If you’re thinking Miami, then how about heading a little farther south to the Florida Keys?Accommodation options have been growing steadily over recent years. Sadly, the long-awaited Planet Ocean Underwater Hotel has still not materialised, but here are some which have. 

Key Largo is right at the top of the Florida Keys and one of the world’s leading dive centres. Playa Largo Resort (above) is the first new-build resort to open in the Upper Keys in 21 years. Set in 14 acres on a white, sandy beach, the resort offers 144 rooms and suites, 10 secluded bungalows and a separate three-bedroom luxury beach house with private plunge pool. There’s a large waterfront pool, a beachfront Tiki Bar, three gourmet restaurants, spa, fitness facilities and a wide range of water sports.  Beach, Largo Resort, Florida KeysLargo Resort, Key Largo

Also in Key Largo and set amid indigenous mahogany, palm and buttonwood trees and orchids, this eco-friendly property features a 5,000 sq ft lodge with three units and six bungalows that can accommodate up to 15 single guests or 30 in doubles. There’s a private pier and a 15ft deep lagoon for swimming, paddleboarding or kayaking. Little Basin Villas, Islamorada, Florida KeysLittle Basin Villas, Islamorada

Made up of six islands some 16 miles south of Key Largo, Islamorada is best known for its sports fishing, but it boasts culture, too, and you’ll find Little Basin Villas in Islamorada’s Arts District. The resort opened last summer and offers nine three-bedroom waterfront holiday rentals. Amenities include gourmet kitchens, free Wi-Fi, pool, Tiki hut and grill and dock and beach access.H20 Suites, Key WestH2O Suites Hotel, Key West

Key West is at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys. This new 22-room boutique property is on the site of the former Spindrift Tropical Hideaway motel, offering luxury one-bedroom suites, a rooftop deck and pool and 11 plunge pools. Oceans Edge Key West Hotel & Marina, Stock IslandOceans Edge Key West Hotel & Marina, Stock Island

Stock Island is immediately east of Key West (the two are separated by the 70m-wide Cow Channel). Billed as ‘Key West’s largest luxury resort’, this 20-acre resort offers 175 spacious suites and rooms and six pools. The traditional-style resort features white clapboards, wooden porches and walkways along the water’s edge while amenities include an on-site marina, watersports and bar and restaurant. 

BY MAGGIE O’SULLIVAN