Escape to Paradise: Pelican Cove's Islamorada Oasis Awaits!

Pelican Cove Resort & Marina Islamorada (FL) United States

Escape to Paradise: Pelican Cove's Islamorada Oasis Awaits!

Escape to Paradise: Pelican Cove's Islamorada Oasis - A Review (with a Little Too Much Honesty)

Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to unleash a review of Pelican Cove Resort, and let me tell you, it's gonna be a rollercoaster. Forget pristine brochures and corporate jargon. I'm here to tell you the good, the bad, and the "wait, what exactly was that seaweed situation" of this Islamorada escape.

Metadata & SEO Stuff (Gotta Do It, Right?)

• Keywords: Islamorada resorts, Florida Keys hotels, Pelican Cove Resort review, accessible hotels Florida, luxury spa, oceanfront resort, family-friendly resort, romantic getaway, wheelchair accessible Islamorada, WiFi resort, pet-friendly resort (even though they don't allow pets - irony!), spa resort Florida, outdoor pool Florida, Keys dining, Keys restaurants
• Meta Description: Dive into a brutally honest review of Pelican Cove Resort in Islamorada! Accessibility, dining, spa, and surprisingly entertaining minor mishaps all covered. Is it paradise? Let's find out!

Accessibility - A Mixed Bag (Like My Luggage After a Long Flight)

Okay, so accessibility is a big deal for some of us. And Pelican Cove… well, it swings both ways. Wheelchair accessible - they ADVERTISE it, but let me tell you, navigating the pathways requires a certain level of skill (and maybe a little bit of luck). Some ramps are steeper than a politician's promise, and I definitely saw a fellow guest working up a sweat. But the elevator is a lifesaver, and you can get around. The facilities for disabled guests are… there. I’m not sure what exactly to say, because I’m neither a guest with disabilities nor a professional reviewer, but maybe a little more thought in some areas could be applied.

Internet - Surfing the Digital Waves (or Trying To)

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – Hooray! And… well, mostly hooray. The Internet itself was pretty solid. I managed to get a few calls in, which is always a little stressful. It didn’t always work in the Wi-Fi in public areas, but honestly, who wants to stare at their phone when you're in the Keys? More important, the Internet [LAN] – I’m not sure when the last time I heard about that one.

Things to Do & Ways to Relax - My Inner Zen Was Supposed to Be Found

This is where Pelican Cove really shines. Let's start with the obvious: Swimming pool [outdoor] - absolutely gorgeous. The Pool with view is exactly what you want. The Sauna gave me that perfect glow. The Steamroom was chef's kiss.

And the Spa… sigh. Okay, confession time: I'm a sucker for a good spa day. I had a Body Wrap (seaweed? Clay? I'm not entirely sure, but I felt wonderfully slathered), a Massage (heaven!), and a Foot Bath. The Spa/sauna experience was top-notch. They've got a Fitness center, too, which I pretended to use for about 15 minutes before hiding by the pool, but it's there for the overachievers. They offer Body scrubs

Cleanliness and Safety - Covid-Era Considerations

Okay, let's talk pandemic protocol. I’m going to be honest, I'm not 100% sure if Anti-viral cleaning products were used, but the place felt spotless. The room itself was pretty clean. The staff was wearing masks, and there was a lot of hand sanitizer everywhere. The Daily disinfection in common areas seemed to be taken seriously. The Rooms sanitized between stays? I’m going to assume so. They do offer Room sanitization opt-out available which I thought was a good idea. Cashless payment service was offered. They had Hand sanitizers and Staff trained in safety protocol. I saw Safe dining setup and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Shared stationery removed. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. All in all, a pretty good job I think.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - A Journey for the Taste Buds (and My Waistline)

The food, oh the food! Okay, real talk: I'm a picky eater, but even I found things to love. The Breakfast [buffet] was the usual - ok. They had Asian breakfast and Western breakfast, and it was all okay. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was decent. I had a couple of things, including some Desserts in restaurant and Salad in restaurant. Poolside bar delivered tasty drinks. There were a few Restaurants on-site. Bottle of water was plentiful. The Snack bar was your typical resort kind.

Services and Conveniences - The Little Things Make a Big Difference

They have a Concierge, always helpful. Daily housekeeping – the room was always spotless. Elevator (thank goodness!), Laundry service, Luggage storage, and the all-important Safe deposit boxes. They even offer Invoice provided. Oh, and a Gift/souvenir shop where I may have bought a questionable conch shell. They have Meeting stationery.

