The 2021 Florida Staycation Guide — Palm Beach County to The Keys (2024)

With rental cars soexpensive and airplane travel sostressful, consider a driving vacation in your own car. You can find a prime location within a few hours' drive or, if that’s too far, in the next town over.

And lucky you, deals for Florida residents abound.

One caveat: Specials are subject to change and may have other restrictions like black-out days or advance registration requirements. Deals may be "subject to availability,"and others are non-refundable.

Check the hotel’s website for the latest info and whenever possible book your room through the hotel. Don’t be shy but do be friendly and polite. Ask if there’s any other way you can save a few dollars.

Don’t even think about bundling: Almost every deal has language that says, “Cannot be combined with any other offer.” Also, read the fine print or you may find nasty surprise charges at checkout. Ask about those charges at check-in, and you might convince someone to waive them.

The bottom line: Ask questions and be sure to confirm everything.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best offers going in South Florida, from Palm Beach County to The Keys. Next week: Central Florida, the West Coast and Northeast Florida.

Palm Beach County

BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB—501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton. 561-447-3000; www.bocaresort.com

The ultimate luxury accommodations, 356 waterfront acres and a private golden beach, with daily golf, tennis, breakfast and a resort credit with every two night or more stay.

Stay longer: Escape to a private two-bedroom bungalow with full kitchen overlooking lush gardens for at least sevendays and take 25% off the best rate. Includes self-parking, reduced resort charge and access to the private club. Offer code: P9.

Your Oceanfront Oasis: Stay three days and get the fourth night – in fact, get every fourth night — free. This deal includes American Breakfast, a daily resort credit of $50, free daily golf and tennis and no resort fee. Through Oct. 1. Offer code: P8

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BRAZILIAN COURT HOTEL PALM BEACH—301 Australian Ave., Palm Beach. 561-655-7740; www.thebraziliancourt.com

A beloved hideaway for over 95 years, the legendary Brazilian Court—with its Mediterranean style, rich history and captivating charm — provides an intimate atmosphere with luxurious touches for an unforgettable Palm Beach experience. Best available starting rate: $299 per night plus tax.

Florida residents: Save up to 15% off best available rates including valet parking from June 1 through Sept. 30.

Stay more & pay less: Through Sept. 30, book a three-night stay and get a fourth night free.

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THE BREAKERS — 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach. 888-273-2537; www.thebreakers.com

One of America’s most iconic resort destinations boasts a private beach, four oceanfront pools, 10 restaurants, a five-star spa, 14 signature boutiques, and access to sports of all kinds, from golf to tennis to croquet to watersports.

Complimentary Daily Benefits deal: Pay no resort fee and enjoy a full American breakfast buffet at The Circle or The Beach Club Restaurant; meals for children ages 12 and under; unlimited access to Ocean Fitness center, outdoor classes and tennis court times; high-speed Wi-Fi; access to exclusive amenities including family programs and an extensive selection of recreational activities. Through Sept. 30, including Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Rates start at $465 per night.

Sixth night free: A complimentary sixth night, when you stay five consecutive nights until Dec. 16.

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CRANE’S BEACH HOUSE BOUTIQUE HOTEL & LUXURY VILLAS — 82 Gleason St., Delray Beach. 561-278-1700; www.cranesbeachhouse.com

This tranquil, tropical boutique hotel features 28 spacious suites and villas set around the lush, meandering courtyard. Quiet, private and beach-adjacent.

Be Well at Crane’s: A customizable wellness program to reset your mind and body with a menu of spa treatments, yoga and meditation workshops, acupuncture services, health food options, self-care products, and wellness treatments like in-room massages. Services start at $100.

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EAU RESORT & SPA — 100 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan. www.eaupalmbeach.com

One of only two Forbes Five-Star resorts in Palm Beach and eight in Florida, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has a private beach on seven acres of oceanfront with lush tropical gardens. Guests are welcomed with champagne, to enjoy ocean views and tropical breezes. The award-winning Eau Spa, spacious guest rooms with private balconies, fine dining and South Florida nightlife on-site.

Third night free: Stay on select nights between June 1 and Sept. 30 and get the third night free. Valid for all room types available.

Spring Sparkles Package: The ultimate couple's escape, through June 30. The two-night package includes a private dinner in an oceanfront cabana, daily breakfast served on your balcony, a welcome bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries.

