My Five Favorite Hotels in Florida

by Anthony Losanno
Florida Hotels

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I was born in Florida and spend my winters in Tampa. For most of my life, my happiest spots for weekend trips were the sunny beaches on both coasts. Here are my five favorite hotels in the Sunshine State.

JW Marco Pool 1

5. JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

We went to the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort last year for a brief staycation (full review here). The resort is huge and packed with amenities including 12 dining options, multiple pools, a gorgeous beach, spa, fitness center, arcade, and luxurious guest rooms and suites. The resort is family friendly, so if you want to avoid children this might not be your spot. We found it large enough that this was not an issue and enjoyed a relaxing weekend there.

Address: 400 South Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, FL 34145

Fenway Hotel

4. Fenway Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Fenway Hotel, Autograph Collection is located in Dunedin. One of my favorite beaches is found here (Honeymoon Island State Park) along with lots of shops, restaurants, and a bohemian vibe that envelops the whole town (grab a cocktail at The Honu Restaurant & Tiki Bar). The hotel is stylish and comfortable with a jazz theme throughout. There is a pool and fitness center as well as bikes that can be borrowed. Walk across the street for sunsets or to stroll along the water.

Address: 453 Edgewater Drive, Dunedin, FL 34698

W South Beach

3. W South Beach

South Beach is a place that you either love or hate. Miami’s party place has changed a lot through the years for better or worse. One constant since 2009, has been the W South Beach. I love the location at the north end of the neighborhood designated as South Beach. The hotel has huge, luxurious rooms and suites and has consistently been an easy upgrade. It’s not inexpensive, but the amenities (pool, beach, restaurants) are top notch. We usually stay here when we head to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival each winter.

Address: 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

2. Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

The sprawling hotel complex of the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay (full review here) makes you feel like you’re on an island versus near Tampa International Airport (TPA). Book a Casita for a truly relaxing experience. These separate buildings are located in the back of the resort with a separate pool, koi pond, and restaurant. The main building houses another restaurant, bar, fitness center, and pool. A covered walkway winds through the mangroves and provides a peaceful nature walk.

Address: 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa, FL 33607

St. Regis Bal Harbour

1. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort

No other hotel in Florida feels as luxurious as The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. From its gorgeous lobby to the amazing upgrades provided to elite members (inquire about an Atlantic Suite), The St. Regis delivers an unforgettable experience. Breakfast at Atlantikos is a special treat and the pool and beach are both excellent. It’s also walking distance to several stores, Starbucks, and the high-end Bal Harbour Shops across the street from the hotel.

Address: 9703 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, FL 33154

Anthony’s Take: I’ll always consider Florida both a home and vacation spot. These five hotels are sure to provide a great holiday with plenty of fun in the sun.

(Fenway Image Credit: Marriott.)

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