Florida Archives - Page 14 of 35

The Gasparilla Inn Beach Club

January 5, 2021

The Gasparilla Inn Beach Club

From corner to corner, there are so many perfectly picturesque spots in Florida. When you grow up in the Sunshine State, it’s hard to pick a favorite. After years of combing, I think I’ve finally decided on a favorite vacation spot. It’s quiet, relaxed, and a quick drive away from St. Pete. No matter where you call home, you absolutely must book a stay at the Gasparilla Inn. Recently, they unveiled their newly update Beach Club. I was honored when I was able to stop by a get a tour to see for myself.

Gasparilla Inn Beach Club

Originally opening in 1911, the Gasparilla Inn has long been an oasis for travelers from across the country. Since the beginning, their Beach Club has been one of the most loved aspects of the property. Nestled right on the pristine Gulf of Mexico, it is truly a gem. In the hundred plus years, it has gone over many iterations, including being lost to a hurricane in 1921. The latest remodeling now includes three pools, restaurant, event space, and clubhouse. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the private beach space that is reserved only for hotel guests and club members. Even though it’s just a short drive away from home, I instantly feel transported to a Caribbean island.

The Clubhouse

The latest redesign is all thanks to Palm Beach based Kemble Interiors. The team is also responsible for interior design in the main hotel and was one of the driving factors for me wanting to stay at the Gasparilla Inn. To say that Kemble Interiors has perfected Old Florida is an understatement. With an endless array of palms, shells, and animal motifs, it’s perfectly quirky with just the right amount of kitschy accents. The best example of that design is in the new clubhouse. As soon as I walked in from the buzz of the pool, I knew I was going to love this space. It was quiet, inviting, and just my style. Tropical pieces left and right had me taking notes about future home decor inspiration. Note to self, I must get a backgammon table!

Food and Drink

Finally, it’s important to know that a relaxing beach weekend will leave you well fed and hydrated. The Beach Club has you covered. Because of my Memorial Day Weekend trip to the Gasparilla Inn, I’m no stranger to their delicious menu and yummy frozen drinks. Along with the new design, they also brag a revamped menu. If you’ve visited before, don’t worry, they kept all of the classics. My favorite new item is the build-your-own salad. While David was enjoying his mahi mahi sandwich, I got to create my perfect salad. All the while, we sipped on daiquiris and appreciated the endless hospitality.

As you consider where to escape the cold or simply where to have a refreshing weekend, I cannot recommend the Gasparilla Inn enough! Every element is designed for ultimate relaxation. Especially with the newly reopened Beach Club, you won’t even want to leave!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Gift Guide: Day at the Beach

December 15, 2020

Gift Guide: Day at the Beach

Beach, Gift Guide, travel, beach day, SZ Blockprint, Gasparilla Inn

Cover-Up (also) || Sandals (also) || Earrings || Bracelet || Tote Bag

I’m happiest when at the beach. The surf, sand, and salty air instantly calm me. If I can’t get to a beach, having a pool day is a real great second choice. I know I’m not alone here. There’s a reason so many visitors flock to Florida year round. If you have someone on your Christmas list who’s a complete beach bum, or at least travels like, one take a look at my new Day at the Beach Gift Guide. This may be my favorite one for the year!

Wine Cooler Tumbler

When you’re soaking up the sun on a hot day, your drink needs to stay cold! While I can’t condone sipping wine at the beach, it doesn’t sound like the worst idea in the world. Whatever you’re drinking, this Wine Cooler Tumbler from Yeti is a great option. Pick a bright color so it stands out against the white sand.

Oversized Sunhat

This hat from Brixton has been my go-to choice for years! I’ve brought all over the world with me and it has saved my skin on those particularly sunny days. A day at the beach turns into a nightmare if you don’t protect your skin and face. Gift a fashionable and functional hat to get the job done.

Polaroid Camera

Some of my best memories are on the beach. From birthdays to date nights or even just a day of relaxation. Your loved ones will be so happy to save those memories with this Polaroid Camera. It’s a blast from the past, but just as fun!

Oversized Sunglasses

When I pack for the beach, the first thing I need to grab is a pair of sunglasses. The more oversized the better in my opinion! I’m a frequent wearer of Krewe sunglasses. All of their styles are so unique, there’s really not another brand like them! The Jeanne style is a modern twist on a classic, oversized Jackie O.

Portable Bluetooth Radio

While the sound of the waves crashing is always a pleasure, sometimes it’s better to mix it up with your favorite tunes. This mini B luetooth speaker will be perfect to blame my go-to reggae playlist. It also hooks up to the FM radio if you have a preferred radio station.

