Condo, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, (Sleeps 4)
Sea Gulls 511 is one of the nicest condos in the Islamorada area. It has been completely rebuilt following Hurricane Irma so everything about it is new, upscale, and extremely clean.
The living area is an open plan with a large island, full kitchen, and most importantly, a fabulous direct ocean view from inside and from the adjoining private balcony. Each of the two bedrooms also face the ocean and have access to the balcony. The ocean view is expansive (not just a glimpse of ocean) and especially enjoyable at sunrise--or with a glass of wine at sunset.
The Master bedroom has a queen bed. It is large, light, and airy with a walk-in closet and spacious bath with double sinks, and a most pleasant walk-in tiled shower. As noted, it opens to the balcony.
The second bedroom has two twin beds, large closet, and, again, a great ocean view through the sliding glass doors leading to the balcony.
Our grounds and common areas, including the gym, have been rebuilt following Hurricane Irma, and will be increasingly complete early in 2021. The heated pool is open and delightful as is the large sandy beach with Tiki huts and a barbecue. (swimming off this beach is not ideal, as the terrain is very shallow and the bottom varied. Non-motorized watercraft are an ideal way to explore this waterfront oasis, and there are local companies that will deliver kayaks and/or paddle boards for a fee)
Area Information
Islamorada is a third of the way down the Keys. Far enough to be fully in the Keys but still in proximity to Miami International Airport as well as Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. Yet, if you want to go to Key West for a day, it is only 90 miles away. (If you go, we suggest the Hemingway House, the Truman Library, and dinner at Maison de Pepe!) If fishing is your thing, Tavernier is the Sport Fishing Capital of the World! Half and full day fishing charters are abundant in all sizes and configurations, as are scuba, snorkel, and diving opportunities. Kayaks, paddle boards, boats, and jet skis are easily rented from several local outfits. Several nearby transient marinas can even accommodate your own boat!
Eating out is just one of the great activities here. We enjoy the many art galleries and museums, John Pennekamp State Park, Theater of the Sea, hiking along the bike path and along the old highway and so forth--this list is endless.
As the United States becomes more homogenized with the same chain restaurants in every city, the same shopping malls, and the same freeways, the Keys may be one of the last areas with a true and distinct character. They are unique, colorful, and full of character (and characters). This is a place to be savored and enjoyed to the fullest.
Favorite Places To Eat
Sea Gulls 511 has an open plan with an island and full kitchen. If you want to cook, enjoy! But there are so many great restaurants nearby that one almost feels guilty not going out all the time. But just to mention a few favorite, and excellent, dining spots: Snooks Bayside, Made to Order (breakfast, lunch), Snappers (either at the bar or on the water). And so forth--it is a dining paradise around here.
We noted above how many good or great restaurants there are in the area. But here is a more complete list. Understand there are so many we have yet to try them all...but we are making an attempt.
- Snooks Bayside
- Mrs Macs Kitchen (and the smaller Mrs Macs is a hoot)
- Key Lime Pie Factory
- Moka (French Coffee Shop--not exactly Starbucks, but if you must, one is just a few miles up the street!)
- Made 2 Order
- Lorelei
Pro tip: Look for restaurants that don't have a showy facade. The really good ones don't have to make a show--the locals already know where they are. You may say, "The smaller the sign, the better the restaurant." For example, no one would have any idea of Snooks Bayside from their sign, and it is a hidden treat as are Lorelei and others. Explore and take a chance.
