Articles Tagged "Best of South Florida"

Beautiful neighborhoods, a laid-back lifestyle and cultural attractions are just a few of the reasons residents of Deerfield Beach find their community so charming. The thriving coastal city is nestled just south of Boca Raton on Florida's Gold Coast, and attracts visitors from all over the world. Of course, locals never run out of things to do here either — the community is home to pristine beaches, championship golf courses, thriving shops and a top-notch dining scene. Whether you are just visiting or are lucky enough to call Deerfield Beach home, here are some of the best things to do, see and eat while you are in the area. Enjoy!  

What to Do

Play a Round of 18 at the Deer Creek Golf Club

Photo courtesy of the Deer Creek Golf Club

No membership is needed to play a round at Deer Creek Golf Club, so come and see what makes it one of the best golf courses in South Florida. The exceptional course conditions, challenging obstacles and top-notch amenities will make you feel like you earned an invite to an exclusive, private club. After completing a round, retire to the clubhouse for a refreshing drink and a wonderful dining experience.  

Boat to Deerfield Island Park

This island oasis is completely surrounded by waterways, making it accessible only by boat. Of course, that makes the park even more special. Take your vessel to the island for a romantic picnic among the Mangrove trees and a peaceful walk in nature. If you prefer a guided visit, sign up for a kayak or paddleboard tour through What's SUP Paddleboarding.  

Adventure at Quiet Waters Park

There is no shortage of activities at Quiet Waters Park, which makes it an ideal location to spend a Saturday. Mountain bikers have access to 7.1 miles of trail, all of which has been fully renovated and offers challenges for beginners and experts alike. You can also enjoy fishing, swimming, lounging and even camping. Make sure to rent a site in advance, and arrive early enough to watch the sun set over your campfire.  

Waterski at Ski Rixen USA

Quiet Waters Park is also home to the only wakeboard and waterski park in South Florida. Enjoy skiing, slalom, kneeboarding and wakeboarding — no boat required! Simply strap in and let the cable pull you around the scenic park.  

What to See

Deerfield Beach

Photo courtesy of Oceans 234

The city's namesake is an oceanside paradise and one of South Florida's most treasured gems. Deerfield Beach earned the Blue Wave designation from the Clean Beach Council based on its excellent water quality, beach cleanliness, safety services and habitat conservation policies. We wish it could be beach day every day!  

The Harbin Butterfly and Bird Sanctuary

South Florida is home to more than 300 species of birds, more than 100 species of butterflies, and countless species of plants. This sanctuary, conveniently located in Quiet Waters Park, is a refuge to them. Come meander through the gardens, soak in the sunshine, and marvel at the wildlife that makes up our area's vibrant ecosystem.  

The South Florida Railway Museum

Taking the train used to be the best way to travel from coast to coast. Although travel by railroad is not quite as popular in the United States these days, the tracks still grace our countryside and carry an unbelievable amount of history. Learn about how trains changed the scape of America at the South Florida Railway Museum, which is filled with interesting exhibits and artifacts, and run completely by volunteers.  

What to Eat

For Mexican Food: Casa Maya Grill

Mole, rellenos and tacos grace the menu at this Yucatan Peninsula-inspired grill. All of the food is cooked fresh to order with top-notch ingredients. Order a few dishes for the table and enjoy the atmosphere! The spacious yet intimate dining room is the perfect place for family gatherings and date nights alike.  

For a Quick Bite: Deerfield Beach Cafe

Photo Courtesy of Deerfield Beach Cafe

This cozy, modern cafe is conveniently located right near the pier on Deerfield Beach, and is the perfect place to grab a quick bite before hitting the sand. Grab a fresh pastry to go, or sit on the oceanfront terrace to enjoy a leisurely meal. The menu features classic breakfast and lunch specials, including omelettes, waffles, salads and sandwiches.  

For French Fare: Tradition Restaurant

Tradition Restaurant opened in early 2017 to instant popularity — and it is not difficult to see why. The atmosphere is friendly and laid back, but the food is upscale and crafted with care. Expect traditional French dishes (some with a South Florida twist) created with fresh, local ingredients.  

