Florida Girlfriend Getaways: Nightlife and Beaches in Miami Beach

If you’re looking for a fun girls weekend destination, Florida has a lot to offer. From beaches to shopping, nightlife to theme parks, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State. Here are some of the best destinations for a girls weekend in Florida, along with some suggestions for things to do while you’re there.



With its stunning beaches, world-renowned nightlife and fabulous shopping, Miami Beach is a great destination for a girls’ weekend. Spend your days lounging on the beach or by the pool, indulging in spa treatments or exploring the city’s many designer boutiques, funky local stores, murals and galleries.  If you’re feeling more adventurous, book water sports like paddleboard, jet ski, or parasail.



At night, put on your cutest outfit and hit up one of the city’s many clubs or bars or catch a show. Not up to dancing all night? Check out top-rated restaurants and chat over cocktails.



Must-Dos on a Girls Trip to Miami




Take a stroll on the famous Ocean Drive through the Art Deco District.



Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens .



Take a day trip  to the Everglades National Park .



Book a lunchtime food tour of Little Havana  or just plan to grab a quick Cuban breakfast .



Planning to visit a lot of sites on your visit? You may want to check out a sightseeing pass  to save money.



Ask your hotel where ladies drink free that night! That’s right – Miami still has entire evenings where ladies drink free during certain hours.




Where to Eat in Miami on a Girls Weekend



The Bazaar by José Andrés  has been a South Beach destination for foodies for over 10 years. With Spanish-influenced cuisine, an award-winning wine list and whimsical décor, it’s a must visit for a special night out.  



Komodo  offers an Asian fusion menu in a stylish and modern setting right on Brickell Avenue. If your girls’ weekend is celebrating a landmark birthday  or is a bachelorette party, Komodo offers a VIP lounge experience.  



Saloni Bar by Meraki offers up fantastic Greek food and inventive cocktails. Ladies drink free from 6 p.m. -7 p.m. nightly. The fried zucchini sticks and Milo Spritz are must order items!



Read More:   Where Locals Eat in Miami



Best Resorts in Miami for a Florida Girlfriend Getaway



The Fontainebleau Miami Beach



You can really combine the best of both worlds at The Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This resort features ocean views, six outdoor pools with private cabanas, a nightclub, nine restaurants right on site and a spa. You might not even have to leave the property during your stay!



Intercontinental Miami



If you are looking for an active Miami vacation this is the landing spot for you. With Biscayne Bay views, on-site restaurants, a rooftop pool and a spa there’s plenty of reasons to stay at the hotel as well. If your Florida girlfriend getaway includes a cruise, the Intercontinental  is roughly 5 minutes away from the port.



citizenM Miami Worldcenter



With a location in the center of museums and steps to public transportation, this modern hotel has everything you’d want for a girlfriend getaway. Wind down each evening in the lounge or at nearby Bayside Market.



iPad controls for your room bring a tech feel to this artsy boutique hotel. Bright and colorful décor plus a stunning rooftop make this a great pick.



Read More:   How to Plan the Best Girlfriend Getaway



Key West is a beautiful island paradise. Photo credit: Shutterstock



Relaxing with your BFFs in Key West



If you’re looking for a laid-back, bohemian vibe, Key West is the perfect girls’ weekend destination. This southernmost city  in the continental United States is known for its charming and quirky atmosphere. With a vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, free things to do  and beautiful beaches, you’ll stay busy in Key West.



Girls’ Weekend Itinerary for Key West Florida



Here’s a list of some of our favorite Key West Florida things to start you off:




Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum  to learn about the famous author’s life and see the six-toed cats that live there. Heads up, museum admission is on a walk-in basis and is cash only.



Splurge on a 2-hour sunset cruise .



Be spooky on a  haunted pub crawl  or play it a little safer on a daylight walking Ghosts of Key West tour .



Go snorkeling and explore a coral reef .



Watch the sunset from Mallory Square. Every evening, locals and visitors gather to watch the sun dip below the horizon while street performers put on a show.




Read More:   Weekend in Key West Itinerary



Key West Restaurants to Put on Your Girls’ Trip List



It’s no secret, sometimes food is my priority on vacation. Key West doesn’t disappoint. From fresh seafood to tropical cocktails and of course Key Lime Pie, you will be in a food coma by the time you leave!



Blue Heaven  is a must-visit for brunch, with a menu that features fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes and the best Key Lime Pie. Breakfast and lunch are first come, first serve so get there early! They take limited reservations for dinner.



Latitudes  is a fine-dining restaurant located on the grounds of Sunset Key Cottages, offering stunning views and chef-inspired cuisine. Their amazing lobster bisque is available on both the lunch and dinner menu.



Cuban Coffee Queen  is a great casual option for breakfast or lunch. Not only are their prices fantastic but they’ve got great salads and sandwiches. Cuban coffee choices are made with cane sugar and true to tradition. Sip a cortadito to be properly prepared for a full day of fun!



