In this article, I discuss best places to visit in Florida for couples. Florida offers a wealth of romantic destinations perfect for couples seeking unforgettable experiences. From sun-soaked beaches to enchanting cities, the Sunshine State has something for everyone. Among the best places to visit in Florida for couples, the Florida Keys stand out with their serene sunsets and luxurious resorts. Key West’s charming streets and lively nightlife create an ideal blend of relaxation and fun. Miami, with its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, is another of the best places to visit in Florida for couples, offering world-class dining and nightlife.
Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples
For nature-loving couples, the Everglades provide thrilling airboat tours and wildlife encounters. Meanwhile, St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, offers a romantic escape with its cobblestone streets, historic sites, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Couples can also enjoy the serene Gulf Coast beaches of Clearwater and Sanibel Island. No matter where you go, these best places to visit in Florida for couples promise cherished memories.
01. Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs
Florida's beaches get more attention than its forests, but you can enjoy both (and more) at this incredible park north of Orlando. The area is home to 600 lakes and rivers for all kinds of water sports and activities, forest walks and hiking trails, Lake George and Lake Kerr for fishing, and special trails for motorcycles and ATVs. There's also the Doe Lake Recreation Area, a separate area for horses and horseback riding.
02. Bock Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
This public garden is unique for many reasons, as it was designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. and is home to an eight-story structure called the Singing Tower. Inside the tower is a carillon, a rare instrument that contains at least 23 specially tuned bells that are played with a keyboard. There is much to explore here, from seasonally blooming flowers to a 1930s Spanish-style mansion to nature trails.
03. Little Moyers Food Shack, Thu
When you call your restaurant a shack, the culinary bar isn't set very high. Unsuspecting visitors may bypass Little Moyers' Food Shack, but locals are more than happy to wait for a table. One look at the menu and it's clear this place is no dive. Locally caught seafood is the star here, with dishes like the seared tuna and basil roll with a mixed watermelon salad and the sweet potato-crusted pompano with greens, seasonal fruit, green beans, red onion, tomato and a key lime garlic dressing. The menu changes daily, so there’s always a new reason to return to the shack.
04. Walker’s Landing, Amelia Island
Walker’s Landing is a stunning hideaway for watching the sunset. Wooden benches and swings overlook the salt marsh and dock where residents keep kayaks. There’s also an elegant-meets-rustic lodge that can be rented for ceremonies and weddings through the neighborhood association or the Omni Amelia Island Resort.
05. Anne Norton Sculpture Garden, West Palm Beach
Located across the Lake Worth Lagoon from Palm Beach, this gorgeous garden has no major signage, so it’s easy to miss. But locals know that the property, which is filled with rare plants and sculptures, is always worth a visit. As the former studio and residence of the late sculptor Anne Weaver Norton, it primarily showcases her large-scale work, but other artists also exhibit their pieces throughout the year.
06. No Name Pub, Big Pine Key
Everyone knows that Key West is home to some of the most colorful and historic watering holes in the Sunshine State. But unsuspecting travelers start pub crawling a few islands up the chain to the outstanding Big Pine Key, home to the National Key Deer Refuge. No Name Pub started in 1931 as a general store and bait and tackle shop. In 1936, the owners added a bar and patrons began hanging dollar bills from the ceiling and walls. As the locals like to say, “It’s a beautiful place, if you can find it.”
07. El Palacio de los Jugos, Miami
What started as a small takeaway shop selling chicharrones and fruit juices in 1977 has grown into a mini-empire of restaurants with locations all over Miami. Yes, the juices are fresh and the Cuban food is delicious. But what makes El Palacio so successful is its loyal following of locals. Inside each one, there’s a bodega, a small shop with tropical fruits and other groceries.
08. Peanut Island, Riviera Beach
This tiny island is a prime spot for snorkeling and tropical fish viewing, but it's not on the radar of many tourists, who usually opt for other beaches in Palm Beach County. You'll need a kayak or a boat to get to Peanut Island (water taxis run every 20 minutes from Riviera Beach Marina Village), but once you're there, you'll feel like you've discovered a little piece of paradise.
09. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, Vero Beach
A bird rookery, a fish hatchery, a butterfly garden, and a nursery for juvenile sea turtles, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge features more than 5,400 acres of protected lagoons and wetlands frequented by endangered species. This national historic landmark became the first federal area set aside specifically for wildlife conservation. Join a guided nature walk or explore on your own and keep an eye out for bobcats, river otters, manatees, dolphins, and more.
10. Airstream Row, Seaside
By design, the seaside community is more elegant than eclectic. Everything here looks meticulously planned - because it was. The one exception is Airstream Row, a collection of funky Airstream trailer-style food trucks just off the main park. It's been a tradition in the beach town for years. Today's offerings include Wild Bill's Beach Dogs, Meltdown on 30A (sandwiches), crepes du soleil and Frost Bites (shaved ice).
11. Cortez Historic Fishing Village, Cortez
Tucked away on a little-known peninsula off the coast of Bradenton, Cortez Historic Fishing Village is where you'll find one of the few remaining commercial fishing fleets on Florida's waterfront. Head to the Star Fish Company, a 1920s fish house where you'll find a dockside, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery and market where the catch of the day swims by just minutes before it hits your plate.
