Two weeks ago, we had the pleasure of setting off on one of the world’s most scenic highways for a 48- hour turn and burn Florida Keys road trip. The overseas highway is known for its majestically beautiful blue waters, 113- miles stretch and touristy stops along the way. Join us as we explore the hidden gem, Stock Island, Florida where oceanfront luxury and tasty seafood collide.
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Newman PR and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. However, all opinions and pictures are my own! For more information on our policies click HERE
Stock Island, Florida USA
Floridians know of the 5 larger Keys as hot spot tourist destinations but in the midst of the Lower Florida Keys, you’ll find a hidden oasis called Stock Island, Florida. Tucked away on this Island, discover a quiet escape from the touristy lower keys called Oceans Edge Resort and Marina and AMAZING seafood & island vibe atmosphere at Hogfish Bar and Grill.
Here, location is EVERYTHING! Stock Island, Florida is convenient. You’ll enjoy the sweet serenity of pure relaxation and less of the crowded Key West tourism. However, Key West is just a shuttle away. You’re close enough to explore and eat all that Key West has to offer.
Stock Island is what I imagine Key West was like before it became a Mecca for tourists. Locals even call it “The little island that could “because it holds on to its charm without competing with its fancy neighbor. You’re sure to fall in love as soon as you arrive.
Ocean’s Edge Resort and Marina
Oceans Edge Resort is the newest and largest luxury resort that can be found right off the coast of Key West. If you’re planning to explore the Florida Keys, this resort should be on your list and for good reason. While on a tropical vacation, everyone dreams of leaving their lives behind for a perfect room with an ocean view, luxury amenities, a tropical climate, and a much simpler life. Your every wish has been granted at Oceans Edge Resort and Marina. This Stock Island Hotel is glamorous!
Oceans Edge Resort & Marina: Rooms
Oceans Edge Resort isn’t your typical resort. Its townhome style boasts 100% ocean view suites and the LARGEST suite-style rooms in the Keys. That’s right, regardless of your location on the property, you’ll take a view of the ocean with you. The large rooms even make this resort one of the most family-friendly accommodations in the lower keys.
You’re sure to be stunned upon entry to your suite. Crisp white, blue and green tones and nautical accents adorn the rooms giving off vibes of relaxation and serenity. It truly is a luxury vacation dream come true. Upon entering, you’ll find your sitting area and mini bar. This serves as a separate living area with pull out bed for to accommodate extra visitors.
Next, you’ll enter the master suite, it looks exactly like what you daydream about on Mondays at work. A large comfy bed, ocean views, and a spa-like bathroom. Let me tell you, our 24 hours at this resort was not nearly enough time, make it a week!
Oceans Edge Resort & Marina: Pools and Amenities
Everything about this property screams VACATION! Oceans Edge Resort and Marina has tons to do on property for the entire family. Once you arrive, you won’t want to leave…. EVER! This resort has a whopping 6 Pools! You’re never at risk for an over-crowded pool, only fun in the sun.
Along with your glorious suite and pool access, you’re also entitled to a complimentary one hour of activities such as paddle boarding, kayaks, and bike rentals. Also, be sure to take advantage of the open-air bar and dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, poolside life-size games and watch the sunset on the marina with your loved ones.
Stock Island Restaurants: HogFish Bar and Grill, Stock Island Florida
Stock Island embodies island living without the chain restaurants and new buildings you find elsewhere. You really get a hometown island feel for the place. That also means that when you find food, you’ve hit GOLD. I hope you bring your taste buds to Stock Island, Florida because Hogfish Bar and Grill is just about the best food to ever touch your pallet. Stock Island doesn’t have a ton of restaurants but this one is GOLD.
Just around the corner from the resort, you’ll find this open-air bar and grill and the Island vibes are on 100%. There’s live music, the most amazing seafood dishes, and Key lime pie…need I say more? It’s been about 2 weeks since I’ve eaten here and my taste buds just won’t let this flavorful food go.
What to Eat at Hogfish Bar and Grill
To start we shared their famous conch fritters. If you’re visiting the Florida Keys, you must try these seafood hushpuppies at least once on your trip.
I enjoyed the Killer Crab Cakes which are two large crab cakes with mango salsa and remoulade sauce. Yes, it tasted AMAZING and packed with tons of flavor.
My husband DEVOURED the shrimp and cheese grits. If I could ever give an award to a restaurant for a dish…this would be IT! For the past few weeks, we’ve still been raving over how the Hogfish Grill shrimp and grits were the most amazing thing we’ve ever tasted. Their shrimp and grits have everything but the kitchen sink: Pink shrimp, cheese, cornbread, onions, peppers, and sausage + Cajun-style spice.
I am totally recommending that you plan your entire Stock Island trip based on this dish. That’s reasonable, right?
We ended our dinner with a gigantic piece of Key Lime Pie. Well, I did. Key Lime pie is my favorite and there’s no way I was sharing. Let me tell you, not all Key Lime pie is created equal. Hogfish Bar and Grill has mastered the sweet to tart ratio and I enjoyed every last bite!
Thanks for sticking around to read about our travel shenanigans. I hope you’re yearning for a tropical vacation now and drooling at the thought of visiting Stock Island, Florida.
If you are, then visit our friends at The Florida Keys & Keywest website. They have awesome tools to help you plan and make the BEST of your Florida Keys vacation. Stay tuned, we’re taking you guys on day two of our Florida Keys road trip to Key West.
Until Next Time…
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