Resorts for Your Key West Girls’ Weekend



Florida Keys vacations are all about slowing it down a little. We love Key West hotels with oceanviews and walkable locations.



Margaritaville Beach House Key West



We’ve got a whole review on the Margaritaville Beach House  but in short welcome margaritas, suite-style accommodations, hammocks, a lagoon-style pool and a free airport shuttle make this spot a win in our book.



Key West Harbor Inn



Why not book an adult-only property for your adult trip? Focus on your friends and forget that people under 18 exist for the weekend. The central location of this property is ideal. You’re close to both Duval Street and Simonton Street Beach. With a free happy hour and breakfast by the pool we think it’s a perfect pick!



Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa



Three minutes from Duval Street, this resort is a great choice for a girls trip. With the Jala Spa on-site and a pool bar you can relax in between adventures.



Almost everything is within walking distance of this hotel. You’ll enjoy spacious ocean views.



Orlando is home to the Disney and Universal parks, plus tons more downtown. Photo credit: Shutterstock



Travel Guide: Orlando Girls’ Trips



If you automatically think of theme parks when Orlando is mentioned you aren’t alone. However, Orlando has so much more to offer! A thriving arts scene, inventive restaurants and abundant shopping provides visitors with days of adventure. Because Orlando is such a popular destination flights are abundant and specials are frequently available.



Of course many folks coming into Orland are looking for theme park fun. We love Universal and Disney as girls weekend getaway options.



Florida Girlfriend Getaway to Universal Orlando



We’ve got a whole Girlfriends Guide to Universal Orlando for a reason! Whether you’re huge Harry Potter fans, love thrill rides or are hitting a special event like Halloween Horror Nights , Universal is a great destination for a girls’ trip.



Budget in a Universal Express Pass to skip the lines and maximize your time, but wait until your trip to purchase it . Also lay out your food plan! Universal CityWalk  features more than 26 restaurants all with delicious things to eat.



For accommodations we recommend the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel  for your Universal girls’ weekend. Standard rooms at this premier level resort sleep up to 5 and suites are available that sleep up to 10. As a premier resort your stay includes complimentary Universal Unlimited Express Passes, water-taxi transportation to and from the park, priority seating at select restaurants and some Club Level access to concierge lounges.  



Head to EPCOT to sample delicious drinks from the “countries” surrounding the World Showcase Lagoon. Photo Credit: Nasreen Stump



Disney World Girls Weekend in Florida



There is something special about flying off to Orlando to spend the weekend at a theme park without your kids. Find some like minded friends and head off to eat all the snacks, Drink Around the World at EPCOT and maybe do some Disneybounding . It might even be the right time to book a special Disney tour .



Since it will just be you and the girls plan the hotel  around adult-activities. We loved our stay at Saratoga Springs. They have large villas that can sleep all of your best friends. Save a little cash by booking through David’s Vacation Club Rentals . Saratoga Springs is a great spot to land because of its easy access to Disney Springs . My friend Breeze and I did the chef’s tasting menu at Jaleo and enjoyed sizzling stone bowls of deliciousness at Morimoto.



Read More:   Beaches Near Disney: 10 We Recommend



Destin’s beaches are simply unmatched. Photo credit: Visit Florida



Destin: A Florida Girlfriend Getaway for Beach Lovers



Destin is a charming Panhandle beach town with beaches fronting the Gulf of Mexico. With white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters it’s the perfect Florida vacation spot.



In Destin, you’ll find beach resorts  complete with spas, luxury amenities, private beaches and fine dining. This beach town also has tons of vacation rentals available in case you’re looking for a full condo or home rental for your girls getaway.



Things to Do in Destin on a Girlfriend Getaway



Whether your group of friends is the yoga and kayaking crowd or the beachfront lounging and cocktails crew, Destin has you covered. This area is definitely beach focused so you’ll find more opportunities for water sports than museum visits.




Go paddleboarding .



Check out the sugar-white sand beaches at Henderson State Park.



Take a hydrojet boat tour  to spot dolphins and other sea creatures.



Visit Destin’s famous Crab Island on this sandbar cruise .



Book private surf lessons .



Adventure to Grayton Beach State Park . Located between Destin and Panama City Beach, this park is home to coastal dune lakes which only occur in a few spots worldwide.




Best Restaurants in Destin for Your Girls Trip



Enjoy fresh seafood and laid-back vibes at The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House . The views are top notch and so are the raw oysters.



Marina Cafe  has been a fine dining destination for over 30 years. Offering happy hour specials in the bar area nightly you’ll find an extensive menu including seafood, steaks and more. Reservations are encouraged.



The Crab Trap  is a casual beachfront restaurant featuring seafood and burgers. It’s first come first served so arrive early!



