Palm Island Resort – The Perfect Social Distancing Vacation

Have you been considering a summer beach vacation, but wondered where you could go to avoid huge crowds and maintain social distance? We were eager for a break from staying at home and for spending some time on the beach – and we knew just the place to go! For the past 30 years we have been visiting Palm Island Resort in Cape Haze, Florida. When many people think about a beach vacation, they see visions of crowded beaches, rowdy beach patrons and no social distancing. That is not Palm Island. Palm Island is a bit of a throwback to ‘old Florida’ and has always been a quiet, relaxed and socially distant destination.

Palm Island Resort is located just 1.5 hours south of Tampa, midway between Sarasota and Fort Myers. The beautifully maintained resort is located on Knight Island, part of 3 barrier islands that include Don Pedro Island and Little Gasparilla Island. Although once separate islands, time and tropical storms have melded these 3 islands into one contiguous land mass with 7 miles of beautiful beach. It’s a little confusing if you are not familiar with the history of the island group, because all of these names, including Palm Island, are frequently used to refer to the same island. Naming conventions aside, what really makes the area special is the fact that there is no bridge to the island. The only way to access it is by boat or a somewhat pricey car ferry. The limited access means few cars and no crowds, making Palm Island Resort one of the most secluded sections of beach on the west coast of Florida. So, let’s take a look at this special place that we have been enjoying for so long.

Check-In

The check-in process at Palm Island is a little unusual, since there is no bridge to the island. Following Highway 775/Placida Road, look for the sign that reads “Palm Island Car Ferry Service” and turn onto Panama Road. At the end of the road pull to the right, stop, and you will be asked for your reservation information. (The cost of ferry trips during your stay are included as part of your reservation.) Once ferry personnel signal you, drive forward onto the ferry, park, lower your windows and turn off your car. The ride across the intracoastal waterway will only take a couple of minutes. Once off the ferry, follow the road to its end and you will be at the entrance of Palm Island Resort. Simply park and proceed to the check-in desk located a short walk away. You cannot drive your vehicle beyond the parking lot. However, if you desire, staff is available to assist you in getting your luggage to your villa.

Villas

Palm Island Resort consists of both private residences and rentable villas. There are approximately 80 villas in their rental inventory, and prices are dependent on the time of year, size of the unit, and the quality of upgrades in each unit. There are a number of two-story buildings that house the rental units, with about 8 villas per building. The villas have from 1 to 3 bedrooms along with a full kitchen, screened porch, cable TV and Internet access. All villas are positioned to look out on the Gulf of Mexico, so there really are no bad locations. The resort has an excellent website that will allow you to see pictures of the available units, so that you can select the specific villa you would like.

TIP: Villas are individually owned, but are managed by the Palm Island Resort. Since each is individually owned, units have different amenities and décor. Some have been totally updated, while others are still much like they were when originally built. We prefer a more updated unit, so we always review the photos carefully to ensure we are renting a unit that matches our expectations.

Restaurant/Food

On Island

• Rum Bay Restaurant – The Rum Bay Restaurant is located in the middle of the resort and is the only restaurant on the island. I can honestly say this is the only area of the entire resort that can be a bit hit-or-miss. We have had some pretty decent meals there, but unfortunately, we have also had a few duds. However, if you don’t want to cook or leave the island, then Rum Bay works. I recommend sticking to the hand-helds, burgers or pizza. Pizza can also be delivered to your villa. They have specials on many nights and there is outdoor seating available, if it’s not too hot.

The Rum Bay Bar, located within the restaurant, is a nice place to relax from the heat and enjoy a libation. They have a lot of excellent specialty cocktails, including their Rum Bay’s Smash.

TIP: When you are outside, especially at dawn, dusk or when there is not much of a breeze, be aware of No-See-Ums. They are very tiny biting midges that are hardly visible, but you will feel them when they bite you. You can use a product containing DEET, but we have found that using Avon’s Skin So Soft spray is an effective way to prevent them from biting. Really, any kind of baby oil type of product will help minimize biting. Also, be sure you do don’t leave the doors or windows open or you risk letting these unpleasant, uninvited guests into the villa!