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FOUR SEASONS RESORT PALM BEACH — 2800 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach. 800-432-2335; fourseasons.com/palmbeach

Palm Beach Island’s only five-star, five diamond resort. This revitalized 6-acre oceanfront gem is set on the island's widest stretch of sand. With has two oceanfront pools, a Five Star spa, oceanfront dining, new guest rooms with furnished balconies, activities include water and beach sports, bicycles, culinary and mixology tastings and picnics.

Florida residents: Get an exclusive rate through Sept. 30, plus free overnight parking and wireless access.

Fourth night free: Reserve three nights and get your fourth night free. Through Sept. 30. 561-582-2800.

Day Spa and Beach Retreat: Get away for just the day. This package includes your choice of a 50-minute or 80-minute Ocean Bliss Massage, a signature facial, detox wrap, or the Coco Beach Buff plus a $40 credit towards lunch and full-day access to our private beachfront. Light snacks and sparkling wine, valet parking and a 10% retail discount. Starts at $260 plus taxes and gratuities. Reservations are required. Blackout dates apply.

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JUPITER BEACH RESORT & SPA — 5 N. A1A, Jupiter. 877-389-0571; www.jupiterbeachresort.com

Nearly 170 contemporary, island-inspired accommodations, fine dining and barefoot elegance embody this resort located on the longest stretch of secluded beachfront in Palm Beach County and nearly unlimited resort activities.

Florida residents: They call it their “Good Neighbor” discount. Get up to 25% off room rates.

Jupiter Jaunt: Stay two nights and receive the third night free.

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PALM BEACH MARRIOTT SINGER ISLAND — 3800 N. Ocean Drive, Singer Island, Riviera Beach. 561-340-1700; www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/pbisg-palm-beach-marriott-singer-island-beach-resort-and-spa/

Singer Island is unmatched for its natural beauty and this hotel is unmatched for its lavish amenities. It’s another world once you cross the Blue Heron bridge.

Couples Getaway Package: Reconnect and recharge with breakfast for two daily in the Resort's main restaurant (3800 Ocean), Champagne and cheese tray welcome amenity, 20% discount on regular-priced treatments in SiSpa, and a 1 p.m. late check-out. Promo code: ROM. 800-228-9290. Through Dec. 31.

Senior discount: If you’re 62 years or older, save at least 15% on your room rate.

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PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA — 400 Ave. of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens. 800-863-2819; www.pgaresort.com

With 90 holes of championship golf on five courses as well as a state-of-the-art Sports & Racquet Club and a 40,000-square-foot spa with the exclusive Waters of the World outdoor mineral pools, don’t let the ongoing $100 million transformation prevent you from taking advantage of the resort.

Date Night Package: Enjoy a $100 resort credit, breakfast for two, and a bottle of bubbly, plus early check-in and a late check-out.

Stay longer, save more: Stay 2 nights before Oct. 31 and save 15% on your stay.

Miami and the Keys

AMARA CAY RESORT — 80001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada. 305-664-0073; www.amaracayresort.com

In the laid-back style of Islamorada, the sport-fishing capital of the world, hammocks dot the shoreline, palm trees sway and the water sparkles in shades of blue and green. Though the restaurants are open to the public, the grounds are guests-only. The tiki bar is a must-have Keys’ experience, especially at the end of a long day. Watch the boats return to the marina. All you need is sunscreen and your yoga mat.

Florida residents: Save up to 25 percent, plus breakfast daily for two adults.

Senior discount: Guests aged 55 or older save up to 10% off the best available rates.

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CADILLAC HOTEL & BEACH CLUB — 3925 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 305-538-3373; www.cadillachotelmiamibeach.com

A refined, European-inspired Miami Beach oceanfront hotel that embodies the spirit of the Riviera paired with Art Deco design located just steps away from white sands of the Atlantic.

Florida residents: Save 15% on room rates.

Seaside Romantic Escape: Special room rates and a bottle of sparkling rose and six chocolate covered strawberries await. Also includes continental breakfast for two and late check-out at 1 p.m.

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THE CAPITANA KEY WEST — 2401 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West. 866-384-2997; www.thecapitanakeywest.com

This new boutique waterfront hotel is a tropical sanctuary where you can unwind with wide views of the bay from the sandy lounge area. A resort pool, McKee’s Tiki Bar, a fitness center, and pet-friendly policy make this perfect for a romantic getaway full of deep-sea fishing, bike riding, island tours or sightseeing. Cap your day with a visit to Duval Street.

