Florida’s Gulf Coast Is Rising in Popularity, According to Vrbo

Florida has long been Americans’ go-to spring break destination—Orlando is popular with families on school vacation and Miami is world-famous for its vibrant beach party scenes. But a new side of the Sunshine State is rapidly gaining popularity this year: the Gulf Coast.

In its Vrbo’s 2025 Vacation Guide, which was obtained in a press release by Travel + Leisure, the vacation rental site reported that Florida’s Gulf Coast beach towns—specifically Clearwater, Rosemary Beach, and Miramar Beach—are among its most “in-demand destinations” for the March and April travel periods. These small beach towns boast soothing warm blue waters, white sand beaches, and laid-back, easygoing vibes.

The most populated of the three, Clearwater has garnered national attention in recent years. The city gets 360 days of sunshine per year and has an annual sandcastle festival and miles of dreamy Gulf Coast shores. Fun activities to do around town include visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (known for rescuing, rehabbing, and releasing sea creatures) and browsing the nightly pop-up market at Pier 60.

Rosemary Beach and Miramar Beach, on the other hand, are both located in South Walton County, which has 26 miles of sugary white sand beaches and 16 beach communities. In Rosemary Beach, visitors will find Dutch West Indies-inspired architecture as well as a walkable town center. Miramar Beach is located 24 miles east of Rosemary Beach and is known for the number of outdoor activities available here, from biking to pickleball to parasailing. But, if you’d rather take it easy, head to Grand Boulevard, a shopping and dining destination.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the area, Vrbo has recommendations in spades. In Clearwater Beach, there’s a two-bedroom beach bungalow; Miramar Beach offers a six-bedroom beachfront home that can sleep 25; and in Seagrove Beach (which is in between Miramar Beach and Rosemary Beach), you can find this resort-like property that has two pools.

Other spring break getaways on Vrbo’s radar include popular Colorado ski resorts such as Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Keystone, and Arizona destinations like Phoenix and Scottsdale.