12. Kampong Botanical Garden at Coconut Grove
Most Miamians have no idea that The Kampong is a secret garden tucked away in the quaint Coconut Grove neighborhood on Biscayne Bay (it's covered in layers of rare and exotic plants and protected by a red gate). Spread across 11 acres, towering palms and mossy oaks provide a canopy over the former home of one of history's most famous horticulturists, Dr. David Fairchild (1869-1954). You'll step back in time as you explore the Asian-inspired main house, cottages, and grounds, and find a little Zen along the way.
13. Banyan Tree, Islamorada
With a tropical garden of orchids, succulents, and a towering banyan tree, The Banyan Tree is a hidden oasis in Islamorada. Stroll through the gardens, shop for Florida Keys-inspired clothing, or take a painting class. The boutique and gardens feature clothing, accessories, jewelry, home decor, and more. On the second Thursday of every month, show up for Creative Plant Night, where you can design terrariums and flower arrangements with friends.
14. Grayton Beer Company, Santa Rosa Beach
Capitalizing on that easy-going, Gulf Coast mentality, Grayton Beer Company's taproom features a 25-tap draft wall of their small-batch brews, all handcrafted on site. Not sure where to start? We love their Beach Blonde Ale. On Saturdays, there's a killer food truck lineup, live music, and a great crowd of fun-loving people.
15. Historic Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs
Located north of Clearwater, Tarpon Springs is a center of Greek culture and a sponge-harvesting industry that dates back more than a century. At the historic Sponge Docks, you'll find a collection of shops and authentic Greek restaurants. Step inside the Spongeroma Sponge Factory, where you'll find a large selection of natural sea sponges, Greek gifts, a museum, and boat tours.
16. Gordon River Greenway, Naples
In Naples, locals know and love the Gordon River Greenway, a developed nature trail and one of the last unspoiled areas in the region. Weaving through mangroves, the greenway features paved paths, canoe and kayak launches, scenic overlooks for wildlife viewing, and a secret entrance to the Naples Zoo and Preserve in Southwest Florida.
17. Robert's Here, Homestead
If there's a fruit or vegetable that grows in the tropics, you'll probably find it at Robert's Here. South Floridians know that this humble roadside market is packed with the best produce, from mangoes, bananas, and avocados to rare delights like passion fruit. Whatever you’re looking for, don’t leave without one of their famous milkshakes, which can be made with just about any type of fruit you can imagine.
18. Shiny Fish Emporium, Anna Maria Island
Find your inner artist at the Shiny Fish Emporium on Anna Maria Island, where you can decorate sand dollars with owners Rebecca and Dan. You’ll find the perfect gift to take home from vacation, and it’s a great activity for the whole family. Equal parts artisan haven and tropical boutique, you can shop for hours for unique gifts like colorful kimonos and fun ukuleles.
19. Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden, Delray Beach
A 16-acre Japanese garden in South Florida may seem strange to some, but if you live in Delray Beach, you know that Morikami is a local treasure. In addition to the beautiful grounds, there is a museum focused on Japanese art and artifacts, (with permanent and temporary exhibits), a theater, a cafe, and a tea house (visitors can participate in a traditional tea ceremony). Spending a day here is a complete change of pace, in the best way possible.
20. West Palm Beach Greenmarket
USA Today readers have named this lively farmers market the best in the United States for three years in a row. And while it draws its fair share of visitors, it's a Saturday morning event for many West Palm Beach residents. In addition to seasonal produce, you'll find a greenhouse full of orchids and plants, a Cuban coffee stand, locally made baked goods and spices, and plenty of happy shoppers and their dogs.
FAQ: Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples
1. What are the best romantic beach destinations in Florida for couples?
Some of the best beach destinations for couples include the Florida Keys, Clearwater Beach, Sanibel Island, and Naples. These spots offer serene settings, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and romance.
2. Are there any unique romantic experiences for couples in Florida?
Yes, couples can enjoy a sunset sail in Key West, a gondola ride in Fort Lauderdale, or a romantic dinner cruise in Miami. Exploring the historic charm of St. Augustine or walking hand-in-hand through Bok Tower Gardens also makes for unforgettable moments.
3. Where can couples enjoy Florida's nightlife?
Miami and Key West are the top destinations for couples seeking vibrant nightlife. Both cities offer trendy bars, live music, and romantic dining options perfect for an evening out.
4. What are some budget-friendly places for couples in Florida?
Destinations like Sarasota, St. Augustine, and Fort Myers offer affordable accommodations, free beach access, and charming activities like exploring local markets or walking through historic districts.
5. Which Florida cities are best for adventurous couples?
Couples who love adventure can visit the Everglades for airboat tours, Amelia Island for horseback riding on the beach, or Orlando for thrilling theme park experiences.
Introduction: Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples
Florida is a dream destination for couples, offering a perfect mix of romance, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're looking to stroll along pristine beaches, indulge in luxurious resorts, or explore vibrant cities, the Sunshine State has something for every kind of couple. From the captivating sunsets of the Florida Keys to the historic charm of St. Augustine, Florida provides countless opportunities to create lasting memories. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Florida for couples, highlighting romantic getaways, exciting activities, and serene retreats that make this state a haven for lovebirds.