7 Luxury Island Resorts in Florida

Did you know that Florida second highest number of islands of any state in the United States?   There are 4,510 islands that have 10 acres or more.   In case you were wondering Alaska has the most islands.

Now with new rules in place for anyone returning to the US from any international location it is easier to just stay in the US.   If you are really in need of an island getaway don't worry there are lots of wonderful island options right here in Florida!   

Here are my picks for top 7 luxury island getaways in FL - 

#7  Amelia Island

Starting with the Northeast corner of Florida this island getaway is an easy drive for many East Coast states or just a short drive from Jacksonville airport.   - My pick for luxury here is  Ritz Carlton Amelia Island   Unfolding along 13 miles of pristine beachfront, this luxury resort infuses the story of the land into nearly every guest experience. They even offer Field Trip packages Distance learning comes alive with instructor-led field trip packages designed to complement science curriculum and foster a passion for marine ecology and biology.

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#6 - Destin

Moving West across North Florida on the panhandle is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico where you will find Destin.   This location offers an easy drive from many Midwest states or a short drive from Pensacola airport.     My pick for a luxury stay on this island is - Henderson Beach Resort  With it's stunning location on some of the most breathtaking stretches of sand in the world, and the tranquil jeweled waters of the Gulf of Mexico right at the doorstep, there is literally an endless list of activities and attractions for everyone to experience.

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#5 - St Pete Beach 

Staying on the Gulf Coast but moving South we hit St Pete Beach.   Just below Tampa and also an easy drive from Orlando.  My pick for where to stay here is - Tradewinds Resort  two beach resorts on 31 acres of the soft white sands of Florida’s St. Pete Beach, rated a top 10 USA beach for six years running by TripAdvisor.  They are even pet friendly!  I have taken my dog there before and he loved it!

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#4 - Gasparilla Island

Heading further south down the Gulf Coast you will find little known Gasparilla Island.   The closest airport would be Fort Myers.   You will feel like you stepped back in time when you stay at the The Gasparilla Inn   The barrier island is a small on at only about 1/4 mile wide.  Tarpon and other prized fish call the blue waters off Gasparilla Island home which makes this a fisherman's paradise.  

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#3 - Sanibel and Captiva Island

Just south of Gasparilla you will find my favorite barrier island of Sanibel/Captiva.  They are a shell lover's paradise with tons of shells washing up on the white sandy shores constantly.   It is a great way to get back to nature since more than half of the island is made up of wildlife refuges, the largest being J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.   I recommend South Seas Resort Originally a key lime plantation 100 years ago, South Seas Island Resort is now truly a destination.

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#2 - Florida Keys
I am guessing when you think of Florida islands you automatically think of the Keys but I hope the previous 5 islands I listed made you realize there are islands all around Florida.  Since the Florida Keys are just about as close as you can get to a Caribbean vacation  without leaving the United States my top 2 choices are in the Keys.   The #2 resort I have listed is Hawks Cay   On the the small, secluded island of Duck Key, aquamarine waters sparkle under the South Floridian sun, bottlenose dolphins readily greet guests, and visitors and locals alike discover the best seaside dining, coastal living and aquatic adventures.   This one is great for families.

#1 - Florida Keys
The number one resort I have listed is also in the Florida Keys and it truly is a private island escape!   Little Palm Island  Located off the fabled Florida Keys coastline, on a lush, private island dotted with crushed seashell paths amid verdant tropical foliage and exotic wildlife, rests Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – a destination like no other.  Whether arriving by seaplane or our private boat, begin your journey with refreshing cocktails at our on-shore reception and lounge, the Shore Station, before making the short, scenic journey to your new island oasis.  

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