There is much to be said about finding your unique happy place. We all need to relax, re-charge and rejuvenate. Set your travel radar on the west coast of Florida and Lido Key. It’s known for it’s fine white sandy shallow water beaches, where you can take long morning walks and collect seashells. I was excited to explore all the outdoor activities. I was thrilled to find and explore a varied mix of interesting shops and restaurants.
Lido Beach Resort
The Lido Beach Resort is pet friendly and is located on 300’ of sandy tropical beach over looking the Gulf of Mexico. You have the choice of staying in a traditional guest room or a condo suite that is staged with a modern state-of-the-art kitchen. The resort has two heated pools, three Jacuzzis, a 24-hour fitness center, volleyball and laundry facilities.
My One Bedroom Junior Suite - $379 - $559
My Condo Suite was furnished with casual Florida inspired décor and didn’t disappoint. It had great setback views of the ocean, pool and the Tiki Bar. One of my travel rituals is to check the quality of the bedding upon arrival. My king-sized setup was recently updated and comfy. It passed the luxury test with flying colors! I was also pleased to see a fully equipped stainless steel kitchen with new appliances in my digs. Here you’ve got the best of both worlds. You can make yourself a gourmet dinner or ring room service and order off the menu. The layout and setup feels homey. There is also a complement of snacks and drinks to that will keep you satisfied on those late night binges.
The In-Room Amenities Include:
• Plush bedding and custom linens
• 32-inch HD flat-panel TVs
• His and hers closets
• Private balcony and patio
• Wi-Fi & Work desk
• Iron & ironing board
• Sitting area
• Daily morning newspaper
• Landscaped Sun-deck
Tiki Bar
After my little catnap, I was eager to head on down to the Tiki Bar to meet some friends. It has a thatched roof and the ambiance immediately put me in a tropical party mood. The restaurant serves up a selection of casual dishes and offers seating indoors and on an outdoor patio overlooking the pool and the beach. It’s open seven days a week and serves a full complement of breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were seated in the late afternoon and our server recommended the Agave Margarita $9. It was freshly made with Sauza Blue Agave Tequila, Triple Sec and blended lemon-lime juices with a salted rim. We also ordered the Lido Beach Nachos $15 - with fresh chili, queso blanco, guacamole, salsa, sour cream and jalapeños. Yum! The crunchy chips and guacamole went down perfectly with our delicious libations. We could have easily ordered another round and stayed for dinner, but next up was a reservation at a legacy hotspot that the locals say you shouldn’t miss if you’re in town. Tiki Bar Menu
The Shore Diner
The Shore Diner is a unique destination of food and retail combined. Do not be fooled that this is typical diner fare. It is, weather permitting, an open-air Florida beach café that severs up local fresh farm to table cuisine. Surprise! This contemporary café is located on the second floor of a very hip and fashionable retail store that the owners operate as well. The restaurant décor relies on dark wood treatments and modern sleek furniture to create a sophisticated vibe and ambiance that is warm and welcoming. This destination is a wonderful mix of fun fashion and delicious food that caters to a wide array of dining choices. The commitment to local and organic choices is evident. Being a certified raw chef enabled me to understand and appreciate the health orientated food philosophy. The wait staff was very professional and attentive in guiding us throughout the menu. I wanted to sample everything, but for my starter chose the Local Kale Caesar Salad - $10 with avocado and pepita. It was very light, fresh, savory, and satisfying choice.
My Entree was the Lobster, Shrimp & Crab Cobb Salad with avocado, bacon, egg, tomato and Meyer lemon with tarragon vinaigrette - $24.00. It was a delicious celebration of crisp greens and delicately seasoned seafood. The portion was generous and could have been shared. The carefully prepared dishes offer something for everyone including vegetarians and vegans. There is much to explore and enjoy on the menu. The well-crafted and diverse menu is impressive. The next time I’m in town I’ll be sure to stop in and continue my ....
Elizabeth 's Reviews
