Boutique Beach Stays in Florida

Florida is a favourite holiday destination for many tourists. From having the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’ in Orlando, to Miami’s hot and bustling beaches, restaurants and clubs, Florida has plenty to offer for families and travellers. For those who prefer a slightly quieter holiday, but don’t want to give up the wonderful beaches Florida is famous for, here are some boutique options.

Sanibel Island by Andie vE via Trover

Take a round of Golf

For the lovers of the ‘green’, partaking in a round of golf on a championship golf course is certainly a highlight of visiting Florida. If you want to stay near the action, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort Spa offers 13 different room choices, including villas with wonderful views of the lagoon. If golfing isn’t your thing, guests have access to the private Cabana Beach Club, with water activities on offer, and you can always get pampered at the on site spa. Even pets can have a taste of the high life here! Rates start at $120/night, but during high season start at $186/night.

Cabana Beach Club by Russell Hewatt via Trover

Shells and Sunsets

For a sunset shot worthy of Instagram fame, a visit to Sanibel Island is a must. Only a short drive from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is famous for ‘shelling’, a favoured past time of collecting and admiring the vast array of different seashells that wash up on the pristine white sand. There’s even a term, ‘The Sanibel Stoop’, that refers to the position one takes when hunching over to pick up and look at the variety of ‘Treasures from the Sea’. Just make sure you don’t collect live shells, as there is a hefty fine if caught. The West Wind Inn is conveniently set right amongst the shelling action and provides sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and even bike hire, to explore the island at leisure.

Sanibel Shells by nikoretro via Flickr I CC BY 2.0

Waterfront Culture

With pleasant weather year round, St. Petersburg in Florida has been nicknamed the ‘Sunshine City’. It even holds the title of ‘most consecutive days with sunshine’ with an impressive 768 days! Perfect weather aside, St. Petersburg appeals to the art and beach lovers alike, with museums, artisanal food market and award-winning beaches. Did you know the largest collection of Salvador Dalí works outside of Spain is on display in Florida? Fans can get their surrealism fix by visiting The Dalí Museum. The building alone is a work of art, with curved glass windows coiling around a rectangular building and surrounded by palm trees. They even offer Yoga there, with calming views of the waterfront.

Dalí Museum by Holmes Palacios Jr. via Flickr I CC BY 2.0

For perfect access to the best St. Petersburg has to offer, Dolphin Beach Resort and Sirata Beach Resort both offer beachfront stays. Take an afternoon stroll along the beach and enjoy that perfect weather. The Sirata Beach resort is also pet friendly, so you don’t have to leave your best friend at home.

St. Pete Beach by inazakira via Flickr I CC BY-SA 2.0

Whilst many tourists flock to Orlando or Miami, expanding your Florida holiday to boutique places such as St. Petersburg, Sanibel Island or Pont Vedra will allow you to enjoy the brilliant beaches and wonderful climate of the ‘sunshine state’ and feel pampered at the same time.

Florida sunset by Ricardo’s Photography via Flickr I CC BY 2.0

Title image by Ines Hegedus-Garcia via Flickr I CC BY 2.0