For the Kids - Family Fun or Playground Pandemonium?

Family/child friendly is a yes, but not an OVERWHELMING yes. They have Babysitting service which could be useful. They have Kids meal which is a nice touch. The resort isn't specifically tailored for kids, but they're welcomed.

Available in all rooms - The Nitty Gritty

Ah, the details that make or break a stay! Air conditioning – essential. Alarm clock – still exists! Bathroom phone (yes, really). Bathtub, Bathrobes, Blackout curtains (thank goodness for those). Coffee/tea maker (a lifesaver for this caffeine addict). Free bottled water (always appreciated). Hair dryer, In-room safe box. Mini bar. Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels. Seating area and Separate shower/bathtub. Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free]. The Window that opens (important for that Keys breeze). They offer Extra long bed, Closet, Complimentary tea, Desk, Extra long bed, Internet access – wireless, Linens, Mirror, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Scale, Smoke detector, Sofa, Toiletries, Umbrella, Visual alarm.

A Single Experience - The Sunset Saga

Okay, I’m going to double down on one moment because it perfectly encapsulates the Pelican Cove experience: the sunset. Every evening, the sky explodes with color. The bar? Packed. The drinks? Flowing. The music? Reggae-lite. I was sitting on the Terrace, sipping a ridiculously colorful cocktail, and feeling, for a fleeting moment, pure bliss.

And then… a rogue seagull swooped down and stole a french fry right off my plate.

That, my friends, is Pelican Cove in a nutshell. Paradise? Maybe. A little chaotic and imperfect? Definitely. But that’s what makes it real, and honestly, a little bit charming.

Final Verdict:

Would I recommend Pelican Cove? Yes, with a few caveats. If you're looking for pristine perfection, you might be disappointed. But if you're after a relaxed, fun, slightly quirky getaway with a breathtaking view, a decent spa, and the chance of a seagull-related incident, then book it. Just pack comfortable shoes, a sense of humor, and maybe a can of bug spray. You'll need it.

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Pelican Cove Resort & Marina Islamorada (FL) United States

Alright, buckle your life vests, 'cause we're diving headfirst into a Pelican Cove Resort & Marina (Islamorada, FL) adventure, a chaotic, sun-kissed symphony of highs, lows, and questionable decisions! This isn't your sanitized travel brochure, this is the real, sticky, salty truth.

Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (Plus a Killer Sunset)

• 1:00 PM: Fly-In from HECK (aka, Anywhere That Isn't Paradise): Let's be honest, the flight was a saga. Delayed? Check. Stuck next to a screaming toddler fueled by pure, unadulterated sugar? Check. Did I spill coffee on myself and feel generally unprepared for the paradise that awaited? OH YES. Airport chaos is a universal language, folks. I’m already sweating about packing, did I overpack? My anxiety about the weather is through the roof, did I bring a jacket, I can't even remember!
• 3:00 PM: Pelican Cove Check-In…or Attempted Check-In: Okay, the resort itself is pretty damn gorgeous - bright colors, cute cottages. BUT the check-in line? A slow-moving zombie horde. Apparently, EVERYONE decided to arrive at the exact same hour. My brain is screaming for a margarita and a nap.
• 4:00 PM: Cottage Bliss (and Panic): Finally! Our cottage. Clean, breezy, with a balcony overlooking the water. My internal monologue: "This is it! This is the life! I deserve this!" Followed immediately by: "Oh crap, did I remember to pack sunscreen? And do I really need to unpack EVERYTHING right now?" The unpacking takes way to long but I finally manage to find my favorite shorts.
• 6:00 PM: Sunset Spectacular & First Margarita: Okay, this is what paradise feels like. We snagged a table right on the water-- watching the sunset paint the sky with fiery oranges and purples. The margarita hit immediately and the whole flight and check in nightmare melted away. I almost cried! Emotional reactions? Yep, I had them. It's like a painting, but a messy, chaotic abstract one, and I'm fully here for it!