• Coconuts – On the first floor of the building that houses Rum Bay Restaurant is this small multi-use shop. In the morning you can pick up a coffee or a breakfast sandwich, or some ice cream later in the day. They also have a small section containing a few staples. They usually carry things like milk, eggs, bread and several other items. The selection is limited, but works in a crunch. Finally, the center desk is where you can rent things like golf carts and bikes, which we will cover later. Outside, they also have a nice little area with tables where you can relax and enjoy your coffee or ice cream.

Off Island

• Groceries – There are no real stores on the island. So, you will want to bring your groceries with you when you arrive, or take the ferry back to the mainland to do your shopping after you arrive. There is a small Publix grocery store to the south after you exit the ferry, or a full-size Publix to the north. Both are just a short drive. We usually load up on groceries either before we check in or the next day. There is also a Publix Liquor Store next to the larger Publix to ensure you have your favorite adult beverage when relaxing on the beach.

TIP: Remember that getting from the grocery store back to the villa includes the ferry ride. The usual wait is very short, but still takes some time. The Florida heat can be intense, so we always take a cooler or insulated bags for our cold items to ensure they stay that way while we make our way back to the villa.

• Restaurants – Once off island, there are many restaurants in the area, especially to the north in Englewood and Venice. They can all be found easily on Tripadvisor or you can check with the Palm Island Resort for recommendations.

Golf Cart

We highly recommend renting a golf cart. Once you park your car, the only way to get around the resort is by walking, biking or taking a golf cart. The resort allows you to take the golf cart anywhere on the island except the beach, so you are not restricted to the resort itself. The cart is great for enjoying a ride to your favorite sunset spot, and helpful if you are transporting luggage or groceries between your car and villa.

TIP: Golf carts are usually in high demand and can rent out quickly. We always reserve a golf cart when we make our reservation.

Things to Do

Now that we have discussed all the logistics, let’s talk about the real reason to come here – to relax and unplug! The grounds on Palm Island are very well maintained and the villas are spaced such that it never feels crowded anywhere in the resort. Here are a few things we love to do.

• Beach – The beach is listed first because it is the main reason we keep returning here time after time. The beach is 7 miles of beautiful, white sand and amazingly clear water. If you walk north from the resort you will reach Stump Pass, at the northern tip of the island. To the south, a long walk will get you halfway down the island to Don Pedro State Park. The entire beach is nice and flat for walking, and there are plenty of opportunities for shelling.

Depending on the season, you may see fresh sea turtle tracks leading up from the water, usually to a spot some 10 to 25 yards up the beach. These spots are where mother turtles are laying and burying their eggs. You might also see people on the beach marking the sites with yellow tape and recording detailed information. Please be sure to give these nesting sites plenty of room and do not disturb them. Also, since baby turtles hatch at night, light from buildings can confuse them and they may inadvertently head toward these lights instead of the water. Keep your blinds closed at night to help these little critters avoid that confusion.

During any time of day, it is not unusual to sit on the beach with the nearest people at least 50 to 100 yards away. As you can see from the pictures, it is like having your own private beach. Our typical day on the beach includes an early walk, followed by sitting on the beach for the day. We take two beach chairs, a cooler and lunch and just enjoy watching the water, reading a book or taking a nap.

This area of the Gulf of Mexico is teaming with all types of birds and sea life. While relaxing on the beach you will likely see dolphin and manatees swimming close to shore. This area is also considered the Tarpon Capitol of the World, so it’s not unusual to see large tarpon jumping off shore. All types of birds make Palm Island their home, including pelicans that glide inches above the water and dive for fish right in front of you. It is hard to find a more relaxing place where you can ‘unplug’ for a while.

