Homestead is located about 35 miles southwest of Miami, and is in the middle of a unique agricultural area called the Redland. The Everglades begins just west of the city. Key Largo is 25 miles south on U.S. Highway 1. It is home to about 30,000 people.

The name came about when the Florida East Coast Railway was being extended from Miami to Key West. The railroad passed through the area around the Redlands that had recently been opened up for homesteading.

Since the construction camp at the end of the railroad had no real name, materials were delivered to “Homestead Country”. That got shortened to Homestead, and the name stuck.

Known for sunny blue skies and white sand beaches, Florida is one of the top travel destinations in the country. Its diversity of attractions captures the hearts of many types of travelers, including history enthusiasts, amusement park goers and beach lovers.

While Florida is home to some of the largest chain resorts and hotels in the U.S., more and more travelers are interested in its eclectic and stylish boutique hotels for a one-of-a-kind, more intimate vacation experience. If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State, consider these special Florida boutique hotels:

Two Fish Inn – Pine Island, FL

Located on Florida’s largest Gulfside Island, Two Fish Inn delivers an “Old Florida” experience with excellent hospitality and a laid-back beach vibe. This casual resort allows its guests to experience the true wonders of Florida’s Gulf Coast and plenty of water-centric activities, without all the “hustle and bustle” you may find at a traditional hotel. If you’re looking to kick back with a cold drink and watch the sunset from a quiet, spacious suite, Two Fish Inn is your dream destination. Community amenities include:

Tropical solar heated pool – alongside a fun “BYOB” tiki bar Boat and fishing docks – with a fish cleaning service available

Watersport rentals – such as kayaks and boats

Beach equipment rentals – including grills, umbrellas, beach chair and canopies

Pet-sitting service – so you can enjoy the water without worrying about your pets

Vacation extras – like games, books, extra cooking tools and more

Pine Island features all the natural beauty you would expect to find on Florida’s Gulf Coast, without a tourist-focused or crowded feel. Known for its calm atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Pine Island is also home to many local restaurants that serve fresh seafood daily. Pine Island is a fisherman’s dream, with on-shore and off-shore fishing options as well as charter rental options.

High Noon Resort – Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL

High Noon Resort is located in close proximity to all the main attractions of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea while providing a more boutique and intimate experience. Renovated with quality and comfort in mind, High Noon Resort features beautiful suites with enjoyable in-room amenities and upgrades. This award-winning, picturesque boutique property is only 50 feet from the beautiful ocean, and it is also within walking distance of local restaurants, art galleries and gift shops. Whether you want to explore Lauderdale-By-The-Sea stunning beaches by swimming, walking, boating, cycling, surfing, snorkeling or more – High Noon Resort gives you up-close access with a unique atmosphere. At High Noon Resort, you will enjoy resort amenities including:

Complimentary beach essentials – like chairs, towels and umbrellasTwo heated pools – for a relaxing swim anytime of year

Oceanfront views – an up-close experience of Florida’s finest scenery

Barbecue facilities – to grill up your fresh catch and enjoy the tropical flavors of Florida

Bike rentals included – to explore the town at your own leisure and pace

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea features virtually every vacation activity under the sun. It is the perfect location for a romantic getaway, family-friendly vacation or destination celebration. There is plenty to see and do, with traditional attractions nearby like museums, casinos and concerts, as well as Florida-specific activities like fishing, snorkeling and enjoying fresh, local seafood. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is only 30 minutes by car from Fort Lauderdale airport and it is only a short drive from major highways, which makes travel arrangements a breeze.

Walkabout Beach Resort – Hollywood Beach, FL

Known for its artistic architecture and prime location on Hollywood Beach’s famous broadwalk, Walkabout Beach Resort is one of the most gorgeous boutique hotels in Florida that is centered around a rich history and classic tiki bar. This historic resort was founded in the 1940s, and still boasts a chic and glamorous atmosphere that you can’t find anywhere else.

