Making Waves

Life in the Florida Keys is all about simple pleasures: the joy of a perfect sunset, a cold beer, a perfectly fried fish sandwich, a good tune.

Now, a new resort is elevating that traditional Keys experience with a luxurious, all-inclusive approach. Opened this winter, the Bungalows Key Largo is an adults-only enclave by Noble House Hotels & Resorts, comprising 135 private bungalows on 12 tropical acres. It’s the first all-inclusive resort in the Keys.

Conveniently located on the uppermost Key, the resort is about a two-hour drive from Boca Raton (depending on traffic) or, if you feel like making an entrance, a 40-minute seaplane ride from Fort Lauderdale.

You’ll be greeted with a cocktail and a snack before being whisked away on a golf cart tour of the property with a friendly staffer, moving beyond the main gates along a palm-lined avenue enclosed by verdant foliage. Although just steps from the main drag, the property is thoughtfully designed to feel like a private island escape. And, thanks to its location on the bayside of the island, it’s protected from the strong winds that often buffet the oceanside.

The bungalows – divided into oceanfront and garden units – are private, standalone structures with verandas featuring oversized tubs and outdoor showers. After a long day of luxuriating, a soak in the tub with drink in hand is irresistible. Inside, the muted color palette, organic textures and natural materials make for a serene oasis.

Opt for an oceanfront bungalow, if you can; there are only 32, but they’re worth the extra cost. Not only are the views unbeatable, but they’re closest to all the amenities.

The garden units are no less appealing, however. Don’t feel like walking? Pick up an aqua Huffy bike anywhere on property, plop your cocktail in the cup holder and cruise like a kid again. Guests pedaling by wave and call out in greeting. Indeed, thanks to its size and setup, the property is just as well-suited for socializing with strangers as it is for canoodling couples.

The two-story main building, facing the water, is the center of all the action. There, you’ll find the terraced main pool, ringed with lounge chairs and inviting cabanas; the hot tub; the Sunset Tiki Bar; three restaurants; and the activities hut. 

At the latter, you can sign up for a spin on one of two six-seat tiki boats, the S.S. Rum Runner and S.S. Margarita. Your captain-slash-bartender will serve cold drinks while navigating the bay – quite a unique experience. (Ask for Captain John from Boston for a side of dry humor with your cruise.) Another fun option is a tour on a canopied, electric Duffy boat, perfect for exploring the mangroves and spotting manatees. Or take the non-motorized route on a standup paddleboard or a kayak.

The tiki theme continues in the full-service Zen Garden Spa, featuring individual thatched-roof treatment rooms. Unwind in the Himalayan salt room and eucalyptus steam room before your massage or facial. The spa is home to the property’s second pool, the Zen Pool, which is for quiet relaxation, along with a second hot tub.

Overlooking the spa pool is the open-air Fitness Tiki Hut, which allows you to break a sweat on the Peloton or treadmill while still enjoying the tropical surroundings. (Versus other resort gyms that feel like they’re locked away in a basement.) Morning yoga sessions are also available.

Of course, one of the biggest draws of an all-inclusive resort is eating and drinking to your heart’s content, and that’s not forgotten at Bungalows Key Largo. Fish Tales serves up a traditional buffet-style breakfast, and the tiki bar offers an all-day menu of light bites like conch fritters and burgers. Don’t miss a meal at the Mexican restaurant, Sea Señor, located on the water under a canopy of sea grape trees. It’s a charming spot. A food truck, Largo Larry’s, will be opening soon, located on the beach, and special dining experiences like fish fries and pig roasts are frequent.

The resort’s signature restaurant is Bogie & Bacall’s, named for the actors who starred in the classic 1948 film “Key Largo.” Guests get gussied up to enjoy a lengthy multi-course dinner with wine pairings. Seasonal produce and fresh seafood are the focus in this romantic venue. Just outside, the Hemingway Bar is the perfect stop for a daiquiri before dinner.

Curious about what the all-inclusive rates actually include? Golf cart pickup and drop-off, lodging, food and premium beverages, resort amenities, activities and water toys (including kayaks, paddleboards, and tiki and Duffy boat rides) are all included. 

We think Bogie and Bacall would approve. O

Bungalows Key Largo is located at 99010 Overseas Highway. For more information, call 866-801-0195 or visit bungalowskeylargo.com.