Tucked between historic St. Augustine and Georgia’s Golden Isles, the alluring seaside town of Amelia Island, Florida, offers visitors a best-in-class destination set against the backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.

From upscale accommodations, luxurious spas, and fine dining to charming inns, quaint shops, and delectable casual eateries, Amelia Island serves up a sumptuous retreat in every price range.

Get a Taste of Luxury

When you want an indulgent escape, book a room (or a suite) at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island for a taste of Southern hospitality at its finest. Perched just beyond the sand dunes, this award-winning, luxury resort offers a private balcony and ocean view in every one of its 404 rooms and suites.

Although you’ll find plenty to explore in the area, you might not want to leave the property thanks to the outstanding restaurants, spa, fitness center, shops, pools, fire pit, and 18-hole championship golf course. Bringing the family? You’re in luck, as the resort offers an activity-packed kids’ program and select pet-friendly rooms.

Another high-end option? The sprawling, 1350-acre Omni Amelia Island Resort nestled between the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west. This slice of paradise offers a 3.5-mile stretch of pristine beach, top-notch amenities, and magnificent natural beauty on all sides.

During your stay, schedule rejuvenating spa treatments to unwind and refresh from head to toe. Try a pampering facial at the Omni’s Spa and Salon with pure ingredients that smell as good as they feel. (Try the sweet cherry brightening enzyme peel!) After your treatment, lounge in the recliners overlooking the Zen garden as you sip herbal tea.

For full-body pampering, try the signature Ocean Healing service at The Ritz-Carlton Spa—a spacious-yet-tranquil oasis. This 100-minute treatment incorporates restorative sea salt into every step, from the chromatherapy salt bath to the exfoliating salt scrub to the warm salt-stone massage.

Ready for some retail therapy? Find your favorite brands at The Shops at The Ritz-Carlton. Check out resort-chic ladies’ wear from Lilly Pulitzer and coastal lifestyle apparel at The Southern Tide Signature Store. Don’t leave without a tasting at Salt Boutique, featuring an exclusive array of specialty salts from around the globe. (Pinot Noir-flavored salt? Yes, please!)

For a lovely outdoor shopping experience, stroll through the Shops of Amelia Island Plantation just a few steps from the Omni. Pop into Marché Burette (gourmet food shop), The Queen Bee (ladies’ apparel and accessories), and quaint boutiques, restaurants, and an art gallery.

While you’re at the Omni, visit the Nature Center. Here, you can chat with on-staff naturalists, rent a fishing pole to cast your line in private freshwater ponds, or sign up for a variety of tours perfect for adventurers, kids, and ecology-enthusiasts. Not up for kayaking or biking? Try a Segway tour to explore the resort’s meandering paths through the lush maritime forests and marsh boardwalks.

Now that you’ve worked up a thirst and an appetite, settle in for dinner and drinks, not necessarily in that order. Start with First Call, a daily tradition at The Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Bar. This mixology demonstration introduces the tailor-made spirit-of-the-day (such as bourbon infused with pear, cloves, ginger, lime, and rosemary) for a seasonal craft cocktail. For dinner, treat yourself to Salt, The Ritz-Carlton’s AAA Five Diamond restaurant. In an elegant atmosphere with ocean-front views, enjoy farm-to-table cuisine artfully prepared by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Richard Laughlin.

For a unique culinary experience, reserve your spot at The Sprouting Project, an intimate monthly dinner at the Omni. This evening starts with a tour of the resort’s aquaponic greenhouse, apiary, and organic garden. The culinary team gathers food directly from these sustainable grounds and creatively incorporates them into a five-course dinner with a seasonal theme (such as passionfruit).

Soak in Affordable Charm

Relax, you don’t need to break the bank at Amelia Island! This picturesque barrier island is home to plenty of affordable accommodations, including quaint bed-and-breakfast inns, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly camping.

Immerse yourself in the Old Florida charm of The Addison, an affordably upscale bed-and-breakfast in historic Fernandina Beach. Start you day with a fantastic breakfast (such as melt-in-your-mouth crème brulee French toast) out on the veranda overlooking the inn’s courtyard. Or consider staying at The Amelia Schoolhouse Inn, a moderately priced boutique hotel. Originally built in 1886 as the island’s first school, it was converted to a hotel in 2017. On a tight budget? Pitch a tent at Fort Clinch State Park or go camping at Peter’s Point Beachfront Park—both low-priced options in this beautiful coastal area.

When it comes to affordable pampering, book a treatment at one of the local spas, such as Drift Day Spa or Magna’s Aveda Full Body Salon and Spa. Or take the DIY approach by stocking up on local goodies for at-home spa treatments. Check out unique shops like Pelindaba Lavender where you’ll find scented lotions, oils, bath salts, and sugar scrubs. Speaking of shopping local, plan to spend an afternoon perusing the 50-block downtown historic district. This Victorian seaport village features eclectic shops bursting with local flair, including antiques, clothing, artisan jewelry, toys, books, and more.

One of the best ways to see the area? A guided tour (either on land or water) arranged by Riptide. Peddle through Amelia Island history on a bike tour for an up-close look at striking Victorian-era homes. (Ask for Kyle, born and raised on Amelia Island and a fountain of local history, ghost stories, and scandals of yesteryear!) Looking for a salt-life kinda’ tour? Go kayaking, captain a mini-catamaran, or try paddle boarding through the breath-taking landscape of salt marshes and freshwater creeks.

Another on-the-water tour option? A sunset cruise (including family-friendly and adults-only BYOB options) through Amelia River Cruises. This two-hour narrated cruise takes you north on the scenic waterways. When you reach Georgia’s Cumberland Island National Seashore, look for wild horses grazing in the distance.

Hungry? Thirsty? Amelia Island has you covered with an array of affordable restaurants, cafes, ice cream shops, candy stores, and bars. Eat at local seafood faves, including The Salty Pelican, a harbor-front restaurant known for its locally caught shrimp. A few blocks away, you’ll find Timoti’s Seafood Shak, another fresh seafood standout. Order inside and head to the cozy outdoor seating to nosh on your shrimp tacos or crab burger.

