Updated January 2024
We have been hearing from so many people that they are ready to travel but don’t know where to go. So many people are interested in traveling to the Caribbean, but with a few too many unknowns they are hesitant. However they also want something more than the same places they have visited in the Florida Panhandle year after year. So to help, we’ve created a list of our Top 5 Caribbean Alternative Florida Resorts instead of visiting the Caribbean!
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1. Playa Largo Resort and Spa

Just about an hour’s drive from Miami it’s easy to see why this resort has received awards from Trip Advisor and Conde´ Nast Traveler to name a few and why it’s rated the number one hotel in Key Largo! It’s a tropical oasis set amidst the backdrop of luxury as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection of resorts. With four onsite restaurants, the Ocean Spa, fishing and water sports right nearby there is plenty for everyone to do. Accommodations range from standard resort view rooms all the way to a 3 Bedroom Beach House.

The resort has hammocks and sun loungers along the shore if you’re looking to relax. Or they have kayaks and paddleboards are available for guests to use if you are feeling adventurous. Enjoy deluxe accommodations ranging from Bayfront Suites to Two Story Bungalow Villa and Three Bedroom Beach House.

Playa Largo is a luxury resort that truly caters to both couples and families. In addition to the amenities mentioned above they have a spa, zero entry swimming pool and fitness center. There is also a private marina on-site, and the sunset sailing charters come highly recommended! Although a guest favorite activity is renting a Private Tiki Cruise as pictured below!

Explore Marriott’s Playa Largo Resort And Spa Here

2. Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort

Located on 1,000 feet of private beach this resort spreads across 12 acres of Marathon. The resort is comprised of ultra luxurious Victorian-style homes that are primarily two and three bedroom suites. It is a great choice for families or anyone looking to cook for themselves, as each suite has a full kitchen. They do offer a few basic rooms but those do not have ocean views.

Amenities here include three swimming pools, including one adult only pool, a variety of water sports rentals available and a private marina for boat tours. They have on site dining at Butterfly Cafe and TJ’s Tiki Bar.

Considering the True Caribbean over Florida?

Look no further than Saint Vincent:

We know these images look awesome, but can you imagine what they look like in real life? If you’re still dreaming, keep reading on because we have even more for you to dream about. But if you’re ready to go, just click the button below to get started! Once you complete the form, one of our amazing agents will contact you to start planning!

3. Tradewinds Resorts St. Pete

When we say this resort has it all… we mean it. Tradewinds is actually made up of two resorts, Rumfish Beach Resort and Island Grand. To give you a quick overview between the two resorts there have:

• one 15, 750 sq ft floating ocean water park

• a 33,500 gallon aquarium

• 14 restaurants and bars

• 7 swimming pools

• over 500 beach cabanas

They describe Island Grand as A lively island experience: With 25 resort acres, an island vibe and endless beach activities, Island Grand leans toward lively fun with a touch of sand-in-your-toes relaxation. Rumfish Beach Resort is described as An inspired aquatic experience: Offering 6 resort acres, a laidback feel and ocean-inspired experiences, RumFish Beach Resort slants toward chill with most thrills found on or under water.

These resorts offer it all from full on fun and activity to the laid back vacation of your dreams. They also have inclusive packages available to truly enjoy all the resorts have to offer.

4. The Don CeSar

Another award winning resort on our list, this AAA Four Diamond Award winning resort features a rich history as The Legendary Pink Palace® of St. Pete Beach: With a sugar-fine beach, radiant sunsets, a world-class spa, and a vibrant food scene, you really can have it all. More than a landmark, The Don is epic style. Timeless. Majestic. Cool.

Everyone from F. Scott Fitzgerald to Robert DiNero have stayed at this legendary resort over its 90+ year history. The resort boasts over 240 rooms and 36 suites. Spa Oceana is a true wellness retreat by the sea and even has a rooftop garden to aid in your relaxation during your time there.

There are multiple on site restaurants and bars to make your stay at The Don CeSar complete.

5. Cheeca Lodge and Spa

Cheeca Lodge and Spa offers a laid back, island experience that everyone will love. With activities like fishing and golf onsite or scuba and snorkeling nearby there are plenty of activities for everyone. If you need to recharge the Cheeca Spa or yoga on the beach are available too. With five onsite dining options, including three full service restaurants there is something for everyone’s taste.

The resort offers both adult and family pools and Camp Cheeca for the little ones. And for those looking to bring the furry friends, the resort does offer pet friendly accommodations.

Hopefully these options have you dreaming of having your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand! If you’re ready to make your travel dreams come true, you’re just a few clicks away of that dream becoming a reality. So what are you waiting for? Let’s travel!

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