While Miami and Orlando might be Florida’s go-to vacation spots, the Sunshine State has dozens of charming destinations that make perfect weekend escapes for couples. From quiet beach towns to historic districts, these spots offer a chance to slow down, reconnect, and experience Florida’s natural beauty away from the theme park crowds.
Here are 18 romantic weekend getaways across Florida where you and your partner can unwind, explore local hidden gems, and create memories together – whether you’re looking for seaside relaxation or small-town charm.
- Best for beach lovers: St. Augustine Beach
- Most romantic spot: Naples Pier
- Perfect for nature walks: Crystal River
- Best small-town charm: Mount Dora
- Quietest escape: Cedar Key
- Best waterfront dining: St. Petersburg
St. Augustine, Florida
Step back in time when you visit St. Augustine, America’s oldest city. This charming coastal town offers cobblestone streets lined with Spanish colonial architecture and plenty of romantic spots for couples to explore. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, or climb the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for sweeping ocean views. For history buffs, the Castillo de San Marcos fort provides an interesting look into 17th-century military life, while the nearby Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park lets you sample from the legendary spring. End your day with a sunset sail along the coast or a candlelit dinner at one of the many restaurants housed in historic buildings along St. George Street.
Key West, Florida
The southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West feels like a Caribbean island that somehow got tethered to Florida. Just a 4-hour drive from Miami, this laid-back paradise operates on its own wavelength, running on what locals call “island time.” The city’s history as a haven for writers, artists, and free spirits shows in its bohemian atmosphere and colorful conch houses lining the narrow streets. Unlike mainland Florida’s theme parks and crowded beaches, Key West offers a different pace – where watching sunset celebrations at Mallory Square, biking through Old Town’s leafy neighborhoods, and sipping Cuban coffee in open-air cafes are the main events of the day. Thanks to its unique position between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, the island boasts some of the clearest waters for snorkeling and diving in the States.
South Beach, Miami
Take a romantic stroll along Ocean Drive in South Beach, where art deco buildings paint the streets in pastel colors and palm trees sway in the ocean breeze. You’ll find plenty of ways to spend quality time together, from lounging on the white sand beaches to exploring the boutiques and cafes along Lincoln Road Mall. When evening comes, join the lively crowd at one of the many rooftop bars, or enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. For couples who love art, the Bass Museum offers an impressive collection of contemporary works, while the nearby Española Way transports you to a Mediterranean village with its charming architecture and outdoor dining spots.
Naples, Florida
Naples began charming visitors back in the 1920s when wealthy northerners discovered this peaceful stretch of Florida’s Paradise Coast. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples combines old-world elegance with modern coastal living. Fifth Avenue South forms the heart of downtown, where palm-lined streets lead to local boutiques and sidewalk cafes perfect for people-watching. The Naples Pier, first built in 1888, stretches into the turquoise waters and offers front-row seats to those famous west coast sunsets. At nearby Naples Beach, you’ll find couples strolling along white sand shores, collecting seashells or simply relaxing under the warm Florida sun. The city’s Botanical Gardens provide a quiet escape, while the historic district tells tales of the town’s fascinating past through preserved architecture and museums.
Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island feels like a slice of old Florida that time forgot, and that’s exactly what makes it perfect for couples seeking a peaceful escape. This barrier island, just 30 minutes from Jacksonville, combines quiet beaches with historic charm in a way that few other coastal spots can match. The downtown area of Fernandina Beach looks like it was pulled straight from a postcard, with its Victorian-era buildings now housing cozy restaurants and local shops. When my partner and I visited, we spent our mornings collecting shells on the uncrowded beaches and our afternoons exploring the moss-draped oak trees at Fort Clinch State Park. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, unplug, and actually hear yourself think – something that’s become rare in Florida’s busier beach towns.
