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7 Best Retreat Locations in Florida for 2025

  • Writer: Fern Oak Estate
    Fern Oak Estate
  • Oct 19
  • 13 min read

Updated: Oct 25

TL;DR: The Top 7 Retreat Locations in FloridaThis article reviews the best platforms and venues for finding retreat locations in Florida. For those seeking a blend of private luxury, natural beauty, and unmatched versatility, [Fern Oak Estate](https://www.fernoakestate.com) stands out as a premier choice, offering multiple residences and exclusive access to a stunning 15-acre lakeside property. We will also explore other excellent options including Retreat Guru, BookRetreats, Peerspace, Airbnb, Florida State Parks, and Cvent to cover every possible need.



Planning a corporate offsite, a wellness workshop, or a family reunion requires a setting that inspires connection and tranquility. Florida, with its diverse landscapes, offers a wealth of options, but sifting through them to find the perfect venue can be a significant challenge. This guide simplifies your search by showcasing the best retreat locations in Florida, catering to every style, group size, and budget.


If you're looking for an event venue that merges elegance, nature, and flexibility, this curated list is your direct resource. Whether you're seeking the exclusive luxury of a private destination like Fern Oak Estate, a structured wellness program through a dedicated platform, or a rustic nature getaway, we've got you covered. We cut through the noise to help you find the ideal backdrop for your next memorable gathering. Each entry provides a clear overview and direct links to help you explore and book with confidence.


1. Fern Oak Estate – Luxe Lakeside Venue & Retreat in Pomona Park, FL


Set on 15 lush acres with a spring-fed lake, multiple residences, rustic elegance, and top-notch amenities, Fern Oak Estate blends privacy, luxury, and natural beauty. Perfect for weddings, retreats, family reunions, or corporate events, this estate is a top-tier Florida retreat destination with a lake. Its unique composition of four distinct residences—the Estate House, Loft, Lake House, and Cottage—provides a comprehensive and exclusive solution for a wide range of events.


The estate is meticulously designed to host everything from elegant lakeside weddings and large family reunions to focused corporate retreats. The flexibility of its on-site accommodations allows groups of various sizes to stay comfortably, fostering a sense of community that is difficult to achieve elsewhere. This estate gives you lake-front views, multiple guest residences, and amenities built for both celebration and relaxation.


🏡 Why Choose Fern Oak Estate?✔ Multiple guest residences (Estate House, Lake House, Cottage, Loft)✔ Spring-fed lake, oak forest, fern trails✔ Luxury amenities: gym, game room, fireplaces✔ Private, scenic, yet accessible to major cities✔ Ideal for weddings, retreats, family & corporate events👉 [View Details & Booking Options](https://www.fernoakestate.com)


Why It’s a Top-Tier Retreat Destination


Fern Oak Estate excels by offering a complete, self-contained experience. Guests aren't just booking a space; they are securing a private sanctuary equipped for both productivity and relaxation. The state-of-the-art gym, game room, scenic fern trails, and opportunities for kayaking on the lake cater to wellness and team-building activities, while sophisticated interiors with fireplaces provide ample space for downtime.


This blend of high-end amenities and natural immersion makes it a standout choice. The dedicated event team further enhances the experience by providing personalized service, streamlining the planning process and ensuring every detail is executed flawlessly. While pricing requires a direct inquiry, the value is evident in the exclusivity and comprehensive facilities.


Key Features and Ideal Uses


Feature

Description

Ideal For

Four Private Residences

Includes the Estate House (5 beds / 4.5 baths), Lake House (3 beds / 3.5 baths), Loft, and Cottage for flexible lodging.

Large weddings, multi-family reunions, corporate teams.

15-Acre Private Grounds

Features a spring-fed lake, oak forest, and lush fern trails for ultimate privacy.

Outdoor ceremonies, team-building, wellness retreats.

Luxury Amenities

State-of-the-art gym, game room, fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens.

Enhancing guest comfort and providing built-in entertainment.