For Seafood: Oceans 234

Photo courtesy of Oceans 234 This award-winning, oceanfront restaurant offers a fine dining experience for the seafood enthusiast. Here, you will find fresh fish and shellfish plucked straight from the sea, and prepared with a South Florida twist. Start your experience off with a tropical craft cocktail (think: blood orange margaritas and pear coconut mules), before moving onto the main event.  

For Acai: Acai Com Tapioca

This casual spot serves up authentic Brazilian fare, as well as some of the best acai bowls in the state! Choose a size and top it with granola, chia seeds, fresh fruits and more. Regardless of what you choose, the result is bound to be refreshing.

Where to Live

Deerfield Beach is a great place to call home. If you are thinking of making your visit a little more permanent, peruse the beautiful estates currently for sale in the area.

This home is for sale at 75 Little Harbor Way, Deerfield Beach | Listed by Kevin Kreutzfeld

 

 This home is for sale at 1653 SE 6th Street, Deerfield Beach | Listed by Kevin Kreutzfeld

Sometimes a spa getaway is just what the doctor ordered. Nothing leaves you feeling quite as refreshed as a long soak in a copper tub, a hot-stone massage or a seaweed wrap — even better if you can listen to the ocean waves during your chosen treatment. These spas in Southeast Florida epitomize what it means to relax with their serene atmospheres, ocean vistas and tropical decor, but they also offer a gauntlet of unique treatments to inspire and rejuvenate. Below are some of the most interesting and exquisite spa offerings in the area.  

Spa Atlantic: The Ocean Immersion

601 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

Photos courtesy of the Spa Atlantic 

The Spa Atlantic is consistently ranked among the top spas in Southeast Florida for its natural products, beautiful views and serene atmosphere. The sea-and-citrus-inspired spa typically incorporates elements from the surrounding beach environment into its treatments, which is especially apparent in the ocean immersion treatment, an all-encompassing marine-infused experience. First, the body is scrubbed with freeze-dried seawater crystals and algae-derived alpha hydroxy acid to prep and invigorate the skin, and then the massage is performed with a combination of mineral-rich seawater and seaside plant oils. The result is complete balance and reinvigoration.  

St. Somewhere Spa: The Last Shaker of Salt Scrub

1111 N. Ocean Dr., Hollywood

Photo courtesy of the St. Somewhere Spa at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Located in the Margaritaville Resort, the St. Somewhere Spa is an inspiring oceanfront getaway. Resort guests and visitors alike will enjoy a variety of exquisite massage treatments, wraps, facials and more, all in a little slice of paradise inspired by the colorful and serene South Florida landscape. Quench your thirst and satisfy your skin at the same time with the Last Shaker of Salt Scrub. Sip a complimentary margarita while experiencing a full-body scrub, which removes dry skin and improves circulation, leaving you feeling smooth and energized.  

Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boca Resort: The Rose Quartz Ayurvedic Facial

501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton

Photo courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boca Resort

The Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boca Resort was named the number one resort spa in the world by Condé Nast Traveler in 2014, which is no surprise. The 50,000-square foot spa is an ethereal getaway modeled after the historic Alhambra in Granada, Spain — and the treatments are no less impressive. The rose quartz Ayurvedic facial, for instance, incorporates rose quartz to reduce muscle tension and stimulate the lymphatic system, while rose water hydrates and rejuvenates the skin. Before your treatment, be sure to take advantage of the spa's signature ritual bath, a 50-minute mineral soak complete with a waterfall shower, sauna, whirlpool and steam room.    

Seagate Spa: The Rain Massage

1000 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach At the Seagate Spa, the experience is not as much about escaping your surroundings as it is about appreciating them. The 8,000-square-foot spa is located in the idyllic, picturesque Delray Beach, and was carefully designed for the ultimate relaxation experience. Try the rain massage, which incorporates a warm rain shower into the experience. The treatment begins with an exfoliation of warmed sugarcane and coconut oil before the rain starts. This technique calms the nervous system to provide unparalleled relaxation, and will leave you feeling relaxed, cleansed and rejuvenated.  

