Are you looking for a nice long weekend for a luxurious getaway without all the tourists and crowds? If you are interested in any of these locations, we are here to help with experts in the field!  We can plan it all for you! 

As most of you reading this know, Florida is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and luxury resorts.  Beyond the crowds and tourist hotspots, there are plenty of gems that offer a more refined and tranquil escape. From quaint coastal towns to elegant beachfront retreats, these lesser-known destinations provide the perfect balance of luxury, charm, and exclusivity. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a private adventure, or simply a place to unwind, these five Florida gems promise an unforgettable experience away from the hustle and bustle. Discover the beauty and elegance of Amelia Island, Seaside, Boca Grande, Anna Maria Island, and Vero Beach. 

Amelia Island, Florida – Beachside Opulence

Located on Florida’s northeast coast, Amelia Island lies just off the coast of Fernandina Beach.  The island is north of Jacksonville and just south of the Georgia state line. Known for its crystal clear beaches, historic charm, and upscale resorts, Amelia Island offers a quiet, luxurious retreat with a rich history and natural beauty. Its peaceful atmosphere and luxury amenities make it the ideal destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging by the beach, playing a round of golf, or exploring the island’s rich history, Amelia Island offers the perfect setting for a refined escape.

Where to Stay:
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is a five-star resort that epitomizes luxury, featuring private beachfront cabanas, a championship golf course, and an award-winning spa. For a more boutique experience, Elizabeth Pointe Lodge offers Nantucket-style elegance with personalized service and gourmet breakfast served with ocean views. 

Private Adventures & Outdoor Luxury:
Amelia Island offers a variety of exclusive outdoor activities including private yacht charters for a dolphin-spotting cruise complete with gourmet dining and champagne service. Enjoy a VIP horseback ride along the island’s scenic beaches at the best time of the day-sunset. The island’s natural beauty also lends itself to exclusive fishing charters, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature while experiencing a bit of adventure.

Fine Dining & Wine Experiences:
Salt at The Ritz-Carlton is a Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant offering exquisite seafood dishes paired with a curated wine selection. For a more casual yet equally luxurious dining experience, Marche Burette at the Omni Amelia Island Resort is a European-style market offering wine tastings, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet delights. The Fernandina Beach Historic District is a fun place to stroll with exclusive art galleries and antique shops. Looking for more dining options, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Amelia. 

Fun Fact!  Amelia Island is home to Fort Clinch State Park, which features one of the best-preserved Civil War-era forts in the country. Built in the 1840s, Fort Clinch played a strategic role during the Civil War and was used by both Union and Confederate forces. 

Seaside, Florida – Coastal Luxury with a Charming Twist

Seaside is located along the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico) in the Florida Panhandle, specifically in Santa Rosa Beach. It lies within the scenic 30A corridor, a stretch of highway that runs along the coastline, famous for its charming beach towns. Famous for its pastel-colored cottages, beaches, and a walkable town center, Seaside is the ideal destination for those seeking laid-back elegance in a stunning beach setting. 

Seaside is considered the world’s first New Urbanist town. YES, I had to Google the definition of an Urbanist town.  An Urbanist town refers to a community or development designed with principles of New Urbanism, a movement that promotes walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods and sustainable living. 

Where to Stay:
Stay at The WaterColor Inn & Resort, an elegant beachfront resort offering spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the Gulf. This resort provides world-class service, a tranquil spa, and exceptional dining options just steps from the beach. For a more intimate experience, explore the many charming pastel cottages throughout Seaside, each capturing the essence of Southern coastal charm and offering easy access to local shops and dining.

Exclusive Dining & Coastal Experiences:
Dine at The Great Southern Café, a local favorite known for its refined take on Gulf Coast cuisine, where dishes like fresh seafood and Southern classics are served in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. For a truly exclusive experience, rent a private beach cabana for the day that has personalized service, drinks, and beachside snacks. This quaint town offers a charming array of boutique shops, featuring everything from unique coastal-inspired home decor to designer fashion and much more! 

Fun Fact! Seaside is famous for the filming location of the 1998 movie The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey. The movie’s plot revolves around Truman discovering that his entire life has been a scripted show, and Seaside’s New Urbanist design, with its controlled and idealized environment, was the perfect backdrop for this story. 

Boca Grande – Tranquil Luxury on Gasparilla Island

Boca Grande is located on Gasparilla Island, a barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, situated between Sarasota and Fort Myers. Known for its gorgeous beaches, historic charm, and world-class fishing, Boca Grande offers a secluded and upscale retreat away from Florida’s more crowded tourist destinations. 

Where to Stay:
The Gasparilla Inn & Club is the pinnacle of luxury on the island, offering elegant rooms, a stunning pool, and world-class amenities in a historic, old Florida setting. For more privacy, visitors can choose one of the island’s upscale beachfront homes or boutique inns, which offer a more intimate and peaceful escape.

Fine Dining & Local Flavor:
The Pink Elephant, an iconic restaurant in Boca Grande, offers upscale seafood with stunning waterfront views, ideal for a romantic evening. For a refined yet relaxed experience, The Gasparilla Inn Dining Room serves Southern and Floridian-inspired dishes in an elegant atmosphere. For a casual yet chic dining option, Euphemia Haye Restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine with creative seafood dishes.

