Prelude Hotel Review
Hotel > This Side of Paradise
This idyllic ocean-front experience in Pensacola Beach, Florida, is perfect for you and your family.
words by > Jason Mogavero
Portofino Island Resort and Spa
Pensacola Beach, Florida
10 Portofino Dr 877-484-3405 www.portofinoisland.com
Portofino Island Resort and Spa brings your family to a coastline so idyllic it seems to be on the edge of forever. Billed as “The Island Within Reach,” Portofino Island is located off the Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida and is a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a government-protected nature preserve that guarantees visitors miles of white beaches, calm, crystalline water and untouched natural beauty.
The loveliness of Portofino’s surroundings is matched by the convenience of its location, less than 20 minutes from Pensacola Regional Airport by car. Pensacola’s historic downtown features a wealth of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
Guests 25 years and younger aren’t permitted to register without being accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, which means the calmness of the resort isn’t interrupted by the rowdiness of spring break. Instead, Portofino is the perfect setting for a romantic or family weekend all year round.
Spacious two- or three-bedroom “Sky Homes” feature balconies with gulf and bay views (the sunsets are breathtaking), fully equipped kitchens, free movies and high-speed internet, as well as Roman whirlpool baths.
If it’s excitement you’re looking for, a wide-range of activities for both parents and children are available. The resort features a self-contained adventure company that offers kayaking, surfing and parasailing, along with a host of other water sports for lovers of the life aquatic. You can even enjoy private dinner cruises and kayak-bound picnic lunches. Landlocked activities are in no short supply, either. Guests can check out the area’s wildlife as they hike and bike along the nature preserve’s trails, and the resort features a high-class restaurant, workout center, tennis courts, indoor pool and spa. There’s even a juice and smoothie bar for the truly health-conscious.
The kids aren’t left out of the equation; during school vacation periods, pint-sized guests have their own Portofino Pirate’s Kids
Club. The program allows children to have fun while learning about the ecology and history of the island.
Portofino Island Resort and Spa is more than just a seaside hotel; it’s a special place that provides all of the relaxation of a deserted island with all the comforts of a world-class resort. Escaping from the hassles of the modern world has never been so easy.