Maui Spa: The Huna Treatment

2100 NW Boca Raton Blvd., Boca Raton

Photo courtesy of the Maui Spa

This exquisite, tri-level sanctuary is a favorite among South Florida residents, most likely because it makes them feel like they have stepped onto the Hawaiian islands. Indeed, the spa is the brainchild of Gayle Wentworth, who lived in Maui for 10 years before opening her business in 2007, bringing that aloha spirit to Florida! From massages to wraps, all of the spa's services are wholesome and invigorating, and all based in Polynesian tradition. Take for instance the Huna Treatment, which begins with a gentle warm oil treatment on the "third eye" to quiet the mind and restore inner calm. Then enjoy a scalp and deep-tissue massage (Lomi Lomi) designed to heal the body and reduce stress. It is one of the most popular treatments for a reason!  

The Breakers: The Quartz Massage

1 South County Rd., Palm Beach

Photo courtesy of The Breakers Resort Palm Beach

This Mediterranean-inspired spa sits in one of Southeast Florida's most recognized landmarks. The Breakers was built in 1896 by Florida railway tycoon Henry Flagler, and offers a luxe getaway for travelers and locals alike. Slip into your robe and soak in the atmosphere of the spa, an oceanfront, indoor/outdoor paradise with fountains and lush surroundings. Sip infused water or tea while you wait for your therapist to escort you to your chosen treatment — our choice is the quartz massage, which incorporates a bed of warm alpha-quartz sand into the experience. The technique envelops the body, releases tension in the muscles and provides hypnotic relaxation.  

Eau Spa Palm Beach: The Champagne Shimmer Body Luster

100 S Ocean Blvd., Manalapan

Photo courtesy of the Eau Spa 

The Eau Spa is the self-proclaimed magical spa playground of Palm Beach, featuring upbeat music, wishing wells, champagne, cupcakes and a water garden for blissful relaxation. Choose from a menu of quirky yet luxe treatments, which range from the water-based mermaid treatment to the the luxe royal recovery. Our pick is the champagne shimmer body luster, a decadent body scrub that polishes the skin with glittering warm champagne oil. Drink in the relaxing vibes! After your treatment, be sure to create your own exfoliating potion at the Scrub & Polish Bar, which is filled with herbal, sea salt, oil and floral elements to incorporate into your perfect, personalized elixir.  

The Diplomat Spa & Resort: Bamboo Massage

3555 S. Ocean Dr., Hollywood The Diplomat Resort might be a newcomer to the South Florida resort scene, but that has not stopped it from receiving accolades left and right. In fact, it was voted one of the top resorts in Florida by Condé Nast Traveler readers in 2016. Step into the eclectic yet relaxing oceanfront spa to enjoy a gauntlet of luxe treatments. One of our favorites is the bamboo massage, which incorporates bamboo stalks into a deep tissue massage for increased circulation and healing.  

Need More Relaxation in Your Life?

Us, too. Check out the nine spa resorts in Fort Lauderdale you must experience.

In Vero Beach, we are lucky to be surrounded by a number of top-notch restaurants and bars for every occasion. But when the time comes for a romantic night out with your sweetheart, you want to pick the very best. Whether you are in the mood for a fun seafood dinner or an elegant wining and dining experience, we gathered our favorite restaurants in the area for date night. Bon Apétit!  

The Best Date Night Restaurants in Vero Beach Include:

Cobalt | The Tides | Maison Martinique Restaurant | Ocean Grill | Osceola Bistro | Vinz Wining and Dining | Citrus Grillhouse | The Wave Kitchen & Bar | Kata Japanese & Thai | Di Mare Vero Beach

 

Cobalt

3500 Ocean Drive

Photo courtesy of Cobalt

The name "Cobalt" is not just a coincidence — rather, the restaurant is named for the picturesque views of the deep blue water that can be enjoyed from every table. Just steps from the sand, Cobalt serves up inventive meals created with fresh, local ingredients alongside craft cocktails and an extensive wine list. Enjoy your meal al fresco by the light of a flickering fire pit for a truly romantic evening.  

The Tides

3103 Cardinal Drive The Tides has graced the Vero Beach coastline since 2000, and still manages to thrill diners with its fresh seafood and multicultural influences. The menu is filled with elegant choices, including a catch of the day prepped to perfection, veal scallopini, cedar planked salmon and more. Accompany the entrée of your choice with a selection from the wine list, which has received the Award of Excellence from the Wine Spectator for 17 consecutive years.  