Its large rooms offer stunning, panoramic views of the ocean, so you can listen to the waves and enjoy the scenery anytime of day. Its excellent reviews and front-and-center location make Walkabout Beach Resort a top choice among local Floridians and tourists alike. Resort amenities include:

Picture perfect tiki bar – with a wide selection of cold, refreshing drinks

Close access to beach attractions – like sailing, surfing and fishing

Outdoor furniture – so you an lounge in style while enjoying the Florida sun

Music and entertainment – including sing-a-longs at the tiki bar

The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is a popular tourist location with a diversity of local businesses including ice cream shops, farmer’s markets, artistic shops and over 50 restaurants. It has a 2.2 mile path with breathtaking views for pedestrians and bicyclists. Hollywood Beach is an oceanfront hot spot for vacationers looking to truly experience Florida’s natural activities like the locals do.

Lime Tree Bay Resort – Islamorada, Florida Keys

There is no place on Earth as relaxing and magical as the Florida Keys, and Lime Tree Bay Resort is located on the alluring island of Islamorada. One of the best boutique hotels in Florida, Lime Tree Bay Resort is decorated with Florida’s most beautiful wildlife such as palm trees, native flowers and key lime trees.

You can feel the soft island breeze and smell the salty air from anywhere on the resort property, which features several options for rooms and suites. Lime Tree Bay Resort is within the heart of the Florida Keys, allowing guests to experience all kinds of Floridian activities like lying on the beach, fishing, watching dolphins and enjoying the water. A resort staple on the island of Islamorada, Lime Tree Bay Resort community amenities include:

Two heated swimming pools – to cool off from the Florida sun

Resort restaurant – serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with seafood favorites

Fishing dock – to cast a line without needing to leave resort property

Complimentary bicycles and kayaks – to explore the wildlife from land or sea

Access to boat rentals – conveniently located next door

Islamorada introduced guests to true Florida culture, which is centered around embracing the environment with a variety of waterfront activities. When you visit Islamorada, you feel like you’ve stepped into a Florida postcard, with exceptional views of palm trees, beaches, dolphins and clear blue waves.

Perfect for fishermen and seafood lovers, Islamorada is also known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” with boat and charter rentals to catch some of Florida’s largest and most popular fishes. It is the perfect Florida destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Florida’s culture, environment and history.

That’s Only 4 Examples Of The Many Boutique Hotels We Have To Choose From

Every one of the member properties on our website are unique choices that embrace the local personality, provide outstanding service, superior cleanliness and pay great attention to the intricate details that travelers are looking for in a boutique hotel experience.

Singing pirates and spinning teacups. Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles. Impossibly chipper employees chirping, “Have a magical day.” Stroller gridlock.

Pre-eminent sports venue?

Walt Disney World is known for many things, but few people would immediately associate it with athletics, unless you count endurance walking or Super Bowl winners gleefully exclaiming their intention to visit, a marketing gimmick that started in 1987. Tucked behind oak trees and sabal palms on the southern edge of the Florida mega-resort, however, is ESPN Wide World of Sports, a 220-acre basketball, soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, baseball and competitive cheer complex that serves as an overlooked Disney World engine — and is expected to soon become the capital of the basketball universe.

10 places to shop till you drop in St. Petersburg

After you experience the area’s soothing beaches, fine restaurants and enticing attractions, it might be time for a little retail therapy.

If you like indoor mall shopping, especially popular during the intense…

by Michelle da Silva Richmond

Are you going to be in the East Central Florida Area and ready to have some fun? 

As we start the process of reopening our doors, West Volusia tourism partners have put together some great bargains for visitors. There are awesome deals throughout the 14 communities in the region — a variety of lodging choices, dining options and of course our great attractions, such as boat rentals and fishing trips along the St. Johns River.

America’s Best Downtown, MainStreet DeLand is a shopper’s paradise and a foodie’s dream, and there are plenty of parks, trails and nature walks to enjoy along the way. Make your reservations today or plan for later this summer. All deals are subject to availability.

Get all the information at VisitWestVolusia.com