
Gulf of America Vacations
Ten Sensational Places to Visit on the Gulf of Mexico in the USA
The Gulf of Mexico is a breathtaking expanse of warm waters, powdery beaches, and vibrant coastal towns infused with Mexican and Spanish influences. From historic villages to resort cities, the Gulf’s American coastline stretches across five states, offering travelers an incredible mix of culture, cuisine, history, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the laid-back beaches of Southwest Florida or diving into the cultural richness of Texas’s Gulf Coast, there’s a perfect Gulf of Mexico vacation waiting for you.
Naples, Florida
Best Time to Visit: November – April
Historic Sites & Attractions: Naples Pier, Tin City, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Where to Stay? The Ritz-Carlton, Naples; Edgewater Beach Hotel; Naples Grande Beach Resort; LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
Naples, Florida, is a sophisticated yet relaxed beach destination known for its high-end shopping, luxurious golf courses, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf. The city’s Mexican and Cuban influences are reflected in its cuisine, from authentic taquerias to seafood paellas. Visitors can enjoy fine art, wildlife tours, and strolls along the historic Naples Pier.
Inn On Fifth, 699 5th Ave S, Naples, FL, 34102
A Top-Rated Naples Florida Eco-certified hotel with a full-service spa and a 24-hour fitness center. Pet Friendly. Outdoor Pool. Luxury Rooms and Suites. Located on Fifth Avenue South, next to Ocean Prime Restaurant. Check special rates and room availabilities below.
Inn On Fifth, Naples, FL
Naples Ritz Carlton Tiburon Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109
A beautiful pet-friendly resort with sensational golfing and amenities. 4-star, 5-diamond resort features 2 championship golf courses, 3 award-winning restaurants. With bicycle tours and organized nature walks, this Naples, Florida, golf resort offers visitors a peaceful escape to luxury.
Check Current Rates and Specials
Bellasera Hotel, 221 9th Street South, Naples, FL 34102
Bellasera Resort in Naples is located at the gateway to 5th Avenue South, famous for its galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.Guests of Bellasera Resort can enjoy on-site poolside cabanas, a heated outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Concierge services are provided. Suites come with fully equipped kitchens, dining and living areas, and include a refrigerator, kitchenware, and coffee-making facilities. Highly Recommended. Find special rates below.
Bellasera Hotel, Naples, FL
Staybridge Suites, 9401 Triangle Blvd., Naples, FL 34113
Staybridge Suites - Naples - Marco Island, is an IHG Hotel. This comfortable hotel is ideal for longer term stays. Staybridge Suites has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, a shared lounge and bar in Naples. This 3-star hotel features free WiFi and barbecue facilities. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located 8.1 miles from Tin City. Pet Friendly. Check current rates and specials below
Staybridge Suites, Naples, FL
Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive, Pelican Bay, Naples, FL 34103
Gulf of Mexico views, 3 outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and free WiFi access. Naples Grande Beach Resort is located on 23 waterfront acres of Florida's Paradise Coast in Naples, Florida. Every accommodation features its own private balcony as well as a flat-screen TV, small refrigerator, and tea and coffee-making facilities. An excellent choice for couples. Check Availabilities below.
Naples Beach Resort, Naples, FL
Sarasota, Florida
Best Time to Visit: October – May
Historic Sites & Attractions: Ringling Museum, St. Armands Circle, Siesta Key Beach
Where to Stay? Lido Beach Resort, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, Hyatt Regency Sarasota
Sarasota blends Spanish colonial history with modern coastal charm. Known for its pristine beaches and artistic community, the city offers cultural attractions like the Ringling Museum of Art and a robust performing arts scene. Mexican-inspired cuisine flourishes here, with beachfront restaurants serving margaritas, fresh ceviche, and tacos with a Gulf Coast twist.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Best Time to Visit: December – April
Historic Sites & Attractions: Sanibel Lighthouse, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Where to Stay? Casa Ybel Resort, Sundial Beach Resort, Sanibel Moorings Resort, Island Inn Sanibel
Sanibel Island is famous for its tranquil beauty, seashell-strewn beaches, and thriving wildlife. A mix of Spanish and indigenous influences can be seen in the island’s relaxed lifestyle and Gulf-to-table cuisine, which features local seafood with a Caribbean-Mexican flair.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Best Time to Visit: November – March
Historic Sites & Attractions: Mound House, Lovers Key State Park
Where to Stay? Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, DiamondHead Beach Resort, Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach, GullWing Beach Resort
With its roots tracing back to early Spanish settlers and the Calusa Native Americans, Fort Myers Beach is an energetic coastal town with a vibrant beach scene. Beachfront cantinas and lively seafood markets reflect the region’s Gulf and Mexican influences.