Maison Martinique Restaurant

1603 South Ocean Drive

Photo courtesy of Maison Martinique Restaurant 

The elegant dining room at Maison Martinique Restaurant is enough to make us swoon with its hanging lights, colorful walls and romantic ambience. Settle down at a table by the window (or opt to dine on the patio), and enjoy a three-course meal created with fresh seafood and local ingredients. Afterward, head upstairs to the Havana Nights piano bar for an after-dinner cocktail and live music.  

Ocean Grill

1050 Sexton Plaza The Ocean Grill is best known for its coveted spot on the beach and the accompanying 360-degree views. The view alone makes Ocean Grill a favorite for locals and tourists alike, but the food takes the experience to a whole new level. Expect to find your favorite seafood entrées and appetizers fried, grilled or steamed to perfection.  

Osceola Bistro

2045 13th Avenue This culinary gem opened in October 2011 under ownership of Chef Bireley, a Vero Beach native and an expert in the kitchen. The menu represents a variety of flavors from around the world — all influenced by Bireley's travels — but the food is created with ingredients sourced locally to support nearby farms and fishermen. If the quality of the cuisine is not enough to draw you in, perhaps the ambience, complete with lush outdoor gardens and an airy dining room, will do the trick.  

Vinz Wining & Dining

4885 Highway A1A Wine enthusiasts will find solace at Vinz Wining & Dining, where the carefully curated wine list is the main event. Enjoy your selection by the glass or the bottle as you take in the romantic atmosphere with your sweetheart. Be sure to order a few small plates from the food menu to share. Bonus: Stop in on Monday, Wednesday or Friday for live music in the courtyard!  

The Citrus Grillhouse

1050 Easter Lily Lane

Photo courtesy of the Citrus Grillhouse

The ambience at the Citrus Grillhouse is friendly and casual, and the food is some of the best in the area. Expect inventive dishes such as spicy grilled lamb with feta, scallops on polenta cake with chili-roasted corn, and five varieties of risotto, all crafted with the freshest local ingredients available.  

The Wave Kitchen & Bar

3244 Ocean Drive Every detail in the Wave Kitchen & Bar was designed to make its guests feel as if they were attending an intimate dinner party — an ultra chic and elegant party, that is! Located in the Costa d'Este Beach Resort and Spa, the modern kitchen serves up Cuban classics with an elevated twist alongside New American favorites.  

Kata Japanese & Thai

1306 20th Street

Photo courtesy of Kata Japanese & Thai 

Of course this list would not be complete without a top-notch sushi spot, and Kata Japanese & Thai is our pick in this category. Kata features the very best of Japanese and Thai cuisine, including soul-warming pho, fresh sashimi, tempura, teriyaki, crispy duck and more. Make sure to save room for the tempura ice cream and Thai donuts for dessert!  

Di Mare Vero Beach

1517 Ocean Drive If you are having trouble deciding between French or Italian for your romantic night out, Di Mare is the place to be. The restaurant features two separate menus to satisfy either craving — although you are more than welcome to order from both. Start your meal with a burrata platter or escargot before moving onto the main event, and make sure to accompany your choice with a bottle from the wine list.  

Have Fun on Date Night!

Where is your favorite spot for a night out with your loved one? Let us know in the comments! Save Save Save

Southeast Florida boasts plenty of options for an unbeatable lifestyle. With our sunny weather, pristine beaches and top notch amenities, we get to live like we are on vacation year round — and it doesn't hurt that the homes in our region are as beautiful as can be. If you are looking for all of the perks of owning a luxury home in the area, but would prefer to avoid some of the maintenance that comes with it, a luxury condominium might be the perfect fit for you. Here are seven of the most gorgeous, luxury condominiums for sale in Southeast Florida, each offering a story and a style of their own.  

The Crown Jewel of Boca Raton

This property is for sale at 600 SE 5th Avenue S-108, Boca Raton | Listed by Scot Karp

The sense of grand estate living is very apparent in this residence, which boasts its own private pool, private-access elevators, a stunning lakeside terrace and elegant details throughout. With a coveted address at the Mizner Grand, it truly stands apart as the crown jewel of Boca Raton.  

