15 Romantic Things to Do in Florida for Couples

couple in miami — Westend61 / Getty Images

With white sand beaches, year-round sunshine, and exquisite dining, Florida is an obvious choice when looking for your next romantic getaway in the U.S. There are tons of fun things to do in Florida for couples, while also keeping things spontaneous and romantic.

“For a romantic trip to Florida and to stay in a luxury hotel, I would budget at least $1,000 per day if you’re traveling between December and July. In the low season, you could get away for less,” reveals Florida-based travel advisor Kristina Miller.

Meet the Expert

Kristina Miller is a Florida-based travel advisor at Wanderlust Travel Adventures, a Virtuoso Agency.

Regarding the best time to visit, Miller says that the winter season in Florida is gorgeous. “Days are often sunny and hover in the high 70s. In the spring, the beaches start to warm up. And even though summer is hot and humid, it's great beach weather when the ocean feels like bath water.” If visiting in the fall, you may experience more afternoon thunderstorms and the risk of hurricanes, but Miller claims there are often amazing deals to be had, especially on dining and spas.

Also, taking your romantic trip to the next level is never a bad idea. “Ask your hotel to set up a private beach dinner surrounded by candles or choose a room with an expansive ocean-view balcony. Some hotels even have private plunge pools,” she offers.

Are you looking for a romantic getaway with your better half? Keep reading for 15 fun things to do in Florida for couples.

01 of 15

Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Orlando

Going on a new adventure brings you together as a couple, so taking a ride on a hot air balloon is always a fun idea. There are a variety of hot air balloon companies in Orlando, like Bob’s Balloons. Couples can ride over the Orlando, Kissimmee, Disney World, or the Davenport areas on a flight customized just for them.

02 of 15

Horseback Riding in Amelia Island

Fulfill your dream of a romantic sunset horseback ride on Amelia Island. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to stroll into the ocean on the back of a horse. You’re likely to spot birds and other wildlife while soaking in the amazing scenery during your ride.

03 of 15

Dine With a Personal Champagne Cart in Destin

romantic picnic for two with fruit charcuterie and champagne — Courtesy of Champagne Social Co.

Roses, a candlelit dinner, chocolate-covered strawberries, and Champagne. Did those words spark an image of a romantic dinner with your partner? Now imagine it on the beach in the panhandle of Florida with a luxury Champagne cart, a picnic completely planned for you, and a personalized playlist. Sound ideal? Champagne Social Co. is Destin, Pensacola, and Santa Rosa’s go-to luxury drink and picnic service; it’s a women and BIPOC-owned and operated business started by two creative sisters.

04 of 15

Try Scuba Diving in Key West

Take advantage of the Florida waters and arrange a day full of water exploration. Couples can go scuba diving in Key West. Beginners can head to Captain’s Corner, a PADI-certified Dive Center that has Key West’s only on-site training pool. And if you’re both already certified to dive, hop on the boat and enjoy getting up close and personal with the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world.

05 of 15

Spot Dolphins in Naples

If you're looking to experience dolphin sightings, you've come to the right place. Naples has some of the most reported dolphin sightings, especially if you’re by the Naples Pier. Whether you’re in the area in the early morning or later in the evening, there’s a good chance you’ll see one.

06 of 15

Set Up a Romantic Picnic in Sunken Gardens

Couples looking for a unique way to dine outside without the hassle of packing a picnic, Sunken Gardens has a unique new offering. St. Pete Picnic Co. and Gather ‘Round and Graze have partnered to create a curated picnic experience at this natural botanical paradise. Picnics start at $165 and can be customized and built on from there.

07 of 15

Take Kitesurfing Lessons in Key Biscayne

Adventurous couples can take a break from sunbathing and try kitesurfing in the Miami area. Similar to surfing or wakeboarding, kiteboarding is a surface water sport that uses the power of the wind. It’s a fun way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the warm waters.

08 of 15

Arrange Romantic Waterfront Dining in Clearwater

At the end of the day, plan a romantic dinner by the water, or take a sunset cruise. Of course, you can keep things simple and just snuggle up on a blanket on the beach to wait for the perfect sunset. Top outdoor waterfront dining includes Teak, Bon Appetit, and Island Way Grill.

09 of 15

Stroll Through the Sculpture Exhibition in Rosemary Beach

sculpture garden in miami — Courtesy of Visit South Walton

Many couples admire Rosemary Beach simply for its unique design style that places everything within a short walk from the town center. However, the public art on display gives visitors another reason to slow down and enjoy the scenery. The Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition is an art show of contemporary outdoor sculptures on display throughout the town.

10 of 15

Explore the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami

While in Miami, visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens with free admission. According to the website, the museum is “an enduring, inclusive, and innovative place that inspires people to embrace the cultural vitality and environmental sustainability of the world around us.” They recently opened up a farmer’s market where couples can taste the artistry of local vendors as they explore the farm and village.

11 of 15

Go on a Culinary Journey in Miami

outdoor bar in an exotic setting — Courtesy of MILA Miami

The Miami area is adored for having a wide variety of culinary indulgences to choose from. Located in the heart of South Beach, MILA Miami, a 250-seat rooftop restaurant, has become the new “it” location with an energetic setting and new inventive menus. Other quality restaurants couples should try are Mr. Chow, Zuma, or Buya.

12 of 15

Enjoy a Couples Spa Treatment in Sandestin

Treat yourselves to a couples massage, you won’t regret it. For example, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has a special couples massage treatment at the resort’s award-winning Serenity by the Sea Spa. It’s offered in a specially designed private room for side-by-side massages and is popular with honeymooners. So are the relaxing and indulgent side-by-side spa pedicures!

13 of 15

Ride a Seaplane Over the Keys

red, white, and blue sea plane — Photo by Alec Douglas / Unsplash

Take an exhilarating ride over Key West from your own seaplane. You’ll cruise above the water for a unique vantage point to view sea life in the crystal blue waters below, including dolphins, tarpons, rays, hammerheads, and maybe even a manatee if you’re lucky. Check out Key West Seaplane Adventures or Keys Seaplanes to book your own.

14 of 15

Visit Lovers Key Beach in Bonita Springs

Experience the beauty of The Westin Cape Coral’s waterfront location, filled with extensive activities and elegant spaces. A short drive away, take a trip to Lovers Key Beach, a stunning two-mile-long sandy beach in Lovers Key Park. Spend the day lounging on the beach or take advantage of the many water sport options available to travelers, including kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, biking, and more.

15 of 15

Plan a Dog-Friendly Getaway in South Beach

beautiful sandy beach on a sunny day — Photo by Joël de Vriend / Unsplash

If you’re a couple that has a fur baby, take them with you because Florida tends to be extremely dog-friendly. Couples can stay at the pet-welcoming Kimpton Surfcomber. The hotel has a spa, cabanas, and direct access to the beach and South Beach Boardwalk with complimentary bikes. Couples who want to be more social can grab a craft cocktail at The Social Club, or dine al fresco at High Tide Beach Bar and Grill.

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Florida