Image via The Palms Hotel & Spa
Home to Disneyland, Daytona and the infamous Miami Beach, Florida is the Sunshine State. Defined by its swaying palm trees and sandy beaches, the large state is usually associated with its party-scene. But there’s more to Florida than its chic night clubs for honeymoon-goers.
5 Places to Stay
Right in the middle of all the action in Keys West, Florida, Ocean Key Resort & Spa is a haven from the party-heavy Key West. Private balconies, whirlpool tubs and ocean views, the 100 rooms are designed for privacy to enjoy the post-wedding bliss!
Image via Ocean Key Resort & Spa
This 23-acre property is the definition of luxury: three miles of white-sand Florida coastline and a perfectly tranquil adults-only pool. Take a romantic stroll through a tunnel composed of tangled mangrove branches and vines that lead to the beach.
It’s not Florida without its iconic palm trees, and The Palms Hotel & Spa certainly lived up to its name. Beautifully landscaped with swaying palm trees and lush tropical gardens, the 251 newly renovated rooms are superbly chick, with bold hues and nature-inspired textures. The farm-to-table menu at The Palms’ on-site restaurant, Essencia, further highlights the hotel’s focus on green sustainability.
Image via The Palms Hotel & Spa
4. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
The property that hosts 700-plus rooms was designed to resemble the Amalfi Coast, complete with an on-site lake standing in for the Adriatic Sea. During your stay, book a treatment at the Mandara Spa or rent a private cabana at the Villa Pool. Come sunset, grab a bistro table and enjoy the nightly live show featuring folk tunes and romantic ballads – it’s a piece of Europe in Florida.
Image via Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
If you’re a fan of Miami Vice, this stylish hotel in the heart of South Beach is your perfect getaway. The historic hotel dates back to 1930’s and exudes an Art Deco feel with Asian influence. The room is magnificently outfitted with rainfall shower, black granite tub and a bed topped with luxury linen.
Image via The Setai, Miami Beach
5 Places to Visit
1. Sanibel Island
For secluded and untouched beauty, Sanibel Island is the ideal place to be. The city has taken active measures to preserve the natural beauty of the area. You’ll notice that the island is devoid of any fast-food restaurants and even traffic lights. It’s an experience unlike other to enjoy with your other half.
Image via Ross Thornley
2. Santa Rosa Beach
If you are looking to work up a tan surrounded by sandy beaches and outdoor activities, Santa Rosa Beach is your haven. Nestled along a 26-mile stretch of Florida’s Emerald Coast, it’s home to a thriving artist colony, as well as the Point Washington State Forest Reserve.
3. St. Augustine
For fans of historical artefacts, St. Augustine is America’s oldest city. Founded by the Spanish and settled in 1565, there’s lots of history to explore. See the Castillo, Fort Matanzas and the oldest wooden schoolhouse in America. Take a romantic ride through the town on a horse-drawn carriage as you soak in the historical sites.
Image via Scott Smith
4. Palm Beach
The iconic Florida location is lined with stately palm trees and home to legendary resorts, exquisite mansions and historic landmarks. The shopping nirvana of Worth Avenue is known worldwide. The coastline is dotted with chic restaurants and bars, while a round of golf here affords magnificent views along the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Everglades National Park
The Everglades in Florida is an adventure traveller’s dream, offering various activities from hiking trails, airboat and tram tours, bird-watching expeditions and camping. For wildlife lovers, the Everglades’ ecosystem is like no other in the world. Alligators, crocodiles, falcons, turtles and even panthers are but a few of the many animals you can spot in the Everglades.
Image via National Park
5 Things to Do
1. Watch the Sunset on St. Pete Beach
What can be more romantic that watching a stunning sunset show? For breathtaking sunset views, St. Pete Beach is a paradise. Park your toes in the sand and listen to live music while the sun bids farewell.
2. Explore the coral reefs in the Florida Keys
“The Keys” is home to United States’ only living-coral barrier reef and offers unparalleled diving and snorkelling experience. Live your mermaid dream and snorkel your way through schools of brightly coloured fish. Then visit Spiegel Grove, a sunken U.S. Navy ship, that’s home to its own thriving underwater ecosystem.
Image via John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park
3. Enjoy a Picnic in Lover’s Key
If there was any place designed for couples, it’s Lover’s Key State Park near Fort Myers. The island is home to manatees and dolphins. Pack a picnic and enjoy the endless blue skies!
4. Visit Thomas Edison and Henry Ford
Did you know that Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were buddies? Neither did we. But they were, so much so that they owned adjacent homes where they spent their winter. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is open to the public. Well-preserved and absolutely fascinating, you can walk through Edison’s laboratory and Ford’s garage!
Image via Edison & Ford Winter Estates
5. Enjoy a Taste of Cuba in Little Havana, Miami
Miami has been defined by its Cuban influence, and there’s nowhere better to experience it than Little Havana in Miami. Take a stroll through the vibrant Cuban neighbourhood filled with colourful murals and unique art galleries. Scenes of elderly men playing dominoes and cigar rollers deep at work can still be seen amidst a backdrop of pulsating traditional Cuban music.
Image via Miami and Beaches
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Great food, beautiful beaches and a rich history, Florida is such a seaside dream for honeymooners!
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