority bicycles and BMW vehicles, as well as exclusive access to Barton & Gray yachts.  The on-site restaurant Lola 41 offers Asian dishes like crab rangoon and pork pot stickers along with classics like a burger with foie gras sauce and a chopped salad. A courtesy shuttle whisks guests to the beach, where umbrellas and chairs await.

Located along the beach's lesser-known western perimeter and overlooking the bay, this hotel recently underwent a multimillion-dollar transformation; the focal points are a new beach club, a spa, and a happening pool scene. The standout feature, Baia Beach Club, is an open-air living room space where members can drift through to dine or lounge as they please. The pool scene here is always a place to be. Tropical and handmade macramé artwork set the stage for fresh and simple guest rooms, each curated with a sleek kitchen area. The West Avenue location affords picture-perfect sunsets, but it's a 10- to 15-minute trek to the beach.

Royal Palm South Beach Miami, now part of Marriott's individualistic Tribute Portfolio, is a daily celebration of art deco, modernity, and design detail. Laura Rottet of Rottet Studios was charged with reinventing South Beach's original 1939 Royal Palm and Shorecrest buildings alongside the Royal Palm's younger annexes to create a seamless design masterpiece. Rooms assume a classic South Beach identity with blends of whites and pops of tropical colors. Double-door minibars open to a world of local Florida products, while colossal, wood-framed mirrors function as sliding doors for the oversize bathrooms. Beyond design brilliance, Royal Palm is an endless indulgence of the best of South Beach, including plenty of beachside and poolside bliss, excellent eating at its in-house restaurant, Byblos, and fabulous people-watching. The hotel's location at 15th and Collins places Royal Palm in the heart of the South Beach action.

The Soho Beach House is a throwback to swanky vibes of bygone decades, bedazzled in faded color palates, maritime setting, and circa-1930s avant-garde furnishings, luring both somebodies and wannabes to indulge in the amenity-rich, retro-chic rooms as long as they follow stringent house rules (no photos, no mobile phones, no suits, and one guest only). The rooms are simple and rustic chic, with wood beds, leather club chairs, and bar carts to make them feel more like a guesthouse than a hotel. The lobby, the house restaurant Cecconi's, the upstairs bar, and the sexy pool buzz with young trendsetters and hipsters. Even with its glamour-puss all-stars, this hotel still maintains a casual vibe, catering to its core members—those who work in the arts.

In the heart of Orlando, steps from the arts center, sports arena, and nightlife, this former utilities building has been transformed into a trendy urban hotel, with a busy bar, innovative rooms, and high-tech amenities.

This urban-chic hotel provides the tree-lined downtown district with a bit of trendy fun courtesy of loft-style rooms with bright, minimalist decor. The hotel encourages travelers to get social in the w xyz bar, which buzzes after dark, or around the pool table in the re:mix lounge. Guest rooms are on the small side but have great amenities for the techie—a plug-and-play connectivity station and complimentary Wi-Fi—as well as bathrooms with rain shower heads.

Right on the Hillsborough River and close to some of Tampa's best restaurants and entertainment venues, this high-rise used to be a bank but is now a boutique chain hotel with sweeping Downtown and water views, local art in the lobby, and a homeyness that makes it seem more like a locally owned property. Business travelers appreciate the generous workspaces and gadget-friendly furnishings, but the pool, access to the Riverwalk, and closeness to nightlife make it a good choice leisure travelers, too. There are also kid-friendly amenities here, and the whole hotel is pet friendly; dogs up to 40 pounds are given a bed, bowl, treats, and toys.

At this simple yet chic resort, spacious rooms evoke well-to-do bachelor pads, complete with a counter and stools, wine chiller, minimalistic furniture, and artwork. Try to score a room with an ocean view. Hang out in the lobby (literally) in one of the hanging wicker chairs and admire the award-winning decor, or call dibs on a beach hammock or a seat at the oceanfront poolside bar. Guests can use the kayaks and paddleboards (included in the resort fee) or book a dive trip right on-site, as well as enjoy a casual bite to eat at the on-site restaurant, ReelCatch, which also serves breakfast.

If you desire personal attention, a casual atmosphere, and a dollop of style, stay at these twin inns spread out on nearly 2 acres. Ambrosia is more intimate, with themed rooms such as the Treetop, Sailfish Suite, and Havana Cabana. Ambrosia Too is a delightful art-filled hideaway. Rooms and suites have original work by local artists, wicker or wood furniture, and spacious bathrooms. Each has a private entrance and deck, patio, or porch. A poolside full breakfast is included, and children are welcome.

Across the street from the beach, this convenient, midsize inn is an economical, family-friendly alternative to the area's luxury resorts. Several restaurants are within walking distance, and a full breakfast is served each morning in the lobby. Rooms are modestly furnished and have ocean views and pool views (though the pool is practically in the parking lot, so there's not much of a view).

