When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
- As Florida reopens following the spread of the novel coronavirus, many are wondering if vacation rentals are open for booking.
- Airbnb is still one of the top ways to book a private home as it removes interactions with other guests, which promotes social distancing.
- Florida is popular for many reasons, namely the warm and pleasant weather, cheap flights from several major US cities, family-friendly resorts and theme parks, plus beautiful scenery.
- We gathered a list of some of the best-reviewed Airbnbs across major destinations in Florida priced under $200 per night.
States are beginning to lift restrictions around the novel coronavirus, including Florida, a popular vacation destination.
From packing beaches to welcoming visitors back to Walt Disney World in July, the sunshine state is eagerly looking for ways to return to travel as safely as possible.
However, without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee with regard to safety. It's crucial to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing. The risk of infection depends on many variables, namely, the number of people you encounter and the length and nature of such interactions, as well as where you want to go, the rates of infection in your chosen destination, and your anticipated behavior once you arrive.
Vacation rentals are open in Florida, and if you're wondering if travel is safe, experts say Airbnb is one of the safer places to stay. This is because you are often booking an entire home protected from interaction with others.
Airbnb also announced rigorous new procedures including the Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, as well as only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities. These listings maintain a 24-waiting period after a guest checks out before entering to clean, followed by another 48-hour waiting period before guests check-in.
As an alternative measure, hosts may opt into Booking Buffer, which enforces a 72-hour vacancy period between stays. Or, hosts can choose to do neither, in which case, it's important to remember that cleaning practices vary, where everything from kitchen utensils to bed linens were used by previous guests.
No matter the policy, it's worth taking extra preventative measures such as running dishware through the dishwasher, and using a disinfecting wipe over all flat surfaces and high-touch areas. Of course, that also means you're now cleaning the home for which you already paid a lofty cleaning fee.
Yet Airbnb homes do still offer an attractive, private getaway. Florida, in particular, is easily accessible from most American cities, with relatively cheap and quick flights across the East Coast. Tourists can enjoy everything from theme park magic with the likes of Walt Disney World or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (once they reopen) as well as family-friendly resorts, and stunning beaches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.
Prefer a hotel?
Read all Business Insider hotel reviews here, or our list of the
best Walt Disney World Hotels and Resorts.
We gathered the following list of Florida Airbnbs that are well-reviewed, thoughtfully-designed, and comfortable whether you're seeking a week-long break, weekend escape, or getaway at any time of the year, chosen based on the following criteria:
- Airbnb listings are for the entire home.
- The home is priced under $200 per night, is highly-rated, and located in cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Clearwater, Tampa, Sarasota, Panama City, and the Keys, with a review score of 4.7 or higher.
- Warmth is only enjoyable on your own terms – every listing has air conditioning, and many have access to a beach or pool, with necessary amenities like beach chairs or grills.
While we made an effort to keep nightly prices under $200, it's important to note that additional costs vary based on the host, and can include cleaning, facility, or resort fees, if applicable, which may be impacted by COVID-19. Also, be aware of cancelation policies and read the fine print, as some homes are quite strict, regardless of the pandemic. Ready to book? Just remember to pack extra sunscreen.
These are some of the best Airbnbs in Florida, ranging in price from $79 to $189 a night, and sorted by city.
Miami: Ocean view one-bedroom studio in Miami Beach, $99
Airbnb
Book this beachfront apartment starting at $99 per nightNothing is more pleasing than staying in an Airbnb that feels like a hotel and this property has all the makings of a dream beachfront stay.
The sleek, modern decor is coupled with resort-like amenities such as the pool, gym, and tennis courts, in addition to the prime beach location. It's also likely cheaper than you'll find at a nearby hotel in peak season.
The well-reviewed Superhosts are adhering to COVID-19 policies and have invested in an Electric ULV Fogger to be used between each guest. They also have other properties in the same building if this one books up, all of which are studio apartments.
