13 Romantic Beaches in Florida Offer the Perfect Couple’s Getaway
Romantic beaches in Florida are some of the most relaxing and beautiful beaches to visit. The soft swoosh of waves on the sand. Sunlight dancing off the water’s surface. Moonlight-tinted surf. Fires flickering at the water’s edge.
While it’s true that different beaches have distinct personalities – beaches perfect for families, beaches notorious for their Spring Break parties, those popular for shore fishing, or those with campgrounds on the beach – Florida’s romantic beaches have a flair all their own.
They offer quiet solitude for a perfect couple’s getaway, candle-lit restaurants for fine dining, and resorts with spas for the full menu of romance and relaxation. If it’s time for you to getaway to the beach, start your beach vacation packing list and make your reservations!
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These thirteen beaches will melt your heart with their beauty and sweetness. In this list, you’ll find a range of romantic places in Florida to suit all needs and tastes, from the secluded shores of Caladesi Island to the artsy crowds of Miami Beach. Each of these provides a wonderful romantic weekend, a quiet night away, or a great couple’s getaway.
Romantic Beaches in South Florida
South Florida is the perfect destination for couples who are looking for a romantic beach getaway. With its incredible oceanfront views and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of options for couples to explore. From secluded hideaways to lively hotspots, South Florida has something for every couple to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for an intimate picnic on the beach or a romantic stroll along the coastline, there are plenty of romantic beaches in South Florida that will take your breath away.
1. Palm Beach
Many people know Palm Beach and West Palm Beach as playgrounds for the wealthy in Florida. In South Florida along the Atlantic Ocean, this city features several superb hotels and resorts that provide unparalleled romantic beach getaways.
According to an online article on the website Brides, Palm Beach is one of the most romantic cities in the country. Nestled between the Atlantic and the Everglades, the area offers several activities for couples. Think airboat ride watching the sun set over the Everglades. Or snuggled on the beach watching the sun rise in the morning. Whatever your pleasure, Palm Beach aims to please.
Where to Stay: Palm Beach Historic Inn, 365 South County Road,
Palm Beach, FL 33480
Where to Eat: Buccan, 350 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480
What to Do: Worth Avenue and Clock Tower, Morrison Flagler Museum, Society of the Four Arts
2. Miami Beach
Miami Beach might just be one of the hottest, and most thought of, places when planning a romantic getaway. The iconic South Florida beach provides couples with an almost unlimited amount of restaurants, resorts, spas, and attractions in which to indulge. It’s definitely one of the best beaches in Florida for couples.
Several romantic oceanfront resorts offer suites, excellent spa facilities, and access to Miami’s famous soft white beaches. Award-winning restaurants can be found around almost every corner. If a taste of something different is in your future, couples can Uber to Little Havana for some Cuban eats or to Key Biscayne to catch a fresh seafood dinner while watching the sun set behind Miami’s classic skyline.
Where to Stay: 1 Hotel South Beach, 2341 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Where to Eat: STRIPSTEAK Miami, 4441 Collins Ave Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33140-3227
What to Do: South Beach, Miami Beach Boardwalk, Art Deco Historic District
3. Key West
The island better known for (drunken) gravity vortexes, cruise ships, and Fantasy Fest is also one of the best beaches in Florida for adults. This southernmost portion of the Conch Republic (aka, Florida Keys) gives couples many opportunities to create romance for themselves.
Waterfront resorts lushly landscaped with tropical plants welcome visitors to lounge in hammocks or by the pool. Take a drinking tour of the city’s many infamous pubs or take advantage of the photo ops around the island.
Several museums, from the historic to the arcane, entice mainlanders through their doors. You might also take a day trip to the fort at Dry Tortugas. However you choose to spend your days and nights in Key West, be sure to save time for the world-famous sunset.
Where to Stay: Hyatt Residence Club Key West, 3675 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040-5254
Where to Eat: Prime Steakhouse, 951 Caroline St, Key West, FL 33040-6636
What to Do: Dry Tortugas, Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Romantic Beaches on Florida’s Atlantic Coast
Atlantic beaches in Florida are the perfect destination for romantic getaways. Whether you’re looking for a cozy beachfront cottage, a luxurious oceanfront villa, or just some private time to enjoy each other’s company, there is something for everyone along this stretch of coast. Enjoy sunrises over the ocean and relax on the sand while taking in the beauty of the surrounding area.
