Historic Gulf Coast Florida Hotels
Florida Vacations: Paradise Coast SW FL Historic Hotels & Resorts
Florida’s Gulf Coast isn’t just about turquoise waters and white-sand beaches — it’s a place where history lives on through architecture, design, and time-honored hospitality. Along this sun-drenched shoreline, you’ll find a collection of historic hotels and resorts that have welcomed travelers for generations. These treasured properties offer more than a place to sleep — they’re windows into the elegance and eccentricity of Old Florida.
From Gilded Age retreats and Roaring Twenties icons to New Age wellness sanctuaries, these historic hotels still operate today as luxurious getaways, embracing their architectural past while offering the comforts of the present. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail beneath Mediterranean Revival archways or soaking in natural mineral springs first discovered a century ago, each property tells a story you can feel.
Let’s plan a historic Florida Vacation and explore Florida’s Gulf Coast historic hotels that are still open and welcoming guests, from Tampa Bay to Naples, including Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Bonita Springs, and charming barrier islands in between.
The Don CeSar – St. Pete Beach, FL
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Nicknamed the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar opened in 1928 as a luxury beach resort and quickly became a playground for celebrities, authors, and dignitaries. Read about the historic Don CeSar Hotel.
The Gasparilla Inn & Club – Boca Grande, FL
Address: 500 Palm Ave, Boca Grande, FL 33921
Since 1913, The Gasparilla Inn has embodied Old Florida elegance. This stately resort was a favorite among industrial-era elites and continues to attract families, presidents, and Gulf Coast visitors with its genteel charm. Stay at the historic and elegant Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande, Florida.
The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club – St. Petersburg, FL
Address: 501 5th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
A signature pink Mediterranean Revival hotel built in 1925, The Vinoy was a staple in the golden age of Florida tourism. After a lengthy closure and revitalization in the 1990s, it returned as a luxurious resort in downtown St. Petersburg. The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club now part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Read about The Vinoy Resort. Visit the Vinoy Resort
Shangri-La Springs – Bonita Springs, FL
Address: 27750 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Built in 1921 as the Heitman Hotel, this serene South Florida retreat became Shangri-La Springs in the 1960s when it shifted toward wellness and organic living. View original photos and learn about the history of this Bonita Springs resort and spa destination.
Belleview Inn – Belleair, FL
Address: 25 Belleview Blvd, Belleair, FL 33756
Once known as the “White Queen of the Gulf,” the Belleview Inn opened in 1897, built by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant. It played host to American presidents, foreign royalty, and famous athletes. Considering a visit to the Belleview Inn? Read more about this historic Florida hotel.
Island Hotel – Cedar Key, FL
Address: 373 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625
The Island Hotel was originally built in 1859 as a general store, this wooden inn served as a post office and hotel through the Civil War and the early 20th century. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Florida lore claims this Island hotel is haunted – be forewarned.
Hotel Venezia – Venice, FL
Address: 425 US-41 Bypass N, Venice, FL 34285
Dating back to the 1950s, Hotel Venezia was once part of Florida’s post-war tourism boom. Though updated over the years, it retains the vintage motor-lodge charm. Explore the Hotel Venezia in Venice!
Tarpon Inn – Tarpon Springs, FL
Address: 110 W Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
Not to be confused with its namesake in Texas, this Florida inn blends 19th-century charm with the cultural vibe of South Florida. Read about the Tarpon Inn and browse lodging specials.
Hotel Indigo – St. Petersburg, FL
Address: 234 3rd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
A stylish boutique hotel located in a 1920s building, Hotel Indigo blends modern decor with retro architecture. Stay in Downtown St. Petersburg. Check out the Hotel Indigo.
Mar Vista Cottages – Longboat Key, FL
Address: 760 Broadway St, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Built in the 1930s, this cluster of bayfront cottages is one of the last remaining pieces of Old Florida on Longboat Key. Consider the Mar Vista Cottages for an extened-stay Florida vacation.
Let us help you discover Florida’s legacy — one historic hotel at a time. 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
Skinny Dipn Charters - Fishing & Eco Tours, Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-207-1945
Marco Island Fishing and Sightseeing Tour from an experienced Captain and Guide. Growing up on the local waters of Marco Island, Captain Brandon's excitement for fishing began at a very young age. He is highly knowledgeable of all the different fish species and waterways. Brandon is a very outgoing, personable, skilled, and patient. He takes pride in sharing his passion for fishing and helping his clients catch their dream fish!
Skinny Dipping Charters & Eco Tours - Marco Island
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