Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Florida (Currently Open)

Florida isn’t just a vacation destination—it’s an experience. From the turquoise waters of the Keys to the golden beaches of the Gulf Coast and the glamorous skyline of Miami, the Sunshine State knows how to do hospitality right. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a family-friendly resort, or a luxury stay dripping with history, Florida’s iconic hotels and getaways offer a perfect match for every traveler.

These destinations go beyond comfortable rooms and ocean views—they tell stories, celebrate local culture, and embody the state’s irresistible charm. Here’s your insider’s guide to the top 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Florida that are currently open and ready to welcome guests.

1. The Breakers – Palm Beach

If luxury had an address, it would be The Breakers in Palm Beach. Established in 1896 by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, this legendary oceanfront resort is the epitome of Florida grandeur. With its Italian Renaissance architecture, marble columns, and lush gardens, The Breakers feels more like a palace than a hotel.

Guests can enjoy:

• Private beach access with cabanas and pools

• World-class golf courses and spa

• Fine dining at restaurants like HMF and The Seafood Bar

• Exceptional service that keeps travelers returning for generations

From celebrities to presidents, everyone who visits The Breakers leaves with a story to tell.

2. Fontainebleau Miami Beach – Miami Beach

Few hotels are as iconic as Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Since opening in 1954, this oceanfront marvel has hosted legends like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and modern superstars alike.

With its stunning art deco-meets-modern design, sprawling pools, and high-energy nightlife, Fontainebleau embodies Miami’s glitz and glamour. Guests can unwind at the Lapis Spa, dine at Michelin-starred Hakkasan, or dance the night away at LIV Nightclub.

This hotel is more than a stay—it’s a Miami lifestyle experience wrapped in elegance and energy.

3. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – Little Torch Key

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is one of the most exclusive escapes in the United States. Located in the Lower Florida Keys, it’s a private island retreat where thatched-roof bungalows meet world-class service.

Here, cell phones and TVs are intentionally absent—inviting guests to disconnect and soak in paradise. Highlights include:

• Oceanfront dining at The Dining Room restaurant

• Personalized spa treatments over the water

• Secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters

It’s the perfect romantic getaway for those seeking barefoot luxury and island serenity.

4. The Don CeSar – St. Pete Beach

Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar has been a landmark of St. Pete Beach since 1928. With its Mediterranean Revival architecture and striking pastel façade, this resort radiates vintage Florida charm.

Inside, modern luxury meets old-world elegance. Guests enjoy:

• Ocean-view suites

• Fine dining at Maritana

• Luxury spa treatments inspired by the sea

Whether you’re lounging poolside or strolling along the Gulf, The Don CeSar offers timeless elegance with a splash of fun.

5. The Biltmore Hotel – Coral Gables

The grandeur of the Biltmore Hotel feels like stepping into a bygone era of sophistication. Opened in 1926, this historic landmark in Coral Gables has hosted royalty, movie stars, and world leaders.

The hotel features:

• A massive 23,000-square-foot pool—once the largest in the world

• Championship golf course designed by Donald Ross

• Exquisite architecture blending Mediterranean and Moorish influences

Whether you’re attending a wedding, enjoying afternoon tea, or exploring its storied halls, The Biltmore is a masterpiece of Florida luxury.

6. Ocean Key Resort & Spa – Key West

Perched at the edge of Duval Street, Ocean Key Resort & Spa captures the essence of Key West’s vibrant spirit. Guests wake up to views of Mallory Square and the turquoise waters of the Gulf.

It’s an ideal mix of relaxation and excitement, featuring:

• Zero Duval bar and lounge overlooking the ocean

• SpaTerre offering tropical-inspired treatments

• Easy access to Key West’s lively nightlife and cultural sites

For those craving sunsets, cocktails, and carefree island vibes, this is paradise found.

7. Casa Monica Resort & Spa – St. Augustine

Blending Moorish revival architecture with Southern hospitality, Casa Monica Resort & Spa stands proudly in America’s oldest city, St. Augustine. Originally opened in 1888, it has been restored to showcase both luxury and history.

Highlights include:

• Elegant rooms adorned with vintage décor

• A tranquil outdoor pool courtyard

• Easy access to the Castillo de San Marcos and historic downtown attractions

Casa Monica is a haven for travelers who appreciate art, history, and timeless charm—all within walking distance of St. Augustine’s cobblestone streets.

8. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa – Manalapan

For those who crave five-star indulgence, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa redefines modern luxury. This Forbes Five-Star resort offers a playful yet elegant atmosphere designed by Jonathan Adler, filled with vibrant colors and chic coastal flair.