Day 2: Boats, Booze, and a Brush with Disaster

• 9:00 AM: The Deep Dive (or, I'm Not Cut Out For Watersports): We rented a boat. Or rather, I rented a boat. My partner, bless his heart, is the designated captain. I’m the designated… flail-around-and-scream-at-the-waves-er. The water is gorgeous, crystal clear, but the waves. UGH, the waves. I get seasick so easily, I spend half the time clinging to the side, willing myself not to hurl. We went out snorkeling and I swear I saw a shark FIN in the distance. My heart was pounding in my chest!
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar: This place is a MUST. The food is decent, but the atmosphere? Unbeatable. Live music, a mix of locals and tourists, and the general feeling of "we're all slightly sunburned and happy to be alive." We got a group of friends to go see a show that night and it was the best nights of my life!
• 2:00 PM: Fishing Fiasco: We tried fishing. (I say "we" but really, it was my partner. I mostly watched, marveling at the patience needed for this activity.) After watching him for about 10 minutes, I decided to try. I cast the line and immediately got it tangled. I gave up fast.
• 4:00 PM: Dive Bar Delight - A Local's Recommendation This is where the locals hang out. It's a bit of a dive, but that’s part of its charm. Best damn (and cheapest) beers you'll find. We met some interesting characters, heard some wild stories, and may or may not have forgotten the time.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner and Debrief: We stumble back the the resort, sun-kissed, a bit tipsy, and more than a little exhausted. Dinner at the resort restaurant was… fine. But by this point, the details are a blur.

Day 3: Relaxation, Regret, and a Reluctant Departure

• 9:00 AM: Sleep In (or Attempted Sleep In): The dive bar might have been a mistake. My head is pounding. The sun is shining through the curtains. I just want to sleep but my hunger has me up.
• 10:00 AM: Beach Bliss (or, the One Where I Actually Relax): Finally! I put on my sunscreen and try to relax. The beach is perfect. I find a shady spot, bury my toes in the sand, and allow myself to fully embrace the nothingness. I read, I nap, I listen to the waves. Pure, unadulterated bliss.
• 1:00 PM: Lunch: Beachside. Simple, delicious, and everything I needed.
• 4:00 PM: Packing Purgatory: The dreaded moment. Packing. After a week of chaos I find myself trying to organize every little thing. The realization that this beautiful adventure is coming to an end is hitting me HARD.
• 6:00 PM: Final Sunset & Emotional Goodbyes: Tears. Actual tears! Saying goodbye to the sun, the sea, the carefree feeling. The cocktails were flowing as we said our farewells. I don't want to leave!
• 7:00 PM: Final Dinner & Reflection: As we enjoy one more delicious seafood dinner at the resort- I reflect on the last few days.
• 10:00 PM: Drive Back: Sadness. We are on our way home. I'm exhausted, slightly sunburned, and emotionally drained. But also, ridiculously happy.

Final Verdict:

Pelican Cove? 10/10, would utterly lose myself there again. The key is to embrace the mess. Don't try to be perfect, just be present. Let the sun kiss your skin, the ocean soothe your soul, and the margaritas fuel your ridiculousness. And remember, sometimes the best memories are the ones you can't quite remember. Now, time to start planning the next adventure!

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Pelican Cove Resort & Marina Islamorada (FL) United States```html

Escape to Paradise: Pelican Cove's Islamorada Oasis Awaits! - FAQs (and My Truth Bombs)

Okay, spill it. Is Pelican Cove *really* as dreamy as the website makes it out to be?

Alright, alright, here’s the deal. Let's be honest. The website photos? Yeah, they’re *good*. Like, professional-airbrushed-sunshine-and-perfect-tan good. But real life, friends, is…well, real life. Let’s say it’s 85% dreamy. The other 15%? Let’s call it “character-building.” Remember that time I tried to parallel park in Key Largo and ended up needing help from a local with a mullet? Yeah, that type of character building. The *beach*? Legit. Sunsets? Swoon-worthy, even with the occasional seaweed wrangling. The rooms? Comfy, clean. And honestly? The staff is *amazing*. I mean, genuinely helpful, not just forced-smile-for-tips amazing. (Although, you *should* tip them. They deserve it.) My first morning I was trying to figure out how to use the coffee maker – seriously, I felt like a caveman inventing fire – and the sweetest woman, Maria, came over, showed me the ropes, and even made me her secret family recipe Cuban coffee. That coffee? Pure bliss. Made me a believer in Pelican Cove, and in Maria.

What kind of amenities can I actually expect? Don't want any nasty surprises, got it?

