As spring break nears, many Florida locals hope to find an escape from reality while staying close to home. South Florida is the perfect place for this, as it offers a wide range of beautiful scenery, including world-class beaches. 

Listed below are the top vacation spots that Florida has to offer.

The Biltmore Hotel, Miami, FL:

Located in Coral Gables, the Biltmore Hotel is an iconic South Florida landmark that has been a staple hotel since 1926. It provides vacationers with a chic yet tropical stay in the heart of Coral Gables with a pool, golf course, spa and more. The Biltmore has retained its antique and original architecture since 1924. 

Siesta Key

Named the best beach in America and 11th in the world by TripAdvisor in 2020, Siesta Key, located in Sarasota, Florida, has been a dream destination for many all around the world. Visitors love Siesta Key for its white sand beaches made of quartz-crystal and clear blue water. The beach town has large parking areas, concession stands and a free trolley that takes vacationers around the island and the nearby Siesta Key Village. 

Cocoa Beach

Known for surfing and surf shops, Cocoa Beach is the dream destination for Floridians looking for a “close to home” surf. Filled with fun and adventure, visitors can tour the Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral, visit the Kennedy Space Center, take kayaking tours and more. The town also offers many souvenirs, as it is home to the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop and many other surf megastores. 

Key West

Known for being the southernmost point in the U.S., Key West is the perfect mix of beach and town, as it provides a variety of off and on-land activities like snorkeling, boat tours, jet skiing, visiting Ernest Hemingway’s home or the Key West lighthouse and eating conch fritters at beach shacks. In terms of accommodations, stay at the Parrot Key Hotel or a rental home. 

Anna Maria Island

One of Florida’s “secret” beaches that provides much fun and outdoor experiences, Anna Maria Island is known for its white-sand beaches and blue Gulf waters. The island has several beaches – including Coquina Beach, Bean Point and Manatee Beach – and many piers, including Anna Maria City Pier Grille, Bridge Street Pier and more. Anna Maria Island is the perfect place for a relaxing and quiet weekend getaway, one can even parasail.