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Showing posts with label resorts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label resorts. Show all posts

Monday, March 20, 2023

Discovering Paradise: A Complete Islamorada Travel Guide for Your Next Vacation


Islamorada is the ultimate destination for those seeking to explore the Florida Keys. Centrally positioned within the chain of islands, it offers effortless access to neighboring attractions via enjoyable day trips. Compared to its bustling counterparts Key Largo and Key West, Islamorada offers a more serene and relaxed ambiance, where you can unwind and escape the crowds.


Where to stay

The Florida Keys are renowned for their high rates, but fear not! We have scoured the region and unearthed some of the best value accommodations in the lower to mid range.


 La Siesta Resort & Villas   


At the La Siesta, a range of lodging options at varying price points are available, from charming beachfront villas bursting with vibrant colors, to other alternatives. You can indulge in the beauty of the tropical landscaping, take a refreshing dip in the large pool, and relish in the overall experience of their stay.




As part of your stay, complimentary access to kayaks, paddle boards, and bicycles is provided.

   

Address: 80241 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Website:   https://www.lasiestaresort.com


Amara Cay Resort 

Experience modern luxury at the Amara Cay Resort, boasting a stunning white sand beach lined with cozy lounging areas and the most beautiful palm trees providing ample shade. The beach is situated above sea level with steps leading down to the crystal-clear waters below. Admire the magnificent ocean views from the resort's large pool overlooking the beach. The accommodations feature a modern design and offer spacious living areas.





Address: 80001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

https://www.amaracayresort.com


Pines and Palms Resort   




The Pines and Palms has both Ocean view and ocean front Cottages that are just the cutest with their colors and landscaping. They have a nice pool overlooking the ocean and a small white sand beach. It is a quiet and relaxing place.




Address:   80401 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

https://pinesandpalms.com


Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina  



The Postcard Inn boasts a breathtaking tropical landscape, adorned with vibrant flora and fauna, and an expansive white sand beach. With an abundance of lounging areas, multiple pools, water activities, restaurants, a tiki bar, and a marina, you are treated to an abundance of amenities and entertainment options.





Address: 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

https://www.holidayisle.com


Where to Eat


Islamorada Fish Company     

The ambiance and the delectable fresh seafood are what we adore about this place.

Address: 81532 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036


Bayside Gourmet

 Renowned for their authentic preparations of both classic and contemporary cuisine, this establishment has gained widespread popularity.

Address: 82758 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

 

Mangrove Mike's Café   

This is an excellent spot to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch.

Address: 82200 Overseas Hwy MM, 82 sunset inn, Islamorada, FL 33036

 

Meat Eatery And Taproom   

You must try their burger and fries cooked in duck fat – they're a real treat!

Address: 88005 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036



Island Grill    

The food, atmosphere, and service at this popular seafood grill are a must try

Address: 85501 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

 

Wahoo's Bar and Grill 

Known for their Tuna Nachos and the Grouper Sandwiches

Address: 85501 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036


What to do



Robbie's of Islamorada     




A visit to Robbie's to feed the tarpon is a must-do experience! But that's not all – the site also features a restaurant, shopping booths, snorkeling excursions, and fishing tours.

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036


Anne's Beach

What I love most about this beach is that one can walk out for what seems like forever, and the water only reaches knee-deep. Although the white, muddy sand can become slick and sticky at times, the beach is still an incredibly beautiful destination.

Address: There are 2 parking lots approximately 1/4 mile apart on US-1 at MM 73


Resort Activities


While many resorts provide paddle boards, kayaks, and other water activities, The Pines and Palms offers a range of off-site excursions, and The Postcard Inn features other activities to cater to all interests.

Additionally, day trips to other Keys are highly recommended, with two popular destinations being Bahia Honda and Key West.

Bahia Honda State Park

Situated approximately 40 miles from Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park is one of the most stunning destinations to explore in the Keys. Its white sand beaches are exceptional, even for this area.


Key West

No visit to the Keys is complete without a trip to Key West! While you're there, make sure to check out Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor. Although it's around 80 miles from Islamorada, the journey is well worth it.


Happy Travels!

       Sherri







  

 



Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Unwind in Luxury: A Review of The Pearl Inn in Rosemary Beach, Florida


The Pearl is a luxury boutique hotel located in the charming seaside town of Rosemary Beach. We checked in and sipped on complimentary wine while our car was being parked.  Our luggage was delivered to our room while we relaxed from our long drive. We could not have asked for a better reception.



The Old World European architecture of the Pearl is unique to find in the Florida Panhandle.





It was cool the day we were there, but we still enjoyed the pool and rooftop lounge.






 Nice boutique shops, small restaurants, and beautiful beach houses located around the hotel.




The use of the three community pools comes with the romm rental. Unfortunately, one of the pools was closed for renovations and this one was very dirty. I'm not sure if it is just not cleaned during off season or what. It was heated, so we could have used it.



The beach is just a couple minute walk from The Pearl.  Beach chairs and umbrellas are complimentary.




Things to know before you go:

The area around the Pearl is very busy, all the time!

There is no parking at the hotel. You must use valet parking. There is not particular place they park your automobile, just wherever they can find a spot on the side of the road.

It is an adult only hotel.




The Pearl Hotel is located:

24 miles (40 minute drive) from Panama City
32 miles (50 minute drive) from Destin
115 miles ( 2 hour drive) from Pensacola


Address: 63 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461




Overall, we were pleased with our stay. We would like to go back when it's not off season and see if things will be a little better.




Happy Travels! 



Monday, January 16, 2017

Exploring Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys


Bahia Honda State Park, one of Florida's southernmost state parks, is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the Florida Keys! It also has the best beaches anywhere in the Keys.




The most iconic photo of the park is the old Bahia Honda railroad bridge. The bridge was originally built by Henry Flagler as part of the Overseas Railroad in 1912.




The park has three beautiful white sandy beaches . Calusa ,located on the bay side of the island, is a small beach with a great view of the old bridge. It's great for swimming, but there is a strong current as you get close to the channel.




Loggerhead beach, located on the south side of the island, is the shallowest beach. It is popular for the large shallow sand bar just off the shore. It is calm and great for children.



Sandspur ,located on the southeast end of the island, is the largest beach. This is usually the least crowded. This is one of the few beaches in the Keys that you can find sea shells and sponges. I was really excited to find several basket sponges on our last visit!





Snorkeling tours to Looe Key are available through the park concession.

 Daily departures are 9:30am, 1:30pm and 4:45pm.

Cost:

Adult $29.95
Children (under 18)   $24.95

http://bahiahondapark.com/looe-key-snorkeling-tours.html



Camping and lodging are available at the park.

https://www.floridastateparks.org/cabins-lodging/Bahia-Honda



Address:

36850 Overseas Highway
Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Hours:

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.


Admission Fees:

$8* per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$2* Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
$4* Single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle.


Happy Travels!