For those who adore the warm summer months, the rain and chilly breezes of spring can be tough to endure. Cast off your jacket, ditch the umbrella and treat yourself to Florida's perfect weather — and to reduced rates thanks to the start of the off-season.
Here are five first-rate beach vacations in Florida — four packages that combine airfare and a hotel stay, and one cruise. Most deals offer bonus perks like free breakfast or WiFi.
1. $575+ Miami Beach: Flights + 3 Nights at Pelican Hotel
This flight and hotel combo promises a whirlwind trip to South Beach, with a three-night stay at the 4-star guest rated Pelican Hotel on energetic Ocean Drive. Set smack dab in the middle of the Art Deco District, the property is surrounded by architectural gems. A short walk will get you to this party town's most famous beach.
If that's not enough to lure you, check out the freebies on offer: free breakfast, free drinks during Happy Hour and free WiFi.
Learn more about this beach vacation in Florida.
2. $806+ Key West: Flights + 5 Nights at Adults-Only Guesthouse
This kids-free Key West getaway includes airfare and a stay at the Cabana Inn Key West, an elegant guesthouse not far from Jackson Square, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and Audubon House and Tropical Gardens.
The property oozes classic Florida charm, and its outdoor pool is modest but enticing. White-sand Smathers Beach is about three miles east of the inn.
Wake up every morning to a free continental breakfast, and upload photos from your vacation with the free WiFi offered in your room and in public areas.
Learn more about this beach vacation in Florida.
3. $592+ Amelia Island: Air + 4 Nights Near Harborfront
For a more sedate experience, consider spending your vacation in a slice of small-town Florida found in the very northern corner of the state. Under-the-radar Amelia Island is home to the 4.5-star guest rated Hampton Inn & Suites, close to the historic harborfront and about two miles from Fernandina Beach's smooth, white sands.
You'd never starve on this trip — the hotel offers a free hot breakfast and it also happens to be within walking distance of 25 dining options. Bon appétit!
Learn more about this beach vacation in Florida.
4. $262+ South Beach: Flights + 3 Nights on Ocean Drive
Penny-pinchers might have found their dream Florida vacation with this package, which includes airfare and three nights at the boutique Beach Paradise Hotel for under $300. The Mediterranean-style property was built in 1929 and is one of the acclaimed historic structures that form the Miami Beach Architectural District.
From here, it's an easy stroll to the beach or to the bars and restaurants lining Ocean Drive and Collins Ave. A five-minute cab ride will get you to dreamy Española Way, a pedestrian enclave packed with al fresco dining patios.
Learn more about this beach vacation in Florida.
5. $319+ Key West/Cozumel Cruise – 4 Nights from Miami
For those wanting to hit the seas, this four-night cruise from Miami lets you spend a day meandering through the streets of Key West before setting sail for the Mexican island of Cozumel.
Onboard the Carnival Fantasy, you'll have plenty of food, activities and entertainment to keep you busy between ports of call. Add a few nights in Miami to the beginning or end of your trip to extend your beach vacation.
Learn more about this beach vacation in Florida and Mexico.
