beachfront hotel recommendations, 2 couples in 70s for Feb

Question

We are two couples in our 70s who for years rented houses in Anna Maria, FL. We are ready to try Vero Beach this year, but just for 1 week instead of a month. We'd like oceanfront, or at least no more than a couple of blocks to the ocean, walking to shops and restaurants and a pool. Up to $400+/night, but don't want anything too formal/sophisticated - we are New Englanders, more casual, outdoorsy folks who want excellent service, comfortable beds, walkability. Might consider an Airbnb, but not seeing anything oceanfront, and am leaning towards a hotel anyway for a one-week stay. Would appreciate your suggestions.

Answer

Vero Beach is an excellent choice for a relaxing, walkable, oceanfront winter getaway. Compared to the Gulf side, Vero feels quieter and more “Old Florida” — perfect for couples who enjoy comfort, good service, and a laid-back vibe. For February, beachfront hotels are the best match for your needs, especially since many vacation rentals are condo-style and less reliably walkable to restaurants.

The good news: Vero’s main beach area around Ocean Drive has several hotels that fit your criteria — oceanfront or extremely close to it, casual but upscale enough for comfort, easy walking access to cafés, shops, and the boardwalk, and all with pools. Your budget of $400+/night is workable in February, especially if you book early.

Below are the top recommendations, starting with the most aligned with your preferences.

Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa – Oceanfront, casual-luxury, great walkability

This is the most popular choice for travelers wanting comfort without formality. It sits directly on the beach, has spacious rooms (many with kitchenettes), an excellent on-site restaurant, friendly service, and a relaxing vibe—definitely not stuffy. The pool area overlooks the ocean, and you can walk everywhere along Ocean Drive.

Prestige Hotel Vero Beach – Oceanfront, smaller, quieter, affordable

A great alternative if you want something simple and relaxed. It’s an older-style boutique beachfront property that’s been updated but still very low-key. It’s quieter than the Kimpton, right on the beach, and usually more budget-friendly. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and it has a nice pool area. It’s a bit farther from shops/restaurants than the Kimpton but still walkable if you don’t mind a pleasant 10–15 minute stroll.

Holiday Inn & Suites Oceanside – Oceanfront, best value, excellent location

Don’t be fooled by the chain name—this is one of the most perfectly located hotels on Vero’s beach. It sits directly at the start of the Ocean Drive restaurant-and-shopping strip, which means walking everywhere is incredibly easy. The property is casual, very friendly, and has ocean-facing rooms plus a pool overlooking the beach. Rooms are straightforward but comfortable, and service is consistently praised.

Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa – Oceanfront, stylish but still relaxed

This is the celebrity-owned Cuban-inspired beachfront hotel (owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan). It’s modern and slightly more “designed” than the Kimpton, but still not formal or intimidating. The smaller size makes it feel quiet. It has a beautiful pool area facing the ocean, excellent food, and immediate walkability to restaurants and shops.

If you decide to consider vacation rentals, keep in mind that true oceanfront homes are rare in Vero and book quickly. Most rental options are condos across the street from the beach with longer walks to dining. For a one-week February stay, hotels tend to be easier and offer everything you want: service, location, and no need to handle logistics.

For your travel style — two couples in their 70s wanting relaxation, comfort, and outdoor spaces without pretense — the Kimpton or Costa d’Este are the best fit, with Holiday Inn Oceanside as the most walkable and Prestige Hotel as the most budget-friendly yet peaceful option.