Let’s be real: Hotels have their place, but when it comes to beach vacations in Florida, they just can’t compete with a cozy, stylish, pet-friendly vacation home where you can truly spread out and settle in.

At Salty Dog Vacations, we hear it all the time: “We didn’t know vacation rentals could be this nice!” So let’s clear the air and bust a few myths. Whether you’re a hotel loyalist or just unsure about what you’re booking, here’s why a beach home beats the hotel every time, especially when it’s with a local crew like us.

Space to Actually Relax

Hotels: One room, two beds, and maybe a mini fridge.

Vacation Homes: Multiple bedrooms, living space, full kitchen, porch swings, bonus rooms… even private pools.

Why settle for squeezing into a shoebox when you can have space to breathe? Whether you’re bringing the whole crew or just need room to relax, a rental gives you that home away from home feel (minus the housework).

Pet-Friendly = Stress-Free

Hotels: “Sorry, no pets allowed.” Or worse, a $150 pet fee for a 30-lb dog.

Salty Dog Rentals: Many of our homes welcome your pups with open arms and fenced yards!

We get it. Your dog is family. That’s why we offer pet-friendly properties with room to roam, plus local tips for dog beaches, patios, and parks.

Eat In or Go Out. It’s Your Call

Hotels: Limited room service menus and pricey restaurants.

Vacation Homes: Full kitchens, BBQ grills, and all the essentials to cook like a local (or just reheat your leftovers in peace).

Want to make pancakes in your pajamas? Go for it. Prefer a seafood dinner on your own balcony? Do that too. The freedom to choose is part of the charm.

Local Love, Real People

Hotels: Corporate chains with 1-800 numbers and managers you’ll never meet.

Salty Dog Vacations: Real, local people who live here, love it here, and can tell you where to find the best fish tacos.

Need help with check-in? Want to know where the locals go for live music or sunset views? Our team’s just down the road and we’re always happy to share our favorite spots.

More Bang for Your Buck

Hotels: Base rate + resort fee + parking + taxes = 😩

Vacation Rentals: One price. More space. No hidden fees (and no extra charges for borrowing a beach chair).

Plus, when you book directly through mysaltydogvacation.com, you avoid third-party service fees (looking at you, Airbnb and Vrbo) and get access to exclusive discounts with our local partners.

Just as Clean, Way More Comfortable

Let’s bust this myth now: vacation homes are professionally cleaned and often to higher standards than hotels.

At Salty Dog, we pride ourselves on spotless homes, fresh linens, and thoughtful extras like starter supplies, beach towels, and local goodies. No crusty carpet or shared remote controls here.

Ready to Vacation the Local Way?

Florida’s beaches are too good to experience from a tiny hotel room. Whether you’re booking a long weekend, a family reunion, or a solo beach escape, our homes offer the comfort, privacy, and personality that hotels just can’t touch.

Browse our rentals today and see why more guests are going the vacation rental route, especially when it comes with a side of spunk, salt, and sunshine.