JUMPSUIT: sold out, more from Faithfull the Brand here/SANDALS: (c/o) Sezane/NECKLACE: Shashi

As you may have seen, I’ve been traveling nonstop lately. While I love being able to travel abroad (next stop: back to Mexico!), one thing I truly enjoy doing is getting to really know a city near me. It’s easy to forget that South Florida is a paradise destination – so why not explore the hidden gems that are waiting to be found right here?

THINK: a sanctuary of swaying palms, 18 secluded Bahamian style bungalows (without having to go to the Bahamas!) all connected to a sparkling shoreline. Now imagine, hammocks throughout the entire property – to encourage and welcome your most relaxed self. Right? A piece of heaven or what I’d like to call The Moorings Village in Islamorada, Florida Keys. Let’s explore…

DRESS: Alice + Olivia/HAT: (c/o) Pamela Munson/SANDALS: Schutz/EARRINGS: BaubleBar

Wait, this looks familiar!

If you are a fan of Netflix’s family crime drama “Bloodline” you are exactly right! It is where the series was filmed. Or perhaps, you read about in Vogue, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast, National Geographic…the list goes on. Beyond it’s pop culture reference and media exposure, The Moorings Village still maintains a tranquil and untouched ambiance.

BLOUSE: (c/o) Rebecca Taylor/SHORTS: Levi’s/SANDALS: (c/o) Anthropologie

That one hurricane…

Though, many hotels, including The Moorings Village, closed previously to the wake of Hurricane Irma, it has officially opened its doors in December (what a gift to have this former private estate back)! So I had to go see this newly refreshed oasis for myself.

BODYSUIT, SHORTS: H&M/SANDALS: Marks and Spencer (I also love these!)

First impression is everything.

And everything looked ahh-mazing – talk about a palm greeting (800 coconut palms or 42.1 trees precisely)! But where to start? The moment I walked into my bungalow I was warmed by the blended island interiors, full-size kitchen and entire space (swooning). It’s as if the owners went out of their way to make me never want to leave!

DRESS: H&M

Like the private sanctuary on your own beach isn’t already enough, they’ve included complimentary bikes, onsite kayaks as well as beach yoga classes. Anyone else thinking about living their best life here? Check!

ONE-PIECE: Carolina K/EARRINGS: vintage Valentino

Tell me more…

Are you more of the sunrise or sunset type? How about both? See the breathtaking sunrise each morning from The Moorings beach and then walk over to Pierre’s Lounge & Restaurant (across the street with an out of this world taste) for a golden sunset. This two-story colonial home turned highly rated restaurant raises the bar for restaurants in the Sunshine State! If you can, you must experience the magic of their full moon party which takes place once a month. (I experienced a full moon party about five years ago – it’s SO much fun! If you can, time your stay at the Moorings to one of these parties.) 

BODYSUIT, SKIRT: H&M/SANDALS: Schutz

The Moore the merrier.   

But what makes this gem even better? It feels like home. No one beside, below or above you… a perfect escape. And thankfully it’s only about 2.5 hours drive away from my home in West Palm Beach. #YAS I’m thinking after 9AM conference call -> to a noon dip in Islamorada ->  there’s no missing a beat! If you don’t know, now you know… (wink face) the Moorings Village is as effortless as any vacation should be and I already can’t wait to go back!

Want more? Read more about the Moorings in last month’s blog post here.

Xo, Stephanie

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[Chelsae Anne | Photographer]