Senior Couple Enjoying Retirement On the Beach – Courtesy: Shutterstock — Daniel Myjones
Florida is a great vacation spot for travelers of all ages. However, certain Sunshine State communities give visitors a laid-back vacation packed with things to do that are appropriate for mature people. These Florida communities offer a small piece of heaven, complete with boat tours, golf resorts, oceanside eateries, and sunset strolls. See the top five Florida destinations for retirees, complete with activities and lodging.
- St. Augustine
St. Augustine is a popular tourist destination, but in the spring and fall it is the ideal place to unwind. You may have this wonderful ancient town all to yourself because it’s less crowded and pleasant outside. One of Florida’s most distinctive cities, St. Augustine has a rising number of retirees. The city is certainly walkable, but a trolley is also available for use in the center. And if you enjoy history or the outdoors, you should visit this location! Everything from historical sites and wine-tasting cruises to leisurely beach strolls and picturesque drives is available to you.
Things to do and see: A scenic drive to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, carriage rides, a food and drink cruise, a promenade around Old St. Augustine, a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, and more.
Where to stay: Villa 1565 Hotel (Mission-style hotel), Casa Monica Resort & Spa (upscale 4-star hotel)
Where to eat: Harry’s Seafood (Cajun-Creole bar and grill), Columbia Restaurant (traditional Spanish eatery), Prohibition Kitchen (1920’s-themed American tavern)
- Melbourne
Melbourne, located on the Atlantic Coast south of Orlando, is renowned for its beach activities, vibrant art scene, and laid-back ambiance. The best time to travel is in the spring when the climate is moderate, there are few tourists, and nature is in blossom. This city is for easygoing, energetic individuals who enjoy being outside, visiting museums, and visiting gardens. In addition, there is a strong sense of community there!
Paradise Beach and Park, performances at the King Center, the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum, the Foosaner Art Museum, and a stroll around downtown are all worthwhile attractions.
Where to stay: Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast (4-star B&B with ocean views), Tuckaway Shores Resort (beachfront suites)
Where to eat: Chart House (upscale seafood with beautiful views), The Mansion (casual American in a Victorian house)
- Sarasota
Sarasota, which is situated on the Gulf Coast south of Tampa, is a thriving city with a variety of good eating options, cultural institutions, and miles of immaculate beaches. A botanical garden, lounging by the lake, or kayaking through mangroves are all options. People of all mobility levels who enjoy soaking up the sun in a picturesque setting should consider Sarasota. In the spring and fall, the weather is ideal.
Riverboat tours, the Sarasota Opera House, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Lido Key Beach, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens, a farmers market, and the Sarasota Classic Car Museum are among the places to visit.
Where to stay: The Westin (4-star hotel with a rooftop pool), Sandcastle Resort (casual 3-star lodge with Gulf views)
Where to eat: Veronica Fish and Oyster (seafood supper club), Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse (upscale steak and cocktails)
- Punta Gorda
North of Fort Myers, this city in Southwest Florida is situated along Charlotte Harbor. Punta Gorda is well renowned for its high standard of safety, laid-back vibe, lovely marinas, and delectable dining establishments. Retirement residents particularly like this city because it has a low cost of living, a low crime rate, and lots of activities to do. You can unwind on the beach, go on boat trips, or browse a farmer’s market throughout your holiday. The ideal seasons for travel are early spring and early fall.
Boat tours, Alligator Bay Distillers, Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, Fishermen’s Village, Military Heritage Museum, Ponce De Leon Park, Gilchrest Park, and Peace River Wildlife Center are among the places to visit.
Where to stay: Charlotte Bay Resort and Club (3-star hotel near the water), Fishermen’s Village (waterfront resort complex with shopping and dining)
Where to eat: Laishley Crab House (seafood on the water), Leroy’s Southern Kitchen & Bar (Southern soul food)
- Clearwater
This opulent beach community is located in the Tampa Bay region, which is renowned for its barrier island’s white sand beaches and emerald waterways. If you visit in the early fall, you may avoid the crowds and the heat at this choice, which can be a little livelier than the others on the list. You may explore surrounding islands, take a Tiki cruise, watch dolphins, or enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the ocean vistas when not strolling along Clearwater Beach, one of the top beaches in the nation.
Activities and sights to view include Honeymoon Island State Park, Sand Key Park, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, pirate cruises, and Hogan’s Beach Shop.
Where to stay: Shepherd’s Beach Resort (beachy 3-star resort), Opal Sands Resort & Spa (posh 4-star hotel on the water)
Where to eat: Crabby’s Bar & Grill (laidback seafood spot with happy hour), Marina Cantina (dockside Mexican spot with a roof deck)
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.