Sunscreen Set

Over the past few years, I’ve really started to care more about skin health. Since I’ve lived in the harsh Florida sun for nearly my entire life, it should have been a priority sooner. Still, better late than never. COOLA has become my favorite brand and this Suncare Travel Set includes everything for your sun lover. Plus the brand is organic and locally sourced!

Beach Inspired Necklace

Sometimes a gift for your beach-goer can just be some fun, inspired jewelry. This necklace from Madewell has everything: starfish, cowrie shells, and seashells, oh my! It’s a beautiful piece that can be worn every day, whether you’re at the beach or not!

Colorful Sarong

A sarong wrap has become my favorite way to coverup at the beach. Even if I’m stateside, it still gives the feeling that I’m in an exotic destination. I have such a soft part for SZ Blockprints. They partner with a multigenerational family printing studio in Jaipur, India to create simply stunning pieces. This floral sarong can be worn with any color swimsuit and still transition to a dinner out. I personally love the idea of wearing it with a white one-piece swimsuit to play up the stark color.

Fun Beach Read

I’m typically a non-fiction reader, but I always like to keep a fun beach read on standby for when the mood strikes me. Beach reads, by definition, should be fun and lighthearted novels that you can maybe get through over the weekend. On my current list is The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward. The title alone was enough for me to start reading.

Colorful Beach Towel

Don’t let your loved ones fall victim to a sandy bottom. Instead, gift them a colorful and absorbent towel from a women-owned small business. Weezie towels are simply the best! For a personal touch, don’t forget to add their name or monogram embroidery.

Waterproof Sandals

Especially if you’re switching from sand to pool deck, you need a great pair of waterproof sandals to go the distance with you. These Freedom Moses sandals are perfect to literally slip on and go. Pick a bright pop of color, like cherry red, but they are at such a great price point, you may want more than one!

Oversized Tote Bag

Finally, what’s the one thing you need to hold all of your beach gear? An oversized, heavy-duty tote bag! I’ve had several different styles over the years, but the Paravel Cabana Tote may be my new favorite! It’s functional for the beach, but stylish enough to use as my everyday bag. The contrast of the red and blue straps makes it so eye-catching.

If you’re loved one calls the beach home or is more landlocked, the water so often calls to everyone. Hopefully, 2021 will open up to more travel. Get ready for your beach trips and thank yourself later when you’re not scrambling.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Florida for the Holidays

December 4, 2020

Florida for the Holidays

Dress (also) || Heels || Clutch || Earrings

70 degrees and sunny isn’t exactly the weather you expect during the Holiday season, but it’s what you find in Florida. I’ve had my share of white Christmases while traveling to Vermont. Still, I grew up with the warm weather and that’s what feels like home. Even though there’s no snow to be seen, you can still have a perfectly festive holiday season in the Sunshine State. Here are some of my favorite Floridian quirks.

Enjoy White Sand Beaches

It’s gorgeous here in Florida, why not enjoy it? Swap the snow boots for flip flops and the snowmen for sandmen. Seriously, it’s easy to take for granted the great weather. I’m even guilty of it, especially when it gets too cold for us Floridians. All I have to do is look at the weather in the Northeast and I instantly feel grateful for the weather we have. Get out and get a dose of Vitamin D, just don’t forget the sunscreen!

Attend a Boat Parade

One of the best things about Florida is access to water. Between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, we’re pretty much surrounded! Even though they’ve always been popular here, boat parades have skyrocketed this year! All around the state, they are an annual tradition where you can celebrate on the water. Be sure to check the details for your local parade to be sure that it’s still being hosted this year. The last time I checked, St. Pete and St. Pete Beach is still a go!

Add Citrus to the Kitchen

It’s citrus season in the Sunshine State! Even my own little grapefruit tree is almost ready to be picked. Whether you’re picking from your backyard or the grocery store, it’s the perfect time to add some zest to your recipes! Some of my favorites are Key Lime Pie, Orange Marmalade, and Florida Citrus Chicken.

Deck the Palms

Of course, Floridians have a Christmas tree, but we also have a love for palm trees. Once December 1st hits, you can see palm trees in nearly every Florida neighborhood are lit up and dazzling! The other option is to add palm tree motifs to anything not moving. Honestly, feel free to get creative! I personally love to have the best of both worlds a tropical-esque inspired Christmas tree.

The holiday season has arrived in Florida and it just feels so good! Don’t forget to wear your merry and bright colors, like this surprisingly festive dress from Lilly Pulitzer. Even though the weather isn’t quite on par with a White Christmas, the meaning is the same. Enjoy the moments with your loved ones and appreciate all of the things that you have!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.