METRO takes a look at three family-friendly places in Florida that are an easy drive or quick flight away: Sarasota, St. Augustine and Key West, FL.
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STAY
Lido Beach Resort | Offers an exclusive secluded beach escape on the white, powdery sands of Lido Key. Play on the 300-foot sugar sand beach, soak in two year-round heated pools (one adults-only), and experience fresh, local eats. Contemporary accommodations welcome guests with vibrant views of the Gulf of Mexico. Island-inspired guest rooms offer a soothing atmosphere and private balconies, while many of the condo-style suites feature full kitchens and the comforts of home alongside upscale amenities. Dine on-site at Drift Kitchen & Bar, featuring panoramic views of the Gulf and skyline; enjoy the Tiki Bar’s waterfront cocktails; or the fresh fare prepared daily at Beach Market Café. www.opalcollection.com/lido-beach/
The Resort at Longboat Key Club | A luxury escape featuring a legendary golf course, full-service spa, award-winning tennis gardens, and serene stretch of beach – and the luxury accommodations recently underwent a top-to-bottom renovation. Reimagined guest rooms and suites welcome you with soothing colors and Gulf views, while a modern look featuring touches like marbled breakfast bars, plush furniture, and shiplap walls provide a peaceful refuge. Just opened 4 new pickleball courts.
www.opalcollection.com/longboat-key-club/
Zota Beach Resort | Contemporary waterfront guest rooms and suites across two iconic buildings. Newly reimagined as an elegant oasis, this Sarasota jewel features luxury accommodations, chic dining experiences, and beachside tranquility. Light-filled guest rooms and suites are designed with the Gulf Coast’s laidback elegance in mind. Pull up a chair at Cascades Pool Bar for sunny cocktails, beachy fare, and great conversation. When you’re not at the beach, enjoy a refreshing dip in the zero-entry pool. www.opalcollection.com/zota/
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota | Experience the exceptional service and luxurious resort of The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota with access to spacious guest rooms, pampering spa, fine dining, championship golf and access to the Beach Club on Lido Key. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/srqrz-the-ritz-carlton-sarasota/overview/
Arts Ovation Hotel | Enjoy the art-inspired boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Sarasota. Guests can be immersed in the experience with an the art exhibition throughout the hotel along with sketchbooks, coloring pencils and musical instruments in the rooms. The rooftop bar is a great place to watch a sunset with stunning views of the city, park and marina.
www.artovationhotel.com
DO
St. Armands Circle | With over 130 stores, boutiques, galleries and restaurants, St. Armands Circle is a must-visit with plenty of special events including arts and arts festivals, sidewalk sales, exotic car shows and holiday-themed events. Enjoy lunch or dinner at numerous restaurants including the famed Columbia Restaurant.
www.starmandscircleassoc.com
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium | The world renowned research and conservation facility features over 100 species of marine life including a touch pool for stingrays and a Shark Zone that is home to three species of sharks and sea turtles. Also discover manatees, river otters, spoonbills and more.
www.mote.org
John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art | Stroll through the extraordinary galleries built by famed circus legend John Ringling. From the world-class museum to the stunning home, Ca’ D’ Zan and Circus Museum on the property, this is a true treasure that must be discovered.
www.ringling.org/museum-art
EAT & DRINK
Michael’s on East | A not to be missed mainstay of one of the best place to dine for decades in Sarasota. The menu is seasonal, while being known for exceptional dining and service. Enjoy live entertainment in the lounge nightly.
www.bestfood.com
Owen’s Fish Camp | In the heart of downtown, enjoy food with a Southern flair with fried oysters, shrimp, and unpretentious seafood presentations. Enjoy live music and save room for a slice of bourbon pecan pie.
www.owensfishcamp.com
Blue Dolphin Cafe | Located in St. Armands Circle and another on Longboat Key, offering up delicious breakfast and lunch with egg dishes, waffles, burgers with large portions in a cozy and casual setting.
www.bluedolphincafe.com
St. Augustine | As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine’s brick streets and historic sites around downtownare filled with discovery. St. Augustine boasts attractions like military forts, stately castles, and Gilded-Age hotels. Explore a spiraling lighthouse, scenic nature trails, and tranquil beaches. From the Fountain of Youth, to Aviles Street (the oldest street in the nation) and plenty of dining and shopping, it’s time to re-discover this historic city.
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STAY
Casa Monica Resort & Spa | Premiere luxury accommodations, where culture, worldly flavor, a rejuvenating spa and art masterfully combine to inspire unforgettable experiences. Fully restored in 1999, the rich history of the iconic landmark shines through with impressive fortress-like architecture as it majestically overlooks the downtown district and Matanzas Bay. Casa Monica Resort & Spa features a gorgeous pool area, perfect for a cool swim or a midday escape in a shaded poolside cabana, and offers exclusive access to the private Serenata Beach Club for any guests.
www.kesslercollection.com/casa-monica/
44 Spanish Street Inn | Built in 1920, enjoy the charm and coziness of candlelit porches and courtyard space with the eight guest rooms, all with private baths. Enjoy the charm and character of this breakfast cottage in the heart of St. Augustine with complimentary continental breakfast weekdays and a full 3 course breakfast on weekends.
www.44spanishstreetinn.com
The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens | Choose from over 30 individually curated rooms that range in size from 216 to 441 square feet spanning nine historic buildings. Some rooms feature refurbished hardwood floors, fireplaces and coquina walls. Regardless of room type, receive exceptional service, continental breakfast and unparalleled amenities.