If you want scrumptious ocean-view dining, try Salt Life Food Shack, with regular specials like Sushi Tuesdays and Oyster & Margarita Thursdays. (Tip: Grab a roof-top table for spectacular views!) Ready to quench your thirst? Stop by the Palace Saloon (originally built as a haberdashery in 1878), which stakes its claim as the oldest bar in Florida. Or pull up a stool at The Tavern by Amelia Island Brewing Co., which dishes up small plates and amazing craft beer (try the Canary Cross Amber) in a spacious, brick-walled interior.

No matter your price point, Amelia Island offers an idyllic destination that beckons you to visit any time of year. Ready to plan your trip? There’s even a Discover Amelia Island app to help you get started.

Lisa Beach is a seasoned freelance writer. Her work has been published in The New York Times, USA Today Go Escape Florida & Caribbean, Good Housekeeping, Eating Well, and dozens more. Check out her writer’s website.

The post Two Great Ways to Experience Florida’s Amelia Island appeared first on Islands.

Perhaps you’ve heard of these islands off the coast of Florida, but unless you’ve actually visited during previous getaways, you don’t fully understand how amazing they can be and the quality of experiences they provide. The Sunshine State is famous for its beautiful beaches, but the best beach vacations take place on these under-the-radar islands that will make visitors want to leave their home states behind for good.

Take a look at these unexpected coastlines, private-island resorts, and secret beaches in Florida and see if you can find a spot for your towel—just try not to let the word get out too much.

Amelia Island

Located north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island edges coastal Georgia and is truly one of the best beach vacations in Florida. Take the Amelia River Cruise for a scenic tour of the barrier island—beachgoers will love the surf, sea oats and sand dunes. Find sharks’ teeth along the shore and at the pier at Fort Clinch State Park, and sample true southern hospitality with a stay at one of Amelia Island Plantation‘s tranquil villas.

The island beckons with 13 miles of beaches and well-preserved historic district of Victorian architecture steeped in Old Southern charm. June through August is peak beach season with warm temperatures and a temperate ocean; the shoulder or “secret” season of late fall and early winter is a favorite for those seeking fewer crowds and better bargains. Heading into December, temps can drop into the 30s at night, so pack that jacket—but if you’re in search of a deal, it’s the absolute best time to go.

Alligator Point

This rural beach community in the Big Bend is shaped like an alligator, hence the name. Not exactly an island, but Alligator Point’s skinny peninsula does measure about 1,000 feet wide at one point. Its unpopulated shoreline, low-rise beach houses (many rentals), and more than 100 part-time residents make this island the perfect place for Florida getaways.

Fisher Island

Follow I-395 till you reach Terminal Isle—your destination is the auto-ferry headed for the historic island set on Biscayne Bay off a busy Miami Beach causeway. Just seven minutes from the mainland, this enclave is where big rollers reside and vacay. At the Fisher Island Club & Resort, stay at luxe circa-1925 cottages of the Vanderbilt estate and tee off at a seaside golf course.

Gasparilla Island

Cross an unassuming toll bridge onto this charming Gulf coast barrier island—home to the classic 1913 Gasparilla Inn & Club. This Boca Grande hideaway screams Old Florida, and the Inn’s adorable cottages are ideal for families seeking an unforgettable time on Florida islands. Don’t miss a visit to Banyan Street for its namesake trees, and stop by funky Temptation for lunch. (Be sure to traverse the island via golf cart—it’s how the locals do it.)

Jupiter Island

Ginormous private homes with names like “T. Woods” and “C. Dion” on their mailboxes occupy the lion’s share of this private barrier island’s 3.6 miles. However, there’s plenty here to entice mere mortals beyond the gilded gates: miles of secluded white-sand beaches and the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, a breeding site for the Atlantic loggerhead sea turtle.

Marco Island

On Marco Island, you’re on the edge of the Everglades, but with a vibe this tropical, you’d never know it. The six-mile island boasts canal-lined streets and a usually-empty crescent-shaped sandy beach that faces the Gulf of Mexico. Keep the Florida islands theme going, and head into the Ten Thousand Islands with Marco Islands Water Sports, which sends a small caravan of WaveRunners through the Everglades’ mangrove maze.

Merritt Island

Come here to feel the ground rumble during a shuttle launch at Kennedy Space Center on the north end of this barrier island. On the other end of the spectrum, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to some of the most impressive wildlife in Florida—featuring the state’s best birding sights and appearances by elusive Florida panthers.

Palm Island

A three-minute ferryboat ride across the Intracoastal Waterway drops you and your car on Palm Island. (It’s the only access to this very narrow, seven-mile-long isle nestled in the Charlotte Harbor area of Southwest Florida.) The Palm Island Resort‘s villas are just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll find plenty of seashells and birds of all sorts—like terns, pelicans, egrets, and more—to watch.

St. Vincent Island

Undeveloped St. Vincent Island on the northwest Gulf of Mexico invites you to its sand ridges, tidal marshes, and pine forests, where native white-tailed deer and endangered red wolves enjoy a life unfettered. It’s offshore from the mouth of the Apalachicola River, famous for Florida oysters. Stay at The Gibson Inn in Apalach—as the locals call it—for a weekend outdoors and one of the more unique weekend getaways in Florida.

Sunset Key

Just 500 yards off Key West, this man-made island is home to Sunset Key‘s 40 guest cottages. Ferry over for a sunset dinner on the sands at Latitudes for Florida lobster and locally caught yellowtail snapper or go ahead and rent a cottage for the experience of living on a private island. Boats to and from Key West run 24 hours a day for late mainland fun.

Big Talbot Island

Big Talbot Island will wow you with its dramatic 20-foot bluffs that define its jagged Atlantic shoreline. Paired with a sandy stretch nicknamed Boneyard Beach for the skeletons of cedar and oak trees, this state park is a nature photographer’s dream. You can stop at neighboring Little Talbot Island State Park, where salt marshes abound.

Cedar Key

Nestled in the less developed Big Bend area of the state, this rustic Gulf of Mexico fishing village and artists’ colony delivers peace and quiet. Bird-watch from a kayak, fish from the town’s pier, eat fresh clam chowder made from farm-raised local clams, and just kick back at one of the many cozy vacation rentals (you won’t find any high-rises here) that make this one of the best beach vacations in Florida.

Pine Island

Drive across a bridge with a grand name—the “World’s Most Fishingest”—into Matlacha, a colorful art-gallery community that leads to Pine Island. A few miles more and you’re at the island’s only four-way stop, where mangroves, charming cottages, fruit-tree nurseries, and the occasional eatery dot the streets. Stay at the Tarpon Lodge for a classic Florida vacation experience that includes everything from golf to exploring the Great Calusa Blueway.