Okay, so amenities. Here's the breakdown, from a slightly neurotic, always-prepared traveler: * **Pools:** Multiple. Good. Not Olympic-sized, but perfectly adequate for a leisurely float and cocktail consumption. (Speaking of cocktails, the bar…details later. It’s important.) * **Beach access:** Direct. Excellent. Bonus points for hammocks strategically placed to catch that sweet, sweet ocean breeze. * **Restaurant:** On-site. Pretty decent. Breakfast is solid (get the pancakes). Dinner? A little hit-or-miss, but hey, you're in the Keys. You're basically living off seafood, right? * **Water sports:** Available. Kayaks, paddleboards, all that jazz. I, personally, almost capsized a kayak. I’m not a graceful person, okay? But the option is *there*, and that's what counts. * **Parking:** Okay, this is where I gotta get real. Parking can be a *bit* of a free-for-all. The website says "ample parking," but on a holiday weekend? Prepare to channel your inner Tetris master. I may have driven around for a solid 20 minutes before finally snagging a spot. Patience, grasshopper. Though, I must add: the lack of parking is a great opportunity to make new friends if you are stuck together in the same traffic jam. Basically, you're covered. But just…manage your expectations. It's not a luxury resort, it's a Keys-y oasis. And that's a fantastic thing.

Is Pelican Cove kid-friendly? I'm travelling with my little monsters!

Kid-Friendly? Hmmm. Okay, let’s break this down. I saw kids there. Lots of them. Happy, screaming, sandy kids. So, empirically, yes. But…(and this is where my actual experience kicks in) If your kids are like mine (and by mine, I mean the ones I *wish* I had, those little angels you see in commercials who love to build sandcastles and eat their vegetables) then you'll be fine. If your kids are like…let's just say, "spirited"...pack earplugs. And a LOT of snacks. And maybe consider booking a room furthest from the pool. Just a thought. The pool area is definitely geared towards families. The beach is perfect for sandcastle building. But peaceful relaxation? That's not necessarily a guarantee with a gaggle of children, even if just yours. Also, there's not a children's club, so be prepared to entertain your own little bundles of energy. But hey, isn't that the whole point of a family vacation? (I think...I'm not a parent, so take that assessment with a grain of salt).

Tell me EVERYTHING about the bar! Important stuff.

Oh, the bar. My friends, the *bar*. This is where Pelican Cove truly shines. Let's get this straight, this is the *most* important part of this whole entire place. First off, the bartenders? Legends. They know their cocktails. They know their customers. They remember your name, which is terrifyingly impressive after a couple of piña coladas. (My name is David, by the way. Just in case you happen to go, and you want to buy me a drink). The vibe? Relaxed, beachy, and conducive to making questionable decisions after sunset. (But hey, what happens in Pelican Cove, *stays* in Pelican Cove. Unless, you know, you post it all on Instagram.) The drinks themselves? Amazing. The piña coladas are legendary. The margaritas are strong. And the happy hour…well, let’s just say I may have forgotten my room number on more than one occasion. One specific memory I have is of sitting at the bar one evening with – and it’s going to be a name drop, sorry! – a woman named Brenda, who was in her late 60s and had more life experience and story to tell than you can fit in a Hemingway novel. She was wearing a giant sun hat, a floral dress, and oversized sunglasses. She was sipping a martini, and she was *glowing*. We talked for hours. About everything and nothing. It was one of my favorite travel moments, and it all happened at that bar. That's the kind of experience you could have there. **My personal recommendation:** Order a Painkiller. Trust me on this.

What's the biggest downside? Gotta know!

Okay. The biggest downside? It's not perfect. And honestly, that's a good thing. It's not the fanciest place. It's not going to win awards for its plush towels or Michelin-star restaurant. The rooms are a little dated. The air conditioning sometimes struggles against the humidity. Internet can be a struggle. But you know what? That's part of its charm. Seriously. It's not pristine, it's not pretentious. It's real. It's a place where you can relax, be yourself, and not worry about keeping up appearances. The only *genuine* issue I had was that some of the pool chairs are a little…worn. Okay, a *lot* worn. But hey, you can survive that minor flaw.

Is Islamorada a good location for other activities? Or is it just about Pelican Cove?

Islamorada itself is a *fantastic* location. Pelican Cove is just the jumping-off point for your adventures. * **Fishing:** This is the Keys, people! Fishing charters galore. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a total newbie (like me), you can try to reel in a fish (and/or look cool doing it). And even if you don't fish, it a beautiful thing to do. * **Snorkeling/Diving:** Phenomenal coral reefs. You can snorkel or dive right there. * **Hotel Search Tips

Pelican Cove Resort & Marina Islamorada (FL) United States

Pelican Cove Resort & Marina Islamorada (FL) United States

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