Staycation Bliss

FARTHER AFIELD

South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island
5400 Plantation Road, Captiva Island; 239.472.5111; southseas.com

The 330-acre South Seas Island Resort welcomes guests with its laid-back attitude, unspoiled beaches, intriguing wildlife and endless onshore and on-water activities. For a secluded stay, reserve one of the Homes of Distinction, a collection of private two- to nine-bedroom luxury houses located on the property.

PLAY: With beach access, three pools, a full-service marina, an on-site sailing school, 11 tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course and endless water sports from paddleboarding to parasailing, there is no shortage of things to keep guests occupied from day to night.

ENRICH: The resort has a partnership with Sanibel Sea School, which provides experiential educational programs for kids and teens. All guests can see wildlife up-close during various cruise excursions, where dolphin and manatee sightings are all but guaranteed.

UNWIND: Arrange for a romantic S’mores Experience: Watch the sunset while roasting marshmallows, sipping Champagne and enjoying the tunes from your own dedicated guitarist.

TASTE: Start your mornings overlooking the marina with the breakfast buffet at Harbourside Bar & Grill, which also has a divine dinner menu. And try the iconic Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill, which serves Caribbean-inspired fare in a casual environment.

Bungalows Key Largo
99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo; 305.363.2830; bungalowskeylargo.com

Only 63 miles from Miami, this new 12-acre, adults-only, all-inclusive oasis provides options for both nonstop action and relaxation.

PLAY: Explore the area on a cruiser or choose from aquatic activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, private catamaran charters and fishing expeditions.

ENRICH: Swim with dolphins at Dolphins Plus, which supports efforts to save sick and injured whales and dolphins in the wild.

UNWIND: You won’t want to leave your bungalow’s oversized outdoor soaking tub and garden shower, but don’t miss the Zen Garden Spa, which has a Himalayan salt room and five outdoor treatment rooms.

TASTE: Choose from fine dining at Bogie & Bacall’s, Mexican fare at Sea Señor or local seafood at Capri-inspired Fish Tales.

The Resort at Longboat Key Club
220 Sands Point Road, Longboat Key; 941.383.8821; longboatkeyclub.com

With 410 acres overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, you’re assured an off-the-grid beach vacation at this AAA four-diamond resort.

PLAY: Golfers come from all over to play the resort’s 45 holes, ranked among the country’s best. The resort is also a haven for tennis lovers with 20 Har-Tru courts and private lessons and clinics offered daily.

ENRICH: Tour the Ringling Museum, then meander through St. Armands Circle, a sprawling hub for elegant shopping and dining.

UNWIND: Nourish the body with an island-inspired treatment at Opal Spa.

TASTE: With six on-property restaurants and lounges, indulge in everything from farm-to-table dishes to candlelit dinners. Be sure to try the marina-facing Portofino Ristorante & Bar, which specializes in authentic Italian cuisine.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
325 S. Orange Ave., Orlando; 407.313.9000; grandbohemianorlando.com

Orlando may be the theme park capital of the world, but Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando is less for Disney fans than it is for art lovers who wish to be within walking distance of cultural gems.

PLAY: Join locals at Bösendorfer Lounge for cocktails and live jazz music. Notice the Imperial Grand Bösendorfer piano, one of only a handful in the world.

ENRICH: The Grand Bohemian Gallery features exhibits from various artists, along with pieces for sale.

UNWIND: Settle into a lounger by the rooftop pool or opt for a signature massage, facial or body treatment at Poseidon Spa.

TASTE: Have a hearty lunch, a romantic dinner or a decadent Sunday brunch at the resort’s award-winning The Boheme Restaurant.

The Sarasota Modern
1290 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota; 941.906.1290; thesarasotamodern.com

This new boutique hotel is perfect for trend-setting travelers looking for an Instagram-worthy staycation minutes from everything desirable in Sarasota.

PLAY: Alternate between warm and cold plunge pools while listening to a variety of music thanks to underwater speakers. Or hop a ride to the beach on the resort’s restored VW bus.

ENRICH: Immerse yourself in the urban Rosemary District, or explore Ca’ d’Zan, the elaborate former home of the Ringling family.

UNWIND: Soak in a balcony clawfoot tub, then book an in-room massage with Pura Vie Spa.

TASTE: Let a Hell’s Kitchen alum impress you at Rudolph’s with unique dishes, local seafood and an exceptional wine list.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]