While it might be tempting to spend big bucks on a post-nuptial trip to an exotic locale, you don’t have to break the bank to have the honeymoon of your dreams. In fact, some of the most beautiful (and affordable) island honeymoon spots are right here in Florida!

Whether you’re ready to book or still adding inspiration to your Pinterest boards, our list of the most romantic Florida destinations can help you decide where to kick off your married life together.

Originally Published: April 18, 2019

Florida’s Top Honeymoon Destinations

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach has a calm atmosphere that’s ideal for honeymooners. While you can certainly enjoy a laid-back week of sunbathing on the beach, you can find plenty of things to do to keep you occupied if you prefer to be active. It is also near the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and Ron Jon, the world’s largest surf shop.

And remember this: Cocoa Beach is only an hour’s drive east of Orlando, making it a great day trip for theme park visitors.

Orlando

Every year 50 million people head to Orlando to experience thrilling rides and flawless weather. You can ditch the umbrella. You’re mostly guaranteed sunny, clear skies with temperatures hovering around 80 degrees daily. Couples flock here during romantic getaways and throughout the summer months.

Orlando’s earned its reputation as the happiest place on Earth. Time your honeymoon to visit during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival and attend daily events such as wine seminars, cooking demonstrations and free concerts.

Naples

Upscale, charming Naples serves as a perfect backdrop for a glitzy Florida honeymoon. This sophisticated beach destination is located right along the Gulf of Mexico, on southern Florida’s “Paradise Coast”. Miles of fine sand beaches, gentle turquoise waters, and friendly locals are synonymous with this area.

Snowbirds flock here during the winter as it’s popular among honeymooners and those looking to escape the harsh northern winters. World class dining and shopping draw wealthy travelers to the area. Hunt for seashells while you pack together sand for the perfect castle. Take a fan boat through the Everglades to experience southern Florida’s amazing ecosystem. Don’t forget to pack your clubs – this city is famous for its incredible golfing.

Clearwater

When someone tells you “Florida beach” you should immediately think of Clearwater. Almost a million visitors come here every year to enjoy the award-winning sun, sand, and surf along Clearwater Beach. You’ll never run out of things to do seaside or on land. Beach Walk in particular has transformed the look and feel of south Clearwater Beach. It’s a broad, winding promenade surrounded by resorts, beautiful white sand, entertainment and artwork.

Miami Beach

High end shopping, the finest of dining, and dazzling turquoise waters are synonymous with Miami Beach. Of course, any discussion of the top honeymoon activities in this area starts with South Beach. Miles of pristine sand and sun worshippers dot the coast. There’s plenty of opportunity for body surfing, boogie boarding, and windsurfing along the ocean. Nearby, take a bike ride in Flamingo Park or play tennis. For a more active beach day, consider a trip to Hobie Park where water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling are popular.

Key West

Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, Key West offers visitors ample natural beauty and great swimming beaches. History buffs love the island’s maritime history and legends of its famous residents, while partygoers can’t get enough of Duval Street. Located closer to Cuba than to Miami, Key West offers endless Latin and Cuban cultural influences from the cuisine to the music and art. Running four miles long and about two miles wide at its widest, this is a small island. The popular Old Town makes up about half of this area.

Hop on the Conch Tour Train for a fun way to see the surrounding area. You’ll get a narration of the city’s past from an experienced tour guide as you cruise around the streets. Walking tours are one of the best ways to see the city, too. Peek in at the area’s intriguing architecture, courtyards, and gardens.

Sanibel Island

For a more low-key Florida honeymoon, check out Sanibel Island. Most visitors spend their days sunbathing on the sand, collecting seashells on the shore, or going for a relaxing swim in the calm, emerald waters.

One of Sanibel Island’s main attractions is its natural surroundings. Rather than the well-groomed white sand beaches along Florida’s western shore, Sanibel has darker and slightly rougher sand with plenty of sponges, driftwood, sand dollars, and seashells scattered throughout. The island features bright flowers and lush vegetation. You’re likely to encounter some fascinating wildlife, including colorful birds, tree frogs, and chameleons. Many people visit the island’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching.

Indian Shores

Indian Shores, west of Tampa, Florida, is the quiet escape you’ve been seeking. This barrier-island community is small, friendly, and fun. The pace is slower here, but you’ll settle right in as soon as you unpack. The white sand beaches are the top attractions here in Indian Shores, and next door Indian Rocks Beach. Visitors love the ample free parking and soft sands, only one of which you can find in bigger locales like Clearwater.

The white sand beaches are the top attractions here in Indian Shores, and next door Indian Rocks Beach. Visitors love the ample free parking and soft sands, only one of which you can find in bigger locales like Clearwater.

Author

Hi, I'm Paul, I'm a travel writer and I love everything about the salt life. I grew up in the northeast, but we visited family in Florida often ... and I was hooked! I've been writing about the Sunshine State for two decades. I enjoy helping travelers find the best places to stay, to eat, and to play in Florida.

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