14 Best Unique Places to Stay in Florida (2023)

July 8, 2023

Looking for the best unique places to stay in Florida? Plan your trip to the sunshine state around these 14 unusual places to visit in Florida for an unforgettable vacation!

Whether you are flying solo, planning a trip with a loved one or going on a family vacation – At the end of the day, it’s all about the experience and making new memories that will last for years to come. 

Florida is home to beautiful, scenic beaches and amazing tourist attractions with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to just relax, enjoy the water sports or excursions, or explore a local attraction, choosing the perfect place to stay for a fun-filled vacation is key.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to make a purchase. These are products I’ve personally used and stand behind. You can read disclaimer here

14 Really Cool and Unique Places to Stay in Florida

With so many unique places to stay in Florida, deciding on where to stay can get overwhelming. But, not to worry, I’ve got you covered – from underwater lodging and themed homes to uniquely designed pyramids and bungalows. 

So get your bags ready and book your getaway at one of these unique stays in Florida and start creating new memories to add to your next scrapbook memoir.

1. Pyramids in Florida

The Pyramids in Florida is located in Fort Myers and is one of my favorites for its attention to healing and well-being. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay where you can relax, connect with nature, and that inspires wellness at the same time, this is the place to be! 

Here you can enjoy being surrounded by the beauty of nature and non-toxic, non-chemicalized herbal gardens, and fruit trees which you are free to pick and eat from, if ripe. How awesome is that?!

You can also soak in the warmth of the sun while taking a dip in the healing mineral waters and go for a reflexology stroll on the Kneipp Barefoot Path designed from various stones, wood textures and other materials with alternating temperatures for an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience. 

Guests can eat fresh and enjoy clean, healthy meals on site or venture off-site to get a taste of local foods in the area. There are also local farmers markets and organic farms nearby if you choose to prepare your own meals in your pyramid kitchen.  

Whatever you choose to do, rest assured, the founders/hosts have ensured you have everything you need to make your stay comfortable, safe and enjoyable including steering clear from toxic chemicals when washing the bed linens.

THINGS TO DO >>>

2. Jules Undersea Lodge – An Underwater Hotel

Jules Undersea Lodge is located in Key Largo, Florida and is the only underwater hotel in the United States!  It was named after Jules Verne – the famous author known for his science-fiction novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea among many others. The lodge is also a research lab which is what it started out as originally. 

The exciting part? 

Scuba diving is the only way to access the lodge! Don’t worry, You’ll receive proper instruction and assistance getting to your room which will be accessed by diving 21 feet into the lagoon and swimming underneath the lodge to access the entrance to this phenomenal resort. Your personal belongings will be transported down separately. 

Your stay includes a pizza delivery by a scuba diver and unlimited air tanks to explore the lagoon during your stay. Just be sure to ask for vegan or no cheese with your veggie pizza! 😉 

Every bedroom is designed for your comfort with air conditioning, an intercom, phone connection to the command center, Amazon Fire Stick, wifi and more. Rest assured, you will be staying in comfort. 

So, if you’re ready for an underwater adventure where waking up to sea life peeping through your 42” circular bedroom window is a morning routine, this one’s for you! 

THINGS TO DO 

3. Bungalows Key Largo

This hidden gem in the Florida Keys is an all-inclusive, adults-only bungalow resort – perfect for a romantic getaway, solo retreat or a bestie’s weekend escape. 

The all-inclusive package at Bungalows Key Largo includes luxury accommodations, welcome drinks and refreshments, all meals including fine dining and premium alcoholic beverages, and much more. 

The resort boasts two pools, two jacuzzi hot tubs, three piers to enjoy sunset evenings and plenty of beachfront cabanas to simply just relax under the sun. There are also 3 restaurants on site, a full-service zen garden spa and plenty of activities included with your stay that range from paddleboarding to kayaking to yoga classes and many others. 

If being social is more up your alley, you won’t want to miss the floating tiki bar! 

Guests can book one out of 135 private bungalows, each with its own soaking tub and separate garden shower. Beach cruisers are also included with your stay so you can enjoy a bike ride as you explore the 12 acre property. 