Rating: 4.86
Miami: Cozy one-bedroom home in Buena Vista, $103
Airbnb
Book this Buena Vista home starting at $103 per nightUnlike many other Miami listings, this property offers the chance to stay in a house rather than an apartment. For this listing, it's all in the details. The bright blue "Eat" sign in the kitchen matches blue accents that appear across the home, right down to the bowls in the cabinet. Beach towels, an umbrella, and beach blankets are provided, and a travel crib is also available for new parents.
Many reviewers cite the outdoor space as an advantage, specifically noting the various decks, grill, and even an outdoor garden as top features. One reviewer called the yard "gloriously tropical and serene; the photos simply don't do it justice."
The full-sized kitchen and washer/dryer make it a great fit for a week-long stay, and it's walking distance to Midtown Miami and the Design District.
Rating: 4.99
Miami: Contemporary one-bedroom studio in Coconut Grove, $109
Airbnb
Book this Coconut Grove apartment starting at $109 per nightRated five stars for communication, check-in, and location, the apartment's Superhost thinks of even the smallest of details, including a bottle of champagne upon arrival.
I like how clean, simple, and elegant the listing is, with access to a pool, hot tub, and gym, though those facilities may be impacted by COVID.
Coconut Grove is charming and full of shops and restaurants. If you seek the sand, the beach is just a short ride away.
Rating: 4.92
Miami: Trendy one-bedroom apartment in Wynwood, $105
Airbnb
Book this Wynwood apartment starting at $105 per nightIf you're looking to take advantage of Miami's vibrant art district, consider a base in vibrant Wynwood. This listing is just a short walk from the revered Wynwood Walls, which are an anchor of the local art scene, surrounded by plenty of shops and restaurants.
The home harbors the same aesthetic of Wynwood itself: young, hip, and trendy. Its four-guest capacity is perfect for small groups (despite only having one bedroom), and the apartment is part of a larger complex with a pool and gym. Availability is quite limited for the summer, but fully open in the coming fall with self check-in.
Rating: 4.78
Orlando: Five-bedroom townhouse for Disney families in Kissimmee, $216
Airbnb
Book this Kissimmee townhouse starting at $127 per nightThis five-bedroom townhouse can accommodate up to 12 people and is only five miles from Walt Disney World. It's well-equipped with a full-sized kitchen and themed bedrooms for the kids or kids at heart, decked out in full Disney paraphernalia.
When you inevitably tire out from the theme parks, retreat to this cozy space or take a dip in the community's on-site pool, however, it's worth checking with the host on if the space is currently open.
Rating: 4.78
Orlando: Family-friendly four-bedroom home with a pool in Kissimmee, $130
Airbnb
Book this Kissimmee home starting at $130 per nightThis well-appointed four-bedroom home makes it easy to vacation while socially distancing at the same time, with a large, private pool.
The design is light and airy, with an open-plan layout that would make a nice base for families or small groups visiting Orlando and the Walt Disney World Resort area — the home is just 5 miles from the latter. There are four bedrooms, which can accommodate up to 8 people, and adults will appreciate the elevated style, while kids will like the Mickey signage.
An abundance of five-star reviews rave about the extraordinary cleanliness and added perks such as a high chair, stroller, beach chairs, pool table, and of course, a screened-in pool.
Rating: 5.0
Orlando: 'Harry Potter' inspired five-bedroom home in Kissimmee, $159
Airbnb
Book this Kissimmee home starting at $159 per night"Harry Potter" fans, we've found the ultimate house for a future visit to Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Just a 10-minute drive to the theme park, every inch of this home is covered in Hogwarts nostalgia and can accommodate up to 13 wizards or muggles with five themed-bedrooms.
One reviewer raves: "This place is simply one of a kind, location is great and the communication with Sofi was outstanding. Despite having nine guests nobody felt cramped and all which is a testament to how well the property is designed. This is the Gold standard for being a SuperHost."
