Need a break from the daily grind and looking for the perfect weekend getaways in Florida?
I totally get it.
Living in the Sunshine State means we’re surrounded by amazing getaway spots that out-of-staters dream about visiting.
The best part?
They’re all just a short drive away!
So buckle up, I’m about to share with you seven spectacular weekend escapes right here in our backyard that are perfect for a quick adults-only retreat.
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Key Takeaways
- Key West offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.
- Treasure Island is the place to go for spacious white sand beaches, calm blue waters, beach bars, and cool drinks
- St. Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S., rich in historical landmarks and colonial heritage.
- Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort provide thrilling experiences for adults seeking adventure and entertainment.
- Naples is known for its upscale dining, shopping, and stunning beaches, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Keep reading to get everything you need to know about the top weekend getaway ideas in Florida.
1. Key West
At the southernmost tip of the continental US lies the crown jewel of Florida getaways (my favorite place for a romantic weekend trip).
Key West is closer to Cuba than Miami, giving it a truly unique vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Florida.
The island blends colorful history with laid-back island vibes, creating the perfect escape from everyday life.
Palm-lined streets and charming historic architecture make every corner Instagram-worthy.
I really love how it feels like you’ve escaped to the heart of the Caribbean without leaving America.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Skip the car and rent bicycles to explore like a local. The island is small enough to pedal around, and you’ll discover hidden gems off the tourist path.
- Best place to stay: Santa Maria Suites, H2O Suites, Orchid Key Inn, Ocean Key Resort which all offer luxury in the heart of Key West.
- Must-try eats: Blue Heaven for their legendary key lime pie and Latitudes for sunset dining on the beach.
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2. Treasure Island
Don’t let the name fool you, the treasure here isn’t buried gold but pristine beaches and breathtaking sunsets.
This Gulf Coast gem offers the perfect balance of relaxation and fun.
I love that the wide, white-sand beaches are less crowded than nearby St. Pete Beach, giving you plenty of room to spread out and unwind.
The laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for couples seeking quality time together.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Visit during the Sanding Ovations festival if you can because the sand sculptures will blow your mind!
- Best place to stay: The Ocean Club and Treasure Island Beach Resort offers modern luxury with direct beach access. I’m a big fan of the Ocean Club. It’s one of the newer resorts along the shore, and it features 2-bedroom suites.
- Must-try eats: Middle Grounds Grill for fresh seafood and Caddy’s for casual beachfront dining with your toes in the sand.
3. St. Augustine
History buffs, this one’s for you!
As the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the continental US (founded in 1565!), St. Augustine oozes charm at every cobblestone turn.
I always feel like I am stepping back in time when walking through the historic district with the impressive Castillo de San Marcos standing guard over the city.
One of my favorite things about this weekend getaway spot in Florida is the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture that gives it a European feel without ever leaving Florida.
I love booking a Bed & Breakfast for the weekend in St. Augustine, especially during the Christmas holiday season.
They really go all out for the festivities in this Florida town.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Take a ghost tour at night because even skeptics will get goosebumps hearing the stories in these ancient buildings.
- Best place to stay: The Collector Inn offers boutique accommodations in restored historic homes.
- Must-try eats: Columbia Restaurant for authentic Spanish cuisine and Treylor Park for modern American fare with local ingredients.
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4. Walt Disney World
Who says Disney is just for kids?
One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to Walt Disney World is that it’s just for families or for children!
As Florida locals, we know the secret adult side of Disney that tourists often miss.
One of my favorite things to do at Disney is the EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival because it transforms the park into a sophisticated culinary destination.
Or if you cant make it out for a Florida weekend getaway on those dates then there is always drinking your way around the world at EPCOT.
Disney Springs is another great place to spend time at Disney World. You can walk around, get dressed up for incredible upscale dining or spend some time shopping all without a park ticket.
The resorts themselves feature world-class spas and pool areas perfect for grown-up relaxation.