This magical place will make you feel like you’re somewhere in the Caribbean!

THINGS TO DO 

4. Deer Run on the Atlantic

This adults-only, eco-friendly, sustainable bed and breakfast is located in beautiful Big Pine Key on the Atlantic Ocean just 40 minutes north of Key West and about a 23-minute drive, south of Marathon.

It’s also a 3 hour drive from South Beach if you’re coming from the Miami Beach area and a little under 4 hours if you’re coming from the West Palm Beach area.

Deer Run on the Atlantic is in a great beachfront location and makes for a perfect weekend or week long getaway with the girls, loved one or even flying solo. 

The property uses recycled water barrels and solar energy throughout and serves a full organic, vegan breakfast daily. Deer Run also boasts a mineral spring salt water swimming pool with a spa on site along with providing guests with free bikes, kayaks and snorkel gear for some fun in the sun!

Now, that’s my kinda place! 

Guests can enjoy all the comforts from home with their stay including a flat-screen TV with cable access, iPod docking station, private bathroom with a hot tub and shower as well as free toiletries. Some units may also include a seating area. 

And if you enjoy nature and have a love for animals, keep your eyes peeled for a magical encounter with some of Big Pine Key’s endangered key deer residents!

THINGS TO DO 

5. Wizards Way by Lomas Homes

If you’re a Potterhead and huge Harry Potter fan, then you are going to love this Harry Potter-themed home. This one is perfect for a magical family vacation or a group of Potterhead friends looking for a unique place to vacation! 

Wizards Way by Loma Homes is an 8-bedroom, 5-bathroom house located in Davenport, Florida with rooms that are themed around Hogwarts, Dumbledore’s office, Hogwarts Express, and so much more.

This family-friendly resort has been designed with the wizard enthusiast in mind, the utmost attention to detail, and a wizardly, magical experience that includes special effects, custom-carved beds, ambient sounds, custom mood lighting, and a gameroom, and a movie room designed to resemble the Forbidden Forest. 

You will feel like you’re living in Hogwarts yourself!

Your stay here includes all the comforts from home and access to all clubhouse amenities including a water park with lazy river and water slide. Guests will also receive complimentary candy from Diagon Alley and other Harry Potter-themed memorabilia, to enhance your wizardly experience. 

And if that’s not enough to get your Potter fix on, Wizards Way is only a short 15-minute trip away from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios.

THINGS TO DO

6. The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

If you’re a fan of live music and the sound of cha-chinging machines, then this hotel for you! 

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel aka “The Guitar Hotel” is designed for fun with something for everyone – from live music to restaurants to guitar pool and poker room to two huge beautiful pools to a mega casino, if gambling is your thing and much more. 

Guests can also enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay in one of this massive hotel’s 638 luxury rooms and suites designed in brightly lit, guitar style. This monstrosity of a hotel extends 450 feet into the sky with breathtaking views of the south florida skyline and performs a rockin’ light show around 7pm each night. 

All rooms are non-smoking and private parking is included at no extra charge. 

Not my first choice if you’re looking for low-key and relaxation but definitely one of south Florida’s cool and unique places to stay and a fun place to visit with friends or family if music and fun is your ideal vacation. 

THINGS TO DO

7. The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn – Boutique Hotel on Amelia Island

Located in the bustling downtown Fernandina Beach lies The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn – A boutique hotel and the first school originally built in 1886. The building floundered into misuse until its renovation in 2017.  It retained its original windows, hardwood floors, and brick, giving it an old-world allure with a modern twist, a contrast that makes it one of the most unique hotels in Florida.

There are also plenty of fun activities to enjoy in downtown Fernandina Beach including strolling through historic local shops offering arts and crafts, visit art galleries such as Blue Door Artists and support unique, fine art from local artists.

Visitors can also explore state park military sites on the “Isle of Eight Flags,” nicknamed for its eight ruling countries since the 16th century, or stroll through historic shops, restaurants, and art galleries in Fernandina Beach’s lovely Old Town downtown district.