Destin Resorts for a Girls Weekend



The Gulf Coast is home to tons of beachfront resorts. With access to some of the best beaches in Florida, we love these Destin hotels.



The Henderson Beach Resort



Offering private beach access to Henderson State Park, this resort is a favorite for adult-focused visitors. The resort boasts a full service spa, water activities and multiple dining options.



Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa



Located on Miramar Beach, this Hilton property has tennis courts, golf courses, pools and a full service spa. Six onsite restaurants make dining convenient.



The Pearl Hotel



Technically this option is a bit outside of Destin. The Pearl Hotel, located in Rosemary Beach, is architecturally stunning. With a private beach, this 55-room boutique hotel is a Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond property. Head here for a top shelf girls getaway.



Read More:   Best Destin Resorts



The architecture is eye-catching in downtown St. Augustine. Photo credit: Christine Tibbetts



History and Culinary: St. Augustine Girls Weekends



St. Augustine is home to some of the oldest buildings in the country, including the famous Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fortress that dates back to the 17th century. Spend your days exploring museums, art galleries and historic sites. Then head to dinner with your best friends to enjoy everything from fresh seafood to classic Southern cuisine.



Don’t Miss These St. Augustine Sites




Tour the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument .



Maximize your time with a hop-on hop-off ticket  that includes entry to museums.



Take a ghost tour  of the city.



Visit the San Sebastian Winery.  




Read More:   20+ Things to Do in St. Augustine



St. Augustine Restaurants to Try



Collage Restaurant  is a fine-dining spot that’s been named as one of the best 100 restaurants in the US multiple times. Local ingredients are utilized in an eclectic menu of French, Italian, and Asian-inspired dishes.



The Floridian  is a casual spot that offers Southern-style cuisine. I highly recommend going for lunch. They have giant salads and creative sandwiches. The cornbread stack is a personal favorite.



Catch 27  is a seafood-focused spot that features freshly caught 27th state (Florida) fish .You can’t go wrong with any of the entrées. Definitely order the chowder to start with. It’s spicy with bacon and tomato and is out of this world.



St. Augustine Hotels for Your Florida Girlfriend Getaway



Casa Monica Resort & Spa



This Autograph Collection hotel features Moorish-style architecture dating to the 1800s. Located centrally you can access adventures all over St. Augustine from this hotel. You could also choose to remain on property to check out the Poseidon Spa.



Villa 1565



Guests love the outdoor spaces and Historic Old Town location of Villa 1565. With easy access to the Ponce de Leon Fountain of Youth and a nearby trolley stop this hotel is ideal for history buffs.



Renaissance St. Augustine Historic District



With a prime location steps away from the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the Renaissance is a great hotel. You’ll be steps from dining and attractions.



The villas at Naples Grande are a great choice for a fantastic vacation pad with friends. Photo credit: Hannah Rinaldi



Boutiques and Restaurants: Naples Florida Girlfriend Getaway



Naples , located on the Gulf Coast in Southwest Florida, is an upscale destination known for its high-end shopping and dining. Naples also provides the perfect jumping off point to surrounding areas for short road trips. Don’t miss the beautiful beaches just a short drive away, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.



Things to Do in Naples with Your BFFs




Visit the Naples Botanical Garden .



Book a Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise .



Spot manatees on a Wildife Boat Tour .



Travel 30 minutes to Marco Island for stand-up paddleboarding  tours.



Stroll on Naples Pier.



Shop Third Street in Old Naples.



Take a day trip to Sanibel Island or Captiva, located about an hour and 15 minutes away.




Girls Getaway Restaurant Options in Naples Florida



USS Nemo is a must-visit for seafood lovers, with a menu that features fresh fish and seafood in a cozy and intimate setting. The miso glazed rib eye and pepper jelly crispy calamari deliver on every level.



Explore a new cuisine at Bha!Bha! Persian Bistro . You’ll be welcomed into the inviting dining room. Persian dishes ranging from kabob to stews fill the expansive menu.  



Head over to Mr. Tequila  for pitchers of margaritas, queso fundido and piña cancún (stuffed pineapple) in a relaxed atmosphere.



Best Resorts in Naples for Your Girls Trip



The Ritz-Carlton, Naples  OR The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón Golf Resort



Naples is one of the only cities to have two Ritz-Carltons. The Ritz-Carlton Naples is located on the Gulf of Mexico with ocean views and three miles of beach. Tons of suite options make this a great spot for groups.



The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón features two golf courses and is 10 minutes from the beach. The resort offers a shuttle to the beachside Ritz-Carlton location.



Edgewater Beach Hotel



With a great beachfront location, the Edgewater Beach Hotel is a great choice for your girls’ trips. Numerous suites are available, many with kitchenettes, making staying in and cooking together an option.



