Easter is a great time to shake the last of winter by taking the family to Florida for a few days of sunshine and relaxation. And if rabbits and eggs are still a thing for the youngsters, there are resorts that can add an extra dimension to the stay, while also giving the adults a full-spectrum vacation experience. Here are five properties across the sunshine state that makes the Easter weekend special.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Destin
In addition to their regular range of family friendly activities and amenities, this popular beach resort hosts an annual “Eggstravaganza” celebration over the Easter weekend. Children receive treat baskets delivered by the big bunny, and can take part in coloring contests and an egg hunt. There’s a special Sunday brunch and the on-site Serenity by the Sea Spa is offering Easter spa baskets for mom, and golden eggs with a prize or discount inside.
The Hilton Sandestin Beach offers Easter extras for the entire family. Children receive treat baskets, adults can indulge in spa specials and the entire family can enjoy a holiday brunch. Photo: Hilton Sandestin Beach
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Centrally located just minutes from the Disney parks, the Bonnet Creek resort is an ideal home base for taking in a number of Easter centric events staged by the theme parks. In addition, the resort is the site of the Give Kids the World Easter Village, which is presided over by Mayor Clayton. A six-foot tall rabbit is available to pose for photos, and share gingerbread bunny cookies as a thank you for those who support this charity.
While area theme parks offer a wide range of Easter activities, families staying at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek can also meet the big bunny at the property’s on-site Easter Village. Photo: Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Omni Amelia Island Plantation
Easter themed fun kicks off with the resort sponsored Bunny Hop 5K and a children’s fun run on Saturday. Next comes the annual Easter Parade, where visitors are encouraged to decorate a rental bike and join the locals in a festive pedal. The rest of the day is devoted to the Easter Carnival, with egg relay races, beach fires, magic shows, and an Easter Bunny tuck-in at bedtime. Sunday begins with a non-denominational sunrise service, followed by an Easter egg hunt and a special brunch.
On Easter weekend, the pool deck and grounds of the Omni Amelia Island Plantation will host a variety of special activities, including egg hunts, magic shows and appearances by the Easter Bunny. Photo: Omni Amelia Island Plantation
Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort, Miami Beach
The two-bedroom suites at this oceanfront property give families plenty of space, and easy access to area Easter events. Jungle Island’s Mega Eggs features 50,000 eggs, 800 pounds of candy, and visits with the Easter Bunny. The Miami Zoo adds egg safaris, a petting zoo and special treats for the animals, while Bunny Palooza returns to the Miami Seaquarium with continuous egg hunting, South Florida’s largest Easter Parade and five acres of rides, slides and bounce houses.
The spacious suites of the Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort provide families with a comfortable base for excursions to a number of Easter- themed events in the Miami area. Photo: Newport Beachside
Parrot Key Hotel & Resort, Key West
If the kids have outgrown the Easter Bunny, but are still part of a family Easter break, a good alternative is a Keys getaway for water sports fun. Parrot Key Resort is a five-acre waterfront oasis away from the revelry of Duval Street, but is still close to Key West’s prime attractions. For a unique and memorable Easter tradition, book passage with Fury Catamarans for their Easter Sunday Ultimate Adventure to a private island for PWC, parasailing, kayaking and waterpark fun, plus a special holiday lunch menu.
Family-friendly Parrot Key Resort is ideally located in the heart of Key West, conveniently located to attractions, but away from the crowds and late- night revelry of Duval Street. Photo: Parrot Key Resort
