Florida is easily one of the most visited states in the US, and all for good reason. With Disney World, picturesque beaches, the mysterious Everglades, world-class golf courses, and so much in between, there’s truly something for everyone in Florida.
But in a world where chain hotels and resorts reign, I wanted to show you that not all vacations have to be so predictable. Take a break from the mundane and step inside the world of the unique.
These 10 vacation rental homes throughout the Sunshine State are nothing like the ordinary. Browse through to find the perfect match for your next out-the-box vacation.
1. Beachside Bliss

- Grassy Key, Florida Keys
- Tropical oasis with ocean views from every room and private beach
What’s better than staying on the beach? Having a beach to call your own.
Not only is Beachside Bliss located right on the shore of the Florida Keys, it comes with its own private stretch of sand so you don’t even have to share your space with others. And for the real celebrity treatment, if you want a break from the sand and the sea, you’ll also have your own outdoor private pool.
This four-bedroom, four-bath home is the perfect destination for your next family vacation or getaway with friends. While most flock to Key West, make your trip slightly out of the ordinary and opt for more laidback Grassy Key instead.
Enjoy this tropical getaway with ocean views from every window of the home that can accommodate up to 10 guests. It has a fully fenced-in pool, towels, a charcoal grill, and tons of outdoor seating. It also has many parking spaces, including space for a trailer.
Keep the kids busy with the toys and games available in the rental. This tropical oasis allows you to relax in style. Enjoy tranquil memories on the beautiful south coast of Grassy Key.
Book your stay at Beachside Bliss.
2. Floating Cottage

- St. Johns River, Sanford
- While most want the ocean, switch it for the river instead
Let’s start with the obvious: this isn’t just a home, it’s a houseboat. And well, in my life, it’s not everyday you can stay in a houseboat, especially one that from afar looks just like a cozy cottage.
The houseboat is 550 sq. ft. and berthed at Boat Tree Marina on St. Johns River. You’ll get to lull yourself to sleep with the lapping of the water and slight rock of the boat. If seeking a tranquil respite from daily life, this is the place for you.
At the Boat Tree Marina, there is a deli and restaurant, laundry accommodations, pool, and bait shop with a poolside bar. Explore the cobblestone streets of downtown Sanford with its timeless 19th-century Victorian homes and gorgeous oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
Take a day trip for kayaking to New Smyrna Beach, Daytona, Orlando, Crystal Springs, or Merritt Island, all within an hour’s drive from the marina. Hidden gems like these are sure to be a lasting memory for years.
Book your stay at Floating Cottage.
3. Gulf Lookout

- Brandenton Beach, Anna Maria Island
- Enjoy Old Florida charm in this retro beachfront home
Discover Old Florida charm in this retro 1940s, newly renovated, open floor plan rental, all while being able to take in Gulf views from every room. This seashell-pink beach cottage has been transformed into a contemporary seafront paradise in the Cortez neighborhood of Bradenton Beach.
Best of all, it’s only 20 steps from the beach.
Couples, families, beach lovers, friend groups, or snowbirds alike will enjoy the gorgeous tropical landscape here, whether hibiscus, pine trees, banana trees, or coconut palm trees. The ambiance is serene and relaxing. Explore the historic island by bike, golf cart, trolley, or foot. Trolley tours and the Monkey Bus stop right out front, making it easy to explore cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
For seashell lovers, the area is a top U.S. location for finding rare seashells. Swim in the Gulf of Mexico with dolphins and manatees, bring fishing gear to deepwater fish, enjoy snorkeling, or explore the Anna Maria City Pier, perfect for bird watching and watching sunrises or sunsets.
Book your stay at Gulf Lookout.
4. Villa Porta del Sole

- Sunset Key, Florida Keys
- Get a taste of luxury on the exclusive Sunset Key
Located in the exclusive Sunset Keys of Key West, this monthly rental offers you the opportunity for an extended stay in a breathtaking rental.
What guests boast about most is the proximity to seeing a beautiful sunset every night. I know that the beach usually brings about epic sunsets but this island didn’t get its name for nothing – the sunsets here really are something to brag about.
The property itself exudes timeless and refined charm with neo-colonial architecture. Clean lines and columns create the grand entrance that you’re looking for in a luxury rental.
It’s the perfect place to find an Adirondack chair and read a book or take in the beautiful sights, the beachfront and private pool views, or the white sand beaches. Stop in Miami on your way down for added shopping and nightlife fun.
Book your stay at Villa Porta del Sole.
5. Sunshine Cottage

