The Ultimate Unwind

If you’re craving a boisterous, party-like weekend escape to the Keys, we suggest you head to Duval Street in Key West. However, if a serene, picturesque and calming staycation is more your preference, a visit to Bungalows Key Largo is the obvious choice.

A 2-hour drive is all that separates you from this idyllic gem. The all-inclusive, adults-only (21-years and older) resort provides the opportune space to disconnect and recharge. It’s easy to miss the elusive getaway among the neighboring auto shop, paint store and bakery dotting the Overseas Highway, but keep an eye out for a teal (the property’s signature color) wooden gate and prepare to enter paradise.

The resort is nestled along Buttonwood Sound on 11½ waterfront acres within a botanical garden. True to its name, each guest is offered a bungalow (there are 135 in total), complete with a front porch boasting two teal Adirondack chairs and two cruiser bikes (you guessed it, teal!) to explore the lush, palm-tree lined roads with dreamy names like “Lovers Lane.”

The bungalows are escapes unto themselves. The entrance (key card needed for access) leads to a private veranda with an al fresco oversized soaking tub (perfect for two).

Draw the curtains for complete privacy or open them to invite the lush landscape in. If you opt for one of the 31 oceanfront villas, select water views promise to elevate the experience. Once inside, the plush bed and rain shower are added bonuses to the already inviting contemporary coastal interior design. Head to the far end of your bungalow and you’ll find a back porch with a pair of chaise lounge chairs to take relaxing to the next level.

Beyond the bungalow there is plenty of fun to be had. Start with a visit to Sunset Pool, the infinity pool overlooking the crystal-clear waters surrounding the resort. There’s also the Zen Pool, a quiet corner tucked amid tropical palms. For those wanting a dip into the ocean, there are stairs leading from the coral rocks to enter the water (sand beaches are hard to come by as the Keys are a coral cay archipelago) There are several couple-sized anchored water rafts to float in.

Boat excursions like the Tapas Sunset Sail, on Bungalow’s custom catamaran or the Tiki Boat ride (grab a cocktail and take a tour on a motor-run tiki bar) are musts. For those wanting to stay fit, an open-air fitness center replete with Peloton bikes awaits. There are also standup paddleboards and kayaks which, on the perpetually calm water is accessible to all fitness levels. Early risers will enjoy daily yoga sessions on Tranquility Beach and for those seeking a break from the sun, The Living Room, an expansive game room with exceptional ocean views, is the place to show off your Scrabble skills.

When hunger strikes, options abound. Sea Señor, set on the sand by the water, features Mexican staples like shrimp ceviche, fish tacos (boasting the fresh catch of the day) and chayote relleno (squash filled with rice, black beans and roasted corn, blanketed with melted cheese). All these go well with a margarita or ice-cold beer. End on a sweet note with Hojarascas Mexican cookies: a buttery shortbread coated with sugar and cinnamon.

For more formal occasions, Bogie & Bacall’s, named after the actors, and later, couple who brought fame to the area with their 1948 film “Key Largo,” awaits. The traditional steakhouse menu features “Butchers’ Cuts” steak options like an 8-ounce filet mignon or a 16-ounce ribeye.  I recommend pairing your meat with the truffle butter sauce or cabernet peppercorn demi. One can also opt for “Final Touches” like shrimp scampi, blue cheese and caramelized onion or black truffle bone marrow butter for extra decadence. Seafood options, a seared duck breast with honey raisin compote and wild mushroom risotto are available for those not craving red meat. You’ll want to start (or end) the evening at the adjacent Hemingway Bar.

More casual fare can be found at Fish Tales and Sunset Tiki Bar and guests can always get a bite to eat (and cocktail) at both pools.

By the end of a stay at Bungalows Key Largo, you’ll feel like you’re leaving home.

You will have acclimated to the easy pace, the welcoming staff and new friends made. One of many moments here, whether it’s a sunset, a dolphin spotting or one of the addictive fruity cocktails will have you realize how inconsequential that unfinished to-do list you left back in the office is. And while it is a sad truth that all holidays must end, the good news is, this sliver of perfection is a quick car trip away.

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