Versatile Event Spaces

Manicured gardens and outdoor areas suitable for tents and cocktail parties.

Weddings, corporate functions, special celebrations.


The property's serene setting guarantees privacy and tranquility, while still being accessible from St. Augustine, Deland, Ocala, and Jacksonville. For those seeking an unforgettable, all-in-one venue that feels like a luxurious home away from home, Fern Oak Estate is an exceptional choice.



2. Retreat Guru


For retreat leaders and attendees who prefer a dedicated marketplace over a general travel site, Retreat Guru is the definitive platform. It specializes exclusively in wellness, yoga, meditation, and healing retreats, making it an excellent resource for finding curated, program-based retreat locations in Florida. Unlike generic booking sites, every listing is rich with the specific details retreat-goers need.


![Retreat Guru](https of the website/platform.


  • Why it stands out: It's a niche marketplace built specifically for retreats, not a general travel or venue site. This focus means listings are detailed with program information, teacher bios, and daily schedules, which is crucial for wellness events.

  • Booking Process: Users pay a deposit (typically 14%) directly through the platform to secure their spot. The remaining balance is then paid directly to the retreat host, a process that is clearly communicated during booking. This transparent flow ensures there are no surprises.

  • Host Policies: Retreat hosts can select from various cancellation tiers, and the platform aligns its deposit refund policy accordingly. This provides clarity and protection for both the organizer and the attendee.


Navigating Retreat Guru for Your Florida Event


Using the platform effectively involves leveraging its specialized search filters. You can narrow down options by date, retreat type (e.g., yoga, meditation, spiritual), and specific locations within Florida. This purpose-built functionality saves planners from sifting through irrelevant vacation rentals or conference centers.


A key advantage is the depth of information available for each listed retreat. You get more than just photos and a price; you get a full itinerary, instructor credentials, and what’s included, from meals to specific workshops.


Pro Tip: While Retreat Guru excels for pre-packaged retreats with set dates, it's less ideal for those seeking a venue-only rental for a private, custom-dated event. For planners building their own program from scratch, a direct venue booking like Fern Oak Estate offers more flexibility.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: - Highly specialized, focusing only on wellness and spiritual retreats. - Detailed program listings provide deep insight into the retreat experience. - Transparent booking and refund policies are clearly outlined.

  • Cons: - Balance payments are handled off-platform, requiring direct coordination with the host. - Inventory is primarily for date-specific programs, with limited options for venue-only rentals.



3. BookRetreats


For those seeking a comprehensive and secure marketplace, BookRetreats is a powerhouse in the wellness travel space. It offers a massive inventory of programs, making it a go-to platform for finding diverse retreat locations in Florida, from beachside yoga getaways to deep-dive meditation workshops. Its key differentiators are a Best Price Guarantee and an enhanced payment security system for attendees.


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  • Why it stands out: The platform’s Best Price Guarantee provides peace of mind, ensuring you won't find the same retreat listed for less elsewhere. Its escrow system for deposits adds a significant layer of financial protection for attendees.

  • Booking Process: Users pay a deposit, which can be flexibly set by the host (from 15% to 100%), directly through BookRetreats. The platform holds this payment in escrow and only releases it to the host after the attendee's arrival is confirmed, minimizing risk.

  • Host Policies: Cancellation policies are clearly displayed on each retreat page and are set by the individual hosts. This allows for a wide range of options but requires attendees to review the terms for each specific booking carefully.


Navigating BookRetreats for Your Florida Event


The strength of BookRetreats lies in its powerful filtering capabilities. You can easily search for retreats in Florida and then narrow the results by style (yoga, meditation, detox), specific dates, and budget. This makes it simple to compare different programs side-by-side, evaluating their itineraries, inclusions, and accommodation types.


Each listing is incredibly detailed, providing a full schedule, leader bios, food philosophy, and what is (and isn’t) included. This transparency is crucial for attendees to find the perfect match for their wellness goals and for planners to understand the offerings.