I love doing Disney as a grown-up since there’s much to do there besides the theme parks which you can learn more about on my sister site, ThemeParkHipster.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Book a fireworks dessert party for a romantic evening without fighting the crowds.
- Best place to stay: Disney’s Swan & Dolphin for the best location or Disney’s Riviera Resort for a more intimate experience.
- Must-try eats: Victoria & Albert’s for a splurge-worthy gourmet experience or California Grill for spectacular views with your meal.
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5. Naples
When sophistication meets natural beauty, you get Naples.
This Gulf Coast haven is a beautiful combination of upscale shopping and dining with some of the most gorgeous beaches in the state.
Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South offer boutique shopping that rivals Rodeo Drive, while nearby nature preserves provide peaceful escapes.
The sunsets here are legendary, especially when viewed from Naples Pier.
It’s one of my favorite places to escape when I just need a break from “real-life.”
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Visit the Naples Botanical Garden early in the morning for peaceful reflection before the crowds arrive.
- Best place to stay: The Ritz-Carlton for beachfront luxury or Inn on Fifth for boutique charm in the heart of downtown.
- Must-try eats: Sea Salt for innovative seafood and The Continental for steaks and craft cocktails.
6. Universal Orlando Resort
Theme parks aren’t just for families!
Universal Orlando offers a surprisingly adult-friendly weekend getaway with thrilling rides and sophisticated entertainment options.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter satisfies your inner child while CityWalk’s restaurants and clubs cater to grown-up tastes.
I never miss a Halloween Horror Nights when the season rolls around. It is genuinely a terrifying experience that is definitely not for kids but is soooooo much fun.
Its the World’s Premier Halloween Event that runs over two whole months on selects nights in fall after park closing of over-the-top scares and ghostly encounters.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Stay at a premier hotel for Express Pass benefits, letting you skip regular lines and maximize your time.
- Best place to stay: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel for Italian-inspired luxury or Cabana Bay Beach Resort for chill vibes.
- Must-try eats: Mythos Restaurant in Islands of Adventure for award-winning cuisine, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium for a unique dining experience, or the new Atlantic restaurant in Epic Universe if you love seafood.
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7. Tampa
Tampa has transformed into a vibrant urban getaway with something for every type of traveler, from foodies to adventure seekers.
If you are considering a Florida weekend getaway you absolutely must visit Ybor City.
It is the perfect mix of old-world charm combined with the eclectic modern community.
I love spending time on iconic main street, strolling the cobblestone streets and taking in all the historic character that still echoes thoughout.
There are incredible places to eat like the Columbia Restaurant and nightlife to keep your spirits up.
You can also walk along Tampa Riverwalk, it connects downtown’s best attractions along a scenic waterfront path.
If your into adult beverages, the city’s craft brewery scene rivals any in the country, perfect for sampling the local brews.
I lived in Tampa for over 8 years and it’s one of my favorite places to visit in Florida.
I love how you get beach life, country life and city life all in one place!
So when you’re there, be sure to get off the beaten path and dont be afraid to explore.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Pro tip: Take the TECO Line Streetcar to explore the downtown area. It is a 2.7 mile transit system that connects downtown Tampa, with the Channelside District and Ybor City Historic District.
- Best place to stay: The Epicurean Hotel for food lovers, Marriott Water Street for waterfront views, or the Hotel Alba for a low-key stay with spacious rooms.
- Must-try eats: Bern’s Steak House for the ultimate steak experience and Ulele for Florida-inspired cuisine using local ingredients.
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My Final Thoughts
The beauty of living in Florida is having these incredible destinations right in our backyard! The best part?
You don’t need to deal with airports or long travel days. So, just pack a bag, hop in the car, and you’re on vacation in no time.
So what are you waiting for?
This weekend could be the perfect time to explore a new corner of our amazing state!
Which of these getaways is calling your name? Or do you have another favorite Florida escape? Let us know in the comments section below.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels!
Contributors
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.