Florida residents: Get up to 10% off rooms and suites, two handcrafted welcome co*cktails, a bottle of sunscreen and a Capitana Keepsake Tumbler.

Local hero deal: Get 15% off room rates. Police, firemen, EMS, first responders, military, teachers, and essential workers are welcomed.

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HAWKS CAY RESORT — 61 Hawks Cay Blvd., Duck Key, 33050. 888-395-5539; www.hawkscay.com

Looking for a quiet getaway? Located halfway between Key Largo and Key West on small, secluded Duck Key. King rooms start as low as $486 on weekdays.

Florida residents: Save 10% or more.

Teacher appreciation: Teachers and educators save 15 percent.

Stay longer deal: Receive 15% off three nights, 20% off five nights, and 25% off seven nights or more.

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MARINA DEL MAR RESORT & MARINA — 527 Caribbean Drive, Key Largo. 305-451-4107; www.marinadelmarkeylargo.com

This waterfront hotel is located next to Key Largo’s largest deep-water marina (77 slips) and has comfortable 76 pet-friendly choices from single rooms to three-bedroom suites with full kitchen amenities. A perfect mix of resort-style amenities and downhome comforts and a location that offers diving, snorkeling, fishing and other sports. Rooms start at $84.

Florida residents: Save up to 15% off your room rate.

Long-term stay: Stay seven or more nights and 35% off your rate.

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OCEAN POINTE SUITES RESORT — 500 Burton Drive, Key Largo. 305-853-3000; www.providentresorts.com/ocean-pointe-suites-at-key-largo

Located at MM 92.5, you’ll find both tranquility and activity, if that’s your thing. Sixty acres of landscaped private grounds, a waterfront café, lighted tennis facilities, a heated pool and the Mermaid Bar. Get private resort beach time, walk the private boardwalk and visit the marina.

Florida residents: Get up to 15% off when you stay two nights.

Stay longer & save: Stay a minimum of three nights and save 15% of the best available rate.

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THE PALMS HOTEL & SPA — 3025 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 800-550-0505; www.thepalmshotel.com

On the oceanfront in the heart of Miami Beach, perfect for a family beach vacation, spa getaway or a romantic rendezvous. The tropical sanctuary is peaceful and rejuvenating. The nightlife is exotic and energizing.

Florida residents: Save 10% off room rates, 20% off dinner at The Restaurant at The Palms and 20% off massages and facial treatments at The Palms AVEDA Spa. Promo code: PROFLA

Summer Retreat Deal: Take 10% off the best flexible weekday rates (Sunday - Thursday); 20% off massage and facial treatments at The Palms AVEDA Spa; one complimentary co*cktail per guest. Through Oct. 2.y a minimum of three nights and save 15% of the best available rate.

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PELICAN COVE RESORT AND MARINA — 84457 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, 33036. 305-664-4435; www.pelicancovehotel.com

Has 63 rooms and suites on the water, plus a pool, saltwater lagoon, marina. Rooms start at about $235 a night.

Florida residents: Save up to 20% off your stay, including a continental breakfast.

Local hero promotion: As a thank-you to teachers, policeman, EMT's, firefighters, and first responders, local heroes to save up to 20% off retail rates.

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POSTCARD INN HOLIDAY ISLE BEACH RESORT & MARINA — 84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. 844-471-5433; www.holidayisle.com

Holiday Isle, home of the famous Rum Runner frozen co*cktail, is set on 14 idyllic acres with plenty of outdoor adventures, relaxing poolside or strolling the private beach. The marina (this is the sports fishing capital of the world) is fantastic, and kayaks and paddle boards are included with your stay. The cozy, beachside cottages have private furnished patios and start at $660 a night.

Florida residents: Save up to 15% off your stay.

Paradise US1 Package: Stay two nights or more to save up to 25% off your room rate and receive a $50 credit to use at the onsite bars and restaurants.

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THE SOUTHERNMOST BEACH RESORT — 1319 Duval St., Key West, 33040. 800-354-4455; www.southernmostresorts.com

A combination of a historic bed-and-breakfast, an oceanfront resort and guest rooms on Duval Street’s southern edge near one of Old Town’s only public beaches. Current rates from $187.

Florida residents: Save up to 30% off your nightly room rate, plus get free parking and two welcome drinks.

Stay longer and save: Stay one night and save up to 20 percent, two nights save up to 25 percent, and save 30% on stays of three or more nights.