Florida is an easy state to find weekend trips for couples. From untouched beaches to quaint towns with cultural and historical significance, Florida has them all – even places designed just for couples!
Florida Travel Blog visits hundreds of locations each year searching for the best places to visit for couples, families and groups. We find those hidden gems that satisfy the most discerning travelers.
Many of the destinations for weekend trips in Florida for couples you probably never heard of. We have presented the places we have enjoyed over the last 40 years along with some new places we find.
Comprehensive Guide to Weekend Trips in Florida
So let’s not waste time, here are the best unique Florida weekend trips for couples. See where they are and all the reasons why you should visit.
This is Florida’s newest attraction – The World Equestrian Center in Ocala. The Equestrian 5-star hotel is in the background.
World Equestrian Center
There is a good chance you have never heard of one of Florida’s newest attractions, The World Equestrian Center. How about a 400-acre location located in the heart of Florida that has daily equestrian activities that will amaze and enchant you.
Here are some of the highlights of your weekend getaway in Florida:
Stay in an affordable luxury 5-Star hotel called The Equestrian.
Enjoy a half dozen restaurants on the property.
Watch daily horse jumping competitions and even arenas where they are training these beautiful animals to jump. Check out this video we recorded.
Shop at over a dozen stores on the property.
If you want to see some sights around WEC and Ocala check out:
The Villages – the country’s fastest-growing community.
Micanopy – An old town laden with antiques named after an Indian Chief.
How to Get To Ocala, Florida and The WEC – The WEC is in Ocala Florida just off I-75 on Route 40 west to 86th Street. Easy travel on a major interstate highway in north central Florida. Nearby airports include Gainesville 45 minutes away and Orlando International is 90 minutes south.
Walkway to the beautiful beach on Sanibel Island from one of the hotels.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a beautiful barrier island located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, just off the coast of Fort Myers. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, serene beaches, and unique environmental features.
This is a perfect place for Florida weekend getaways to travel for the serenity of a beachside getaway in Florida.
Here are some highlights:
Beaches: Sanibel Island is famous for its shell-strewn beaches, making it a popular destination for shell collectors. Bowman’s Beach and Captiva Beach are two of the most popular spots for beachcombing.
Wildlife: The island is a haven for wildlife, with a variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, and pelicans. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a key attraction for nature lovers offering trails and opportunities for bird-watching and kayaking.
Sanibel Lighthouse: Built in 1884The Sanibel Lighthouse and the JN Darling Preserve are two things to do on your weekend trip in Florida for couples.the Sanibel Lighthouse is a historical landmark and offers picturesque views of the island and the Gulf of Mexico.
Biking: Sanibel Island is bike-friendly with an extensive network of bike paths that make exploring the island easy and enjoyable.
Shopping and Dining: The island has charming local shops and restaurants, particularly in the areas around Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road. The Mucky Duck is a must-visit on Sanibel.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Sanibel is known for its laid-back vibe with a focus on preserving its natural beauty and maintaining a tranquil environment.
St. Augustine has more sights than most of the weekend trips in Florida for couples. One example is Castillo de San Marcos, a fort built in the 1600’s.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine, Florida, is a historic city on the northeastern coast of Florida, known for being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, St. Augustine is rich in history, culture, and charm.
This city is known for romantic weekend trips to Florida with it’s horse-drawn carriages and so many fascinating things to visit.
Here are some key highlights:
Castillo de San Marcos: This 17th-century Spanish fort is the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. It’s a national monument with well-preserved walls, cannons, and stunning views of Matanzas Bay.
Flagler College: Once the luxurious Ponce de León Hotel, this building was built by industrialist Henry Flagler in the late 19th century. Today it’s a college but you can still tour its stunning architecture, including the grand dining hall and ornate lobby.
St. George Street: This pedestrian-only street is the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, lined with historic homes, shops, restaurants, and museums.Plan on a guided tour of St. Augustine in a horse drawn carriage on you trip to the oldest city.
Lightner Museum: Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum features an eclectic collection of art, antiques, and curiosities, including Victorian-era artifacts.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb the 219 steps to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the area. The museum also offers exhibits on maritime history.
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: This attraction commemorates the legendary landing site of Ponce de León and features exhibits on early Spanish explorers, Timucua Native Americans, and archaeological discoveries.
Beaches include:
St. Augustine Beach: Located just a few miles from the historic district, St. Augustine Beach offers wide stretches of sandy shores, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Anastasia State Park: This state park features beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and tidal marshes, ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching.
