Low-key leisure
November 28, 2024
Take it easy at Bungalows Key Largo, a picture-perfect, all-inclusive resort in the Florida Keys.
by Cathy Martin
Driving south from Miami, past the Southern Glades approaching the Florida Keys, congestion slowly gives way to calm. U.S. 1, known from here to Key West as the Overseas Highway, is dotted with sandal outlets, strip malls and mom-and-pop seafood joints. But tucked in a densely landscaped area just off the side of the road, a thatched-roof building under gently swaying palms — the gated entrance to Bungalows Key Largo — teases a different kind of vacation.
Bungalows is an all-inclusive resort just over an hour’s drive from Miami International Airport. After checking in and being shuttled to my room via a turquoise golf cart with a cabana-striped canopy, I walk down to the Sunset Tiki Bar, which seems like as good a place as any to jumpstart this vacation.
Feeling pale, frazzled after traversing the Miami airport to catch my Uber, and overdressed in joggers and a denim jacket among the sunburned, swimsuit-clad patrons, I order a margarita. “Want a little Grand Marnier float with that?” asks the friendly bartender. Indeed, I do.
Clockwise from left: Zen Garden Spa, waterfront beach bungalow, fresh fruit display
EASY BREEZY
Honeymooners, babymooners, girlfriends and couples of all ages are among the guests at this picturesque property, where 135 individual bungalows nestled among the palms line meticulously manicured, sandy pathways. They’re all here for the same reason: To steal away from the hustle and bustle and simply take it easy for a precious few days.
Bungalows makes that easy, with minimal diversions, calming views and a peaceful, unpretentious vibe. Sleep in or start each day with morning yoga, then choose which beach or pool to lounge by.
For a quieter setting, stretch out in a hammock at Coconut Beach, or head to the Zen pool tucked amid tropical plants and lined with private cabanas. For a livelier scene, settle into a chaise by the infinity pool, with ocean views and proximity to the tiki bar with live music and blender drinks flowing.
There are bikes for cruising around the 11.5-acre property, and paddleboards and water trikes to hop on at your leisure. You can kayak around Pelican Key, a nearby island inhabited by pelicans, spoonbills, great white herons and other native sea birds. The Zen Garden Spa offers massages, facials and body treatments, with amenities including a Himalayan salt room and eucalyptus steam room. For something a little more adventurous, daily boat trips and fishing charters can be reserved for an additional fee.
BUNGALOW LIFE
The bungalows, including 31 beachfront units, are spacious and airy, with front porches and large enclosed decks and patios that offer more privacy. Each 900-square-foot bungalow — basically a self-contained suite — has an outdoor rain shower and private soaking tub, indoor sitting area, and a generous bathroom and changing area.
The neutral décor is tasteful, modern and comfortable, and the porches draped with bougainvillea make a picture-perfect backdrop. Units are immaculately maintained, with a turndown service that surprises with a different sweet treat each night of your stay.
Clockwise from left: Hemingway’s bar at Bogie & Bacall’s, dessert at Bungalows, garden bungalow suites
DRINK + DINE
In addition to the tiki bar, there are three restaurants at Bungalows, each with a distinct menu and vibe.
Fish Tales is the main dining hub, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating. There’s a bountiful breakfast buffet, with a Bloody Mary bar and mimosa station, as well as an a la carte menu with omelets, frittatas, pancakes, fresh smoothies and more.
Sea Señor boasts a splendid setting right on the beach with views of Sunset Cove. The menu of Mexican-inspired fare ranges from familiar favorites like nachos, shrimp tostadas and chicken enchiladas to unique specialties like the roasted beet carpaccio with quinoa and black beans.
But for guests with a penchant for fine dining, Bogie & Bacall’s is a must for dinner in an upscale atmosphere with top-notch service. Dinner at Bogie’s is an upcharge ($300 per couple) for guests staying three nights or less, and it’s well worth the added expense. Steakhouse favorites prevail here, from prime cuts of beef to lobster thermidor and chicken Provencal. Appetizers like the wagyu carpaccio — razor-thin slices with peppery arugula, shaved Parmesan and a shallot-caper vinaigrette — plus entrees like a fresh grilled halibut and delicate desserts set this venue apart.
Even if you aren’t dining at Bogie’s, make sure to pay a visit to the adjacent Hemingway Bar. Inspired by the legendary author, this cozy cocktail bar with Art Deco vibes is a hidden gem, with a small selection of appetizers and expertly crafted cocktails on a second-floor perch with terrific water views.
SAVOR THE SUNSET
While Bungalows’ all-inclusive status provides access to all meals, drinks including top-shelf liquors, and on-site activities, there are add-ons, such as the spa treatments, to personalize your stay. One excursion that will truly enhance a visit to Bungalows is the Sunset Cruise aboard the resort’s custom 55-foot catamaran. This 1.5-hour, small-group experience starts with prosecco (or another libation of your choice) and hors d’oeuvres and ends with the never-gets-old spectacle of the evening sun slipping beneath the horizon.
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GOOD TO KNOW: While Bungalows is an all-inclusive resort, tipping is at your discretion. Be prepared to spend an extra $50-100 per couple per night, depending on meals and activities.
GETTING THERE: There are plenty of nonstop flights from CLT to Miami International Airport, with a flight time of just over two hours. The drive from the airport to Bungalows is about an hour and 20 minutes.