4. Amelia Island
Amelia Island near Jacksonville epitomizes the best romantic beaches in Florida. Less well-known, less developed, and less crowded than other beaches in Florida, Amelia Island exudes privacy and romance.
Walk along miles of beach. Enjoy ultimate privacy at one of the exclusive beachfront vacation rentals. There is so much to do on the island, too! Stroll the historic streets of Fernandina Beach, visit historic Fort Clinch, or spend a few hours horseback riding on the beach. Amelia Island definitely provides one of the most unique romantic getaways in Florida.
Where to Stay: Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Parkway Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, FL 32034-5501
Where to Eat: Burlingame Restaurant, 20 S 5th St, Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, FL 32034-3902
What to Do: Fort Clinch State Park, Amelia Island Historic District, horseback riding at Amelia Island State Park
5. Vero Beach
Vero Beach speaks to anyone who wants to experience a little more of “old” Florida. A small town with beautiful beaches, Vero elevates any romantic beach vacation with a beautiful historic area which chronicles the citrus industry.
McKee Botanical Gardens brings a touch of beauty amid tropical plants. While others may opt for the ritz and glamour of nearby Palm Beach or iconic Miami Beach further south, Vero Beach calls out to those of you who want to have a quiet weekend getaway.
Where to Stay: Costa d’Este Resort & Spa, 3244 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963-1956
Where to Eat: The Tides, 3103 Cardinal Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963-1920
What to Do: McKee Botanical Gardens, McLarty Treasure Museum, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
6. Melbourne Beach
Melbourne Beach is one of the many small towns along Florida’s Indian River. On a barrier island, Melbourne Beach is known pretty much just for the beach. And fishing. And as one of the oldest beach communities along this part of Florida’s Atlantic Coast. Like Vero Beach, this is one of the best beaches for a hidden romantic getaway in Florida.
Where to Stay: Port d’Hiver, 201 Ocean Ave, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951-2313
Where to Eat: The Dove III, 836 E New Haven Ave, Melbourne, FL 32901-5433
What to Do: Barrier Island Center, Melbourne Beach Pier, Spessard Holland South Beach Park
Romantic Beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast
If you’re looking for a romantic beach getaway, then you should consider heading to the beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast. With its beautiful, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect destination for couples looking to reconnect and relax. Whether you want to stay in an oceanfront resort or find a hidden gem tucked away from the crowds, there are plenty of romantic beach options for couples along the Gulf Coast.
7. Lovers Key
Any list of the best beaches for couples in Florida wouldn’t be complete without Lovers Key mentioned. The name alone conjures images of romance and romantic beach getaways.
Tucked away on barrier islands on Florida’s southwest corner, Lovers Key was once slated to be developed into high-rise condos. Thankfully, the owner donated the land to the state of Florida, and it became part of Florida’s award-winning park system.
Lovers Key now hosts spectacular beachfront weddings along its two miles of unspoiled and undeveloped beach. Visitors to the island can’t stay the night here (Ft. Myers Beach is a short drive away), but they can enjoy the beach, kayak, or explore the nature trails. After a day at Lovers Key, head back to Ft. Myers for a warm bath in a local hotel and a fine dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants.
Where to Stay: Edison Beach House, 8300 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Where to Eat: Coste Island Cuisine, 2000 Estero Blvd Lobby Level, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931-3215
What to Do: Lovers Key, Fort Myers Beach, Times Square
8. Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands
Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands, though now two distinct barrier islands west of Tampa, were once a single island named Hog Island. The Hurricane of 1921 opened a channel that split the island in two. Honeymoon Island, the more northern of the two islands, earned its name thanks to a contest 80 years ago in which couples won a weekend at one of the beachside cottages on the island.
The cottages are now gone, but the name remains. Visitors can access Honeymoon Island by car or bike. Over 4 miles of beaches invite couples to enjoy the spectacular sunsets or walk hand-in-hand along the beach.
While we included Honeymoon on this list for its name and beauty, Caladesi Island (the southern one of the two) earns a place on the list for its secluded nature. Visitors can access Caladesi only via a ferry from Honeymoon, by private boat, or by walking two miles north from Clearwater Beach.
The island is a favorite with central Florida locals who want to avoid the crowds of nearby Clearwater Beach. If you’re only in the area for a couple days, catch the ferry over or rent a kayak and paddle over.
