Little Palm Perfection

By Jennifer Pelaez

Nestled off the treasured Florida Keys coastline on the secluded isle of Little Torch Key, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is the perfect island hideaway. This romantic private paradise is set on a 5-acre palm-fringed island surrounded by white-sand beaches and warm azure waters. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Little Palm Island transports guests to a world of tranquility, where the ambiance of exclusivity and delight permeate the refreshing tropical air. The breathtaking vistas, crushed-seashell paths, lush gardens, and overabundance of Jamaican coconut palms channel the exotic allure of the South Pacific and charm of the Caribbean. Yet Little Palm Island also revels in its laid back vibe while catering to guests' desire for peace and privacy.

Inspired by the endearing island character and its natural beauty, Little Palm's design and spirit successfully captures the symbiotic relationship with its surrounding environment. Their 15 thatched-roof bungalows are discreetly positioned throughout the property, camouflaging into the spectacular foliage. The 30 elegant oceanfront suites are comfortable and exactly what one would expect in this bona-fide tropical idyll. The suites feature iron and teak ceiling fans, mother of pearl-tiled bathrooms and custom-made beds with flowing canopies. The interiors are adorned with British colonial–style furniture and offer all the requisite luxe amenities. The one thing purposely missing however, are phones, televisions, and clocks, in an effort to preserve the quiet atmosphere. Detox from technology and become one with nature which is easy to do with these accommodations boasting private outdoor showers and verandas from which you can hear the murmur of the sea in the distance.

Discover the true meaning of relaxation walking along the secluded beaches and sand pathways throughout the resort, or plunge into the tranquil clear waters. Sway your worries away on a hammock, observe the local fauna which include over 100 species of visiting birds, colorful iguanas and Key Deer, or grab a book and lounge by the serene lagoon-style pool. If you require even further relaxation, pamper and realign your mind, body, and soul at SpaTerre which beautifully incorporates the style and traditions of east and west cultures. The four treatment rooms are warmly decorated with Indonesian teak furnishings and elegant crystal chandeliers. The full service spa menu offers a plethora of unique treatments like their signature Javanese Lulur Royal Treatment or Bali Spice Body Mask. Afterwards, meditate in the outdoor treatment areas which also features a Vichy shower, outdoor hot tub and Japanese soaking tub complete with a retractable roof.

Adventure seekers can partake in one of many thrilling activities, from a local aerial sightseeing flight that include sights such as the Seven Mile Bridge, Sombrero reef and lighthouse, and Bahia Honda State Park, to a full day trip island hopping to Key West or even a jaunt to the Bahamas. No itinerary request is too challenging for the concierge at Little Palm. Divers must not miss the incredible corals of Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary which are only a few miles away, while natural history buffs should inquire about the excursion into the Great White Heron Wildlife Refuge.

If all the activities and exploration have opened up your appetite, head over to The Dining Room which serves French and Pan-Latin dishes created by Executive Chef Luis Pous. His menus are carefully planned and evolve almost every night based on the freshest local ingredients. The candle-lit dining room is the ideal romantic setting which is positioned on a terrace perched above the beach. Apres-dinner, the festivities continue over a beach bonfire while you enjoy the dramatic nightscapes dotted with twinkling stars and miles of shimmering water, the perfect setting for a memorable evening and stay at Little Palm Island.

For more information:
littlepalmisland.com