Of all the weekend trips in Florida for couples, Crystal River is one of the most affordable and most fun if you like Mother Nature.
Crystal River Florida
Crystal River, Florida, is a charming coastal town located in Citrus County along the Gulf Coast of Florida. It’s best known for its crystal-clear springs, abundant wildlife, and as a premier destination for manatee viewing.
If you are looking for affordable weekend trips in Florida for couples, Crystal River is one of the best places in Florida to visit. Springs, manatees and outdoor activities are what Crystal River is all about.
Here are some key highlights:
Three Sisters Springs: One of the most famous spots in Crystal River, Three Sisters Springs is a natural oasis where you can see hundreds of manatees during the winter months. The clear, warm waters attract these gentle giants, making it a popular location for snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife photography.
Manatee Tours: Numerous tour operators in Crystal River offer guided tours allowing visitors to swim with manatees. These tours are regulated to ensure the protection of the manatees and their habitat. Book tours in advance since they fill up quickly.
Fishing: Crystal River is renowned for its fishing opportunities, especially for saltwater species like redfish, grouper, and tarpon. The surrounding waters, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Crystal River, are rich in marine life.
Scalloping: During scallop season (typically from July to September), visitors can snorkel in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico to collect bay scallops. This family-friendly activity is both fun and rewarding.
Kayaking and Canoeing: The area’s rivers and springs provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Paddling through the clear waters offers a unique perspective of the local wildlife and natural beauty.The Plantation Inn is one of the best places to stay in Crystal River.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge was established specifically to protect the West Indian Manatee. It encompasses several spring-fed rivers and is a great place for boating, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The refuge also provides educational programs and guided tours.
Best Place To Stay in Crystal River – In our opinion, the only place to stay is The Plantation Inn. This water front resort is home to many tours, fishing guides and a tiki bar on the waterfront where we have seen many manatees while having a refreshing cocktail!
Perdido Key is one of the must-visit areas of Pensacola. The beaches are uncrowded and untouched.
Pensacola
Pensacola, Florida, is a vibrant city located in the northwestern part of the state, along the Gulf Coast. Known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, rich history, and diverse cultural scene, Pensacola is often referred to as the “City of Five Flags” because it has been governed by five different nations over the centuries: Spain, France, Great Britain, the Confederacy, and the United States.
While Pensacola has many attractions, the combination of a the beaches with the Naval Aviaiton Museum makes this one of our the top choices for weekend trips in Florida for couples. Few places offer a wider choice of things to do and see on the Gulf Coast.
Here are some key highlights:
Pensacola Beach: Located on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola Beach is famous for its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters. The beach offers a variety of water activities, including swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing. The Pensacola Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Naval Aviation Museum: The National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in the world. It showcases over 150 aircraft and exhibits that detail the history of naval aviation. The museum is also home to the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron.
Saenger Theatre: This historic theatre in downtown Pensacola hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. The Saenger is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural programming.The Naval Air Museum is a must-visit in Pensacola with restored aircraft as far back as World War I.
Pensacola Museum of Art: Located in a former jail, this museum features a diverse collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dalí.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: This protected area includes several islands and mainland areas along the Gulf Coast. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and pristine beaches.
Big Lagoon State Park: Located near Perdido Key, this state park offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park’s observation tower provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Fresh Seafood: Pensacola is known for its fresh Gulf seafood, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from casual beachside dining to fine dining experiences. Popular dishes include Gulf shrimp, oysters, and grouper.
Our last visit to Pensacola was in July 2024. We highly recommend the Naval Museum for a historical view of over 150 restored airplanes from World War I forward.
Any weekend trips to Florida for couples should include the Florida Keys with sunsets like this. Sunset at the Reefhouse, Key Largo.
Key Largo
Key Largo, Florida, is the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys, located about an hour’s drive south of Miami. Known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” Key Largo is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to relax in a tropical setting.
The Florida Keys are one of Mother Nature’s gems. Beautiful islands that string along the southern Florida coast are known as welcoming and entertaining for all who visit The Keys.
Here are some key highlights:
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Key Largo is renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, particularly those within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Popular dive sites include the Christ of the Abyss statue and the Spiegel Grove wreck, a sunken Navy ship that serves as an artificial reef.