The wide beach often hits Dr. Beach’s list of best beaches for its pristine condition. It’s a great place to enjoy the warm Gulf of Mexico waters and find a spot away from other beachgoers to lie back and soak in the sun. In 2022, Dr. Beach named Caladesi Island State Park the #2 beach in the country.
Where to Stay: Meranova Guest Inn, 458 Virginia Lane, Dunedin, FL 34698
Where to Eat: The Black Pearl, 315 Main St, Dunedin, FL 34698-5733
What to Do: sunbathe on Honeymoon Island, kayak to Caladesi Island, stroll Downtown Dunedin
9. Sanibel-Captiva
Once islands with no cars and just a few fishing shacks, Sanibel and Captiva catapulted into the public’s romantic imagination several decades ago. Though there is a toll to access the islands via a bridge from the mainland, the destination is definitely worth the price, as Sanibel/Captiva has been known as one of the most romantic beaches in Florida for many years.
The beaches along the islands’ west coast gently roll into the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Several resorts offer quality accommodations while quiet, street-light-free roads wind among the captivating neighborhoods from the iconic lighthouse at the southern point of the islands to the wildlife preserves at the north end.
Couples can rent bicycles to explore the beautiful streets or kayaks to create an independent eco-tour in the inland waters.
Where to Stay: Island Inn, 3111 W. Gulf Dr, Sanibel Island, FL 33957
Where to Eat: Bleu Rendezvous Bistro, 2430 Periwinkle Way Suite A, Sanibel Island, FL 33957-3207
What to Do: “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Bowman’s Beach, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum
10. Clearwater Beach
If there’s one beach in Florida that epitomizes Florida’s best beaches, it’s Clearwater Beach. Three-time winner of USA Today’s Best Beach in America and often found on “best beach” lists, Clearwater Beach is also one of the best Florida beaches for couples.
Miles of white powder-soft sand offer lots of places to kick back and crowd watch. The north part of the island is a residential area, so if you walk a little from the public parking, you find yourself in less crowded parts of the beach.
And the really neat part of this beach is that you can actually walk to Caladesi Island from Clearwater Beach. Though the barrier islands were once two distinct islands, the inlet separating them has filled in.
A Local’s Tip: Walk two miles north from Clearwater Beach, and you’ll be at Caladesi Island State Park.
Where to Stay: Opal Sands Resort, 430 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767-2507
Where to Eat: Sea-Guini, 430 S Gulfview Blvd Opal Sands Resort, Clearwater, FL 33767-2507
What to Do: Pier 60, Beach Walk, Clearwater Marine Aquarium
11. St. Pete Beach
In the Tampa Bay area with Clearwater Beach and Honeymoon/Caladesi Islands, St. Pete Beach has catapulted onto the “best beach” scene. The TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards named St. Pete Beach the #2 beach in the United States in 2020.
Nearby St. Petersburg has seen a massive revitalization in the last decade and is now one of the most popular destinations in Florida. With a huge art scene and fun night life, couples who visit St. Pete Beach during the day often find themselves in St. Pete for the evening.
If spending the entire weekend at the beach makes bigger waves in your heart, you’ll find plenty to do at this beach. From cocktails by the beach to award-winning food and even a Sunday market, this romantic beach in Florida delights visitors.
Where to Stay: Inn on the Beach, 1401 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706-4226
Where to Eat: Palm Court Italian Grill, 5500 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706-2323
What to Do: St. Pete Beach, Passe-A-Grille, Corey Avenue Market
Romantic Beaches on Florida’s Panhandle
Florida’s Panhandle is home to some of the best beaches in Florida for couples. From white sandy shores to vibrant beach towns, couples can find a spot for any kind of romantic escape. Whether it’s a cozy sunset stroll on a deserted beach or an exciting night out with your significant other, you are sure to find something special here. Discover all that this north Florida’s coastline has to offer and make unforgettable memories with your special someone!
12. Destin
Hurricane Michael may have decimated parts of the Florida panhandle in 2018, but it mostly spared Destin. With emerald waters (hence, the name Emerald Coast) and boutique spa hotels, Destin has become quite the romantic hotspot.
Perhaps the biggest draw is the beach, miles of sugar sand that invite those on a romantic couple’s getaway to sink their toes in and watch the world go by. Take a break from the beach for a few hours in one of the many world-class spas. Couple’s massage, anyone?