Guests enjoy:

• Private oceanfront cabanas

• The award-winning Eau Spa

• Multiple fine dining options, including Angle Restaurant

It’s a paradise where sophistication meets fun—a Palm Beach experience with personality.

9. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Nestled along the Atlantic Coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island exudes coastal sophistication with a serene, nature-inspired design. Located on a barrier island north of Jacksonville, it’s a destination for relaxation and renewal.

Signature experiences include:

• Oceanfront golf course and spa

• Salt restaurant, serving refined coastal cuisine

• Access to Amelia Island’s historic downtown and beaches

Whether you’re strolling through dunes or savoring a gourmet meal by candlelight, this Ritz-Carlton blends luxury and tranquility beautifully.

10. Cheeca Lodge & Spa – Islamorada

In the heart of the Florida Keys, Cheeca Lodge & Spa is a legend among island resorts. Since 1946, it has been the go-to getaway for U.S. presidents, writers, and travelers seeking tropical serenity.

Guests can enjoy:

• Fishing off the iconic pier

• Water sports and snorkeling adventures

• A full-service spa and beachfront tiki bar

Cheeca’s lush gardens and warm hospitality make it a quintessential Florida Keys escape—laid-back yet utterly luxurious.

11. The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club – St. Petersburg

The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, is one of St. Pete’s crown jewels. Originally built in 1925, the resort seamlessly combines its historic pink façade with contemporary luxury.

The Vinoy’s highlights include:

• Renaissance-style architecture

• Private marina and waterfront views

• Top-tier golf and tennis facilities

Its proximity to Downtown St. Petersburg’s art scene and waterfront parks makes it ideal for both leisure and exploration.

12. South Seas Island Resort – Captiva Island

Situated at the northern end of Captiva Island, South Seas Island Resort offers 330 acres of natural beauty and coastal charm. Once a key lime plantation, it’s now one of Southwest Florida’s most beloved family destinations.

Guests love:

• Waterfront cottages and condos

• Eco-tours, kayaking, and dolphin-watching cruises

• Miles of private beaches

South Seas is perfect for families seeking both adventure and tranquility—where every sunset feels like a private show.

13. The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa – Destin

Nestled on the Emerald Coast, The Henderson Beach Resort blends coastal elegance with a relaxed, beach-town atmosphere. Overlooking Henderson Beach State Park, it offers sweeping views of the Gulf’s emerald waters.

Resort features include:

• Two resort pools and beach access

• Spa Henderson for total rejuvenation

• Exceptional dining at Primrose and Horizons Bar

The Henderson combines upscale design with a warm, welcoming spirit—perfect for couples, families, or anyone craving Gulf Coast luxury.

14. JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort – Marco Island

The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is where barefoot luxury meets island bliss. With three miles of pristine white sand and a tropical ambiance, it’s a resort that caters to both relaxation and recreation.

Guests can enjoy:

• Adult-exclusive Paradise by Sirene area

• Balinese-inspired spa

• Multiple restaurants, including the romantic Ario Steakhouse

Whether you’re watching dolphins at sunrise or sipping cocktails at sunset, the experience feels effortlessly elevated.

15. The Setai – Miami Beach

For those craving contemporary elegance, The Setai Miami Beach stands at the pinnacle of modern luxury. This award-winning resort combines Asian-inspired design with South Beach sophistication.

It features:

• Three temperature-controlled infinity pools

• The renowned Setai Grill and Courtyard Bar

• Spacious suites with panoramic ocean views

The Setai attracts global travelers who expect perfection—from architecture to ambiance. Every detail is designed to soothe, inspire, and impress.

Florida’s Hotel Scene: A Blend of History, Glamour, and Coastal Magic

What makes these 15 hotels truly iconic isn’t just their luxury—it’s their connection to Florida’s story. From The Breakers’ Gilded Age opulence to Little Palm Island’s barefoot privacy, each destination represents a piece of the state’s evolving hospitality legacy.

Florida’s diversity means you can experience tropical island tranquility, urban sophistication, or historic charm—all within a day’s drive. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family reunion, or a solo escape, these properties promise more than a place to stay—they promise a memory that lasts.

Conclusion: Your Florida Getaway Awaits

Florida’s most iconic hotels offer more than palm trees and ocean breezes—they offer experiences shaped by history, hospitality, and heart. Whether you’re sipping champagne in Palm Beach, watching the sunset over Key West, or listening to waves crash in Destin, every stay tells a story of the Sunshine State’s unmatched beauty and warmth.

So go ahead—book your next getaway at one of these legendary destinations. Because in Florida, paradise isn’t just a dream—it’s waiting with open doors, a sea breeze, and a welcome that feels like home.