Little Palm Island

Step onto the boat, turn off your cell phone and prepare to meet true paradise. Little Palm Island is 2.5 miles off Overseas Highway in Little Torch Key, near Key West, but it feels like a secluded, self-contained universe. On the boat trip over to Little Palm Island, the resort’s staffers help the outside world fade from your mind by encouraging you to drink their complimentary signature cocktail, the Gumby Slumber (refreshing rum and fruit juices topped with coconut shavings).

Grant Island

This fun destination is known to locals by a few names: Grant Island, Grant Farm Island, or the far more alluring VIP. That’s Vacation Island Paradise for those who have never heard of this spot, which is set in the Indian River Lagoon and just a short boat ride from the mainland in South Brevard. There are no bridges, and plans for a causeway were forgotten years ago, but there is a community full of people who couldn’t be happier to have ended up here.

While the other islands are all great places to visit, VIP is the kind of destination where tropical travelers and even Floridian mainlanders would love to find a home and settle down for the rest of eternity. Just don’t get your hopes too high—homes here aren’t put up for sale very often.

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Memorial Day weekend isn’t the only time our brains should instinctually begin to daydream about the beach. In fact, any time it’s not December, January or February, the beach should be on your mind. Summer vacation planning might mean returning to a seashore that’s been a family tradition for years or heading to a new beach you’ve always wanted to visit.

Thankfully, if you live in the United States, there are plenty of options for the best beach vacation spots across the country’s 50 states. Take to the East Coast, and visit Cape Cod, Massachusetts for an all-American outing, chowing down on lobster rolls and letting your feet seep into the sands. Interested more in a sophisticated, artsy scene? Check out Laguna Beach in California. You also can’t go wrong with a visit to the Magic Isle (Maui) in Hawaii.

If you’re still undecided about where to visit for one of your next beach vacations, here’s a look at the 10 best beach vacation destinations in the U.S.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Few beach vacation spots are as quintessentially New England as this hook-shaped island. Its scenic sand dunes and shingled cottages have made it an annual summer vacation favorite for generations of Americans. A succession of charming beach towns — including Hyannis to the west, Chatham at the easternmost point and artsy Provincetown at road’s end — offer house rentals, B&Bs and hotels or motels with pools and spa facilities.

And any Cape Cod beach experience must include lobster-roll lunches and sunset clambakes to make for one of the best beach vacations in the U.S. It’s all wicked cool.

Laguna Beach, California

For summer R&R that includes gallery hopping, wine sipping and spa going, this upscale beach community, located about 90 minutes north of San Diego, is ideal. Several of the best beach resorts in the U.S. — Montage Laguna Beach, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel and Surf & Sand Resort, among others — are set along the area’s picturesque cliffs and are perfect for a romantic couple’s escape or a girlfriends’ getaway.

The town is a longtime art colony (with more than 100 galleries), so it’s easy to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The region’s focus on healthy California cuisine means you’ll eat well in every sense, along one of the best vacation beaches in the country.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida

Some places just make you go, “Ahh…” and these neighboring islands on the west coast of Florida are among them. Their endless white-sand beaches — many scattered with delicate sea shells — offer panoramic views of the clear, calm waters and golden sunsets of the Gulf of Mexico.

Sanibel has a distinctly casual charm with small, traditional beachfront motels. Captiva, on the other hand, is golf-cart friendly with legendary eatery the Bubble Room and the large South Seas Island Resort offering activities of all kinds, making for one of the best beach vacations.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Historic lighthouses, wild horses and scenic flights in open-cockpit biplanes above the spot where the Wright Brothers first flew — beach family vacations in the Outer Banks can include all this and more.

With a large inventory of beach-house rentals (and quite a few resorts and inns, too), towns such as Duck, Corolla, Hatteras, Nags Head and Kitty Hawk are scattered along this series of sand dune-studded barrier islands, making it a top spot for leisurely getaways with friends and multi-generational family vacations. Fresh seafood is plentiful, and activities include hang gliding, bike riding and deep-sea fishing at one of the best family beach resorts.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

To experience nature at its finest, it’s hard to top Cannon Beach, a wide, wild swath of sand on the Oregon Coast about 90 minutes from Portland. Known for its dramatic rock formations (235-foot-tall Haystack being the most famous), lush rainforests (complete with waterfalls), large artist population (galleries abound) and wildlife (you can easily spot nesting puffins and grazing elk), Cannon Beach is ideal as a romantic-getaway spot for eco-loving couples.

Aside from beachcombing and surfing, hiking is the activity to do (the views from Ecola State Park are sublime), and accommodations include dozens of inns to suit all budgets.

The Hamptons, New York

Each summer, this string of charming villages, located on the southeast coast of Long Island, plays host to New York’s A-listers — from Wall Street bigwigs to music moguls — who escape the city to weekend at beachfront estates worthy of an Architectural Digest cover.

But, if you plan ahead, more modest house rentals are also available in Southampton, East Hampton, Bridgehampton, Amagansett and Wainscott. Besides sunning and socializing, the Hamptons are known for farm stands offering fresh, local produce, restaurants specializing in Long Island seafood and farm-to-table cuisine and vineyards ideal for lazy afternoons sipping wine.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is nicknamed “the Magic Isle” and with good reason.

In addition to its famous beaches (Kaanapali, Wailea and Makena, to name a few), this Hawaiian island is home to Haleakala (a surreal volcanic crater that’s 10,023 feet above sea level), Molokini (a crescent-shaped, offshore lava formation offering superb snorkeling), Upcountry (a lush area with historic cowboy towns and lavender farms) and Hana (a remote spot perched on black-lava landscape and accessible solely via the twisting, turning Hana Highway).

Add in humpback whales (from November to March), spinner dolphins and a half dozen golf courses, and Maui has something for everyone.

Newport, Rhode Island

Whether you’re into surfing, sailing or touring Gilded Age mansions, Newport is a beach vacation destination with a star-spangled pedigree. Its largest beach, Ruggles, is sweeping crescent of sand favored by surfers. Its historic Thames Street is lined with antique shops, pubs and seafood restaurants.