Fishing: The waters around Key Largo offer world-class sportfishing. Whether you’re interested in deep-sea fishing for marlin and sailfish or backcountry fishing for tarpon and bonefish, Key Largo has something for every angler.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the calm, shallow waters of the mangroves and backcountry areas by kayak or paddleboard. These activities offer a closer look at the local marine life and the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.This statue of Christ the Abyss is on one of the reefs near John Pennekamp State Park. Diving and snorkeling is what Key Largo is known for.
Dolphin Encounters: Several operators in Key Largo offer dolphin encounters and eco-tours, where you can observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.
The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: Located in Tavernier, just south of Key Largo, this center rehabilitates injured birds and provides a sanctuary for those that cannot be released back into the wild. It’s a great place to learn about the local avian population.
Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a sunset cruise around the island for a relaxing evening experience, often accompanied by live music and refreshments.
Tiki Bars and Live Music: The laid-back island vibe extends to the local bars and nightlife, where you can enjoy live music, tropical drinks, and the company of locals and fellow travelers.
Stunning Resorts in Key Largo – Key Largo boasts a range of beautiful resorts that cater to every type of traveler, offering luxurious accommodations, stunning waterfront views, and easy access to the island’s natural wonders. Top resorts like Playa Largo Resort & Spa and Bungalows Key Largo provide upscale amenities such as private beaches, infinity pools, world-class spas, and gourmet dining, all set amidst lush tropical landscapes. These resorts often feature activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and sunset cruises, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island’s tranquil and picturesque environment. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a serene retreat, Key Largo’s resorts offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a breathtaking setting.
A Florida weekend trip to Tampa is a great choice for couples. This is the Tampa Marriott with Riverwalk running along the river downtown.
Tampa
Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city located on the west coast of the state, along Tampa Bay. Known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and thriving business district, Tampa offers a diverse range of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Since we live in Clearwater Beach, Florida, we can attest to the lively atmosphere in Tampa which we visit often. We highly recommend the Tampa Riverwalk, the Florida Aquarium and a visit to Ybor City.
Here are some key highlights:
Tampa Bay History Center: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Tampa Bay area with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historical displays.
Ybor City: A historic neighborhood known for its Cuban heritage, Ybor City is famous for its historic cigar factories, vibrant nightlife, and unique dining options. The area is also home to the Ybor City Museum State Park.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A major theme park offering a combination of thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment. It’s a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers.
The Florida Aquarium: Located inThe Florida Aquarium is a must-visit in Tampa. It is within walking distance of the 2-mile-long Riverwalk.downtown Tampa, this aquarium features a wide range of marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs. This is the best aquarium in the Sunshine State.
Tampa Riverwalk: A scenic waterfront path that stretches along the Hillsborough River, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and biking, as well as access to parks, museums, and restaurants.
International Plaza and Bay Street: A high-end shopping mall offering a range of luxury retailers, dining options, and entertainment.
Dining: Tampa’s diverse food scene includes everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Notable areas for dining include the trendy SoHo district and historic Ybor City.
Nightlife: The city has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The nightlife is centered in areas like the Channelside district and Ybor City.
Best Place To Stay in Tampa – While there are dozens of hotels in Tampa, our favorite is the Tampa Marriot Water Street. It is waterfront on the Riverwalk near all the attractions and the electric streetcar taking you to the Florida Aquarium and Ybor City for FREE!
Historic Amelia Island Historic District in Fernandina Beach.
Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a beautiful barrier island located in northeastern Florida, about 30 miles north of Jacksonville. Known for its stunning beaches, historic charm, and luxury resorts, Amelia Island is a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.
This is one of our top three best weekend trips in Florida for couples. You will love the shopping, beaches and historical charm.
Here’s an overview of what makes this island special:
Fernandina Beach: The island’s historic downtown area, Fernandina Beach, is a charming town known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and local restaurants. Stroll along Centre Street to discover unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.
Fort Clinch State Park: This historic park features a well-preserved 19th-century fort that played a role in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the fort, enjoy the park’s trails, or relax on its beautiful beach.
Beaches: Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches. The soft, white sand and gentle surf make it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Main Beach Park and Peters Point Beachfront Park are popular spots with easy access and amenities.Fun attraction is Fort Clinch on Amelia Island. History abounds on the island.
Resorts and Spas: Amelia Island is home to several luxury resorts, including The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, and the Omni Amelia Island Resort. These resorts offer top-tier amenities such as golf courses, spas, fine dining, and beachfront access, making them ideal for a relaxing getaway.
Bed and Breakfasts: For a more intimate experience, the island has several charming bed and breakfasts, often located in historic homes in Fernandina Beach.
