[Chelsae Anne | Photography]

TOP, BOTTOMS: H&M/HAT: Banana Republic/BAG: Free People/SANDALS: more options here

West Palm Beach -> Stock Island, right outside of Key West!

Stock Island is near Key West, the southernmost city in the US, just a 5.5 hour drive from West Palm Beach. It’s a tiny community best for those seeking rest and relaxation, away from the bustling bar scene in Key West!

CARRYON SUITCASE (briefcase here), TRAVEL WALLET, TOTE: (c/o) Mark & Graham

We spent a few days at the newly opened Perry Hotel. Our suite included an oversized bathroom, which was great for rinsing off after coming home from a day in the warm sun, plenty of room to stretch out (aka room for my clothing) as well as a large balcony overlooking the picturesque Marina.

Speaking of Marina, The Perry Hotel was located right next to the Stock Island Marina Village. A 220-slip marina with floating docks; a thriving community filled with fisherman, local artists and friendly dogs. We spent time getting to know the boat owners, roaming around the communal garden filled with guinea fowl (they protect the garden from angry chickens) and checking out the on-site teeny tiny distillery (yes, that’s right – a distillery)!

BUTTON DOWN: Similar here and here/CARGO PANTS: (c/o) Ann Taylor/STRAW BEACH TOTE: Free People/SANDALS: Zara – more options here

(Back in the day, Stock Island was home to livestock – hence its name.)

By day, we took a SUP yoga class under the sun, a must-do experience for those visiting the property. (Just be sure to wear sunscreen!) Or lounged by the pool… #ahhhh

BATHING SUIT: (c/o) ByMalka/STRAW BEACH TOTE: Free People/SUNNIES: more options here/EARRINGS: similar here and here

The pool deck was my favorite spot. I spent many hours swaying underneath their bustling palm trees…

By night, we explored funky restaurants like, Hogfish Bar & Grille, or grabbed cocktails and watched the sunset in awe from the pool deck or the “Sunset Room” on the third floor.

But by far, one the best meals I ate in Key West at the hotel’s restaurant, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and Bar, located downstairs. Chef Ryan whipped up some of the tastiest fried chicken, fresh seafood, macaroni and cheese and Key Lime pie I’ve ever had.

Towards the end of our trip, we made our way down to a remote island in a chartered sailboat with Sunset Sail Key West, who offers day trips, sunset sails and many more excursions (I hear there’s one to Cuba!). Despite the rain and overcast skies (#OhFlorida), we went snorkeling and exchanged stories of travels while nibbling on fresh banana bread…

BATHING SUIT: Eberjay (c/o) Everything But Water/SHORTS: more options here/EARRINGS: similar here and here

The Perry Hotel is minutes away from downtown Key West’s most popular attractions like Duval Street, Mallory Square and the beautiful Truman Annex neighborhood. It’s also a short ride away from the Southernmost Point Buoy, a must photo opp!

But that’s another story! Stay tuned for my next blog post -> Key West Pt. 2!

Xo, Stephanie

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