Pro Tip: BookRetreats is ideal for finding established, date-specific retreat programs. However, if you are a planner aiming to design a custom event with your own schedule and programming, securing a private venue-only rental like Fern Oak Estate offers far greater control and exclusivity.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: - Escrow deposit system provides excellent payment security for participants. - Best Price Guarantee ensures competitive pricing. - Strong filtering and detailed listings allow for easy comparison.

  • Cons: - Final payments are often handled off-platform directly with hosts. - Primarily offers date-based programs, not on-demand venue rentals.



4. Peerspace


For organizers planning day retreats, workshops, or team offsites without the need for overnight lodging, Peerspace is an invaluable on-demand marketplace. It operates like an "Airbnb for event spaces," offering hundreds of unique retreat locations in Florida rentable by the hour. From chic urban lofts to sprawling estates with lush grounds, the platform provides an accessible way to book a professional setting for a short-term event.


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  • Why it stands out: Its hourly rental model is a game-changer for short-term events. Unlike traditional venues that require full-day or multi-day bookings, Peerspace allows you to book a space for just a few hours, making it highly cost-effective for workshops, content creation sessions, or corporate offsites.

  • Booking Process: The platform features a self-serve checkout system that is fast and contract-light. Pricing is transparent, with a clear hourly rate and any minimum booking requirements listed upfront. You book and pay directly through the site, simplifying the entire process.

  • Host Policies: Each host sets their own rules regarding cancellations, usage, and additional fees (like cleaning). These policies are clearly displayed on every listing, so it is crucial for planners to review them carefully before confirming a booking to avoid any surprises.


Navigating Peerspace for Your Florida Event


Effectively using Peerspace means taking full advantage of its robust filtering system. You can search by location in major metros like Orlando or Miami, event type, capacity, and specific amenities. Each listing provides a detailed description, high-quality photos, guest reviews, and a comprehensive list of what is included, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.


A major benefit is the sheer variety of spaces available, from professional studios to private homes and estates. You can find more information about these kinds of rentals in this 2025 Florida guide to private event rentals.


Pro Tip: Peerspace is unparalleled for single-day events. However, for immersive multi-day retreats requiring lodging and exclusive use of extensive grounds, a dedicated private venue like Fern Oak Estate is a more suitable option, providing lodging and event space in one package.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: - Ideal for short-term events with quick, contract-light booking. - Wide variety of unique, reviewed, and aesthetically diverse venues. - Transparent hourly pricing and clearly stated minimum booking times.

  • Cons: - Primarily focused on day-use venues; not suitable for overnight retreats. - Additional fees for cleaning or overtime can apply and must be reviewed carefully.



5. Airbnb


For retreat planners seeking ultimate flexibility and a vast inventory of private properties, Airbnb is an indispensable tool. While not a dedicated retreat platform, its massive selection of whole homes, estates, and unique stays makes it a go-to for finding private and customizable retreat locations in Florida. Its user-friendly interface allows you to rent an entire property, giving you complete control over your schedule, catering, and programming.


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  • Why it stands out: Airbnb offers an unparalleled variety of properties, from sprawling beachfront mansions perfect for large groups to secluded rural estates ideal for intimate wellness gatherings. Its extensive user reviews and host responsiveness metrics provide valuable insights into property quality and management.

  • Booking Process: The entire booking process is handled securely through the platform. Users select dates, review a transparent fee breakdown (including service and cleaning fees), and pay via credit card or other integrated payment methods to confirm their reservation.

  • Host Policies: Each host sets their own cancellation policy, ranging from flexible to strict. These policies are clearly displayed on every listing, allowing planners to choose a property that aligns with their event's needs and risk tolerance.


Navigating Airbnb for Your Florida Event


To effectively find a retreat venue, utilize Airbnb’s powerful filtering system and specialized categories. You can filter results by number of guests, bedrooms, and specific amenities like pools or kitchens. Exploring categories such as "Mansions," "Amazing Pools," or "Beachfront" can quickly narrow your search to properties equipped for group events.


