Top 10 Florida Holidays to Take in 2026 – Prices from €1029pp
From Orlando to the Florida Keys, St. Pete-Clearwater to Miami, we’ve got 10 great Florida Holidays with flights and hotels included.
Orlando may be the theme park capital of the world and a dream destination for families, but the Sunshine State has far more to offer beyond its famous rides and resorts. From the beautiful beaches of the St. Pete-Clearwater to the unique landscapes of the Everglades, the laid back island charm of the Florida Keys, and the vibrant city of Miami, Florida holidays offer an incredible variety of experiences. Combine this with year round sunshine and direct flights to Orlando and Miami and you have a dream destination for every type of traveller.
I have teamed up with USA specialists American Sky who offer a wide selection of holidays to Florida. From stays at Universal Studios Hotels and luxurious Orlando villas, to idyllic beachfront resorts and multi-centre adventures, they have Florida holidays to suit all travel styles and budgets.
I have selected a small sample of Florida holidays below, but there are many more to discover on the American Sky website. Durations and dates can be changed to suit your requirements, and bespoke itineraries can be arranged to suit you.
American Sky can be contacted online, by phone, or you can visit their Customer Lounge in Dublin if you prefer to book your dream American holiday in person.
Where to Stay in Florida
With year round sunshine and a tropical climate, Florida is just as suited to laid back beach breaks and scenic road trips as it is to action packed family adventures. I’ve chosen three very different areas that are some of best places to stay in Florida, to showcase the variety of holidays available, and you can find holiday deals to all three below.
1. Orlando
Orlando needs no introduction, and for first time visitors to Florida who are theme park fans, it is a must visit destination. With more than 100 standalone attractions and over 20 theme parks, it is easy to see why Orlando is widely regarded as one of the world’s best family holiday destinations.
I have listed some of the best places to stay in Orlando below, including Universal Studios hotels as well as luxury Orlando villas for a more relaxed stay. Pairing your trip with some beach time in St. Pete-Clearwater or a visit to the Florida Keys is then a perfect way to round off an action packed stay in the theme park capital of the world.
Top Tips: Don’t underestimate the sheer size of Orlando and how long you need if you want to visit the top theme parks. Disney alone is the same size as Manchester, and you will want to factor in pool days, outlet shopping and possibly a trip to Kennedy Space Centre.
2. Gulf Coast – St. Pete-Clearwater Beaches
St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida’s premier beach destination is located on the Gulf Coast, just 30 minutes from Tampa and 90 minutes from Orlando. St. Petersburg earned the nickname ‘The Sunshine City’ because it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest run of sunshine days – a whopping 768, and both Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach consistently rank among the top 5 beaches in America, according to TripAdvisor.
35 miles of award-winning sugar sand beaches, warm turquoise waters and a friendly, laid back atmosphere make it ideal for a summer beach holiday, a winter sun break, or an add on to a cruise, while also offering the perfect pairing to a trip to Orlando.
This area is also home to scenic nature trails, unique museums, bold mural street art, vibrant waterfront marinas, boutique shops and a wide range of restaurants serving fresh local seafood. Families will enjoy a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium which is a big hit with children, while the Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail is a popular route for holidaymakers looking to sample the region’s growing craft beer scene.
I have listed some hotel options below but there are many more accommodation options to suit families, couples and friends getaways on the American Sky website.
3. Florida Keys
Stretching into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the Florida Keys offer a unique laid back island escape that is in complete contrast to the bustling city of Orlando or its vibrant neighbour Miami. Linked by the iconic Overseas Highway, the Keys are known for their crystal clear waters, coral reefs, excellent snorkelling and diving, and a relaxed lifestyle.
From the lively streets of Key West to quieter Key Largo and Islamorada this is the perfect destination for serene sunsets, and delicious seafood. The Florida Keys is home to the only coral reef in USA, it has all the flair of the Caribbean without having to sail or fly there! Make sure to check out Ernest Hemingway’s Home & Museum and his favourite bar Sloppy Joe’s!
The stylish city of Miami is just a short drive away, making a twin-centre holiday the perfect city and beach combo. And, for a completely different experience, enjoy day trips to the nearby Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks. Florida’s wild side is home to vast wetlands, unique wildlife and airboat adventures that offer a glimpse into the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.
I have listed some holidays to the Florida Keys below but there are many more accommodation options to suit families, couples and friends getaways on the American Sky website.
10 Great Florida Holidays in Orlando, Gulf Coast and Florida Keys
1. Floridays Resort Orlando, June, 7 Nights: 2&2 €3259, 2&3 €3819
Located on Southern International Drive, the top-rated Floridays Resort Orlando is perfectly located to explore Orlando’s theme parks, dining and shopping options. A shuttle to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando® is included in the locally payable resort fee, which means you don’t need a to hire a car if staying here.
