Island Magic

Arriving at the resort’s dock is a treat for the eyes as you drink in the 4-acre island.

Retreat to West Indies-style bungalows with vaulted bamboo ceilings and separate living areas layered with tropical elegance.

Catering to the island setting, savor something fresh from the sea at Little Palm Island.

Indulge in a heavenly Madrugada treatment to receive a massage on a table that hovers above the water.

The Romance Suite boasts a front row seat to the water and copper soaking tubs.

Treat your palate to a meal inside The Dining Room or at a table in the sand at sunset.

Lounge by the serene pool with a refreshing drink in hand.

Absolute magic. It’s the only way to define a dream-like escape to Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, an exclusive private island resort that’s located 30 miles north of Key West, Florida. The fantasy-island adventure begins the moment you board an antique motor yacht from Little Torch Key to cut through the crystal clear waters—arriving 15 minutes later at the remote island’s dock to warm fanfare from staff. (If you’re so inclined, arrive via seaplane from nearby airports.) Immediately, you’re immersed in a blissful world where there are no kids, televisions, or ringing cell phones. Everyday distractions are replaced with the tranquility of waves lapping the shoreline and the raw nature of the lush 4-acre surrounds where incredible animal encounters happen daily. If you’re lucky, one of the area’s storybook Key deer may amble into the Zen Garden for a drink from its pools as you sip your morning coffee; or you may spot a pod of dolphins or rays in the shallows.

There’s good reason why Little Palm is beloved by celebrities and those marking a milestone or romantic occasion. Idyllic seclusion is the resort’s biggest draw: 30 bungalow suites are generously distanced along crushed seashell paths and the island is capped at 60 guests. During the day, nap in a hammock along the water’s edge or lazily lounge by the pool in a cabana while downing a Gumby Slumber. (Hint: The rum-spiked drink’s name implies its napping powers.) Don’t sleep too long because there’s much to do, including access to complimentary kayaks, paddle boards, and Boston Whaler boats plus reservable adventures like snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing excursions. SpaTerre flaunts Balinese-style, indoor-outdoor breeziness and offers exotic treatments that harness the powers of seaweed, hot stones, and seashells. It’s worth getting up at sunrise for the Madrugada treatment, where you’ll wade into the ocean to receive a massage on a table that hovers above the water while experiencing the serene sounds of nature.

In the evenings, piano music drifts from the Monkey Hut lounge, and sunset is the most enchanting time of day. Picture: flickering tiki torches and an unforgettable toes-in-the-sand dinner as you watch the sun sink into the horizon. Even though you’re on an island, accommodations feel more luxurious than a five-star hotel. Bungalow suites are a vision of modern West Indies opulence, with vaulted bamboo ceilings, four-post canopy beds, and separate living areas with velvety sofas. Read or stargaze from your suite’s private ocean-facing terrace, and some bungalows boast copper soaking tubs or a private beach for ultimate romance. Little Palm Island rips you away from reality and leaves you yearning for another day in a paradise that defies the ordinary.

littlepalmisland.com