PRIVATE AYES
Say yes to a private beach retreat at Playa Largo Ocean Residences in the Florida Keys. Written by Bridget Williams
The oceanfront clubhouse at sunrise.
Getting to know the Florida Keys is like stepping on quicksand. Buzzing down the 113-miles of the Overseas Highway that stretches from Key Largo to Key West presents a blur of vegetation, stretches of open sea views, dive shops, and dive bars. However, you never really sink into the tiny links that comprise the sprawling Keys chain unless you slow down while traveling from A to B. Only then will you find yourself being slowly pulled into its colorful communities. A case in point is my recent visit to Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo to check out their newly opened Ocean Residences. This private, gated enclave features three- and fourbedroom vacation homes located across from the resort on the Atlantic side of the Overseas Highway. Boasting gorgeous ocean views, the 3,500-square-foot open-concept and pet-friendly dwellings are designed in a coastal-chic style and incorporate indigenous materials such as capiz shells, sponges, and coral rock. The luxury of arriving before my travel mates meant that I got first dibs on the four available bedrooms in our "Sunrise" home. While all were amply comfortable, it was the expansive
ocean-view terrace off the third-floor primary suite that sealed the deal for me. The street linking the residences culminates at an oceanfront clubhouse, complete with a plunge pool overlooking Rock Harbor. A large covered terrace perched above the pool and the ocean is one of the clubhouse's best amenities. Guests can call on the Playa Largo events team to utilize the club for various experiences, from a post-wedding brunch to an intimate bespoke alfresco dinner as we did during our stay. Playa Largo Ocean Residences have a dedicated concierge stationed minutes away at the resort. Engaging with guests before arrival and then checking in throughout the stay, they are keen on creating a home-away-from-home experience. Each morning a basket of breakfast goodies is left on the doorstep of each residence. Those with heartier appetites can partake of a complete fresh breakfast at the resort's La Marea restaurant or arrange to have their refrigerator pre-stocked to their liking. Private chef services are also available, a particular boon for guests who fish and want their catch of the day expertly prepared.
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