Looking for the ultimate luxury destination in the U.S.? Florida just snagged the number one spot, and it is not even close. According to new research by Wander, a high-end vacation rental platform, Florida came out on top after crunching the numbers on Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star spas, yacht marinas, and premium golf courses.
Florida scored 8.04 out of 10, nearly two full points more than Maine. With a combination of world-famous beaches, ritzy resorts, and endless ways to splurge, the Sunshine State offers a destination experience that is tough to beat.
What Makes Florida the #1 Luxury Destination
What sets Florida apart as a top-tier destination is not just the weather. It is the lifestyle. The state ranks in the top 10 across all the metrics Wander used, making it the only one to do so.
Florida has 4.86 golf courses per 100,000 people, which is a dream for travelers who like their mornings on the green and their afternoons at the spa.
Juan / Unsplash / Thanks to its versatile lifestyle, travel-friendly weather, and fine dining, Florida tops the list of the ‘most luxurious’ vacation spots.
Then there is the food. Florida boasts the third-highest number of Michelin Guide restaurants in the country. That means travelers can go from a sun-soaked beach to a world-class dinner without skipping a beat.
Add to that the fact that the state has one of the highest numbers of five-star spas and luxury marinas. So, it is easy to see why it is the top destination for anyone chasing upscale experiences.
What Makes a Destination Feel ‘Luxurious’?
Wander’s research focused on four main elements that scream luxury: fine dining, premium spas, golf courses, and yacht marinas. These are not just nice-to-haves. They are the core of what makes a trip feel extravagant. Florida doesn’t just offer all four. It excels at them.
From Miami’s designer boutiques to Naples’ swanky golf resorts, Florida knows how to do indulgence right.
Plus, the diversity of options matters. You can find something high-end in every corner of the state. Be it a five-star hotel in South Beach, a yacht club in Fort Lauderdale, or a spa retreat in Palm Beach, Florida has a destination tailored to every luxury traveler’s dream.
Pixabay / Pexels / Georgia came in sixth, thanks to Atlanta’s booming fine dining scene and a growing list of high-end wellness escapes.
Southern States Are Climbing the Luxury Ladder
Florida’s not the only southern hotspot making waves. Georgia and South Carolina also broke into the top 10 luxury destination rankings. These states might not be the first that come to mind when you think of indulgence, but they are proving they can play in the big leagues.
South Carolina was not far behind at number seven. With places like Charleston offering a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and comfort, it is no surprise. Add in seaside resorts like Kiawah Island and Hilton Head, and South Carolina cements itself as a rising luxury destination for those looking to avoid the crowds but still get the five-star experience.
So, if you are planning a high-end trip, these rankings should be on your radar. Luxury doesn’t always mean flying to Europe or booking a private island. Some of the best destination spots are right here in the U.S., and they are loaded with top-tier amenities. Florida especially gives you more than just sunshine. It gives you options, style, and convenience.