Naples Grande Beach Resort



This resort offers the best of both worlds. Located along 200 acres of mangrove estuary, but also just one mile from shopping, you’ll find accessible relaxation here. The property features 5 restaurants, a golf course, a full-service spa and even a giant water slide if you feel like cutting loose.



There are tons of fun rides in Florida that aren’t at Disney. Check out Busch Gardens! Photo credit: Marquita Smith



City Fun in the Sun: Tampa Weekend Getaway



With beautiful beaches, a thriving arts scene and world-class theme parks, Tampa is a great destination for a girls’ weekend. This often overlooked city is a vibrant destination filled with food and history.



Girls Weekend Itinerary for Tampa




Visit Busch Gardens  for a day of roller coasters.



Catch a show at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, one of the largest performing arts centers in the country.



Go on a speedboat adventure  on Tampa Bay.



View manatees  for free.



Head to one of our 15 favorite beaches near Tampa .




Read More : 17 Things to Do in Tampa



Tampa Restaurants to Book for Your Girls’ Weekend



Bern’s Steak House is a legendary spot that offers some of the best steaks in the country, along with an extensive wine list and impeccable service. Edison: Food + Drink Lab is a gastropub that offers creative and innovative cuisine in a stylish and modern setting. Ulele is a waterfront spot that offers a menu featuring Florida-inspired cuisine and craft beers.



Best Tampa Hotels for a Girls Trip



Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay



Located right on the Bay, this hotel provides a scenic jumping off point for your Tampa adventures. With free local transportation provided it’s a great choice for your girls’ trip.



Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa



If a little bit of gambling is in your plans, book your girls weekend at the Seminole Hard Rock. The on-site casino is gigantic and the location allows you to also head out to explore Tampa.



The Tampa EDITION



Conveniently located downtown, you’ll be able to walk to tons of attractions and restaurants from this modern hotel. A gorgeous lobby and good food on-site will add to your experience.



Eau Palm Beach is one of our top resort picks. Photo credit: Mary Moore



Spas and Sun in Palm Beach



Palm Beach is an upscale destination perfect for a luxury-themed girls’ weekend combining indulgence and relaxation. With award-winning restaurants, high-end boutiques, sought after spas and of course some of Florida’s best beaches it’s perfect for a girls’ trip.



Palm Beach Things to Do



Beyond the obvious – boutiques and beaches – there is a ton to do in Palm Beach. Be sure to add these options to your plans.




Visit the Gilded Age Flagler Museum . If your trip falls during the seasonal cafe’s operations, be sure to book lunch.



Go on a Palm Beach Food Tour .



Take a guided kayak tour  of the cypress forest on the scenic Loxahatchee River.



Be in the picture! Get photographic evidence of your fabulous girls vacation by hiring a Flytographer pro for a photoshoot .




Best Palm Beach Restaurants



Palm Beach has dining options for days. Many top tier chefs have establishments in the area. It is always best to make reservations for coveted spots in advance to prevent disappointment.



Buccan  features small plates and shareable dishes. New American cuisine and cocktails with a view make this a popular spot for dinner.



Hit up the renowned Café Boulud, located at the Brazilian Court Hotel. This fine-dining spot has the distinction of earning four stars in the Forbes Travel Guide and Wine Spectator’s “Best Award of Excellence”. Keep an eye out for special Prix Fixe and Tasting events !



Grato  is more casual and features a seasonal Italian-inspired menu. Shareable seafood small plates and house made pastas make Grato a delicious pick for your Palm Beach trip.



Girls Weekend in Florida: Palm Beach Hotels



South Florida is a coveted vacation destination. Palm Beach vacations can get a little pricey. Location, demand and an abundance of high-quality resorts drives up the nightly cost. You can find an option for every budget by heading a little further out or visiting in the off-season. Here are some of our favorite hotels close to the action!



The Breakers Palm Beach



With a half-mile private beach, six hot tubs, four oceanfront pools, an on-site spa and two golf courses, The Breakers Palm Beach is the definition of luxury. Visitors refer to the resort as breathtaking, spectacular and marvel that every detail is taken care of.



Palm Beach Historic Inn



With a location steps from Worth Avenue and minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, the Palm Beach Historic Inn manages to keep costs reasonable while delivering first class service. Its charming Old World Spanish provides a cute backdrop for photos.



Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa



With 7 key luxuries that we loved on our visit , Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a great pick for your next trip. Located away from the city center, Eau Palm Beach sits on Hypoluxo Island on Manalapan Beach. Service, the spa and the large rooms are highlights of this property.



Read More:   Florida’s Top Palm Beach Resorts



No matter which Florida girlfriend getaway you choose, it’s really going to end up being all about who is there with you. Isn’t it time that you and your best friends plan a trip that is all about you? The post Florida Girlfriend Getaways: Nightlife and Beaches in Miami Beach appeared first on She Buys Travel .