Part hotel, part art gallery, Art Ovation stands out among the city’s luxury hotels with several rotating exhibits and a location in the heart of downtown. The hotel showcases a variety of styles, genres, and artistic experiences for guests and visitors. You’ll often find musical acts and other performances entertaining in the lobby, as well, and the artist’s studio features visiting creatives who share their process and their passion. The year-round rooftop pool and bar offers gorgeous panoramic downtown views.

The hospitality at this 1920s-era downtown boutique hotel starts with a free welcome goodie bag and continues throughout your stay. The property has been through various iterations, but the latest renovation created a trendy, updated space that preserves the original hardwood floors, the stone-floored lobby, and the exposed brick walls. Most rooms are spacious suites that offer modern amenities but also remain faithful to the history of the century-old structure. Restaurants and shops are a short walk away, but staying in is an option, too: there's a cozy lounge with a full bar and a delightful on-site Cuban restaurant.

In addition to a relaxing spa, a restaurant, and a sleek fifth-floor pool overlooking the Atlantic, this towering oceanfront hotel has fantastic views of the ocean from its beds (unless, of course, you select a city view). Interiors are slightly dated, but the en suite kitchenette and oversized floor plan are great for longer stays. You can also bring dogs up to 60 pounds with you, a rare find in Fort Lauderdale.

Set in an updated 1930s building and featuring colorful, art deco–inspired decor, the artsy Avalon is a good fit for this creative city. Although it's within walking distance of everything—from the waterfront and chic Beach Drive to the vibrant Pier District and Downtown bars, restaurants, and shops—the hotel's free transfer service will take you just about anywhere you want to go.

In the middle of all the I-Drive activity, and a short walk from ICON Park, this resort offers families a home away from home with plenty of amenities at a reasonable price; rooms and public areas are decorated in mid-century chic, and the large pool has a children's play area, a sandy beach with volleyball court, a shuffleboard court, and a bar and grill.

The dock points the way to beautiful sunsets at this adults-only boutique hotel, which has been transformed from a run-down mom-and-pop place into a waterfront gem. As the innkeepers have backgrounds in the image business, the property offers great visuals, from marble floors and granite countertops to yellow-leather sofas and ice-blue bathroom tiles. Kayaks, paddleboards, barbecue grills, and a movie library are available for guest use, and two chickee huts on the beach are equipped with comfortable seating.

The ultramodern, nearly minimalistic redo of this classic, circa-1903 Queen Anne mansion—an adults-only property—offers a break from the sensory overload of Key West's other abundant Victorian guesthouses. The boutique hotel, 3½ blocks from Duval Street, combines original trim, high ceilings, and shiny wood floors with sleek furnishings, including a curved frosted-glass-and-chrome check-in desk and leather loungers. Some of the spacious, serene rooms have private verandas, flat-screen TVs, and remote-controlled fans and lights.

This iconic riverboat-shaped landmark, once the Yankee Clipper, is chic yet functional, and the unobstructed ocean views and beach access set it apart from neighboring properties. The Beach Tower sits directly on the beach and the Main Tower is the only building to offer balconies on the property. The one-of-a-kind mermaid show in the Wreck Bar is worth checking out.

Elsewhere you'd pay big bucks for the wonderful views available at these three cabins, each of which has two two-bedroom units with full kitchens and baths, as well as air-conditioning (but no television, radio, or phone). All but one unit accommodate up to six (the other sleeps up to four and is accessible). The park also has popular campsites ($36 per night) suitable for either tents or motor homes. Some are directly on the beach—talk about a tent with a view! Cabins and campsites book up early, so reserve up to 11 months before your planned visit.

This nicely situated resort has identical rooms in both its marina building and its tower building; however, the latter offers superior views. Rooms tend to be on the small side, starting at 250 square feet, but the boating crowd is comfortable with close quarters. Note that the hotel fills up quickly for annual international boating events. Most year-round snorkeling and boat outfitters are found directly on the marina, and the water taxi makes regular stops here.

In South Beach's SoFi (South of Fifth) neighborhood, the boutique Lord Balfour hotel is a great fit for young travelers who want to get out and experience South Beach (as opposed to sitting at a resort all day) and then return to stylish digs. Guest rooms within this refurbished art deco building are simple and swathed in neutral tones. There's a small plunge pool on the roof deck, and hotel guests get two beach chairs on the sand. A ground-floor restaurant serves Latin-inspired food and drinks.

Some 200 feet of waterfront is the main attraction at these side-by-side sister properties that offer a choice between smaller rooms and larger freestanding cottages. Coconut palms whisper in the breeze and gumbo-limbo trees shade the 2½-acre grounds. Nice features abound, like well-placed lounge chairs for gazing out over the water and kayaks and paddleboats (for when you want to get closer). Everybody shows up on the sun deck or the 16-foot dock to watch the sun slip into Davy Jones's locker. The rooms are a bit tight but not without island character. Pale-yellow cottages are simply furnished. Ask for Units 25 and 26, a two-bedroom villa that will give you extra space and a water view.