www.thecollectorinn.com
DO
Castillo de San Marcos Fort | The National Monument is over 315 years old and the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. The Spanish stone fortress was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the new World.
www.visitstaugustine.com/thing-to-do/castillo-de-san-marcos
Oldest Wooden School House | The Old School offers the opportunity for people of all ages to see an ORIGINAL American Treasure on a self-guided tour. The Genopoly House has been preserved to reflect the homestead life of the Minorcan Settlers as well as school life in the 1800s.
www.oldestwoodenschoolhouse.com
The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum | Arghhh Matey! A visit to the Pirate & Treasure Museum features over 800 authentic artifacts celebrating the history of piracy, both factual and fictional, from the 1600’s through present day.
www.thepiratemuseum.com
EAT & DRINK
Prohibition Kitchen | Using the freshest seasonal ingredients from local farms, the menu offers up freshly prepared dishes each day. From inspired cocktails of Auggie Grog to Green Sheeba, the food menu offers up craft burgers including the PK Signature with a blend of short rib, brisket and sirloin topped with smoked bacon, read onion jam, fried egg and red dragon cheese. The Handspun Milkshakes are a must, with or without alcohol. Try the Peanut Butter Chocolate or Hot Fudge Brownie.
www.pkstaug.com
Ice Plant Bar | Housed in an original “Ice Plant” building, the restaurant serves up craft cocktails, fresh, house-pressed juices, syrups with three different kinds of ice. Open for lunch and dinner, the farm to table restaurant serves up burgers, local seafood, and delicious house made pimento cheese.
www.iceplantbar.com
Tini Bar at the Casablanca Inn | It’s small but might with a fantastic location with Matanzas Bay views and live music. Sit on the veranda and enjoy a cool breeze with a favorite martini. From a Classic English Martini to the trendy Expresso Martini, this place will quench your thirst.
www.casablancainn.com/martini-bar
Key West | Known as the Conch Republic, Key West was home to some colorful characters including Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams and Jimmy Buffett. It’s the prefect place to relax, stroll down Duval street to shop and drink while escaping the pressures of daily life.
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STAY
Southernmost Beach Resort | Situated along the quieter southern limit of the famed Duval Street, the resort features classic coastal charm and a prime location, overlooking the pristine Atlantic Ocean. Boasting three palm-fringed pools with private cabanas, a signature restaurant, and four bars, a stay at Southernmost sets the tone for a memorable stay in Key West’s Historic District.
www.southernmostbeachresort.com
Sunset Key Cottages | Located on a 27-acre private island just a seven minute boat ride away, the one, two, three or four bedroom cottages have charming details and panoramic views from your own veranda. Relax and recharge in luxury with the picturesque views of blooming gardens, swaying palm trees and sparkling blue waters. Reach the island by private boat shuttle. Enjoy awarding winning dining, tropical pool, pampering Spa, tennis and so much more for a true island escape.
www.opalcollection.com/sunset-key-cottages
Margaritaville Beach House Key West | Situated on the waterfront along Key West’s largest beach, Margaritaville Beach House Key West with 186 guest rooms brings the Margaritaville state of mind to Florida’s southernmost point, with spacious suites and guest rooms, contemporary amenities, and gracious service. The Tin Cup Chalice Bar & Chill restaurant provides full-service dining, while other offerings include a 24-hour fitness center, on-site provision shop, poolside entertainment, daily refreshments, kids’ activities, lawn games, and hammocks dotted throughout the grounds. Complimentary shuttle service is available to the historic Downtown Seaport Harbor, and Key West International Airport.
www.MargaritavilleBeachHouseKeyWest.com
EAT & DRINK
Louie’s Backyard | Since 1971, this Key West restaurant offers up delicious dinners with stunning backyard views of the ocean. From delicious crafted cocktails to a menu with the freshest seafood, don’t miss out the the flavors of this Caribbean-American restaurant.
www.louiesbackyard.com
Blue Heaven | Al fresco dining in the laid back vibe for breakfast, lunch or dinner. We like the breakfast that offers hearty portions. The menu fuses Caribbean spices and the flavors of Key West. Enjoy the roaming roosters and cats, and a make sure to save room for a piece of their nearly famous Key lime pie.
www.blueheavenkw.com
Cuban Coffee Queen | Hands down a classic destination of a counter-service coffee stand with three locations in Key West. Enjoy the modern Cuban twist menu with delicious bends of Cafe Con Leche and Cuban Chocolate Mocha. Offering a menu of breakfast with Cuban Bread with Guava, Cuban Favorites and Sandwiches.
www.cubancoffeequeen.com
DO
Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square | Happening nightly two hours before sunset is a celebration of the day’s end with local musicians, artists, arts and crafts, street performers and food vendors. From the famed cat man to the tight rope walker, there is always something to discover at sunset.
www.sunsetcelebration.org
Southernmost Point | One of the most iconic points on Key West is the Southernmost Point Buoy that depicts the southernmost point in the contiguous 48 states. It’s only 90 miles from Cuba and certainly commands a photo. The best bet is early morning or later in the evening as lines do form to get a photo.
www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Southernmost-Point-44
Boating | Surrounded by water, when in Key West it is a must to get out on a boat for a sailing adventure for a sunset sail, snorkeling, parasailing or fishing excursion. There are lots of local companies including Fury that offers a variety of boating options.
www.furycat.com
Harry S. Truman Little White House | Discover a bit of history by taking a tour where Harry Truman wintered from 1946-1952. Other presidents stayed here as well and discover where the 33rd president retreated during the cloud of the Cold War.
www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.org
M
—By Ronda M. Parag