Once you have heated up from the sun on the beach, it’s nice to take a dip in the Gulf. The Gulf is usually much calmer than the Atlantic on the east coast of Florida, and in the midst of summer the water can get very warm. Any time of year you must be careful though. The bright sun, along with the reflection off the water and sand, can cause severe sun burns in a short time. So be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and repeat often!

TIP: Sting rays are in ocean waters all around Florida, but are more common from April to October. Sometimes you can see them swimming by, but they sometimes bury themselves in the sand close to shore. They try to stay away from people, but if you step on one, they may react by stinging you. Their barb can be sharp and their venom painful. The best way to avoid them is by using the ‘stingray shuffle’. This means shuffling your feet slowly in the sand as you walk into the water. The shuffling will stir the sand and let them know you are in the area and they will typically move out of the way. It doesn’t happen often, but if you do get stung, immediately immerse your foot in hot water and white vinegar. It is amazing how fast the pain will go away. In rare situations, the barb could break off in your foot. If you think this happened, then you need to seek medical attention.

• Pool – There are 4 pools within the resort, each designated for the villas that surround it. There are chairs both in the sun and in a shaded area for those that prefer to get out of the sun for a while. Each pool also has a hot tub. On our most recent visit, the pools were virtually empty most of the day.

• Fishing – This area of Florida is known for the outstanding fishing and you can have pretty good success while just fishing from the beach. Snook, redfish, jack and many other types are typical for the area. We have had pretty good luck fishing in Stump Pass on the north tip of the island, especially when the tide is running.

If you prefer to fish off-shore, Palm Island Outfitters offers some nice day or half-day fishing expeditions. There are several options for both near and off-shore fishing that will make for a fun day.

TIP: If you plan to fish, make sure you get a fishing license. Florida residents can obtain a free license for shore fishing, but if you are out of state you will need to purchase one. If you go with a charter, then your fishing license is typically included. Find out more about purchasing a license here.

• Bikes – Bikes are a great way to explore the island and get exercise at the same time. You can rent bikes at Coconuts, which is very convenient. There are also several rental shops on the main land that can arrange delivery.

• Tennis – Palm Island has 11 well-maintained tennis courts as well as a resident tennis pro. The courts are really nice as you can see from the picture at right. So, if tennis is your game, don’t forget your racket.

• Playground – Palm Island is very kid friendly with many activities for the little ones. They also have two playgrounds that include swings, a climbing apparatus and other fun items. But be careful, surfaces in Florida can get very hot in the sun.

• Shells and Shark’s Teeth – Since Palm Island is so secluded and has seven miles of beach, shelling is one of the top activities. Unlike other crowded beaches where you might find a fragment of a nice shell, Palm Island is a shelling paradise. Try to get out during a low tide and you will find an absolutely amazing array of perfect shells. Watch closely as you walk to spot shark’s teeth. This area is loaded with them.

• Fitness Center – If you haven’t gotten your share of exercise from walking on the beach, biking or playing tennis, there is an excellent fitness center located in the club house. With everything from treadmills to free weights, there is plenty to keep you in shape. If you are interested in a fitness class or water aerobics, just contact the concierge.

• Golf – While there are no golf courses on the island, there are several on the main land just a short drive away. One of the best courses in the area is Riverwood Golf Club. The Palm Island concierge can help arrange a tee time at this course or one of several others.

• Grills – We have listed this separately because the grilling areas are so nice and are a super option if you want to cook your own dinner. There are several grilling areas, so it is never a far  walk from your villa. Each area has nice, large and clean gas grills, usually three per grilling area. They are very easy to use and also have an adjacent patio area with tables and chairs.

There are plenty of other activities and things to keep you busy, but when we are there we usually just like to relax on the beach. There is something about sitting on the beach, staring out at the water while the waves gently lap on the shore that is so rejuvenating.

We hope you make it to Palm Island one day and get an opportunity to experience the solitude of one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida.

Safe Travels!