- Downtown Sanford
- Get extra privacy with the treetop suite
This Central Florida 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage is centrally located between beaches and the theme parks but honestly, historic Sanford might have enough charm to keep you within its grasp for the entirety of your stay.
Most visitors to Florida head to the amusement parks and the beaches but very few enjoy the tranquility of small-town Florida and this cottage is the perfect place to do so.
Built in 1923, this carriage house has transformed into this spacious rental. Located in the historic district of Sanford, it’s only 10 minutes to the Orlando Sanford Airport and close to all major highways.
Perfect for music lovers, it has a gorgeous music nook adorned with a piano, a record player, and a variety of records. It comfortably fits 11 guests as it features four special guest rooms: The Rose Room, The Dogwood Room, The Tulip Room, and the Treetop Suite, which has a private entrance and kitchenette.
Book your stay at the Sunshine Cottage.
6. The Sweet Escape

- Clermont, Near Orlando
- Perfect for dessert lovers and Tiktokers
If you’re looking for something completely quirky, wild, and fun, the Sweet Escape is for you! Although not high design, this house is full of kitschy fun.
This is a massive vacation rental home that doesn’t take itself too seriously and will ensure you let your hair down while you visit, too. This 10-bedroom estate is sweets-themed and can accommodate up to 52 guests.
Enjoy the world’s only ice cream cone-shaped pool, a Hershey’s chocolate slide, a cherry-on-top hot tub, and a splash water park at this five-acre rental home.
There are two kitchens, three separate living rooms, countless decks and porches, and both indoor and outdoor poolside movie theaters, along with a massage room and sauna onsite. This is an experience that you’ll never forget!
Book your stay at The Sweet Escape.
7. The Great Escape

- Clemont, Near Orlando
- Great for those who thrive on being active during their vacation
Now that you’ve had a sweet escape, it’s time for a great one! This is another kitschy house that doesn’t have a single dull corner.
Do you love games? This lakefront rental features a 40,000-gallon pool with a lazy river, waterslides, human foosball, bowling, and an escape room game in the home.
It is also the world’s first laser maze in a home with an arcade, an interactive TV show studio with buzzers, sports courts, casino games, and much more. It can comfortably fit up to 45 people.
Talk about a vacation to remember! This is an extremely family-friendly property perfect for extended families to have a family reunion.
Book your stay at The Great Escape.
8. Tiny House Cabana

- Coldwater Gardens, Milton
- Combine nature with comfort at glamping cabana
If you’re on the lookout for the perfect romantic getaway that’s anything but the typical, this tiny house located in the eco resort, Coldwater Gardens, is just the spot. You’ll be surrounded by nature here with 415 acres of pine forest and low-land cypress swamp.
You and your loved one can enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails and four sandbar beaches to relax and swim.
If you and your partner love nature but don’t want to sacrifice any comfort, this luxurious tiny house does just the trick. It has a bedroom with air conditioning, a full bathroom, and a covered outdoor kitchen with dining space. Enjoy a charcoal grill and firepit too.
Book your stay at the Tiny House Cabana.
9. The Holiday House

- Encore Resort, Kissimmee
- For families looking for non-stop fun near the theme parks
Located just a quick drive from Disney World, the fun doesn’t have to stop the moment you leave the parks. This massive vacation rental home sleeps 27 people in 11 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, meaning you can invite all of your family or a large group of friends.
Home to the world’s largest pacman arcade, your own mini-golf area, a private theater, and uniquely themed rooms, you’ll bring home memories for a lifetime when staying here.
Although the space is a lot of fun, you don’t lose any luxury because of the quirkiness. The kitchen is modern and the downstairs living spaces are bright, clean, and fully functional. The wackiness really starts upstairs where you and your kids will want to let your imaginations go wild.
Book your stay at The Holiday House.
10. Jules’ Undersea Lodge

- Lagoon at Key Largo Undersea Park
- You can only get to your room by scuba diving…seriously
Alright, I think I’ve saved the most unique place to stay in Florida for last! The undersea lodge isn’t just a silly name, it’s the truth: the rooms here are actually underwater and the only way in and out of them is with scuba gear.
Even if you’re not yet certified, you can get trained here while still sleeping underwater. Why not check off two boxes at once?
If an overnight stay underwater sounds too adventurous, you can start small, by booking the place for just a lunch visit.
You’ll have a window allowing you to look out and watch the fish and even the occasional manatee swim by while tucked in bed for the night. While I have to admit a lot is lacking in the design department here and I do think the furnishings could be made to match the overall experience, I have to admit, there’s not much more unique than sleeping underwater for a night.
Book your stay at Jules’ Undersea Lodge.
Explore These Unique Florida Getaways for Your Next Vacation
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed trip or a more laid-back one, these unique places to stay offer something for everyone. Whether under the sea or on a houseboat, you’ll have long-lasting memories and many stories to tell about your fun vacation destination.
Whatever the case, there are countless distinctive places to enjoy in the Sunshine State for couples, singles, empty nesters, families, and seniors. Explore these unique places to stay in Florida list to find your next overnight stay today!