Where to Stay in Florida: A Parent's Guide to Resorts That Work for Everyone
Florida’s popularity shows no sign of fading. For families, the state’s appeal is obvious: reliable sun, manageable terrain for little legs, and water everywhere you look. But finding a resort that truly fits a family’s rhythm is the real trick.
Having lived in Florida for decades and traveled it extensively with my two children, my criteria for a great hotel shifted. I still appreciate fine dining and elegant rooms, but my checklist grew to include engaging activities, thoughtful children’s programs, and spaces where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can relax.
The state offers a remarkable range. You’ll find historic coastal hotels renowned for impeccable service alongside massive, self-contained resorts with enough slides and pools to rival any theme park. The best ones become places you return to, year after year.
A few standouts include The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for its gentle approach with young children, the activity-packed Evermore Orlando Resort for older kids and teens, and the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, which excels at hosting extended family gatherings under one roof.
When planning your trip, consider what kind of Florida you want. The Gulf Coast’s calm shores are ideal for splashing and sandcastles. The Atlantic side often brings better waves for boogie boarding and longer stretches for shell hunting. For a unique aquatic adventure, the Florida Keys are unmatched.
Timing matters, too. For pleasant weather and smaller crowds, aim for the weeks just after spring break or before the winter holidays kick in. That’s when Florida feels most like its postcard promise.
My personal favorites? The St. Regis Longboat Key for its pristine beach and access to Sarasota’s culture, and The Breakers in Palm Beach, an east coast icon where the sound of the ocean guarantees a good night’s sleep for all. These selections, and every recommendation we make, come from firsthand visits by our travel editors, who evaluate each property’s location, service, and overall experience.