A key advantage is the ability to directly communicate with hosts before booking. This allows you to ask specific questions about using the property for a retreat, accommodating group activities, and understanding any house rules that might impact your plans.


Pro Tip: Always be upfront with the host about your intention to hold a retreat or group event. Many properties have strict "no party" rules, so clear communication ensures the venue is a good fit and prevents any issues during your stay.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: * Huge selection of diverse properties, from coastal villas to rural estates. * Transparent pricing and fee breakdowns are provided before booking. * Ideal for fully customized retreats where you control all programming and services.

  • Cons: * Category browsing can be inconsistent; not all suitable large homes appear. * All programming, facilitation, and additional services must be arranged separately.



6. Florida State Parks (official)


For retreat planners prioritizing nature, accessibility, and budget, the official Florida State Parks website is an essential resource. It provides direct booking access to cabins, group camps, and other facilities nestled within some of the state's most scenic environments. This platform is perfect for organizers looking to build a rustic, activity-based experience from the ground up, making it a unique portal for finding affordable retreat locations in Florida.


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  • Why it stands out: It's the official, centralized booking system for state-run facilities, offering unparalleled access to protected natural settings. Unlike private venues, it provides a standardized, transparent process with clearly published fees, rules, and reservation windows across all parks.

  • Booking Process: Users can book online or via phone through the official reservation system. Reservations for cabins and campsites can be made up to 11 months in advance. The process is straightforward, with all costs and policies presented upfront.

  • Host Policies: The platform enforces standardized cancellation and modification rules system-wide, providing predictable terms for planners. Policies are clearly detailed, including specific timelines for receiving partial or full refunds.


Navigating Florida State Parks for Your Florida Event


Effectively using the website involves searching for parks that offer "Cabins" or "Group/Youth Camping." With 19 state parks featuring cabins and numerous others with group facilities, you can filter by region to find locations near springs, beaches, or hiking trails. This direct access to recreational activities is a major draw for wellness and adventure retreats.


The key benefit is the combination of affordability and natural beauty. Group campsites, in particular, offer extremely low per-person pricing, allowing for highly accessible, budget-friendly events.


Pro Tip: While state park facilities are excellent for rustic and nature-focused retreats, they often have booking restrictions. For a private and upscale experience with more luxurious amenities and greater flexibility, a venue like Fern Oak Estate provides multiple residences and exclusive access to its 15-acre property.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: - Extremely budget-friendly lodging, especially for group camping. - Located in pristine natural environments with built-in recreational activities. - Standardized and transparent booking, fee, and cancellation policies.

  • Cons: - Booking windows for adult groups at youth camps can be restrictive. - Cabin capacity is limited (typically 4-6 people) with minimum stay requirements. - Pets are generally not permitted in cabin areas or on overnight facilities.



7. Cvent Supplier Network (Florida venues)


For corporate planners and organizers of large-scale events, the Cvent Supplier Network is the industry-standard sourcing tool. This professional platform moves beyond simple listings to a comprehensive RFP (Request for Proposal) management system, making it an indispensable resource for finding corporate retreat locations in Florida that can accommodate specific, complex needs like conference rooms, AV equipment, and group room blocks.


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  • Why it stands out: Cvent is built for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. Its strength lies in its powerful search filters and its streamlined RFP workflow, allowing planners to send one request to multiple qualified hotels and resorts, then compare bids side-by-side.

  • Booking Process: There is no instant booking. Planners must create an account and submit a detailed RFP outlining their event requirements, from meeting space dimensions to catering needs. Venues then respond with customized proposals, which can be negotiated directly.

  • Host Policies: All negotiations, contracts, and payment terms are handled directly with the chosen hotel or venue. Cvent acts as the sourcing and communication facilitator, not the contractual intermediary.


Navigating Cvent for Your Florida Event


To use Cvent effectively, you must have a clear vision of your event's needs. The platform excels when you can provide specific details, such as the required square footage for a ballroom, breakout room capacity, and the number of guest rooms needed for your block. The more detailed your RFP, the more accurate and competitive the proposals you will receive.


