My husband Todd and I have been married for 20 years. I cannot believe it. Todd teases me and says it’s really only felt like 20 minutes … under water. He’s just trying to be funny and I’m 100% sure he adores me. We decided to take a trip (just us) to celebrate this monumental anniversary.
Our Romantic Destination: Aly’s Beach, Florida
Google Aly’s beach and you will need to double check that you didn’t type in Mykonos, Greece. This quaint luxury community might be the most perfect place on earth. Imagine white buildings against the bright blue skies and the emerald seas. Streets made of cobblestone and sea shells. Lanterns and water features. The icing on the cake…all that sweet southern hospitality that makes you feel right at home.
WHERE TO STAY
There are not any hotels (thank goodness) in Aly’s Beach. Guests are able to rent a vacation home through the Aly’s Beach website. There are many options to choose from, the home we rented was breath taking and perfect for our romantic getaway. The home rental gives you access to the luxurious Calizo pool, hiking trails, the Zuma Fitness Center, and private beach access.
Each morning I got up with the sun ready to start the day. I have so much more energy and zest for life in a warmer climate. Don’t you? I enjoyed walking down each street and through hidden paths to see all of the unique homes.
SUNSHINE & SEA
We spent most of our time relaxing at the beach. Burying our toes in the white sugary sand and listening to the sounds of the waves. A picnic style lunch with cocktails was delivered right to our beach chairs. Although I’m a beach lover, we also enjoyed our time at the Calizo pool. It is a beautiful salt water infinity pool that offers exquisite service. The best part was taking time to get to know the Aly’s beach staff and soaking up all that Southern charm.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
A fun excursion was off the beaten path to some local hot spots, Idyll Hounds Brewery and Distillery 98. I’m obsessed with Distillery 98. We met the owner and got the first hand scoop on how he makes his spirits. The handcrafted cocktails were too good for words. I’ll be going back!
Eden Gardens State Park was minutes away and we both appreciated the lush gardens and being immersed in Florida nature. There is something about the abounding moss hanging from the hundred year old trees, the freshly blooming Magnolia’s, and the grand old Plantation style home, it all just tugs at my heart strings.
DINING
There’s a sought after eatery in nearby Rosemary called Pescado, where we had a delicious lunch. Pescado is known for it’s panoramic views of the gulf and lively bar atmosphere. Since it’s almost impossible to get into for dinner, I suggest going for lunch or during off hours. Todd’s favorite meal of the entire trip was Pescado’s Blackened Red Fish Sandwich.
There are two main restaurants in Aly’s Beach, Citizens and George’s. We dined at both and enjoyed the freshest seafood 30A has to offer. We sat at the Raw bar at Citizens and watched as the Alabama gulf oysters we ordered were shucked right in front of us. Our meals were delectable, I had grilled Triple Tail and Todd had the whole fried Snapper. The cocktails were so aesthetic and delicious.
At Georges, we sat under the stars and enjoyed Blackened Snapper and Grilled Grouper served with plantains and their famous forbidden rice. After dinner we would walk the quiet streets filled with glowing lanterns, feeling that warm tropical ocean breeze.
Our time spent together on this anniversary trip was so special. It was so refreshing to get away and reflect on our marriage and talk about what the next 20 years will look like together.
XO
EVE