Siesta Key, Florida
Couples flock to Siesta Key for its powder-white sand beaches, but this barrier island off Sarasota’s coast offers much more than just sunbathing spots. The 8-mile stretch of pristine coastline includes Siesta Beach and Crescent Beach, both perfect for romantic walks and watching spectacular Gulf Coast sunsets. Beyond the shore, visitors can explore the charming Siesta Key Village, filled with local restaurants, quirky shops, and live music venues. While the area comes alive during peak season with events like the Crystal Classic sand sculpting festival, the casual, laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal romantic escape any time of year.
Marco Island, Florida
Marco Island, Florida’s largest barrier island, draws couples looking for a peaceful coastal escape away from the state’s busier tourist spots. The island combines the natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands region with laid-back beach town charm, making it perfect for romantic weekend trips. While many visitors come for the white-sand beaches and calm Gulf waters, the island also offers excellent kayaking through mangrove tunnels and wildlife viewing in nearby Rookery Bay. Whether you’re interested in shelling along the shoreline, taking a sunset cruise to spot dolphins, or exploring the local restaurants and boutiques, Marco Island provides a more relaxed alternative to its livelier neighbor Naples.
Palm Beach, Florida
Known as a playground for America’s wealthy elite, Palm Beach combines old-money charm with laid-back Florida vibes. Have you ever strolled down Worth Avenue, where Mediterranean architecture meets designer boutiques and hidden courtyards? This barrier island town, just 90 minutes north of Miami, offers couples a taste of the good life without the South Beach crowds. You can spend your mornings cycling along the Lake Trail, passing historic mansions and catching glimpses of mega-yachts, then head to pristine beaches where the waters stay warm year-round. The Breakers, a legendary 1920s hotel, still stands as the crown jewel of Palm Beach, offering couples everything from oceanfront dining to championship golf courses.
Little-Known Fact:
Palm Beach has been the winter playground for America’s richest families since the late 1800s, when Henry Flagler (co-founder of Standard Oil) built luxury hotels and a railroad line to attract wealthy northerners seeking warm weather escapes. Today, this exclusive barrier island is home to more than 30 billionaires, earning it the nickname “America’s First Resort Destination” and making it one of the wealthiest zip codes in the country.
St. Pete Beach, Florida
Many couples flock to St. Pete Beach for its laid-back atmosphere and long stretches of white sand, but this Gulf Coast gem offers more than just beach lounging. The charming downtown area features local art galleries, craft breweries, and seafood restaurants where you can sample fresh catches of the day. The Don CeSar, a pink castle-like hotel from the 1920s, stands as an iconic landmark on the shoreline, offering a perfect backdrop for romantic sunset walks. Whether you’re interested in water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking or prefer exploring the nearby Salvador Dali Museum, St. Pete Beach provides plenty of activities for couples looking to spend quality time together.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Looking for a romantic island escape? Sanibel Island is where you’ll want to head. Just off Florida’s Gulf Coast, this laid-back paradise is famous for its pristine beaches and world-class shelling – locals even have a name for how visitors hunt for shells, calling it the “Sanibel Stoop.” The island offers plenty of activities for couples, from biking along 25 miles of paths to spotting wildlife at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you might see alligators, manatees, and countless bird species.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk on powdery white sand that feels like sugar between your toes? That’s just another day in Clearwater Beach, a laid-back paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This beach town, with its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, is where couples come to slow down and reconnect. You can spot dolphins playing in the distance while strolling along the Beach Walk, or catch one of those famous Florida sunsets at Pier 60, where local artists and musicians gather every evening. The nearby Sand Key Park offers a quieter escape, and the water is so clear you can watch fish swim right past you while snorkeling. For seafood lovers, the local restaurants serve up fresh catches straight from the Gulf, often just hours after they’ve been brought to shore.
Captiva Island, Florida
Couples seeking a peaceful island escape should head straight to Captiva Island. Located just off Florida’s Gulf Coast near Fort Myers, this small barrier island charms visitors with its white sand beaches, colorful seashells, and laid-back atmosphere. The island is home to several cozy beachfront resorts, romantic waterfront restaurants, and quiet spots perfect for watching those famous Gulf Coast sunsets together.