The platform's database includes over 1,000 Florida hotels, resorts, and dedicated event centers. You can filter by proximity to airports, star rating, and specific amenities.


Pro Tip: Cvent is not designed for informal gatherings or venue-only rentals without a structured program. For planners seeking a private, exclusive-use property with more flexibility and a relaxed atmosphere, a direct booking at a location like Fern Oak Estate is a far better fit.

Key Considerations


  • Pros: - Highly efficient for sourcing and comparing multiple corporate-ready venues. - Streamlines the RFP process, saving significant time for planners. - Trusted, professional platform widely used in the events industry.

  • Cons: - Requires account registration and a formal RFP submission; no casual browsing or instant booking. - Best suited for large groups with clearly defined budgets and technical requirements.



Comparison of Top 7 Florida Retreat Location Platforms


Item

Ideal Use Cases 💡

Key Advantages ⭐

Fern Oak Estate

Weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, luxury escapes.

Exclusive 15-acre lakeside property, multiple residences, luxury amenities, total privacy.

Retreat Guru

Finding pre-packaged yoga, meditation, and healing retreats.

Highly specialized platform, detailed program info, transparent booking.

BookRetreats

Securing a spot in a wellness retreat with payment protection.

Escrow deposit system, Best Price Guarantee, huge inventory.

Peerspace

Day retreats, workshops, team meetings, photo shoots.

Hourly rentals, diverse venue styles, instant booking process.

Airbnb

Fully customized private retreats where you control everything.

Massive selection of private homes, direct host communication.

Florida State Parks

Budget-friendly, rustic, and nature-focused retreats.

Highly affordable, beautiful natural settings, standardized booking.

Cvent

Formal corporate retreats, large conferences, and MICE events.

Professional RFP management, efficient sourcing for large groups.


Your Unforgettable Florida Retreat Awaits


Florida’s diverse landscape offers a spectacular backdrop for any gathering. While platforms like Retreat Guru, Peerspace, and Airbnb provide countless options, the most memorable and impactful retreats are often held at dedicated venues that offer a self-contained, immersive experience.


Whether you're planning your dream lakeside wedding, a family reunion, or a peaceful corporate retreat surrounded by nature, Fern Oak Estate delivers on every front — luxury, privacy, natural beauty, and flexible event spaces. It truly ranks among the best lakeside destinations in Florida.


For those seeking the pinnacle of this all-in-one experience, a private estate is unmatched. Fern Oak Estate masterfully blends convenience with the bespoke luxury of a private 15-acre lakeside property. It provides an exclusive canvas for everything from sophisticated weddings to high-level corporate retreats, making it one of the most versatile and sought-after retreat locations in Florida.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Q1: What is the best type of venue for a corporate retreat in Florida?A1: The best venue depends on your goals. For formal meetings with technical needs, a hotel from Cvent is ideal. For team-building, connection, and privacy, a private estate like Fern Oak Estate is superior, offering multiple residences for lodging, exclusive grounds for activities, and a relaxed, focused atmosphere away from other groups.


Q2: How far in advance should I book a retreat location in Florida?A2: For popular seasons (spring and fall) and desirable venues, it's best to book 9-12 months in advance, especially for large events like weddings or corporate offsites. For smaller retreats or off-season dates, 4-6 months may be sufficient.


Q3: Can I host a wellness retreat at a venue that isn't on a wellness-specific site like Retreat Guru?A3: Absolutely. Booking a private venue like Fern Oak Estate gives you complete freedom to design your own wellness program. You can bring in your own yoga instructors, chefs, and facilitators, and use the serene natural environment—like a spring-fed lake and fern trails—as the perfect backdrop for meditation and activities.



Ready to create a truly private and luxurious retreat experience? Discover how Fern Oak Estate combines the tranquility of a spring-fed lake and 15 acres of natural beauty with multiple upscale residences and premium amenities. Visit Fern Oak Estate to explore the property and start planning your unforgettable event today.


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