Choose from an array of romantic inns (the Chanler at Cliff Walk and Forty 1 North, for instance) or full-service hotels (Newport Marriott or Hotel Viking). For active sightseeing, stroll or jog the scenic 3½-mile Cliff Walk with grand mansions on one side and the sailboat-studded waters of Narragansett Bay on the other.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Want to tick another state off your visited list? Then make it Alabama, where Gulf Shores offers nature (it’s home to 6,500-acre Gulf State Park), entertainment (outdoor concerts) and foodie fun (from shrimp to barbecue).

In total, there are 32 miles of white-sand beaches that let you explore the region’s beautiful landscapes, as you spy on seabirds and eagles, alligators and even black bears. Accommodations include condo rentals, B&Bs, motels, hotels and campsites.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a beach vacation destination that offers active summer sports as well as easy access to a city famous for its history and quirky charm, check out Hilton Head Island. Located 45 minutes from Savannah Georgia, it has carved a niche with its focus on golf, tennis, biking and nature walks, along with a plentiful supply of hotel rooms and condo and house rentals in all price ranges.

Day trips to Savannah add antiquing, historic home tours and low-country cuisine (shrimp and grits, anyone?) to the mix.

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So hop in the car now — you’re pretty much already packed and ready for this style of beach day. All that’s left to do is choose a destination. Our guide to the best nude beaches in the U.S. will hopefully inspire you to consider clothing optional beaches from coast to coast. And why choose just one? Start with nude beaches in Florida and cross destinations off until you complete your list by visiting the nude beaches in Hawaii.

Land of the free? Home of the brave? Check and check. Here are the best nudist beaches in the U.S.

Gunnison Beach – New Jersey

The only legal nude beach in the state of New Jersey, Gunnison, found on the north end of Sandy Hook near Parking Lot G, may be crowded, but its community is very considerate of others. You won’t likely hear loud music. And your photo won’t be taken, thanks to regulars who make sure the space stays safe for all.

Canaveral National Seashore – Florida

There are two sides to Canaveral National Seashore: the north end, Apollo Beach, near New Smyrna Beach, and the south end, Playalinda Beach, near Titusville. Park rangers turn a blind eye to nudity, so long as it’s contained to the beach near specific parking lots (#5 for Apollo, #13 for Playalinda) that are unofficial nude sunbathing areas. Both sides of this natural stretch of sand are about an hour’s drive east of Orlando.

Hippie Hollow – Texas

There’s couldn’t be a more fitting name for a nude beach — and of course it’s found on Lake Travis outside the liberal enclave that is the city of Austin. One caveat: This hideaway isn’t a beach in the truest sense as it has wide, flat rocks, perfect for sunbathing, lining the water’s edge. But you’ll forget the lack of sand when you take the time to roam: This spot occupies 109 acres in Hill County, 20 minutes outside the city.

Secret Beach – Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai locals call it Kauapea Beach, but others simply refer to this unfrequented spot with waves too strong for swimming as Secret Beach. Either way, find it — if you can — on the north shore between Kalihiwai Bay and Kilauea Point. Pack patience as it may take a few tries to locate the unmarked steep trail to the caramel sand.

Longnook Beach aka Ballston Beach – Massachusetts

Hike to the patch in between these two Cape Cod beaches in the greater town of Truro for the isolated, scenic sand dunes that have made this getaway a favorite among city fleers. Here, you’ll gain no-tan-lines freedom, and the liberty to spread out, as this stretch is typically secluded and serene.

Secret Cove – California

It’s called “Secret” for a reason. This boulder-studded stretch of golden sand along Lake Tahoe in northern California is tricky to find, and requires a 15-minute walk south from Chimney Beach. But then you find the staircase leading to this gem, and you’ll discover why the place also answers to the names Paradise Cove and Paradise Rock.

Kehena Black Sand Beach – Big Island, Hawaii

One of the world’s only nude-friendly black-sand beaches is found near the eastern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island. It’s a small strip of sand, no more than 75 yards. Although textiles — that is, folks who favor swim trunks — frequent this beach, you likely won’t mind, as dolphins are regulars as well.

Black’s Beach – California

The sheer cliffs hemming in this beach outside La Jolla in greater San Diego make for excellent scenery, and a 15-minute calorie-burning haul to the water’s edge. No concessions cater to visitors, so pack in what you need. But, the isolation factor also makes for walks that are especially long and peaceful.

Eight-Mile Beach – Nevada

This Lake Mead hideaway is so hush-hush that it has no official name — just a nickname based on 8 Mile Road, the dirt track outside the town of Boulder, Nevada, that dead-ends just shy of the water. Despite the fact that this nude beach is just 41 minutes by car from Las Vegas, it rarely sees enough sunbathers to start a poker game.

Collins Beach – Oregon

This khaki-color beach on the Columbia River may not be the prettiest in the state, but it’s pretty much the most liberal. Nudity is completely allowed, with signs alerting passersby who may be unaware that they’re about to enter a bare-buns-friendly zone. Find the one-mile stretch on the northeast side of Sauvie Island, less than an hour’s drive north of Portland.

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For as much as we have enjoyed the concept of a workation or the idea of sneaking away to a local resort for a safe, distanced staycation, a lot of the buzz around travel for the rest of 2021 involves wellness. Resorts all over the world are welcoming guests back with unique and creative packages and experiences that focus primarily on improving ourselves both physically and mentally. That’s great news for any of us who packed on a few (dozen) extra pounds or lost some (or a lot) of sleep stressing over a variety of things.

And while there will be plenty of boot camps and water sports to enjoy, one thing that we’re especially eager to catch up on is golf. It’s been far too long since we packed our clubs up or rented a set and played a round or two at one of our favorite resorts, so it’s time to change that.

These are five resorts and golf courses that are at the top of our list to play this year.

Great Waters—Reynolds Lake Oconee

Okay, if we’re being honest, Reynolds Lake Oconee could be its own list because of its five awesome golf courses (six if you count The Creek Club, but that one is members only). But given the chance to play just one of them, I’m always going to start with the Golden Bear’s master work (my apologies to Rees Jones, Bob Cupp, and Tom Fazio). Great Waters was not only conceived by Jack Nicklaus to be one of the most breathtaking courses in the South, making it a must-play for golfers of any level, but it also recently underwent an 18-month redesign, so it’s back and better than ever.

Couple that with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee and this enters the dream getaway conversation. In addition to the beautiful courses, this property offers a variety of activities that range from exciting to relaxing, as the afternoon can be spent with a world-class spa pampering and the evening can wind down with a bourbon tasting and fireside gathering.

