Romance is in the air in the Sunshine State, as the endless array of natural beauty found in Florida makes it the perfect place for creating lasting memories with that special someone. Book a stay in a romantic hotel, then enjoy a leisurely stroll in a tranquil garden, cozy up in a horse-drawn carriage ride, or simply sit back and admire the picture-perfect coastline. Perfect for any time of year, here are the most romantic things to do in Florida.
Find Seashells at Honeymoon Island State Park
What Is It? Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin is another aptly named outdoor gem, where you’ll find plenty of chances to enjoy a day of romance.
Why Do It? It’s not only one of the top state parks in Florida but its pristine shoreline is highlighted by its crystal clear waters, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for a day of soaking up the sunshine.
Good to Know: Spend a day looking for seashell treasures that have washed up ashore, take an afternoon swim in the gentle waters, or take a stroll through the scenic hiking trails to spot migratory birds.
Take a Seaplane in the Florida Keys
What Is It? The Florida Keys is a mecca for postcard-picture landscapes with its 1,700 islands surrounded by crystal clear waters.
Why Do It? While many visitors flock to the area to explore the colorful underwater marine life, those looking to take their romance up a notch can hop on a seaplane to get a bird’s-eye view of this picturesque area.
Good to Know: Experience something new as you soar above stingrays, sea turtles and sharks in the waters below and admire the mesmerizing deep blue and emerald waters.
Go on a Sunrise Horseback Ride in Amelia Island
What Is It? Amelia Island features one of the only beaches where you can enjoy horseback riding along the coast.
Why Do It? Wake up early for this memorable excursion, where you can ride side-by-side as you savor the golden beach landscapes highlighted by the glowing range of colors.
Good to Know: Afterward, you can hop on the Amelia Island Trolley for a tour of the area’s top attractions and browse the collection of boutique shops and art galleries.
Climb the Lighthouse in Key Biscayne
What Is It? Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is home to Florida’s historic 109-step lighthouse, which is the oldest standing structure in Miami.
Why Do It? It offers easy access to a beautiful beach area where you can enjoy a day of fun in the sun, while those looking to capture stunning panoramic views of the area can climb to the top of the lighthouse.
Good to Know: Enjoy a quiet afternoon by the water, where you can set up a picnic and take a scenic bike ride along the shoreline.
Spot Dolphins on Sanibel Island
What Is It? A popular spot for shell collectors, Sanibel Island is also a great place to spot dolphins frolicking in the water.
Why Do It? At one of the most beautiful towns in Florida, you can up early to experience a sunrise on the beach. Keep your eyes peeled, as you’ll likely be able to see groups of dolphins feeding just offshore.
Good to Know: Those who want to see them up close can join a kayaking excursion around Pine Island Sound, while they are also known to play in the surf at Lighthouse Beach.
Indulge in Oysters in Destin
What Is It? A haven for outdoor adventures and succulent seafood offerings, Destin is an alluring destination known for its fishing excursions, white sand beaches and emerald-hued waters.
Why Do It? Couples looking for a bit of romance can indulge in Gulf-to-table platters at an array of local restaurants and try fresh offerings of freshly caught seafood cuisine.
Good to Know: If you want to visit some of Florida’s best seafood restaurants, head to Louisiana Lagniappe for oysters topped with savory stuffing and jumbo lump crab meat. Alternatively, Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House offers fresh oysters and lobster mac & cheese.
Go on a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride in St. Augustine
What Is It? Dating back to 1565, the most romantic way to explore the historic, cobblestone streets of St. Augustine is on a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Why Do It? Take an intimate tour of the oldest city in the United States and learn more about its historical significance by listening to tales told by an expert guide.
Good to Know: After your ride, you can explore stately castles, relax on tranquil beaches and admire the romantic Spanish-influenced architecture.
Get Pampered at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
What Is It? While Florida is full of luxury spa resorts, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Palm Beach is one of the best.
Why Do It? Luxe and lavish, the spa at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a place to enjoy pure indulgence. The Forbes Five-Star spa is a wonderland with 42,000 square feet of relaxation. The glamorous retreat features water gardens, private villas and luxurious treatment rooms. Get pampered with a signature massage, sip on free-flowing bubbly and visit the Wishing Well.
Good to Know: In addition to private garden villas with outdoor showers, bathtubs and lounging areas, you can enjoy the Scrub & Polish Bars, bath lounges, saunas, steam rooms and oversized Jacuzzis.
Enjoy a Secluded Beach at St. George Island
What Is It? Recognized as one of the last remaining beaches in Florida not covered in high-rise hotels, St. George Island is where you go to find peace and quiet.
Why Do It? You can take your loved one and revel in the miles of uninterrupted white, sandy beaches together.
Good to Know: In addition to being beloved as a top destination in Florida’s Panhandle, this area is known for its fresh oysters, and couples can find these little aphrodisiacs all around town.
Catch a Flick at Ruskin Family Drive-In
What Is It? Avoid the movie theater crowds and cozy up to your loved one at the Ruskin Family Drive-In.
Why Do It? The historic theater offers a retro movie-going experience in Florida that is perfect for couples.
Good to Know: This attraction in Ruskin has been showing movies since 1952 when its first feature was “Singing in the Rain,” and now offers a dose of nostalgia with classic movies and blockbuster films that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own confined space.
Float in a Swan Boat in Lake Eola
What Is It? Situated in the heart of Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola is a mecca of green urban space packed with entertainment.
Why Do It? For a perfect date, rent a paddleboat swan and float around, enjoying the glittering skyline and electrifying water show.
Good to Know: Here you will find white and black swans floating about in the midst of farmer’s markets, festivals, and other events.
Take a Stroll Through Bok Tower Gardens
What Is It? Set among the rolling hills of citrus trees in Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens boasts 250 acres of visually stunning subtropical gardens.
Why Do It? Its centerpiece is the 205-foot Singing Tower carillon, while a 1930s Mediterranean mansion and collection of scenic walking trails are perfect for some alone time with your loved one.
Good to Know: Adorned with koi ponds and reflection pools, discover peaceful resting spots surrounded by beautiful displays of camellias, azaleas, and orchids.
Enjoy a Picnic at Hillsborough River State Park
What Is It? Pack a picnic basket full of goodies and head to Hillsborough River State Park, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a quiet lunch for two by the river.
Why Do It? Located near Tampa, its shady areas and picturesque natural settings are perfect for a romantic ambiance.
Good to Know: Couples who want to go on an adventure will discover plenty of opportunities for kayaking, biking, and hiking in the park.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Above Orlando
What Is It? While the crowds of tourists flock to the theme park attractions in Orlando, take a romantic hot air balloon ride above “The City Beautiful.”
Why Do It? One of the most romantic things to do in Orlando, you and your loved one will soar 1,000 feet above the city and admire the vast expanse of swamps, forests, and orange groves below you.
Good to Know: Offering an intimate experience you won’t soon forget, you’ll be able to sip champagne and watch the sunrise together.
Spot Wildlife at Lovers Key State Park
What Is It? Romance is in the name at Lover’s Key State Park, a perfect spot to enjoy the simple pleasures of life with your loved one in Fort Myers Beach.
Why Do It? Its 1,600 acres of idyllic landscapes and four barrier islands are great for an afternoon swim, or you can go on a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure.
Good to Know: Scour the beach for colorful seashells, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as gopher tortoises, bald eagles, bottlenose dolphins and manatees.