Disney World Resort Orlando
Everyone knows Disney World as the most magical place on Earth, but for couples seeking a weekend escape, it offers much more than just rides and cartoon characters. The sprawling resort complex in Orlando houses four distinct theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom – each bringing its own flavor of entertainment and adventure. While families flock here year-round, the resort caters beautifully to couples with upscale dining options at Disney Springs, romantic boat rides at various parks, and luxurious spa services at hotels like the Grand Floridian. After dark, the parks transform into date-night destinations with firework shows, evening entertainment, and cozy spots to share a Mickey-shaped treat or a glass of wine around World Showcase at Epcot.
Boca Raton, Florida
Boca Raton stands out as one of South Florida’s most polished coastal gems, where palm-lined streets lead to pristine beaches and upscale shopping districts. This sophisticated city blends laid-back beach vibes with cultural attractions, making it perfect for couples seeking both relaxation and entertainment. You’ll find yourself wandering through the open-air Mizner Park, where art galleries and restaurants create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and luxurious. While many visitors come for the beaches, it’s the hidden spots like the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center and the serene Japanese gardens at the Morikami Museum that really make Boca special. It’s not your typical Florida beach town – the attention to detail in everything from the architecture to the landscaping sets it apart, creating an atmosphere that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
Little Palm Island, Florida Keys
Escape to your own private paradise at Little Palm Island, a hidden gem tucked away in the Florida Keys. This adults-only resort sits on a 5-acre island that’s only accessible by boat or seaplane, offering the perfect setting for couples looking to disconnect from the world. Book one of the thatched-roof bungalows where you can wake up to ocean views and spend your days lounging in a hammock built for two. The resort’s restaurant serves fresh seafood caught right off the coast, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner under the stars. There’s no TV or phones in the rooms, so you can focus on quality time with your special someone while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this tropical escape.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island draws visitors with its old-Florida charm and seven miles of pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, but this barrier island is more than just a beach destination. The island’s three small towns – Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria – each offer their own distinct character and laid-back atmosphere. The Bean Point area provides excellent spots for swimming and shelling, while the Historic Bridge Street District features local shops and waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. Though the island stays busy during peak season, you can always find quiet moments watching dolphins from the City Pier or taking sunset walks along the shoreline.
Cool Fact:
This laid-back barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast has earned the nickname “The Wedding Capital of Florida” thanks to its frequent ceremonies on the white sand beaches and perfect sunset photo ops. What many visitors don’t know is that the entire island follows a strict building height limit of three stories to protect sea turtle nesting and maintain its small-town charm, making it refreshingly different from the towering condos found in other Florida beach towns.
Longboat Key, Florida
Experience a laid-back beach getaway in Longboat Key, a tranquil 12-mile stretch of white sand along Florida’s Gulf Coast. This peaceful barrier island offers couples plenty of ways to unwind, from tennis matches at the Resort at Longboat Key Club to sunset sailing trips in the crystal-clear waters. Book a cozy beachfront condo where you can watch dolphins play in the morning surf, or spend your afternoons browsing the upscale boutiques at St. Armands Circle nearby. For a romantic dinner, head to Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching boats glide through the harbor.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that Longboat Key was named after longboats that were found on its shores back in the early 1900s, likely abandoned by pirates and smugglers who used them to navigate the shallow waters around the island? These days, the 12-mile barrier island between Sarasota and Anna Maria Island offers residents and visitors a more laid-back alternative to busier Florida beach towns, with quiet stretches of white sand and clear Gulf waters perfect for spotting manatees and dolphins.
Coral Gables, Florida
Looking for a romantic Mediterranean escape without leaving Florida? Head to Coral Gables, where you’ll find grand Spanish-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and stone fountains around every corner. This planned city from the 1920s feels like a slice of Europe, complete with the famous Venetian Pool – a historic swimming spot carved from coral rock – and the sprawling Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. The walkable Miracle Mile gives couples plenty of options for dining and shopping, while the iconic Biltmore Hotel offers a perfect spot for an elegant afternoon tea or a round of golf.