Penthouse Living in an Exclusive, Boutique Space

This property is for sale at 410 Hendricks Isle, PH 502, Fort Lauderdale | Listed by Rory Vanucchi and Matthew Bobby

Penthouse living awaits at this estate-sized abode, which takes up half of the fifth floor of the Landings at Las Olas, an intimate boutique condominium. The residence itself can be entered directly by elevator, and comes fully furnished (design courtesy of award-winning DKOR Interiors).  

A Rare, Triplex Penthouse Overlooking the Ocean

This property is for sale at 2494 S Ocean Blvd H-9, Boca Raton | Listed by Scot Karp

This rare, estate-sized triplex penthouse epitomizes luxury oceanfront living. The property was custom built over a two-year period, and includes wraparound, glass-railed terraces on all levels — perfect for taking in sweeping views of the sea and sky.  

Luxury Living in the Heart of Downtown Fort Lauderdale

This property is for sale at 411 N New River Dr. #1901, Fort Lauderdale | Listed by Liz Caldwell and Partners

Luxury living awaits at this sophisticated, centrally located condo at the Las Olas Grand. Nestled in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the three-bedroom residence is perched on the 19th floor and offers wraparound views of the New River, Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic Ocean, and shimmering city lights of downtown.  

A Little Piece of Heaven in Gulf Stream

This property is for sale at 2664 N Ocean Blvd, #0030, Gulf Stream | Listed by Pascal Liguori

This exclusive enclave in Gulf Stream houses only 12 units, each reflecting the atmosphere of an idyllic, beachside resort. You will be taken with the timeless charm of the Bermuda-inspired design, but the manicured landscaping, sunken terrace and sun-splashed pool are not to be overlooked.    

A Coveted Property in a Prime Location

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This property is for sale at 400 S Ocean Blvd, R-27, Boca Raton | Listed by Scot Karp

This coveted condominium lies on the beachfront of Boca Raton's Magnificent Mile, just across from the legendary Boca Raton Resort and Club. We can agree that the location is unparalleled, but you will also have access to five-star amenities including an oceanfront pool, fitness center and elegant social rooms.  

Picturesque Views from a Custom-Finished Locale

This property is for sale at 1500 S Ocean Blvd, 301-S, Boca Raton | Listed by Scot Karp

The Addison is certainly one of the sleekest architectural gems on the Boca Raton oceanfront, but the view from inside is even better. Enjoy the perks of living in a custom-finished wraparound corner residence, including resort-quality amenities and direct access to wave-lapped sugar sands.    

Are You as Smitten With These Condos as We Are?

Which is your favorite? We would love to hear about it in the comments! Make sure to contact one of our trusted agents for more information. Save

Residents of South Florida know that there's no better place to call home. Our luxe, beachside communities — with acclaimed restaurants, breathtaking scenery and top-notch amenities — represent the best in upscale living. Nevertheless, it is always nice to take a break from your daily routine and discover something new. You do not have to travel very far for the ultimate vacation experience — the Florida coastline boasts some of the most romantic and luxurious resorts in the country. Whether you are planning for a special occasion or holiday down the road, or just looking for a quick escape, these eight resorts will provide the perfect getaway!  

WaterColor Inn

Address: 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Photo courtesy of The WaterColor Inn

The WaterColor Inn overlooks the pristine, white sands of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, and allows easy access to popular destinations including Seaside and Rosemary Beach. Although, we would argue that the WaterColor Inn is a destination in and of itself! Enjoy spreading out on more than 500 acres of lush grounds and expertly designed accommodations, and engaging in any number of activities, from tennis and shopping to boating and meandering through the gardens. After a full day of Florida adventuring, retire to the resort and indulge in a seafood meal plucked fresh from the ocean!  