There are poolside activities for children as well as spraying fountains, and a Jacuzzi and pool bar to relax in for adults, however, another big draw here is the large two and three bedroom suites that sleep up to 8, complete with fully equipped kitchens, making it a great choice for families and group stays.
Pricing from €3259 for 2 adults and 2 children and €3819 for 2 adults and 3 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in June. Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
2. Sonesta ES Suites, October, 7 Nights: €1029pp, 2&2 €3829
The Sonesta ES Suites Orlando is another top choice that is superbly located on International Drive, across the road from the famous ICON Park. It also boasts a free shuttle service to Universal Orlando® and Walt Disney World Resort.
The heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi are welcomed during the winter months and the 24hr fitness centre will appeal to early risers. There are one or two bedroom suites here with a full kitchen and living area, which is the perfect place to relax after a day in the parks.
Pricing from €1029 for 2 sharing or €3829 for 2 adults and 2 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in October which coincides with Halloween Horror Nights. (Note family offer is based on October mid term break). Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
3. Universal Endless Summer – Surfside & Dockside Resorts, June, 7 Nights: 2&2 €3329, 2&3 €4249
I had the pleasure of staying at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort and loved its spacious 2 bedroom suites and massive swimming pool, but most of all its early park admission – so we could get to our favourite rides an hour before the park officially opened.
You can also enjoy complimentary shuttle buses to the parks and Universal’s City Walk, resort-wide charging privileges and free merchandise delivery to your hotel from shops across Universal Orlando Resort. Trust me, not having to carry around your purchases is such a treat!
Pricing from €3329 for 2 adults and 2 children and €4249 for 2 adults and 3 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in June. Tickets are required for entry to Universal parks and can be booked by Tropical Sky. Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
4. 5 Star Universal Orlando Helios Grand Hotel, 7 Nights, October €2099pp, Easter Holidays 2&2 €7199
If you want to take a stay at Universal Studios to the next level, then you can’t go much better than the brand new 5 Star Helios Grand Hotel. A stay here is the ultimate bucket list experience for those looking to have direct access to Epic Universe – Universal’s brand new theme park.
This extraordinary resort boasts stunning views of the Epic Universe, lavish rooms and is just steps away from the park. A resort-style pool featuring underwater speakers, as well as an outdoor firepit area, poolside movies (weather permitting), hot tub, and private cabanas for rent, all add to this memorable stay.
Like all Universal hotels, you can also enjoy early access to the parks via complimentary shuttle buses, resort-wide charging privileges and free merchandise delivery to your hotel from shops across Universal Orlando Resort. Park tickets must be purchased for entry.
Pricing from €2099 for 2 sharing or €7199 for 2 adults and 2 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in October and March respectively.
Family offer is based on Easter holidays, while adult holiday is in October to coincide with Halloweeen Horror Nights. Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
5. Champions Gate Resort Homes, July, 7 Nights, 2&2 €6499, 2&3 €7279
Located in Kissimmee, these four to nine bedroom luxury homes with private pools sleep up to 18 guests and have been a firm favourite with families and groups for many years. The combination of spacious, fully equipped homes and excellent onsite facilities ensures a stay that is both relaxing and fun filled, making them an ideal base for an Orlando holiday.
On site facilities include a resort style swimming pool with water slides, lazy river, splash park and poolside cabanas, along with a bar and restaurant, fitness centre and spa, tennis courts, playground, and a clubhouse featuring a movie theatre and games room. There is also an 18 hole golf course on site. Each luxury home benefits from its own private pool and either a games room or spa, as well as a complimentary welcome grocery pack.
Walt Disney World Resort is just a 20 minute drive away, Universal Orlando Resort is approximately 25 minutes away, and Orlando International Airport can be reached in around 30 minutes.
Pricing from €6499 for 2 adults and 2 children and €7279 for 2 adults and 3 children includes flights, 4 bedroom home, premium SUV car hire, including fully comprehensive insurance, and complimentary grocery pack.
Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
6. Villatel Orlando Resort, Easter Holidays, 7 Nights, 2&2 €6389, 2&3 €6989
The Villatel Orlando Resort offers a unique luxury stay in the heart of Orlando. You can enjoy all the benefits of a private villa yet are located just minutes from Universal Orlando Resort and International Drive. And, you can avail of complimentary transportation both to Universal Orlando Resort (3.2km away) and Walt Disney World Resort (14.5km away) – advance booking is required.
Within the 77-acre resort there is a multi-slide water park, lazy river, basketball and pickleball courts, a playground and clubhouse, as well as an outdoor bar and restaurant.
The modern 4 and 5 bedroom townhomes sleep up to 12 and come with a private splash pool, and fully equipped kitchen with laundry facilities. There are also larger 6 – 9 bedroom villas with private pools for extended families or group stays – Villatel Orlando Resort Homes.
