Family Insider

Sunrise over the heated pool at the Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina. Credit: Jill Martin, VISIT FLORIDA

If you’re looking for a one-stop vacation spot in the Florida Keys, check out The Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina at Holiday Isle (PCI for short)!

The Postcard Inn name may sound familiar; their first location is on St. Pete Beach. Now, they have a sister resort in Islamorada, a famous one at that. Holiday Isle was, and is, an icon in the Keys. Its famous Tiki Bar has attracted visitors for decades (I practically grew up here)! But over the years, the property became run down and worn out. To the rescue? Postcard Inn (and $11 million in renovations)!

PCI has 143 all new rooms and suites overlooking the Atlantic. You’ll find comfortable, Americana-style décor with a touch of whimsy that’s ideal for the laidback atmosphere of the Keys. It's tropical and fun, just what you'd want in a Florida vacation. Here are some of the onsite amenities:

• Two swimming pools (one is heated)
• Full service marina with backcountry & offshore fishing charters
• Boat rentals
• Daily dive & snorkel trips to North America's only living coral reef
• Family game area & arcade
• Beachwear & dive shop
• Weekend supervised Kids Camp (for alone time!)

Restaurants

Coach Don Shula has opened the world’s first Shula Burger at PCI. His steakhouses are rated top in the nation and Coach says, “If you like our steaks, you’ll flip for our burgers.” We sure did. They also have seafood on the menu and are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Burgers start at just $6.99. Try the sweet potato tater tots and cole slaw. You've got to have the cupcakes for dessert, no matter how full you are.

Other onsite venues include:

• Jaws Raw Bar
• The Cantina,
• Rum Runner’s Island Bar
• The Wreck Bar

PCI's location will put you in the center of Florida Keys fun. In additon to excellent diving, fishing and snorkeling, you can walk to Theater of the Sea and it's a short drive to Robbie's where you can feed the tarpon.This would be an excellent venue for weddings or family reunions. Plenty of space, lots of cool features (like a seaside gazebo).

Take advantage of online special rates now from only $113 a night. Our room had two queen beds, a mini fridge, day bed, large flat screen TV and excellent Wi-Fi (free). The view of the Atlantic from the balcony was spectacular. Their lanai suites on the ground floor give you sliding door access to the beach. Nice.

Insider tip: If you’re coming with family, you may want a room that’s a good distance from the Tiki Bar. The party lasts till after midnight, and the music may keep little ones dancing beyond their bedtime.