3 Florida Getaways That Take a Little Extra Effort — and Are Totally Worth It (2025 Guide)
In Florida, the most memorable & peaceful stays often aren’t the easiest to reach. Whether it’s a boat ride, a long stretch of open road, or packing in your own supplies, these three places require a little more effort, but the experience is so worth it!
Cabbage Key: An Island Escape with Old Florida Charm
Only accessible by boat, Cabbage Key sits between Boca Grande and Captiva, and feels like a step back in time. Built in the 1930s by author Mary Roberts Rinehart, the island’s original hilltop estate is now home to the Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant.
Most visitors swing by for lunch and drinks at the popular restaurant, but staying overnight is what reveals the true charm of this hidden gem. You’ll find six rooms at the inn, or you can opt for one of the standalone cottages for a more secluded stay. The Dollhouse, originally a playhouse for Rinehart’s children, is now a cozy one-bedroom retreat with a king bed, small kitchenette, and TV.
Tip: If you don’t have your own boat, take Island Girl Charters from Pineland Marina if you don’t have your own boat.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve: Glamp Beneath Starry Skies
Roughly 40 minutes northwest of Okeechobee, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is Florida’s first Dark Sky Park and one of the best places in the state for stargazing. With wide-open skies and barely any light pollution, it’s a true escape into nature.
For a comfy stay, try glamping with Timberline Glamping. Their safari-style tents come with AC, cozy beds, a mini fridge, coffee maker, telescope, and games. Bathrooms are just a short walk away, and there’s plenty to explore during the day, like hiking or renting bikes from the ranger station.
Tip: Bring all your food and supplies with you. This is true camping! The closest large grocery stores are more than 30 miles away.
Flamingo: Sleep in a Shipping Container in Everglades National Park
At the southern tip of Everglades National Park, just under two hours from Miami, you’ll find one of Florida’s most unique places to stay. The newly built Flamingo Lodge features 24 elevated rooms made from modified shipping containers, each with a balcony overlooking Florida Bay. Choose from studios, one-bedrooms, or two-bedroom suites, all with kitchenettes and a surprising amount of space.
Flamingo also offers houseboat rentals, glamping tents, and traditional camping, so you can pick your level of adventure.
Tip: The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner which is perfect after a day of paddling, biking, or spotting crocs & manatees.