As with almost any Ritz property, kids are also treated like legends here, and there’s even a “Study Buddy” program to keep young ones entertained and educated throughout their summer break.

TPC Danzante Bay—Villa del Palmar Beach Resort and Spa

If someone on the west coast asked us to recommend a great place for a quick golf retreat, this might be the top pick. But the west coasters don’t get to have all the fun this time. Not when Villa del Palmar Beach Resort and Spa offers all-inclusive bliss for everyone in beautiful Loreto, Mexico. If you want great beaches, seemingly limitless water sports and adventure, and the chance to explore the amazing surroundings, including Bahía de Loreto National Park, this is the place to do it.

Of course, if you’re visiting this destination, you might as well bring your clubs and enjoy the Unlimited Golf Package, because this Rees Jones course is mind-blowing. Even if your handicap is higher than your age, the views alone will give your scramble buddies back at your home course Instagram envy for months.

Quivira Golf Club—Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf and Spa Resort

They say the couple that golfs together stays together forever. Okay, no one actually says that, but any adults looking for a weekend with no kids, no worries, and a ton of golf will be in tropical heaven at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf and Spa Resort, where they’ll find private beach bliss. Stylish and romantic venues, like the Constellation and Aire Terraces, also make this Mexican resort a fantastic choice for a destination wedding, but it’s an all-around excellent spot for romance and fun.

And then there’s the golf course—wow. Another spectacular Golden Bear design, it is already regarded by many experts to be one of the best in the world, and it’s not difficult to understand why. Between the dunes and the cliffs, not to mention the incredible views of the ocean, each hole is surrounded by natural beauty. But the way it begins near the beach and keeps moving players upward, it’s as if Quivira Golf Club was conceived to be a tour of this region’s most amazing attributes.

Harbour Town Golf Links—Sea Pines Resort

If you watched Webb Simpson shoot a tournament record -22 at the RBC Heritage in 2020, you might be under the impression that this is an easy course. But the likely reason that guys like Simpson and defending champion Stewart Cink (-19) do so well at Harbour Town Golf Links is because the pros have a blast when they play it. For example, in a 2012 Golf Digest survey of PGA players, it was second only to Augusta National, with one pro calling it “the best course we play.” Obviously, a lot can change in that time, but it only gets better here, as new grass for the greens and fairways has kept it beautiful and exciting for golfers of all ages.

Hilton Head is already a very popular destination for families, but Sea Pines Resort is a club’s length in front of the pack when it comes to golf getaways. The Villa Golf Package, for example, puts an emphasis on privacy for a long weekend vacation, giving adults and kids a place to do the things they love most—hit the beach, enjoy water sports, charter a fishing boat—or hit the links as a group, because someone has to make sure dad is honest with the scorecard.

Hawk’s Landing Golf Club—Orlando World Center Marriott

There’s a lot of golf to be played in Florida, and that’s clearly an understatement. From Miami to the Panhandle, golfers of all experience levels will find a wide variety of courses to choose from, offering everything from value to professional-level challenges. What we love about the Orlando World Center Marriott is that, in addition to golf, it offers a ton of amenities and activities—including a truly awesome waterslide—that make it perfect for quick family trips. Oh, and there might be some theme parks nearby.

Golfers will find the Robert Cupp, Jr. design to be challenging but fun—the kind of course that feels like a leisurely stroll and won’t get your blood boiling when you’ve lost your 13th ball of the round. And for adult golfers traveling with children who are interested in learning to play, the on-site Orlando Golf Academy is a phenomenal way to help them start.

The post 5 Resorts that are Ideal for a Quick Golf Getaway appeared first on Islands.

Although we’ve lived in Florida for more than 20 years, my husband and I had never been to the Keys. But with our two sons now grown, we wanted a romantic, couples-only trip to this southernmost part of The Sunshine State.

Our heavenly destination? Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key.

Located midway down the Florida Keys, Hawks Cay makes the perfect spot to drop anchor, so to speak. The stunning resort sits on one of five small, secluded islands that make up Duck Key. You’re just one hour from both Key Largo and Key West, which makes exploring the Keys easy. But with so much to do at Hawks Cay, you might not want to even leave the property.

The Resort

If you recall, Hurricane Irma packed a wallop when it hit the Keys hard in 2017. But after closing for almost an entire year and pumping in more than $50 million to renovate the damaged property, Hawks Cay is simply breathtaking.

Spread over 60 acres, Hawks Cay beckons visitors to relax and enjoy the tropical scenery, from the moment you turn off US 1. With palm trees swaying in the breeze, herons flying overhead, boats bobbing in the marina, and gorgeous landscaping lining the property, Hawks Cay sets the stage for an indulgent escape.

Accommodations

The main building offers 177 guestrooms, with 250 two- and three-bedroom villas in additional buildings. We stayed in a spacious water-view room with a king-size bed, luxuriously covered with soft, crisp-white linens. Crafted in Caribbean island décor, the room’s soothing pallet and uncluttered layout really created the soothing vibe we needed after our longer-than-expected drive.

We opened the room’s exterior door to discover our private, two-level porch. The covered lanai turned out to be the perfect spot to sip coffee while watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, just beyond the Tranquility Pool. The lower level, furnished with two chaise lounges and large umbrella, provided a nice shady respite midday.

The Pools

With five pools to choose from, we couldn’t resist the come-hither call of the adults-only Tranquility Pool just steps from our room in the expanded Oasis Cay area. Reserved for the 21 and older crowd, this romantic sanctuary was free of squealing-with-delight kids that swarmed the family-friendly Pirate Ship Pool. We lounged around this serene retreat the entire afternoon, moving from pool to hot tub to firepit, where we enjoyed a fantastic lunch and cocktails delivered to our fireside Adirondack chairs by cheerful servers.

Tip: Check the resort’s activity schedule. The staff sometimes ambles around the Tranquility Pool armed with fresh fruit samples to devour.

We also loved the enclosed, ocean-fed Saltwater Lagoon found exclusively at Hawks Cay Resort. It’s like having your own private little ocean where you can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, stroll along the sandy perimeter, and relax in one of the many lounge chairs encircling the lagoon.

