Our favorite B&Bs will help you have an authentic and memorable Florida experience — not a night in Anywhere USA.
Lodging
Cabbage Key: Old Florida island for kayaking, history, atmosphere
Cabbage Key is reachable only by boat. It’s popular as a lunch-cruise destination. But stay overnight in the inn or cabins to discover its true charms. On our visit, we also found it’s a great base for exploring by kayak.
Visit Old Florida in Micanopy and explore nearby nature and history
Micanopy is right off I-75 near Gainesville, but it feels far away — like a small town in a Florida long gone. Its jewel is the 1845 Herlong Mansion B&B.
Florida cabin rentals in state parks: Like camping, but with comfort
One of the best places to enjoy nature is in a cabin in a Florida state park. But the cabins book up fast, so now is the time to make reservations for the winter. Our guide explains which parks have cabins, what they offer and what they cost. Of the 21 parks in Florida with cabins, we’ve stayed in 12 of them.
A houseboat adventure in Everglades National Park
Renting a houseboat in Everglades National Park lets you glide into the wilderness of Whitewater Bay and experience its splendor at dawn, at sunset and marvel at its starry skies. Fishermen will love it, but even without fishing, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Discovering 100-year-old Vero Beach, Driftwood Inn
This laid-back beach town isn’t famous, but it charms visitors with its funky Florida history, gorgeous beaches and a cute downtown with interesting restaurants and shops. In 2019, it celebrates its 100th birthday.
Lake Louisa: Nature near Orlando with great hiking and cabins
Lake Louisa State Park is a half hour from theme parks, but is a natural world with 20 miles of hiking trails and great cabins. Located on the east end of the vast Green Swamp, you’ll find wildlife, old citrus groves, hills, cypress swamps and forests.
On a budget? Key West on the cheap isn’t easy, but here are tips
It is possible to go to Key West on a budget. Here are some frugal tips on lodging, interesting budget restaurants and free places to go.
Oleta River State Park feels like island getaway in Miami urban sprawl
This Miami state park, 10 minutes from sprawling Aventura Mall, is a remarkable island of green where you can kayak, mountain bike, picnic and enjoy a sandy beach. There are even rustic cabins to rent.