Activities & Adventure:
Boca Grande is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures. Explore the island’s beautiful beaches, ideal for shelling and swimming, or take a bike ride through the scenic streets. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the world-class fishing opportunities, including deep-sea charters and inshore fishing spots. Visitors can also enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Gasparilla Inn Golf Club or take a guided tour of the Boca Grande Lighthouse.

Fun Fact! Boca Grande island is often referred to as the “Tarpon Capital of the World” due to its abundant tarpon population, especially during the fishing season between April and October, peak season in June. Anglers from all over the world flock to Boca Grande to try their hand at catching these massive fish, which can weigh up to 200 pounds.  The annual Boca Grande Tarpon Tournament draws in thousands of fishing enthusiasts. 

Anna Maria Island – A Tranquil Escape with Luxury Coastal Charm

Anna Maria Island is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, just south of Tampa Bay. The island stretches for about seven miles and is bordered by the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico) to the west, Tampa Bay to the north. It’s accessible via bridges from the mainland, including the Cortez Bridge and the Anna Maria Island Bridge.  Anna Maria Island offers a serene and luxurious retreat for those looking to unwind without the crowds. Though it’s slowly becoming more popular, the island still preserves its quiet, small-town charm, making it the perfect destination for a refined getaway.

Where to Stay: Visitors can stay at The Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club, a luxurious waterfront resort offering spacious suites, an infinity pool, and direct access to the island’s clean beaches. For an exclusive, intimate experience, consider booking a private beachfront home.  

Fine Dining & Local Flavor: When it comes to dining, The Sandbar Restaurant is a must-visit for upscale seafood with a stunning beachfront view, perfect for a romantic dinner or sunset meal. For a more relaxed yet refined dining experience, Beach Bistro serves gourmet dishes with fresh, local ingredients, offering an intimate, upscale atmosphere just steps from the beach.  There are many delish seafood options in the area! 

Activities and Adventure: Adventure seekers can embark on a private boat tour around the island, enjoying secluded beaches and abundant wildlife, including dolphins and manatees. Kayaking at sunset (yes, please!) and paddleboarding are popular options for those wanting to explore the calm waters at their own pace. For a more indulgent experience, charter a luxury fishing trip with a personal guide, complete with gourmet snacks and champagne. 

Fun Fact! Anna Maria Island has a unique law that bans the use of high-rise buildings, two stories and a max of 37 feet in height to preserve its small-town charm and to ensure that the island’s skyline remains unobstructed by towering structures. WE LOVE THIS!

Vero Beach, Florida – Understated Elegance and Coastal Charm

Vero Beach is located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, in Indian River County, about halfway between Orlando and West Palm Beach. Vero Beach is easily accessible via Interstate 95 north of West Palm Beach and southeast of Orlando making it easy to visit.  Renowned for its unspoiled beaches, elegant communities, and vibrant cultural scene, Vero Beach provides a tranquil yet sophisticated retreat for those seeking relaxation in a refined coastal setting.

Where to Stay:
Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa is a chic boutique beachfront resort that offers spectacular ocean views and rejuvenating spa treatments using organic products. It’s the perfect place to indulge in a luxury coastal experience while enjoying personalized service and wellness treatments. Fun fact, Gloria and Emilio Estefan own this property! It’s a great location and very chill, we loved it!  A few more fabulous accommodations are the Kimpton Vero Beach and Spa by IHG and The Caribbean Court Boutique Hotel. 

Exclusive Experiences & Dining:
Explore The Vero Beach Museum of Art, home to world-class exhibits featuring contemporary and international artists. After a day of culture, dine at The Tides, where you can savor fresh seafood and creative cocktails in an intimate, oceanfront setting. A TravelCharlee favorite is The Lemon Tree on Ocean Avenue. The area’s Ocean Drive is lined with high-end boutiques and local art galleries, perfect for shopping for luxury fashion or unique coastal-inspired art.  What a fun street to stroll down and do some shopping, grab a bite along the way. 

Outdoor Luxury & Adventure:
Nature lovers will appreciate the Environmental Learning Center, where you can take eco-tours through mangroves and wetlands. For a more adventurous experience, charter a private yacht or a kayak to explore the Indian River Lagoon.  Vero Beach is home to the McKee Botanical Garden, a hidden gem from the 1930’s that features over 10,000 species of plants, including a remarkable collection of tropical and subtropical flora. The garden is also famous for its historic, whimsical water features, including a stunning collection of lily ponds and statues. 

Fun Fact! Vero Beach is known for its vibrant sea turtle nesting season. Every year, thousands of loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs along the island’s untouched beaches, making it one of the top nesting sites in the United States. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you might even get a chance to witness baby turtles making their way to the ocean!

Florida’s hidden luxury destinations offer the perfect blend of charm, tranquility, and sophistication, making them ideal getaways for those seeking a refined escape without all the hustle and bustle of crowds. From the serene beaches of Amelia Island to the historic allure of Seaside, these destinations provide exclusive accommodations, gourmet dining, and unique experiences that cater to travelers with a bit more of a luxury feel. Whether you’re enjoying the peaceful shores of Anna Maria Island or indulging in world-class fishing in Boca Grande, each town promises a memorable experience. So, next time you’re planning a getaway, consider exploring one of these hidden gems for a refreshing alternative to Florida’s more well-known hotspots.  Let’s get your Florida trip planned!