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Sunday, March 10, 2019

Kona Kai Resort: A Serene Oasis in Key Largo, Florida



The Kona Kai Resort boasts an array of luxurious accommodations, from spacious suites to cozy cottages, each designed to provide you with the utmost comfort and convenience. You'll find that each room is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern amenities and classic tropical charm, creating a perfect atmosphere for your vacation.






One of the highlights of the Kona Kai Resort is its private beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax under a palm tree. For those who love water activities, the resort offers a range of options, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. And if you prefer to stay dry, you can take a dip in the heated pool or indulge in a soothing massage at the on-site spa.






If you're in the mood for some adventure, there's plenty to explore in Key Largo. The resort is just minutes away from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the vibrant underwater world of the Florida Keys.






Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo escape, the Kona Kai Resort in Key Largo is the perfect choice for your next tropical adventure. Book your stay today and experience the ultimate in relaxation and luxury.











Kona Kai is located in Key Largo, the uppermost island of the Florida Keys. It is 64 miles (1 1/2 hour drive) from the Miami airport and 96 miles (2 hour drive) from Key West. 

Address: 97802 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri







Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Top Things to Do in Key West: A Guide to the Best Attractions and Activities

Key west, Florida is unlike any other place in the United States. It has an unique fun vibe all it's own. And honestly, one of my favorite things about the place, is the people. Everyone is so laid back, friendly, and having fun.

We just got home from another Florida road trip and was only able to spend a day there this time. But that's okay, it was an unforgettable day filled with adventure and sunshine!

I wanted to share some of our favorite spots from our trips. I still have several places on my list to cross off, but maybe I'll get to them next time!


Duval Street



Duval Street is the main street in Key West that everything is centered around. It is lined with small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a fun place to visit during the day, but gets a little wild at night.




Key West Garden Club at West Martello Tower





Located at Higgs Beach in Key West, West Martello Tower is a historic tower built in 1862 during the Civil War.  It has been turned into a tropical paradise by the Key West Garden Club.

  Address:

1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Hours: 

9:30am - 5pm daily

Admission:

Free



Mallory Square





Located on the waterfront in Key West, Mallory Square is lined with upscale restaurants and shops. It is popular for its nightly festivals to watch the sunset. About two hours before sunset, the crowd begins gathering to watch street performers and browse through local made crafts.

If you can only do one thing in Key West, attend a sunset celebration! It's unfrogettable!

Watch a live webcam - https://www.mallorysquare.com/key-west-webcam/

Address:

400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040

Hours:

Hours vary from business to business



Smathers Beach






Smathers Beach is the largest and prettiest public beach in Key West. It has about a half mile strip of white sand and tons of palm trees. It is absolutely beautiful! Parking is along the road and runs the length of the beach.


Address:

2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Hours:

7am – 11pm

Admission:

Free



Higgs Beach



Small beach with volleyball courts, play ground, and pier. It was once the site of an 1800s African slave cemetery. Nice family beach with palm trees, white sand, and clear water.

Address:

1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Hours:

7am – 11pm

Admission:

Free



Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory





The Butterfly Conservatory is a great place to take a break from the sun. Walk among 50+ species of  butterflies from around the world in a climate controlled environment. 

Flamingo Encounter - meet Rhett and Scarlett, two adorable flamingo. Spots are limited and fill up fast, so reserve early! Cost is an additional $37.63 per person. 

Address:

1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

Hours:

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily

Admission:


 General Admission -              $12.00
  Children 4-12 years -             $8.50
  3 years and under -                Free
  Seniors 65+ and Military -   $9.00



Southernmost Point





The Southernmost Point in the continental United States is marked by a concrete buoy in Key West. It is in the open and can visited at any time. Be prepared to wait in a long line(in direct sunlight) for your chance at a photo.

Watch a live webcam - http://southernmostpointwebcam.com/

Address:

Whitehead St & South Street, Key West, FL 33040



Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park








Fort Zachary Taylor, located in Key West, was built to guard the harbor. The fort was used in the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Spanish American War, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Snorkeling along the rock at the beach area is a popular activity. Palms and pine type trees provide tons of shade. It is a nice place to spend the day.

Watch a live webcam -  https://fla-keys.com/webcams/fort-zachary-taylor-beach/

Address:

601 Howard England Way, Key West FL 33040

Hours:

8:00 a.m. until sundown, daily. Fort closes at 5 p.m.

Admission Fees:

$6.50 per vehicle





*Key West is about 160 mile drive (3 1/2 hours) from the Miami International Airport.



Have fun exploring Key West!!!








Saturday, March 2, 2019

Discovering the Wonders of the Coral Castle in Florida



Often compared with the construction of Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid, Coral Castle is the mysterious work of a Latvian emigrant named Edward Leedskalnin. Ed built his castle to impress the love of his life (Agnes Scuffs), a 16-year-old who had left him on the day before their wedding.



Originally started in Florida City and later moved to Homestead, the mystery of how he single-handedly moved, carved, and erected millions of pounds of coral rock to build this place remains today.



To add to the mystery, Ed was only five feet tall and barely weighed a 100 pounds. He would only say that he knew "the secret of the pyramids.




Ed was a very secretive man. During the 28 years it took him to build the castle, no one ever observed him working on it. There is a book, "Mr. Can't is Dead by Orval M. Irwin", written by a friend that supposedly tells some of his secrets. It is sold in the castle gift shop.



Know Before You Go:

A full narrated tour is included in the price. The guided made it very interesting with his sense of humor.

The last stop of the tour is located outside of the wall. This is the perfect time to slip inside and grab some photos without a ton of people in them.

 You will be in full sun the entire time, but they do provide umbrellas.

Photography is allowed. No videos.



Interesting Fact:

I'm not sure why, but Billy Idol wrote and recorded the song “Sweet Sixteen” as a tribute to Ed and the Coral Castle. The song video was shot on location at the Castle.



The Coral Castle is located:

30 miles (30 minute drive) from the Miami International Airport
36 miles (45 minute drive) from Key Largo
172 miles (156 miles) from Fort Myers/Sanibel Island area



Address:

28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033





Happy Travels!