Is there such a place?
 

Looking for a small resort which offers individual style cottages/bungalows on a tropical style private beach in the continental us (0K would consider Hawaii), personalized service, water activities/tours, good food, better service? Prefer total cost of airfare, lodging, meals, and activities for 2 to average $500-700 per day for 7 days. <BR>Am I dreaming?

Debbie-Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys is on its own 5 acre island, 3 miles offshore from Little Torch Key. The Island has 14 thatched villas and suites. TV sets, telephones are banned as are children under 12. The restaurant is one of the best in the Keys. <BR> <BR>Their website: <BR>www.littlepalmisland.com

Looked at Little Palm Island. I don't see how I can fly to Fla, rent a car to drive to the keys, pay $800 night for a room and $135/per person per day for meal plan or the charge for a water taxi back to main island/Key for dining or shopping and come in under my budget of $3500-$5000. I guess I'm going to have to either up the budget or rethink my ideal.

Debbie, <BR> <BR>If you would consider Hawaii you might want to consider St. John at Caneel Bay or the Marriott Moringstar Resort in St. Thomas. The moringstar is a private area of the hotes with bungalow style 'apartments' ...both have package plans which include meals. Still technically the U.S.

Try checking out Sanibel/Captiva Island, FL. Priscilla Murphy Real Estate has many properties from cottages,condos,resorts,etc. (Lee Island Coast area). It's laid-back, but has MANY great restaurants,shops, water sports (kayaking,fishing,sailing) shelling/dolphin boat tours, small theatre productions, etc. etc. Much to do if you want to, but great beaches if you don't. Ft Myers is also VERY close on the "mainland" to explore, too. My favorite area!!!

Caneel Bay is not in the continental US, doesn't have what I'd call 'personalized' service, and is far too 'primitive' in accommodations for the price. Just my (strong) humble opinion. <BR>There are options which fulfill most of your criteria in the Caribbean, but not cont US that I am aware of. First off, there aren't many nice bungalow style small resorts in the US in its few 'tropical' style areas (Florida is the only state in the US which really fits this description...there aren't any such places in California or Texas). Hawaii has a couple options but after subtracting airfare, you'll not have any money for food/activities. <BR>LPI is the only place I know of which fits all criteria except cost.

Key West has some beautiful properties. for that budget you could get a nice room. Naples also has some luxury hotels on their beautiful beaches. Not an island but water everywhere. Depends on what you want to do. West Palm Beach also has the Breakers, Ritz, etc... Key Biscayne has a new Ritz Hotel. YOu can relax on the beach but also cross the bridge and go in to Coconut Grove to fun.

If we're considering the Caribbean, consider Jamaica Inn. It meets all your criteria -- except for the continental US -- an it's a lot closer than Hawaii.

Come to Hawaii! Our economy has been hit really hard. If you can spend that kind of discretionary income right now, log on to gohawaii.com for lots of options to pick from. It's beautiful here, and it's safe. I am sure many Hawaii regulars will contribute more ideas once you decide what you want to do. <BR> <BR>Aloha. k

Debbie, I'm afraid you're expectations are toooooo high for the US. Maybe there's something in Mexico more affordable, have you tried there?