Rating: 4.90
Hollywood: Sleek luxury one-bedroom condo, $89
Airbnb
Book this Hollywood condo starting at $89 per nightWith a minimalistic kitchen and waterfront terrace, this condo embraces luxury with hotel-like perks such as an inviting pool, hot tub, gym, and tennis court. It's directly on the beach, making it easy to maximize your time on the sand. Best for couples, it houses up to two guests.
The apartment's shine has much to do with the fact that its hosts are strictly following COVID-19 policies, including a standardized protocol from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Hosts maintain that cleanliness is their top priority, and that they clean and sanitize every property between each reservation, following a 100 point checklist including all hard surfaces and high touch areas using products approved by public health authorities.
Rating: 4.86
Fort Lauderdale: Relaxed one-bedroom pad, $79
Airbnb
Book this Fort Lauderdale apartment starting at $79 per nightThe granite kitchen, serene bathroom, and in-unit washer/dryer all make this home a great pick for a week-long stay for up to four guests. They don't explicitly list COVID cleaning policies, but multiple recent reviewers describe the home as sparkling clean.
They also praise the shower as the highlight, with one describing it as "a dream shower with great pressure." The fenced-in pool is shared only between three units, so it's easier to maintain social distance than at a larger complex.
Rating: 4.83
Tampa: Chic one-bedroom apartment, $79
Airbnb
Book this Tampa apartment starting at $79 per nightHardwood floors, a gorgeous kitchen, and minimalist lighting — you might want to live here. This apartment fit for four people is sophisticated and includes amenities like a lovely balcony, community pool, gym, and grill, and the host recently noted that the pool is now open for guests, though the gym and some other amenities remain closed until further notice. It's also a five-minute drive to downtown Tampa.
If this home gets snatched up, the Superhost also lists some other beautiful properties around Tampa.
Rating: 4.89
Sarasota: Quaint one-bedroom studio in Nokomis, $180
Airbnb
Book this Nokomis apartment starting at $180 per nightThis cute and cozy Sarasota home has all the makings of a tranquil couple's weekend. Facing the Gulf of Mexico, the waterfront studio comes complete with the necessary items to relax and escape, such as a deck dotted with beach chairs, chaise lounges on the water, and even complimentary housekeeping, if you want to request it.
They don't explicitly list COVID-19 cleaning policies, but multiple recent reviewers describe the home as sparkling clean, and one reviewer also dubbed it an "authentic 'Old School' Florida vacation bungalow."
Rating: 4.94
Panama City: Beachy one-bedroom condo, $173
Airbnb
Book this Panama City Beach condo starting at $173 per nightPanama City has long been the epicenter of spring break activity in Florida, but this picturesque beach house promises to be far more peaceful than you might expect of PC.
Drink your morning coffee while gazing out at the ocean from the waterfront balcony, or grab an appropriately-spaced chair by the beach or pool. With a King-sized bed and bunk beds, it accommodates up to six guests and would be great for families or small groups. These Superhosts are particularly well revered for their cleanliness, and while they've only been reviewed 10 times, they've maintained a perfect rating.
Rating: 5.0
Key Largo: Resort-style one-bedroom apartment in Tavernier, $189
Airbnb
Book this Tavernier apartment starting at $189 per nightThe idyllic Florida Keys are known for remote scenery and a slower, relaxed vibe and this property makes it easy to savor both. The apartment is actually part of a beach resort with breathtaking views, beach access, a great pool and hot tub, as well as tennis courts, though you should confirm their operation with the host before booking.
It's new to Airbnb so reviews are limited, but the resort itself has an 8.0 rating on Booking. Aside from the basics, the resort also offers many perks, such as a poolside bar, an on-site restaurant, decks for fishing and boating, and grills.
Rating: 4.75
Clearwater: One-bedroom waterfront studio, $170
Airbnb
Book this Clearwater studio starting at $170 per nightThis listing is self-described by the Superhost as "the perfect space for a couple" and comes complete with a waterfront view, beach chairs, and the option to rent jet skis and paddle boards.
Time spent on land will also be positive, based on past guest reviews noting the studio's cleanliness, coziness, and proximity to Clearwater's shops and restaurants.
Rating: 4.72