If you’re going to Florida, you should have beaches on your mind.
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The big question is: Atlantic Coast or Gulf Coast? (Or the Florida Keys—they’re in a subtropical league of their own.)
If you prefer warmer waters, calmer waves, and a more tropical feel, the answer is easy. You’re heading to the Gulf Coast. From Sarasota to Panama City Beach to Anna Maria Island, the coastline is dotted with cities, towns, and secluded islands that deliver on pure vacation vibes—like swimming with the manatees, for example.
The best part? While Florida’s Gulf Coast stretches for around 750 miles, and it would take days to comfortably road trip from one end to the other, you can easily visit more than one spot on your vacation. While you do so, I recommend staying at one of these dreamy Airbnbs on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
They’re the perfect location to hang your hat while you soak up the wonders of the Gulf.
Dreamy Airbnbs on Florida’s Gulf Coast (from south to north)
The Cypress Cottage (Everglades City)
- Sleeps up to: Six guests
- Coolest amenities: Large windows showcasing mangroves, private dock, and state-of-the-art appliances
- What makes this property special? This modern construction is designed to showcase nature, letting you get the most out of your Everglades adventure. The interior is minimal and beautifully appointed, while the vaulted ceilings give it an open, grand feel.
High-Design Marco Island Haven (Marco Island)
- Sleeps up to: Eight
- Coolest amenities: Private heated pool, outdoor hangout space, and sunset views from beaches in walking distance
- What makes this property special? With four bedrooms that sleep up to eight, this is a large, colorful rental that will be fun for friend groups or families. There’s plenty of space to hang around outside, a private pool to enjoy, and close enough to walk to some of the beaches on Marco Island.
Tide & Seek Condo with Resort Amenities (Fort Myers Beach)
- Sleeps up to: Six
- Coolest amenities: Direct beach access, shared pool and plunge bath, and 8th floor beach views
- What makes this property special? You’ve got all those summer-ready amenities at your fingertips at this condo property, including a massive outdoor pool (that’s next to the beach), tennis courts, and BBQ grills. Those sunset views from the 8th-floor balcony are also hard to beat.
Modern Home with Pool & Hot Tub (Cape Coral)
- Sleeps up to: Four
- Coolest amenities: Private pool, private hot tub, and proximity to quiet spots like Pine Island
- What makes this property special? If you’re looking for a simple yet unique rental, check out this hyper-modern home. So long as you enjoy the bare-bones décor and lighting features, you’ll be spoiled by plenty of backyard time thanks to the property’s pool and hot tub.
Beachfront Cottage with Pool, Tennis, Kayaks, & More (Englewood)
- Sleeps up to: Two
- Coolest amenities: Beachfront location, shared pool, and access to kayaks and paddleboards
- What makes this property special? If you enjoy a classic beach cottage, look no further. This small studio cottage is decked out with classic, warm wood walls and vaulted ceilings. You’ve got direct access to a semi-private beach, along with resort amenities like a shared pool, tennis courts, sports equipment, and more. It’s perfect for couples.
Venice Island Tropical Hideaway (Venice)
- Sleeps up to: Two
- Coolest amenities: Outdoor pool, hot tub, and open-air shower
- What makes this property special? Like the beachfront cottage in Englewood (above), this rental is ideal for couples who want an escape. The studio is bright and cozy, and also comes with just about every amenity you could hope for. That includes a pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, private backyard, and a short walk to the beach.
Luxury Waterfront Home with Room for 7 (Apollo Beach)
- Sleeps up to: Seven
- Coolest amenities: Swanky outdoor pool, private dock on the water, and outdoor fire pit
- What makes this property special? If you’re a group that’s ready to splurge on a rental that lets you soak up the outdoors, this luxury waterfront home has just about everything. There’s a private dock on the canal, along with a large, private pool, plenty of high-quality furniture, a grilling area, and more. There’s even a small putting green. Inside, you’ll find three spacious bedrooms, plus a pullout in the living room.
Waterfront Home with Private Dock (Hernando Beach)
- Sleeps up to: Six
- Coolest amenities: Fishing dock, paddleboards, and a pool table
- What makes this property special? Groups that want to stay active will love this rental. You’re located smack in the heart of Florida’s Nature Coast (along with the Crystal River bungalow, below), letting you explore parks and go on tours at your leisure. The rental also has a private dock for anglers and paddleboards for adventurers.
Stilted Bungalow on the Canal (Crystal River)
- Sleeps up to: Eight
- Coolest amenities: Kayaks and paddleboards, direct canal access, and kayaking distance to bars and restaurants on the water
- What makes this property special? Nature-lovers, assemble! This quirky, stilted home lets you feel like you’re part of the Gulf magic with its stilts and décor. Inside, you’ll find a clean, fresh setup that even high-design fans will like. You’re in the heart of the Nature Coast, and close to can’t-miss activities like swimming with the manatees.
Newly Built Beachfront Cabin (Carrabelle)
- Sleeps up to: Six
- Coolest amenities: Back porch with water views, separate closed porch, and direct beach access
- What makes this property special? This new property is located in one of Florida’s least busy zones, near St. George Island. You can expect relaxing vibes—and minimal noise disturbances from other renters.
Charming Waterfront Cottage (Panacea)
- Sleeps up to: Five
- Coolest amenities: Fish-cleaning station on the back porch, gas griddle, and proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail
- What makes this property special? If you’re looking for lazy days where you can watch the dolphins swim by, this property is just as calm and relaxing as the last (beachfront cabin in Carrabelle, above). It’s a more remote property where you can listen to the birds while you grill up meals on the porch.
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