Golf: Amelia Island is a golfer’s paradise, with several world-class golf courses offering stunning views and challenging play. The Golf Club of Amelia Island and Amelia River Golf Club are among the top choices.
Boating and Fishing: The waters around Amelia Island are ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing, or explore the island’s scenic waterways by kayak or paddleboard.
Our recommendation for a weekend trip to Amelia Island is to stay at the Surf and Sand Fernandina Beach. This is not a fancy resort but a great place to access the quaint shopping district, restaurants and historical attractions which are with walking distance. If you are looking for an excellent resort on the Atlantic Ocean side of the island, the Omni Resort will do nicely.
The stunning white beaches of Rosemary beach and VRBOs overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach, Florida, is a master-planned community located along Scenic Highway 30A in the Florida Panhandle. It’s part of a series of charming beach towns known for their pristine beaches, upscale amenities, and a strong sense of community.
Rosemary Beach is a unique weekend trip in Florida for couples because it is in one of the most beautiful 30 mile strip of beaches in the world. We love this location for the beach experience, luxury shopping, fine dining and just a stunning place to getaway.
Here is why Rosemary Beach is so special:
Location: Rosemary Beach is nestled between Panama City Beach and Destin along the Gulf of Mexico. It is about a 30-minute drive from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP).
White Sandy Beaches: The beaches in Rosemary Beach are known for their powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beachfront is private, and reserved for residents and guests, ensuring a more tranquil and uncrowded experience.
Activities: The calm Gulf waters are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Beachgoers can also enjoy long walks, sunbathing, and shell collecting. The town offers beach chair and umbrella rentals, as well as access to beach bonfire services for evening gatherings.Neighborhood along the beach in Rosemary Beach with numerous VRBOs.
Town Square: The heart of Rosemary Beach is its charming town square, which features a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options. The square hosts community events, including farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and seasonal festivals.
Dining: Rosemary Beach offers a range of dining experiences, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Some popular spots include The Pearl Hotel’s rooftop bar, Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar, and La Crema Tapas & Chocolate.
Shopping: The town is home to several unique boutiques offering clothing, home décor, and art. The shopping experience in Rosemary Beach is intimate and curated, with many items reflecting the coastal lifestyle.
Scenic 30A: Rosemary Beach is part of the larger 30A community, a scenic stretch of coastal highway that connects several other charming beach towns like Seaside, WaterColor, and Grayton Beach. Each of these towns has its own unique character and attractions.
State Parks: Nearby state parks, such as Grayton Beach State Park and Deer Lake State Park, offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring natural dune ecosystems.
We love Rosemary beach with the white sand, quaint town square, fun shopping district and excellent dining.
Boutique hotels line the street across from the beach in Miami South Beach a couples destination.
Most Popular Weekend Trips in Florida for Couples
We covered the more “off-the-grid” weekend getaways in Florida. However, we can’t forget some of the more famous weekend trips to Florida that couples take. These are destinations you probably already know about.
Miami South Beach – Miami’s South Beach is an iconic destination known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning Art Deco architecture, and pristine white-sand beaches. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, South Beach (or “SoBe”) offers a unique blend of glamour and laid-back coastal charm. The area is famous for its colorful buildings along Ocean Drive, trendy restaurants, high-end boutiques, and lively bars. By day, visitors can soak up the sun on the beach or stroll through the historic Art Deco District. By night, South Beach comes alive with its world-renowned clubs, making it a hotspot for both relaxation and excitement.
Key West has several beaches but the town is know for food, fun and quirky Duval Street.
Key West – Key West is a vibrant and quirky island city located at the southernmost point of the continental United States, in the Florida Keys. Known for its colorful history, lively nightlife, and stunning sunsets, Key West offers a unique blend of Caribbean flair and American culture. The island is famous for its historic landmarks like Ernest Hemingway’s home, the Southernmost Point buoy, and the lively Duval Street, which is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. With its warm, tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for water activities like snorkeling and boating, Key West is a paradise for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of laid-back island life.
We all know what Orlando is known for but there are many more things to do than theme parks.
Orlando – Orlando, Florida, is a world-renowned destination primarily known for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, making it a magnet for family vacations and entertainment seekers. Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers a vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and beautiful outdoor spaces like Lake Eola Park. The city also hosts a growing downtown area with a mix of modern attractions, shopping districts, and cultural venues like the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. With its year-round warm weather, Orlando is a dynamic city that combines the excitement of major attractions with the charm of local neighborhoods and natural beauty.
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