The Food

Not wanting to venture off property, we dined at several of the onsite eateries. Breakfast at Hawks Cay Marketplace was a no-brainer, with its casual vibe, picturesque vaulted ceiling, and relaxed pace. With three “hot stations” serving made-to-order omelets, Belgium waffles, potatoes, sausage, bacon and pancakes—plus a dizzying array of fresh fruits, bagels, pastries, cereals, and house-made granola parfait—we found something new to love every morning. While we lingered over a dine-in breakfast (sipping the best fresh-squeezed orange juice we’ve ever tasted), plenty of people popped in for grab-and-go options.

Poolside, we enjoyed Oasis Cay’s elevated menu featuring tropical culinary delights like the grilled mahi mahi tacos drizzled with chipotle aioli sauce, plus vegetarian options, too. (Hello, mammoth Superfoods Salad.) After plying myself with a bowlful of wholesome spinach, I didn’t feel as guilty ordering a Tropical Mojito spiked with key-lime-flavored rum. (When in Rome….)

Another day, we grabbed a table overlooking the lagoon and enjoyed fabulous lunch from the Tiki Bar. Forget typical bar food. Here, we dove into conch fritters, grilled brie and avocado corn salad, and (because they were so good) more fish tacos.

For a more upscale experience, we indulged in the sumptuous offerings at Sixty-One Prime. With award-winning executive chef William Ryan at the helm, Sixty-One Prime delivered a mouthwatering feast from start to finish, from Watermelon Ceviche and Tomato Tar Tar to Filet Mignon and Raspberry Chocolate Terrine. No wonder the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association named him “Chef of the Year.”

Tip: If you crave more seclusion, you can order in-room dining for breakfast and dinner or a boxed lunch for an intimate meal on the lanai.

The Spa

Nothing beats the romance of a couples’ massage, with the flicker of candlelight providing the sexy ambiance and the scent of pineapple filling the room. With no additional charge for a side-by-side massage in the spacious Calm Waters Spa couple’s suite, treat yo’ selves!

Choose from custom and specialty massages such as Tropical Breeze (lower pressure, good for relaxation) and Deep Ocean (deeper pressure, good for sore muscles). Add in the soothing warmth of a heated Himalayan Salt Stone and your stress melts away.

The Activities

Of course, a romantic getaway doesn’t mean you need to stay sequestered in your room. (Although the big-enough-for-two shower might make you want to.) With a slate of daily activities on land and sea, you can infuse your together time with a morning yoga class, a kayaking trip through mangrove-lined channels, a game of tennis, a reef snorkeling adventure, or a group sunset cruise.

Tip: If you want a more intimate voyage, book private excursions—complete with your own captain—including snorkeling, cruising, island sightseeing, and sand bar stops.

For a special treat, check out the Dolphin Connection in the lagoon. As the only hotel or resort in the mainland United States to offer onsite dolphin viewing in their natural habitat, Hawks Cay strives for a balance of education, conservation, and interactive experiences. We loved the up-close encounter with our new finned friends! The bottlenose dolphins danced across the water, “talked” to us with their clickety-clack squeals, responded to our cues, and (the highlight) gave us a flipper-handshake.

When to Go

While a romantic getaway can fuel the fire any time of year, it’s even better when the resort is less crowded. We went during the first week of December (before the crush of holiday crowds), but Fall, January to mid-February, and late April thru mid-May are slower, too. Looking to book a romantic interlude for you and your sweetie? With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I’d highly recommend a stay at the newly renovated Hawks Cay Resort.

Lisa Beach is a seasoned freelance writer. Her work has been published in The New York Times, USA Today Go Escape, Good Housekeeping, Eating Well, and dozens more. Check out her writer’s website at www.LisaBeachWrites.com.

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Bermuda might be famous for its pink-sand beaches and turquoise water, but that’s not all the island has to offer. For visitors who enjoy art, there’s plenty to see and do, from sleeping among works by modern masters to scouring the streets in search of mosaics and murals. Come rain or shine, here are five fun ways to discover Bermuda’s diverse and sophisticated art scene.

Stay at The Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club

Earlier this year, the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club unveiled a $100 million renovation that brought with it a staggering modern art collection. Whether arriving at the check-in desk or dining in the hotel’s restaurants, guests can marvel at works by Henri Matisse, René Magritte, Takashi Murakami, and dozens more influential artists. (Searching for the most Insta-worthy artwork? Head for the hotel’s breezy back lawn, where a nearly 19-foot-tall Mickey Mouse-inspired sculpture by New York artist KAWS towers near a staircase.)

Even in-room welcome treats include miniature modern artworks, reimagined in chocolate by the hotel’s pastry chef. Guided tours of the hotel’s art collection are offered every Saturday at 10 a.m. and are free for guests.

Go Gallery Hopping in Hamilton—and Beyond

Bermuda is home to a number of intimate galleries showcasing works by internationally known and local artists. Housed in a historical building in downtown Hamilton, the Bermuda National Gallery was founded in 1992 and features pieces from a range of periods and provenances. For a small admission fee, visitors can wander through a permanent collection of Bermuda-inspired impressionist works and browse temporary exhibitions. (Its current Pop Art exhibition features works by Banksy, Jeff Koons, and more.)

In 2020, the gallery, which offers public art tours each Thursday, will host the Bermuda Biennial. Other spots worth exploring include the Bermuda Society of Arts in Hamilton, which hosts exhibitions, workshops, and other events and has a well-curated shop, and the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda’s West End. Once home to the British Royal Navy, the dockyard is now home to several shops and galleries, including the Bermuda Arts Centre, Dockyard Glassworks, the Bermuda Craft Market, and Bermuda Clayworks (think pottery painting and pot-throwing classes).

Tour the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art

Situated within the island’s Botanical Gardens, the Masterworks Museum houses more than 1,500 pieces of Bermuda-inspired art dating from the 1700s to present day. Featured artists include Winslow Homer, Albert Gleizes, and Georgia O’Keeffe, the latter of who lived on the island for a year in the 1930s. In addition to those big-name artists, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase contemporary local talents.

Searching for something to take home? Head to the gift shop, where you can pick up locally made art and crafts. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students aged 12-18, and free for kids under 12.

Hunt for Street Art in Hamilton

In addition to cafes, coffee shops, and boutiques, downtown Hamilton is home to a number of eye-popping artworks. For the ultimate social media snap, head to the Dorchester building on Church Street. Its side exterior bears a giant “Welcome to Bermuda” mural by Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs, a New York-based duo known professionally as Greetings Tour. Completed in April 2019, it’s the couple’s 36th such mural, and their first outside the U.S. (A smaller version of the mural is painted on the wall of a courtyard at the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club; ask a staffer to point you toward the spot, which has its own hashtag, #poseonpink.)