Destin, Florida
Best Time to Visit: April – October
Historic Sites & Attractions: Henderson Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk
Where to Stay? Henderson Beach Resort, Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center, Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village
Located on the Florida Panhandle, Destin is known for its emerald waters and rich fishing heritage. Mexican and Spanish influences can be seen in its cuisine, featuring fresh Gulf shrimp tacos, fish ceviche, and tropical cocktails.
South Padre Island, Texas
Best Time to Visit: March – May, September – November
Historic Sites & Attractions: Port Isabel Lighthouse, Laguna Madre Nature Trail
Where to Stay? Isla Grand Beach Resort, Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island, Pearl South Padre, Courtyard by Marriott South Padre Island
South Padre Island offers a tropical paradise with a strong Mexican cultural presence. The town is famous for its vibrant nightlife, beachfront festivities, and exquisite Tex-Mex cuisine.
Galveston, Texas
Best Time to Visit: September – May
Historic Sites & Attractions: Moody Gardens, Bishop’s Palace, The Strand Historic District
Where to Stay? Hotel Galvez & Spa, The Tremont House, Grand Galvez, Moody Gardens Hotel
Galveston is rich in history, blending Victorian architecture with Gulf Coast hospitality. The city’s strong Mexican and Spanish heritage can be enjoyed in its food, art, and annual festivals.
Port Aransas, Texas
Best Time to Visit: October – April
Historic Sites & Attractions: Mustang Island State Park, Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center
Where to Stay? Palmilla Beach Resort, Cinnamon Shore, Port Royal Ocean Resort, The Dunes Condominiums
Port Aransas, known for its laid-back charm, has a strong fishing and maritime culture. Visitors can enjoy beachfront eateries serving up Gulf seafood with a Latin-American twist.
Biloxi, Mississippi
Best Time to Visit: March – June, September – November
Historic Sites & Attractions: Biloxi Lighthouse, Ship Island, Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art
Where to Stay? Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Margaritaville Resort Biloxi, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, IP Casino Resort Spa
Biloxi is a unique Gulf Coast destination, blending Spanish colonial history with Southern charm. With a growing food scene, travelers can find a mix of Mexican flavors, fresh Gulf seafood, and Creole influences.
New Orleans, Louisiana (Gulf Shores Access)
Best Time to Visit: February – May, October – December
Historic Sites & Attractions: French Quarter, Bourbon Street, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Where to Stay? Hotel Monteleone, The Roosevelt New Orleans, Omni Royal Orleans, Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Although not directly on the Gulf, New Orleans is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Gulf Coast. With its deep Spanish and Mexican roots, vibrant jazz scene, and Cajun cuisine, New Orleans offers an unparalleled cultural experience.
Celebrating Mexican – American Heritage
From the sugar-white sands of Florida to the rich cultural heritage of Texas and Louisiana, the Gulf of Mexico offers a diverse range of travel experiences. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, a vibrant nightlife scene, or a historical exploration, the Gulf’s beachside towns and cities provide something for every traveler.
Where to Stay when Visiting New Orleans, LA?
Browse current New Orleans Louisianna VRBO Vacation Rentals, Hotel Specials, and Resort Lodging Availabilities below.
For updates, stunning Gulf Coast photos, and more travel insights, visit and bookmark ParadiseCoastLiving.com.
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Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL
Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL
Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL
Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience Marco Island, the Natural Florida Everglades, and Historic Old Naples up close and personal, on a bicycle. All bike tours include everything needed for an amazing bicycling adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL
Island Bike Shops (2 Locations) 1095 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-394-8400 & 4342 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL 34112 | 239-732-8400
At Island Bike Shops we make your visit fun. Reserve your rental online. Check our selection of bicycle rentals, electric bikes, motor scooters, trailers, and more. Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the diversity of Southwest Florida. Our large or small group bicycle tours can accommodate all cycling levels as we personally escort you through Naples, Historic Old Naples, Marco Island, or the Natural Everglades.
Visit Island Bike Shops - Marco Island & Naples
Tropical Tiki Tours, 220 Goodland Dr., Goodland, FL | 941-208-1200
Discover your private paradise on our new 26' "tiki-style" catamaran for a fun and relaxing cruise around Marco Island. Tropical Tiki Tours is offering daily eco-tours, sunset cruises, and private trips from 2-6 hours. Our USCG-inspected vessel is certified for up to 18 passengers so there is always room for all your family and friends for, Private Trips, Eco Tours, Corporate Events, Birthdays, Bachelorettes, Weddings, and Sunset Cruises.
Tropical Tiki Tours - Goodland, FL