Summer Florida Road Trip: The Keys

If you’re looking for an indulgent couple’s getaway, journey down to the ultra-exclusive Little Palm Island Resort and Spa

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The super-private Little Palm Island Resort and Spa is nestled on its own island. Images courtesy of little palm island resort and spa
The super-private Little Palm Island Resort and Spa is nestled on its own island. Images courtesy of little palm island resort and spa

Miles from Jupiter: 220, Driving Time: 4 hours

What’s more romantic than a getaway to a private island? At Little Palm Island Resort and Spa, situated on a 5.5-acre, ultra-exclusive islet off Little Torch Key, that edge-of-the-world feeling is closer than you might think—and getting there is part of the magical journey. Put together a beachy playlist with your partner and cruise down to the welcome center. From there, a complimentary motor yacht will transport you to the resort, which is only accessible by boat or seaplane. 

Private sunset dining on the water. Images courtesy of little palm island resort and spa
Private sunset dining on the water.

Once the thatched-roof bungalows are in sight, bliss begins to set in. Following extensive renovations, Little Palm reopened in 2020 with a host of improvements: redesigned suites boasting a fresh British West Indies-meets-Bali aesthetic; the brand new SpaTerre, where couples can luxuriate in a sunrise water massage right in the ocean’s shallows; and decadent epicurean experiences prepared by Chef Luis Pous that range from five- to seven- course tasting menus at the Chef’s Table at The Dining Room to intimate, candlelit beachside dinners to expertly packed picnics aboard a catamaran. You and your sweetie can spend your days relaxing and reconnecting in the tropical surrounds or filling the hours with activities like scuba diving the Looe Key Reef, sailing, and backcountry flats fishing. In the evenings, groove to live music at the resort’s private Sandbar Sessions concerts or soak in a bathtub under the stars.

The balcony of a Romance Suite with gorgeous views. Images courtesy of little palm island resort and spa
The balcony of a Romance Suite with gorgeous views.

Because the ocean-view bungalows lack TVs and phones, and no more than 60 guests are permitted at the resort at once, Little Palm Island has become a favorite among elite and discerning travelers who value privacy and are looking to detach from reality. It’s no surprise that the resort recently earned the distinction as one of the best new hotels in the world from Condé Nast Traveler.

Enjoy a cocktail and the view at The Monkey Hut. Images courtesy of little palm island resort and spa
Enjoy a cocktail and the view at The Monkey Hut.

Should you crave a change of scenery, Key West is only about 30 miles away. On your way into town, stop at Stock Island for a picturesque stroll through the paved paths in Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden. Key West proper provides a little more hustle and bustle with lively restaurants, bars, and cobblestone streets lined with Caribbean cottages and charming shops. Peruse earthy eccentricities at Bésame Mucho, handmade leather shoes at Kino Sandals, and chic eco-conscious fashions at The Green Pineapple. Discover a piece of Key West history and learn how Cuban cigars are made at the Rodriguez Cigar Factory while sipping an espresso, but don’t be late for your alfresco dinner reservation at Blue Heaven. There, roosters roam the courtyard, the meringue on the Key lime pie rises a mile high, and the live music will have you falling in love all over again. 

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