First glimpse of Little Palm Island from the water—an arrival that immediately changes the pace. Photo by Shari Bemis.

My stay began at the resort’s Shore Station on Little Torch Key, where the usual arrival routine was replaced by something far more memorable: a private motor-yacht transfer across the water. The ride is brief—about fifteen minutes—but it creates a meaningful transition. By the time the island came into view, the pace of everyday life already felt far away. Stepping onto the dock beneath the palms felt less like checking into a hotel and more like being welcomed into a hidden private retreat.

Thatched-roof bungalows tucked into lush palms and tropical gardens. Photo by Shari Bemis.

A serene bungalow suite with airy drapery and island-inspired textures. Photo by Shari Bemis.

Our bungalow was tucked into dense tropical landscaping, close to the water yet wonderfully secluded. Inside, the British West Indies-inspired design felt relaxed and sophisticated rather than overly formal: natural materials, soft drapery, an airy ceiling, and a serene bed that immediately invited rest. A thoughtful welcome of sparkling wine and a beautifully presented amenity were waiting for us. The private veranda became one of my favorite places to sit quietly, listen to the palms, and look beyond the greenery toward the sea.

A quiet private veranda with the water just beyond the palms. Photo by Shari Bemis.

A thoughtful welcome of sparkling wine and a beautifully presented sweet amenity. Photo by Shari Bemis.

What impressed me most was how successfully the island encourages guests to slow down. The sandy paths curve through lush foliage, and there is no sense of a crowded resort corridor or busy lobby. Televisions are intentionally absent from the suites, which felt completely appropriate here. Days can be as simple as settling into a beach chair, lingering over lunch, or taking a quiet walk, while guests who want more activity can kayak, paddleboard, arrange private boating, or explore the waters around Looe Key.

Dinner at sunset, with the beach and calm Florida Keys water as the backdrop. Photo by Shari Bemis.

Dining was a genuine highlight, not merely a convenience of staying on an island. Our sunset dinner beside the beach was one of those travel moments I will remember for years: polished service, beautiful tableware, calm water, and the changing evening light. The food matched the setting—refined, fresh, and thoughtfully presented without feeling fussy. Breakfast was equally memorable, and even a leisurely morning meal felt like part of the experience rather than something to rush through before the day began.

An indulgent breakfast that felt every bit as special as the setting. Photo by Shari Bemis.

The service throughout the stay was warm, intuitive, and highly professional. The team seemed to understand when to be present and when to preserve the privacy that makes the island so special. Small details were handled quietly, and nothing felt transactional. That balance—attentive but never intrusive—is one of the clearest reasons Little Palm Island stands apart from many other luxury properties.

The resort’s private boat dock—a private yacht cruise is part of the experience. Photo by Shari Bemis.

I would recommend Little Palm Island most strongly for couples celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, engagement, or significant birthday, as well as sophisticated travelers who value privacy, excellent dining, and a true sense of place. It is not the right choice for someone seeking nightlife, a family resort, or a packed entertainment schedule. For the right client, however, it is extraordinary. I would suggest a minimum of three nights so the island’s unhurried rhythm has time to take hold; two nights would pass far too quickly.

• Adults-only setting: Guests must be 18 or older, and the primary guest must be at least 21 to check into a suite. This policy is central to the island’s quiet, romantic atmosphere.

• Arrival is part of the experience: The resort is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Most guests arrive at the Shore Station at Mile Marker 28.5 on Little Torch Key and continue by the resort’s scheduled motor-yacht transfer.

• Plan around transfer times: Boat service operates on a schedule, so flight times and ground transportation should be coordinated carefully. Arriving early at the Shore Station creates a more relaxed start. This is “key”!

• Pack polished resort-casual clothing: The island is relaxed, but dinner is refined. Gentlemen should bring collared shirts and appropriate trousers or tailored shorts; beachwear and jeans are not suitable for the main dining areas.

• Disconnect by design: Suites do not have televisions or standard outside telephones. Wi-Fi is available, and the Great Room has the island’s television (and Mah Jongg!), but this property is best enjoyed by embracing the quiet. Leave your deep phone conversations for back home—cell phones are not allowed in public spaces here!

• Reserve special experiences early: Spa appointments, private dining, boating, and popular activity times should be arranged well before arrival, especially for milestone trips or shorter stays.

• Understand the pricing structure: In addition to the suite rate, guests should budget for tax, the resort fee, and food-and-beverage gratuities. The resort fee includes useful benefits such as scheduled yacht transfers, valet parking, Wi-Fi, minibar refreshments, and non-motorized watersports.

• Protect the investment: The cancellation terms are strict, particularly within thirty days of arrival. I strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance and careful review of all payment deadlines.

• Best length of stay: Three to four nights is ideal for most couples. It is long enough to settle into island time, enjoy the dining and spa, and still leave feeling that the trip was special rather than rushed. My three-night stay was perfect!

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