Though I live on Florida’s Atlantic side, some of my favorite staycations have been on the Gulf Coast. The coastline is lined with white-sand beaches and offers some of the most legendary sunsets in the state.
While most travelers know the iconic resorts along the beaches of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the Gulf Coast offers resorts that range from romantic to family-friendly.
Depending on where you decide to check in, your trip could include private beachside cabanas, a lazy river, or championship golf courses. If you need help choosing accommodations for your trip, here are some of the best beach resorts on the Gulf Coast.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Why we love it: Spanning 2,400 acres from the Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf of Mexico, this mega-resort offers unmatched variety, including white-sand beaches, championship golf, and a bayside village filled with dining and nightlife.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Miramar Beach, Florida
- Distance to Airport: ~ 35-minute drive from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) ~ 50-minute drive from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
- Setting: 2,400-acre resort community
- Best For: Golf trips, multi-generational family vacations, and active group getaways
- Standout Feature: Four golf courses and the walkable Village of Baytowne Wharf, featuring zip lines, boutique shops, and an arcade.
Overview: Sandestin Golf and Beach Club offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachside high-rise condos and lakeside villas to bayfront suites. To navigate the property, the resort provides complimentary bicycles and tram service. Family members of all ages will enjoy the many resort activities, which include golf, marine adventures at the full-service marina, and seven miles of white-sand beach.
Key Amenities:
- Four award-winning 18-hole golf courses (Raven, Burnt Pine, Baytowne, and The Links)
- Four main resort pools, in addition to shared pools at each resort accommodation
- Over 20 distinct dining venues, casual eateries, and nightlife spots
- Full-service marina offering boat rentals, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing charters
- Seasonal Club KZ kids’ club
The Don CeSar
Why we love it: Known as the iconic “Pink Palace” of St. Pete Beach, this grand 1920s-era oceanfront resort blends historic elegance with modern Gulf Coast luxury.
Quick Facts:
- Location: St. Pete Beach, Florida
- Distance to Airport: ~ 30-minute drive from St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and ~ 35-minute drive from Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Setting: Historic beachfront
- Best For: Romantic escapes, luxury beach holidays, and upscale family getaways
- Standout Feature: Mediterranean revival hotel set directly on powdery white sands, featuring direct Gulf views and sunset poolside lounging
Overview: The Don CeSar features luxe guest rooms, suites, and extended-stay accommodations with kitchenettes at the neighboring Beach House Suites. The hotel is ideal for a relaxing, upscale vacation, and its private beach cabanas, elevated dining, and a sprawling spa will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Key Amenities:
- Two heated beachfront pools with poolside food and beverage service
- Full-service Spa Oceana with private rooftop deck
- Nine dining options including a classic ice cream parlor
- Direct beach access with water sports rentals, paddleboards, and private cabana rentals
- Children and teen activities and pet-friendly amenities
The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
Why we love it: Situated on an 18-acre private barrier island, this newly opened resort features modern oceanfront architecture and the St. Regis signature butler service.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Longboat Key, Florida
- Distance to Airport: ~ 30-minute drive from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and ~ 60-minute drive from Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Setting: 18-acre oceanfront sanctuary
- Best For: Ultra-luxury escapes, romantic retreats, and refined family vacations
- Standout Feature: A multi-acre water feature including a winding river, saltwater lagoon with live tropical fish, and signature St. Regis Butler Service for suite guests
Overview: The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort features 168 guest rooms, including 26 suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re looking for a secluded, high-end stay, this is it. You can look forward to floating down the winding river, snorkeling alongside marine life in the resort’s private lagoon, or indulging in one of the resort’s beachfront restaurants while taking in the sunset views.
Key Amenities:
- Multi-pool complex featuring a lazy river, jacuzzi, and adult-only pool
- Full-service St. Regis Spa with outdoor hydrotherapy plunge pools
- Seven distinct restaurants
- Private saltwater lagoon stocked with stingrays and tropical fish for guided snorkeling
- Children’s club with curated creative and marine education activities
Pink Shell Beach Resort
Why we love it: Situated on 12 acres along the tip of Fort Myers Beach, this classic Gulf Coast hideaway pairs relaxed island vibes with action-packed amenities and direct access to pristine white sands.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Fort Myers Beach, Florida
- Distance to Airport: ~ 35 to 40-minute drive from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
- Setting: 12-acre oceanfront resort and full-service marina
- Best For: Family vacations, active beach getaways, and aquatic adventures
- Standout Feature: Every accommodation includes a private, furnished balcony with direct views of the Gulf of Mexico, plus a complimentary daily buffet breakfast for all guests.
Overview: Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom beachfront villas, each with a kitchen and a private lanai. If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll love splashing in the lagoon-style Octopool or wading in the warm, calm Gulf waters. To catch one of the famous Gulf Coast sunsets, you can book a charter directly from the on-site marina.
Key Amenities:
- Three outdoor oceanfront pools, including the signature Octopool and a splash area for kids
- Full-service Aquagene Spa offering ocean-inspired wellness treatments
- Four on-site dining options, including Jack’s for breakfast and Bongo’s poolside bar and grill
- Full-service marina offering kayak, paddleboard, and pontoon boat rentals
- Daily resort activities including beach volleyball, shell collecting, yoga, and campfire s’mores
Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort
Why we love it: Spanning 125 acres in the heart of Old Naples, this oceanfront sanctuary offers 1,000 feet of pristine white-sand beach and convenient access to Naples’ best attractions like 5th Avenue South and the Naples Zoo.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Old Naples, Florida
- Distance to Airport: ~ 15-minute drive from Naples Airport (APF) and ~ 40-minute drive from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
- Setting: 125-acre beachfront resort village
- Best For: Ultra-luxury coastal retreats, refined family vacations, and high-end wellness getaways
- Standout Feature: Direct access to a 1,000-foot private stretch of Naples beachfront paired with five distinct restaurants.
Overview: Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort, features light-filled guest rooms and suites equipped with custom millwork and expansive furnished terraces overlooking the Gulf. The resort is filled with enough amenities that you never have to leave the resort. Guests can enjoy the family and adults-only pools, tennis courts, a massive spa, and waterfront dining.
Key Amenities:
- Two oceanfront resort pools (including an adults-only pool) plus a rooftop spa lap pool
- The Sanctuary, a 30,000-square-foot full-service spa and wellness center
- Five distinct dining venues and ocean-view bars
- 24-hour fitness center with dedicated Pilates Frame studio
- FIN’s Kids Club kids and teen center