Other photo-worthy spots in Hamilton include Chancery Lane (it’s just off of Front Street, between Parliament and Burnaby streets), where a cafe-lined set of stairs is painted in vivid colors and peppered with hopeful phrases. And don’t leave town without stopping to admire the intricate mosaic of a schooner that covers an exterior wall of the A.S. Cooper building. It was created by the department store’s founder’s great-granddaughter, Dana Cooper.

Create Your Own Masterpiece

If you’re feeling inspired by all of the art you’ve spotted around Bermuda, consider unleashing your own inner Picasso with a painting class hosted by MIX Studio, a public pop-up art studio launched in Bermuda in 2017 by Canada native Bella Richards. Located inside Gallery One Seventeen on Hamilton’s bustling Front Street, MIX hosts evening and weekend art workshops for adults, including BYOB wine workshops every Wednesday night (guests must be at least 18 to attend the latter).

Traveling with young artists in tow? MIX also offers weekend classes for kids age 5 through 12. Class fees include easels, canvases, paints, and brushes–all the essentials necessary to create your own take-home artwork.

The post 5 Ways to Explore Bermuda’s Booming Art Scene appeared first on Islands.

The Florida Keys have long been a beloved destination for travelers seeking quick tropical getaways that won’t require passports or standing in the Miami customs lines until their hair turns grey. From foodies and drinkies (if that’s not already a word for beach drink enthusiasts, then allow us to coin it now) to scuba divers and boaters, the Keys are convenient, affordable and fun. And boaters will be especially eager to get out on the water and head due south now that one recently opened property is offering free docking for guests.

Located in Key Largo, just west of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and right next to Tarpon Basin, Dolphin Point Villas offers six boat slips to guests at no additional charge, allowing them to head out for a day of fishing or cruising as if they’re leaving to grab a cup of coffee. This is especially beneficial to large families or groups that are looking to have a water-based vacation to remember with a base that offers both ideal location and high-end amenities that will make everyone feel right at home.

The property boasts six luxury villas, beginning with the massive 5-bedroom/5-bath Nautilus House that is highlighted by its incredible panoramic views of the bay. The two-story main home offers a large main floor gathering space with hallways leading to two private wings, one a king suite and the other with two bedrooms. Upstairs, guests will find another king suite that also includes a queen sleeper, as well as a queen suite. There is also a queen sleeper on the first floor, in case the kids want to watch TV or play video games long after the adults have retired for the evening.

The three-bedroom Tortuga Villa also offers an open floor plan that is ideal for families, while the three-bedroom Conch Villa lets guests step right out to one of the property’s two swimming pools. There are also three one-bedroom villas, with the two-story Coral Reef Cottage serving as great accommodations for couples or especially honeymooners. The Sand Dollar and Dolphin Villas, both one-bedroom, have an option for additional suite bedrooms, in case parents want to keep kids close by, but not on the sleeper in the next room.

But it’s what surrounds Dolphin Point Villas that will have guests bookmarking this property for return visits. In addition to the boat slips, paddleboards and kayaks are also available to guests free of charge. There are two pools and a private beach for soaking in the sun before and after snorkeling tours on the Sundiver III or in nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. And guests also receive discounts to swim with Dolphin Point’s neighbors—the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins at Dolphins Plus.

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Fresh lobster, oysters and mussels are only the beginning. These two islands located in Canada’s Atlantic provinces—English-speaking Prince Edward Island and French-accented Les Iles de la Madeleine—are a five-hour ferry ride apart and make a great destination for foodies craving small-batch, locally grown and produced edibles.

The bounty here ranges from lobster rolls, seafood chowder and potatoes to goat cheese, beer, cider and and even moonshine. Here are 15 fine-dining restaurants, casual lunch places, tasting rooms, breweries and distilleries on both islands—plus a few cool places to stay.

Foodie Favorites on Prince Edward Island

Fresh and artisanal is the order of the day every day from May to October on Canada’s smallest province, located off the coast of New Brunswick in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Late June to mid-September is prime time for enjoying local seafood, produce and other taste treats.

Terre Rouge: Located on Queen Street in PEI’s capital, Charlottetown, Terre Rouge is known for inventive menus created with locally sourced ingredients that burst with flavor. The seared scallops over crispy kale and the halibut with artichoke hummus, couscous and feta are both divine, while meat-lovers can opt for a burger made with ground beef infused with pork belly and vegetarians the super-tasty mushroom toast or the aromatic dill-fennel flavored Fazzoletti. Reservations recommended for dinner.

On the Dock Eatery: Sometimes a place that wasn’t on your radar turns out to be a gem. Arriving at the better-known Blue Mussel Cafe in North Rustico just as the lunch menu—and lobster roll availability—was ending forced a change of plans. Luckily, On the Dock Eatery, a casual kid-friendly restaurant next door, prepares excellent lobster rolls all day long. Served with crispy fries or an incredible kale salad, the rolls hold generous portions of lobster that aren’t heavily smothered in mayo.

Cows Creamery: This PEI institution is perfect for a mid-afternoon snack, serving inventive ice cream flavors such as Moo York Cheesecake and Cookie Moonster. And if you never imagined that chocolate and potatoes—this island grows 100 varieties on almost 85,000 acres—would be yummy, try the Cow Chips in either milk or dark chocolate.

Landmark Oyster House: There are oysters on the menu in many PEI restaurants, but to enjoy them in a picturesque setting head to Landmark Oyster House in Victoria by the Sea on the south coast. Owned by husband-and-wife Greg and Marly Anderson, the restaurant serves 3-5 varieties of fresh local oysters daily at lunch and dinner, as well as an oyster Po Boy.

The MacMillan Dining Room: From a beautifully plated beet and feta salad to perfectly seared scallops served atop fresh asparagus and island potatoes, the cuisine at Dalvay-by-the-Sea’s MacMillan Dining Room celebrates the island’s bounty in a historic and charming setting. If you stay at the inn, breakfast is delicious and generously portioned, too.