Family-friendly beachfront access is offered at Main Beach Park, while area landmarks and natural wonders can be explored by taking a guided kayak tour of Amelia Island or by visiting Amelia Island State Park and explore over 200 acres of untouched wilderness – home of protected nesting birds and wildlife.

All 17 rooms at the Amelia Schoolhouse Inn hotel includes free wi fi, cable tv, plush pillow-top mattresses, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a full bathroom. This adult-only hotel also has free parking, 24/7 front desk service, free continental breakfast, and all-day coffee in the commons.

The boutique hotel also features a fenced outdoor pool, a courtyard with putting green, and a chic bar, aptly called the Principal’s Office. The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn is one of the top places to stay in Florida for a unique boutique hotel experience for those seeking a family vacation, romantic getaway or simply, a quiet solo Florida trip retreat. 

This hotel is in a great location conveniently located near some of the best attractions on the island. 

THINGS TO DO

8. Simonton Court Historic Inn and Cottage

Perfect for lovers of Victorian and Conch architecture, this tropical resort in Key West is one of the most atmospheric and unique places to stay in the Florida Keys. Lounge by the pool, unwind in the lush garden or explore downtown on a bicycle hire.

The vibrant Duval Street, famous for its bars, shops, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife spots, is a walking distance from the hotel. 

With its creatively themed lodgings, this property is easily one of the most exotic hotels in Florida. There’s the Mansion, a restored Victorian residence; the Inn, a converted cigar factory; and the Manor, an old shotgun house in traditional Bahamian style.

The Townhouse, a two-story stucco building, offers secluded suites for more privacy. The Cottages, which once housed cigar factory workers, are quirky yet cozy. All rooms include a TV, refrigerator, balcony or patio, and full bathroom.

This adult-only hotel features four outdoor pools open 24 hours, free WiFi on the grounds, a picnic area, and complimentary continental breakfast at the poolside.

THINGS TO DO

9. The Ever After Estate

Luxury awaits you in this 62-acre gated island estate. HGTV featured this sprawling property in America’s Most Outrageous Homes, and rightly so. The Ever After Estate is not only outrageously impressive, but it is also one of the most unique places to stay in Florida.

It is, after all, bigger than half of Disney’s Magic Kingdom and just as fun with its waterfall lagoon, thrilling waterslide, video game arcades, spacious movie theater, mini golf course, various sports courts, and karaoke sound stage.

At the movie-themed Ever After Estate, you can be as close to nature as you want without sacrificing comfort and modern entertainment. Unwind in the marshlands, watching sandhill cranes while sipping on a refreshing juice or smoothie. Then head to the poolside theater to enjoy a show or whip up some fancy snacks at the gourmet kitchen.

The property can sleep up to 40 people and accommodate over a hundred guests for outdoor events, making it the perfect venue for weddings, family reunions, company parties, or team buildings. But if you prefer a quieter and more serene escape, it is also a fantastic place for relaxing, with its well-manicured grounds mixed with natural pasture.

All 13 bedrooms are intricately-themed, from the Harry Potter-inspired Wizard’s Dorm to the funky Rocky Bedroom and Training Gym Suite. The property also has 9.5 bathrooms, 3-1/2 kitchens, a grilling area, picnic tables, a fitness center, and a small library.                                  

THINGS TO DO


10. Kokomo Farms

If you’re a nature lover and share a love for animals, Kokomo Farms in Florida is the place for you! Kokomo farms is a vegan, organic farm and home to rescued farmed animals which you are welcomed to interact with during your stay. If you ask me, this is the BEST part! 

The farm is located in Live Oak, Florida on a beautiful 20-acre property and offers travelers an unforgettable experience with its lush gardens, rolling hills and beautiful wildlife.

Guests can choose to stay in an eco cabin, tiny house, cottage, RV, shipping container or even a treehouse. Glamping on the farm is also an option if roughing it in a tent is not your style.

The accommodations at Kokomo Farms are among the best unique places to stay in Florida. They offer amazing views and are surrounded by nature’s beauty and picturesque landscapes including a zen garden, hot tub, and greenhouses. 

Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax, reconnect with nature, explore the trails, kayak the Suwannee River or simply lounge in the hot tub, Kokomo Farms has something for everyone!

THINGS TO DO 


11. King Triton’s Palace

This spacious 7-bedroom lavish home provides a fantastic blend of fun and relaxation. The property may not be one of those quirky places to stay for a wacky getaway. But it is one of the coziest and coolest places to stay in Florida for families and friends, especially those planning to explore the nearby theme parks.

Upon arriving, you can’t miss the 38-foot-long, fish-shaped, heated private pool, which includes a spa whirlpool, a shallow area for young children, and color-changing lights to set the mood for a romantic evening. There is an outdoor play area with a swing set and an underwater-themed splash pad. 

The home has four master bedrooms with top-of-the-line mattresses, a flat-screen Netflix-ready television, and an ensuite bathroom. The three children’s bedrooms feature a specific theme. The toy-themed room includes spaceship beds, the under-the-sea room has pirate-inspired beds, and the princess room offers twin castle beds.

The property also has a well-appointed kitchen, free WiFi, a multi-game arcade machine, and a movie theater with theatre-style seating for ten.

THINGS TO DO

12. The Lego House

No, this 4-bedroom pool house is not made out of Lego pieces. But it is, without doubt, a fantasy vacation home for die-hard Lego fans. Imagine Lego-themed bedrooms and bathrooms and a kitchen with Lego cups and a Lego waffle maker. Even the pool features giant Lego-inspired blocks.

All spaces have Lego-inspired decors. The living room features a Legoland Lego set display and a 65’ Roku TV. There is a playroom with over 1000 Lego pieces for guests, a Lego soccer game, a Ninjago board game, and a classic arcade with hundreds of games. The patio has an open-door sitting area, a fire pit, a slide, and a kids’ playhouse.

The Lego House is less than a mile drive to Legoland, making it an excellent base for a visit to the theme park.

THINGS TO DO

13. The Barnacle

A cozy, round cottage surrounded by lush greenery and tucked away in the remote Indian Pass, the Barnacle is definitely one of the most unique places to stay in Florida.

Unlike most resorts, this area has no glitzy high rises or noisy clubs but stretches of unspoiled coast, colorful shells scattered on the shore, scenic seaside trails, and mesmerizing sunsets.

Just 150 meters from the beach, the Barnacle boasts a wrap-around deck, perfect for wildlife and bird watching. You can also catch tiny glimpses of the Indian Lagoon from the veranda. Inside is a fully-equipped kitchen and homey living room with a wide-screen TV, a mini library, and a futon for extra sleeping.

The two bedrooms come with full bathrooms. From the house is a private boardwalk that winds through oak trees and climbs over the sand dune leading to the beach.

The Barnacle is the ideal setting for shelling, paddle-boarding, sailing, hiking, or simply just relaxing. You can also borrow the property bikes and visit nearby state parks, T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park or Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park.

THINGS TO DO

14. The Birdhouse

This 720 sq foot open space, riverfront vacation home lies along the idyllic Withlacoochee River. Newly renovated, it features an air-conditioned bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a full bathroom, a small kitchen, a living room with a smart TV, and an airy screened porch with outdoor chairs.

From the dock, you can see Rainbow River and Withlacoochee River meet. There is also a fire pit and a hammock where you can relax and soak up the lovely views. The property is pet-friendly; however, it is for adults only.

If you love nature and wildlife, the Birdhouse is only 15 minutes from beautiful Crystal River where you can enjoy kayaking, sightseeing, birdwatching, swim with the manatees, take an ecotours, and so much more.

THINGS TO DO

Sandra Campillo

Sandra Campillo

Sandra Campillo is an eco, vegan lifestyle and travel blogger and entrepreneur. Join Sandra and her community of readers on SandraCampillo.com to learn how to live a healthier, more sustainable, and compassionate way of life while creating a passive income lifestyle.

Sandra's Story
Sandra Campillo
Logo
Shopping cart