We’ve been a little sneaky lately — not by living a double life, but by slipping away for a quiet, unexpected getaway. John and I quietly escaped to a string of small islands off Florida’s west coast for a week of sun, sand, and slow-paced days. Over the past seven days we’ve swum in the Gulf of Mexico, eaten our weight in fresh seafood, caught up on blog work from the beach, and worked on our tans (and in my case, learned the hard way that my left ear is highly sun-sensitive).
We’ve been calling this trip “Honeymoon Part Two.” Our official honeymoon was nine months ago in Alaska, which felt like the perfect time to mark our newlywed life with a very different kind of celebration in the opposite corner of the country. This time we wanted sun and sand and salty air, and that’s exactly what we got. The islands offered a slower rhythm: mornings spent with coffee on the porch, afternoons at the water’s edge, and evenings watching pink and orange skies sink into the Gulf.
Of course, our little Hamburguesa came along. He’s a dependable travel companion and seemed to relish the new scenery and sensory overload — digging in the sand, chasing shadows, and investigating every new smell. He also had some remarkable, and highly amusing, encounters with lizards by the pool that kept us laughing. Seeing him react to tiny island wildlife added a playful, unpredictable element to each day and reminded us how small moments make trips memorable.
During our stay we wandered through a handful of charming beach houses and cottages — each with its own thoughtful details and easygoing style. Some places were simple and bright, with whitewashed walls, woven rugs, and breezy windows framing ocean views. Others leaned into cozy coastal character with weathered wood, vintage finds, and colorful accents that felt both curated and inviting. We took plenty of photos of the smallest design touches that caught our eye, planning to share them later for anyone who wants to see seaside decorating inspiration without the showroom formality.
We also discovered a few quieter, less-touristy spots where the sand felt almost private and the water was impossibly clear. Meals were a highlight: shrimp and fish grilled or fried, citrus-forward salads, and the occasional indulgent dessert. Evenings were for slow walks along the shore, listening to waves and watching shorebirds search for their next meal. There was a relaxed joy to having no strict agenda — just being present and letting the day unfold at its own pace.
If you like the idea of a low-key beach vacation that mixes simple pleasures with homey coastal design, stay tuned — we’ll be sharing photos and notes about the houses and decor that inspired us. For now, consider this a sun-soaked postcard: a gentle nudge to pack a bag, bring sunscreen, and make time for the kind of escape that leaves you smiling long after the sand is gone.