Little Palm Island Resort and Spa

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL  An excursion to this exclusive luxury resort will make you feel like you have journeyed to Tahiti or Bali, even though it lies just 120 miles from Miami. Tucked offshore of Little Torch Key and accessible only by boat or plane, the resort is about as hidden away as it gets. Here, you will find no phones, no TVS, and no shortage of fun things to do. Stay in a private, romantic suite or thatched roof bungalow, each surrounded by exotic blossoms and Jamaican palms, and covered in romantic touches like private outdoor showers and jetted tubs, cloud-like king sized beds, and verandahs opening up to the sparkling ocean. If you ever decide to venture out of your own room, you will have access to a meditative zen garden, oversized hammocks gently swaying in the trees, and an endless flow of champagne.  

The Royal Blues Hotel

Address: 45 NE 21st Avenue, Deerfield Beach, FL

Photo courtesy of the Royal Blues Hotel 

Conveniently located halfway between Miami Beach and Palm Peach, the Royal Blues Hotel boasts just 12 oceanfront suites. The exclusive and limited accommodations mean that you will receive unparalleled service — for example, each guest is welcomed to the hotel with champagne from the lobby's wine lounge. Indulge in an oceanfront escape unlike any other, and surround yourself with like-minded luxury seekers, fine dining, modern art, and unbeatable vistas.  

Sunset Key Cottages

Address: 245 Front Street, Key West, FL 

Photo courtesy of the Sunset Key Cottages

The Sunset Key Cottages actually sit on their own private, 27-acre island just minutes from Key West. Choose between a private Victorian-style home for just you and your loved one, or up to a four-bedroom cottage for a full family getaway. Either way, you will be treated to the tranquility and charm that comes with access to your own island. Each cottage offers views of the sparkling turquoise waters from your balcony, but you will also have access to diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing, a full-service spa, waterfront dining, and swimming in the spacious, Sunset Key pool.  

The Moorings Village

Address: 123 Beach Road, Islamorada, FL

Photo courtesy of the Moorings Village 

The Moorings Village is the winner of multiple Conde Nast reader's choice awards, including best Florida Keys resort. Just a few days here, and we have no doubt that this resort will be a winner in your mind, too! The 18-acre getaway is situated by the water on what once was a coconut plantation. Guests can stay in one of the 18 cottages and homes, all of which lie just a few steps from the pristine white beaches of the Florida Keys. All of the space means that you will feel like you are on your own private island! During the day, enjoy snorkeling and diving in one of the best reefs in the keys, kayaking along the coastline, or casting a line in the "sport fishing capital of the world." Afterward, you can retire to your private abode and enjoy unparalleled luxury.  

The Breakers

Address: 1 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL

Photo courtesy of the Breakers

Founded on the sands of Palm Beach in 1896, The Breakers resort has set the standard for beachside resorts for more than a century. The hotel actually suffered from two fires, but re-emerged each time more opulent than ever before. The current construction was completed by the same famed, New York-based designers that created Manhattan's most desirable hotels, including the infamous Waldorf Astoria. Their expertise shines through in every rich detail of the hotel. Though the resort itself is magnificent, it is tough to beat the accessibility to top-notch activities and amenities that the Breakers offers. Come stay awhile, and enjoy unbeatable culinary experiences, private bungalows, a full-service spa, four different pools, five whirlpool spas, and a half mile of private beach.  

Acqualina Resort

Address: 17875 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isle Beach, FL

Photo courtesy of Acqualina Resort

Acqualina Resort has consistently ranked among the best resorts in the country, even earning the #1 spot on Tripadvisor. When you take a step onto the spacious grounds, with unparalleled amenities and views of the sparkling turquoise waters, it is not difficult to see why. If the beachfront dining, luxurious pool and full service spa do not immediately draw you in, you will be taken with the grand Mediterranean-style architecture, 400 feet of private shoreline and breathtaking scenery! Florida residents receive 15% off of their room rate and complimentary add-ons.  

The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Address: 4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Amelia Island, FL 

Photo courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island 

This luxe, barrier-island resort is situated on 13 miles of pristine beaches in North Florida, so even though you have not left the state, you will feel like you are worlds away. Here, Southern charm and Florida elegance collide, resulting in an enchanting experience that will call you back year after year. You will have access to four award-winning restaurants, a full-service spa, on-site tennis facilities, an 18-hole championship golf course, and breathtaking scenery. There is no better place to relax and adventure.  

Time to Start Packing!

Where are you planning your next Florida vacation? Let us know in the comments! Save