And, of course, you can’t pass up the fresh seafood, likely caught that day in the nearby waters of the Gulf of Mexico. TripAdvisor readers named Henderson Beach State Park 12th best beach in the United States in 2022.
Where to Stay: Henderson Beach Resort, 200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin, FL 32541
Where to Eat: Louisiana Lagniappe, 775 Gulf Shore Dr, FL 32541-3138
What to Do: Henderson Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Village of Baytowne Wharf
13. St. George Island
If you and your significant other prefer a less-crowded pace, St. George Island might be the perfect romantic place for a couple’s getaway.
Inhabited yet unspoiled, St. George Island has remained relatively undeveloped thanks to low-density zoning and a ban on franchise businesses. This means no high rises crowding the beach and no Starbucks or McDonald’s on every corner.
Instead, visitors rent quaint beach cottages or stay in one of the two hotels on the island. They eat at one of the small restaurants, and they engage in things to do like shelling or wildlife viewing. St. George is 22-miles of peace away from the hustle and bustle of most cities and presents a great romantic beach getaway. In 2022, St. George Island State Park hit the #4 spot on Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches list.
Where to Stay: Gibson Inn, 51 Avenue C, Apalachicola, FL 32320-2306
Where to Eat: Owl Cafe, 15 Avenue D, Apalachicola, FL 32320-1719
What to Do: St. George Island State Park, Sea Oats Art Gallery, Orrman House Museum
FAQs About Romantic Beaches in Florida
What is the most romantic beach in Floria?
There are many romantic beaches in Florida. Any of those on this list could be considered the best beach in Florida for couples.
What part of Florida is best for couples?
South Florida and the Florida Keys are usually considered the best part of Florida for couples. This depends, of course, on your preferences. The panhandle has miles of romantic beaches, particularly along 30A; however, some of those are privately owned. If you prefer nature, the Nature Coast from Tampa Bay to the Big Bend might be perfect for you though there are not many beaches in this area.
What is the prettiest beach in Florida?
Siesta Key on Florida’s Gulf Coast and Rosemary Beach on Florida’s Panhandle are widely considered two of the prettiest beaches in Florida.
What part of Florida is good for a honeymoon?
Palm Beach and Key West are both popular places in Florida for a honeymoon.
Closing: Romantic Beaches in Florida
Though there are many other romantic beaches in Florida, these thirteen are our favorites for a spectacular romantic weekend with your honey. They epitomize everything that’s great about Florida beaches and offer tons of fantastic places for couples to enjoy each other’s company, from dining to spas to exciting adventures. Isn’t it time you started planning your next romantic beach getaway in Florida?
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When choosing the perfect beach the first thing I consider is that it should be less-crowded and clean. Thank you for this informative post!
Nice one! MrsFrugalSamurai and I will bookmark this next time we come for sure!
Great! So glad you enjoyed it.
Ah, yes, the Emerald Coast for the color of the water there. It’s simply beautiful, and I really think it’s calling your name!
Nice one! We’ve never been down to Miami but have friends who visited last year – they can’t stop raving about it so we’ll be sure to stop by whenever we are there!
I’m going to explore more of Florida this year, so this was good timing!
Great to hear! Hope you enjoy it all!
I’ll go to Miami beach for a romantic getawaty anytime!I mean, I’ve loved that beach for the longest time now because of the excellent spas and resorts facing the ocean. Oh my!
Oh, yes! Those spas have such great views. It’s hard to not relax when there.
Florida is our favorite beach destination on early fall season. The Panhandle area is the best paradise as it best.
Yes! The panhandle does have beautiful beaches and still has that small town feel that many other parts of Florida no longer have.
Aww I love all these locations they look so lovely. I have a trip to Miami beach in Feb so I am excited to just spend some time in the beach with my girls. Hope to visit in the summer with my BF and takwe a trip to the Lovers Keys or Palm beach 🙂
XO Andie Sparkles
http://andiesparkles.com
Oh, that’s awesome, Andie! I’m sure you girls will have a great time!
Florida beaches are really pretty although I’m a huge fan of my beaches here in California. Key West is definitely on my list of places to visit in 2019 though since I’d like to scuba dive there!
California has great beaches, too, doesn’t it. Enjoy the diving and Key West when you com!
Congratulations!! Enjoy your Babymoon!
These are perfect places for romantic dates. Couples who love the beaches will enjoy hopping to these beautiful spots.