tinamidon

Last I knew, Little Palm Island does not allow children under a certain age (can't remember...9?, 12?) I don't think they even allow any motorized sports so not to disturb guests. The mid-week rate in early Feb is around $750, not including meals. Over $1000 w/meals (but its not like you can go elsewhere to eat easily!). The only other concern would be your possible uneasiness of being "on an island" with only transportation to the mainland being via boat. Looks lovely though, as it should for those prices!

starrsville

I found the Ritz Naples stuffy.

What I liked best about the 4S is that it is NOT what you may expect from a 4S. It is not stuffy at all. Quiet elegance. Definitely a smaller hotel option. FABULOUS service. Great pool/ beach location. It really sounds like what you are looking for.

Quiet elegance. Although the Kennedy house was in the news for unfortunate reasons a few years back, the kids stayed there and the adults lived in at the 4S for the season.

Winkz40

Grove Isle in Coconut Grove would be my choice. (Baleen is very romantic!) You'll also have the option of enjoying the Coconut Grove Arts Fesitval that weekend.

Little Palm Island is great, but you'll have to swim to the mainland if your wife craves Mickey-D's!

emcash

I didn't notice the stuffiness at Ritz Naples. My husband never brings a jacket on vacation and I didn't notice our need for one.

FS also has a kids' program-- "kids for all seasons". Both are GREAT hotels though and i don't think you can go wrong with either. If you go to Palm Beach be sure to eat at Cafe L'europe-- it is great.

cybor

Palm island will suit most of your needs with the exception of McDonalds. It's a beautifully understated and private location - far too boring for the older children allowed. There's nice snorkeling nearby accessible by boat.
The boat ride there is a very short ride.

I've been to the keys in late Feb. and had good luck with the weather but it's risky for beach/pool weather.

The Ritz in Naples is in my opinion not such a quiet place. They offer many group activities/sports in their restuarants, by the pool and on the beach. Also, I don't recall MickyD's being close by there, as well.
Good luck!

KeyGal

I don't think anyone mentioned it, but we stayed at the Hilton's Sunset Key Cottages and Villas off Key West a few years ago and it is exactly as you describe. You're away from it all in a lovely area, yet just a 5-minute boat ride (provided by the resort) away from Key West.

catbe

jjersey,
What did you decide on your trip? My husband and I have similar requirements for a spring trip and I love to get your trip report.
Thanks,
Catbe