The FireWorks Feast: Not only is Michael Smith PEI’s most famous chef, but his farm-to-fork extravaganza held nightly from mid-May to mid-October at the Inn at Bay Fortune near St. Peters is an ode to artisanal ingredients and live fire cooking. The “FireWorks Feast” starts at 5pm with a Farm Tour, continues at 6pm with Oyster Hour and really gets cooking at 7pm with a multi-course menu featuring fresh island vegetables, herbs, seafood and meats prepared in a 25-foot wood-burning fireplace.

Myriad View Artisan Distillery: Even if you don’t have the stomach to toss back the Shine (Canada’s first legal Moonshine), there are plenty of other potent spirits to sample at Myriad View Artisan Distillery near Souris—from botanical Gin and Pastis to Canadian-oak-aged Brandy, Rum and Whiskey.

Must-Tries on Les Iles de la Madeleine

The French rarely disappoint when it comes to food and this string of interconnected islands in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence is no exception. There’s even a Food Trail spotlighting the expected Madelinot products (cheese, of course) and the not-so-expected (smoked herring).

Domaine du Vieux Couvent: Set inside a 100-year-old convent and decorated with striking painted portraits of nuns, Domaine du Vieux Couvent serves gourmet bistro fare that’s some of the islands’ best. Seasonal menus change monthly, but include a delicious hot smoked salmon filet, steamed mussels, and a hearty seafood chowder.

Fromagerie les Biquettes a l’Air: The only goat cheese producer in the islands is located on Havre-Aubert island and is open from June to September. Les Biquettes a l’Air features a range of fresh goat cheeses, including those flavored by herbs, honey and local fruits, made from the milk of its 33 dairy goats—which are awfully cute, too.

Le Verger Pomeloi: From the islands’ sole apple orchards, planted in 1990, Eloi Vigneau is making some refreshingly intoxicating ciders. Located on Havre-Aubert island and open June through September, the tasting room at Le Verger Pomeloi offers sips of a variety of ciders—including the Pomeloi, with an apple trapped in the bottle (ask how they do it).

Miel en Mer: In the hills on the island of Havre-aux-Maisons, 150 bee colonies are kept by Jules Arseneau, who founded Miel en Mer in 1995 and sells honey and related products onsite and to other artisanal producers around the island. Call or email ahead to check hours.

Fromagerie du Pied-de-Vent: It’s pretty much impossible to visit here without sampling a taste of cheese from this dairy by the sea—many restaurants use it in their dishes—established here almost 20 years ago with cows brought over from mainland Canada. Located in Pointe Basse on Havre-aux-Maisons island, Fromagerie du Pied-de-Vent offers tastings, from the classic Pied-de-Vent to the creamy Jeune Coeur.

A l’Abri de la Tempete: Any island worth its salt has to have a microbrewery, right? And in Les Iles, it’s A l’Abri de la Tempete, a microbrasserie located near windswept Dune de l’Ouest beach on L’Etang du Nord island. Favorites include the the floral blonde Belle Saison, the Trans IPA and the citrusy Calle Sèche.

Le Fumoir d’Antan: The only smokehouse in Les Iles is detectable the moment you arrive at its production facility/tasting room in Basse-Terre on Havre-au-Maisons island. At Le Fumoir d’Antan the Arseneau brothers produce a variety of smoked seafood, including herring, salmon, scallops and mackerel.

Halabolina: After a drive to the far end of Grande-Entrée island, reward yourself with a lobster roll at Halabolina, a casual restaurant pub overlooking the sea. It’s often quite busy and service is notoriously slow, but it’s worth the wait to refuel with a perfectly grilled roll filled with fresh island lobster and served with a bounty of crispy fries.

Where to Stay

On Prince Edward Island, a top choice in Charlottetown is the Great George Hotel, set in a cluster of historic buildings and offering easy access to the restaurants of Queen Street and Victoria Row. On the north shore, Dalvay by the Sea offers a lovely beachside inn setting within Prince Edward Island National Park, along with three-bedroom cottages that are great for families. On the east coast, the Inn at Bay Fortune is Chef Michael’s Smith’s boutique property.

On Les Iles de la Madeleine, it’s hard to beat the location and ambience of Domaine du Vieux Couvent, where each of the 11 rooms and suites offers views of the sea.

The post A Food-Lover’s Guide to Prince Edward Island and Les Iles de la Madeleine appeared first on Islands.

When word got out that Lark Hotels had purchased Rhode Island’s iconic Surf Hotel, residents of Block Island were concerned that “The Surf” would become nothing but a footnote in this popular U.S. destination’s history. But Lark CEO Rob Blood quashed those fears back in March when he told the Block Island Times that he understood the hotel’s importance to the island, and the building itself would still be called the Surf. And much to the relief of the island’s Historic District Commission, Lark agreed to keep the Surf’s original sign.

However, Blood admitted that while he would “honor and respect” the Surf’s legacy, it was also time to move forward “in a way that will ensure that its place on the island will be sustained for many more generations.” Lark did so by also purchasing the Gable Inn and turning both properties into one new resort: The Block Island Beach House.

Reopened on July 1, Block Island Beach House became Lark’s first and only full resort and the accommodations have been designed “to evoke surf shack charm with a modern edge.” Artist Matt Schwartz was tasked with creating a “nostalgic summer” vibe throughout the rooms, using his Polaroid artwork to decorate the various suites with images of old surfboards and the island’s scenic beauty.

Said Blood: “I’ve always thought of Block Island as the perfect summer spot. The mentality and pace here is completely different from anywhere else in the area—it’s relaxed, casual, and made for memory making, and that’s exactly what we wanted to capture in the design of Block Island Beach House. We really hope that we’re creating an experience that will become part of the fabric of our guests’ lives and that they will return again and again to their summer beach house.”

Queen and king suites are available with a variety of options, ranging from village view to balconies overlooking the ocean. Pet-friendly and ADA accessible rooms are also available. As for dining, the aptly-named oceanfront kitchen and bar The Surf is likely to be a local favorite, serving fresh fish and BBQ, while Beach Bar will host clam bakes and serve tropical cocktails.

When the 2019 summer season has ended, the Beach House’s bigger expansion will begin, with completion expected for reopening in May 2020. Oceanside cottages and larger suites are being added, in addition to a pool and two event spaces. An outdoor venue will serve as a spot for weddings and larger parties, while the Surf Shack will allow groups of 30 or less to enjoy a more intimate, indoor beachside setting.

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