Pricing from €6389 for 2 adults and 2 children and €6989 for 2 adults and 3 children includes flights, 4 bedroom home and complimentary grocery pack, premium SUV car hire including fully comprehensive insurance.
Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or along the coast.
Florida Holidays at the Gulf Coast & Florida Keys
7. Clearwater: Sheraton Sand Key Resort, July, 7 Nights, €1859pp, 2&2 €5199
One look at the stunning beach setting of this Sheraton Resort makes it clear why it is an excellent choice for a Florida beach holiday. The hotel is well suited to both families and couples, offering a swimming pool, children’s pool, tennis courts, a fitness centre, and a programme of family-friendly activities during the summer months.
For those wishing to explore beyond the resort, Clearwater Beach and its stylish waterfront marina are just a short drive away, where you can enjoy dolphin spotting cruises or the famous Pier 60 nightly celebrations. Tampa is also easily accessible, and the amazing Busch Gardens theme park located just approximately 45 minutes away.
Pricing from €1859 for 2 sharing or €5199 for 2 adults and 2 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in July. Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando.
8. Key West: Southernmost Beach Resort, 7 Nights €1979pp, 2&2 €5499
As the name suggests, the Southernmost Beach Resort is located on the southernmost tip of the continental United States. Despite its tranquil setting, it is within easy reach of Key West’s restaurants, bars and attractions. The vibrant Duval Street is close by and the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is just a ten minute walk away.
When you are not admiring the stunning sea views, the resort offers three outdoor swimming pools, private cabanas, poolside bars and a choice of dining options. Guests can also enjoy a spa, fitness classes including beach yoga, and a range of water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. As evening falls, live music can often be enjoyed on site, or you may prefer to unwind around the resort’s fire pits beneath the stars!
Pricing from €1979 for 2 sharing or €5499 for 2 adults and 2 children includes flights and seven nights accommodation based on travel in October (family price is based over October mid term break). Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or Miami.
9. Miami & The Florida Keys: 10 Nights, September, €2129pp, 2&2 €5679
Combining the bright lights and stylish streets of Miami with stays in the Florida Keys – this epic Florida road trip has just been added to my bucket list!
Your adventure starts with a three-night stay at the Grand Beach Hotel Miami located on the iconic South Beach. Shop till you drop, enjoy Miami’s legendary nightlife and explore its diverse neighbourhoods with beautiful Art Deco architecture.
You will then pick up a car and drive to the paradise island of Islamorada, for a four night stay at Amara Cay Hotel. This charming hotel is the perfect place to relax after a busy few days in Miami. Enjoy its stunning ocean views, private beach and popular fish restaurant.
As well as relaxing in this tropical paradise, Islamorada is home to six of the islands of the Keys, and is one of the best places to enjoy diving, snorkelling, fishing and kayaking.
Your trip culminates with a three-night stay the Oceans Edge Resort & Marina in Key West – one of the most sought after hotels in the area. Surrounded by the tranquil sea, this secluded resort is one of the largest in Key West with each room offering stunning ocean views.
Its location offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful setting but within easy reach of Downtown Key West, which can be reached by the hotel’s complimentary shuttle bus.
Pricing from €2129 for 2 sharing or €5679 for 2 adults and 2 children includes flights and ten nights accommodation based on travel in September. Dates can be changed to suit you and you can add on additional nights in Orlando or Miami.
10. Orlando & St-Pete Clearwater: 14 Nights, September, €1649pp, 2&2 €4459
A twin-centre holiday combining the adventure and theme parks of Orlando with some well deserved beach time is one of the most popular Florida holidays you can take. This 14 night holiday includes a seven-night stay at the centrally located Rosen Inn Hotel on International Drive, and a seven-night stay at the top-rated Tradewinds Island Grand Resort.
This popular family-friendly hotel is set on St. Petes 20-mile beach. It has recently been refurbished and offers an array of activities on site including aerobics and tennis, as well as a Kids Club (4-11 years) and variety of programmes for children.
There is a choice of dining options too including a lively beach bar, as well as a host of water sports available.
Pricing from €1649 per person and 2 adults and 2 children from €4459 includes return flights, 14 nights hotel accommodation and car hire with fully inclusive insurance, based on travel in September. Dates and durations can be changed to suit you.
I hope these package holidays to Florida from Ireland will inspire you to plan a trip Stateside soon. This is just a small sample of the many holidays that American Sky offer. They can tailor make the perfect trip to suit your requirements by phone, at their Customer Lounge in Dublin, or you can submit an enquiry online.
While every effort was made to ensure accuracy, prices, attractions and activities are subject to change. This post was sponsored by American Sky.
