Shireen's Favorite Things

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club 1996 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050

Everyone has their own version of heaven. I found mine a few weeks ago while standing on a dock at Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club in Marathon Key…

The sun was shining brightly on my shoulders, the warm, salty air was whipping around me and the brilliant blue water from the Gulf of Mexico splashed oh-so lazily beneath my feet. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and thought….

THIS-IS-PERFECT.

I first discovered Faro Blanco on one of my many jaunts to Key West. It’s located near the famous 7 Mile Bridge, about an hour north of the “Conch Republic”. I spotted its famous lighthouse from the Overseas Highway and decided to make an impromptu stop to explore the property.

I was immediately smitten with its beautiful marina and everything surrounding it (an upscale Hyatt Place Hotel, two pools, a fitness center and a waterfront restaurant called Light House Grill). A few months later…

I checked in for a quick, overnight getaway. That’s the great thing about The Florida Keys; it’s just so close to Miami and there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Every time I make my way south, I find myself falling in love with yet another hidden gem, like Faro Blanco (which, by the way, means “white lighthouse” in Spanish).

Originally built back in the 50’s, Faro Blanco has endured its share of bad weather, rebuilding several times. its latest overhaul (which was just last year) is the stuff dreams are made of; mixing sleek modern amenities with a “Cape Cod-ish” feel. My hotel room was spacious, comfy and just steps away from everything I needed and wanted…

I got all giddy on a life-size chessboard game, oohed & aahed my way up and down the marina (the yachts were incredible) and traipsed my way to the top of the historic lighthouse. As I peered out over the deep blue sea, I was overcome with happiness and chirped: “I’m the KING OF THE KEYS!” (of course, in dramatic fashion). Sigh. I love me a good Leo moment from the movie Titanic.

I explored the other side of the property, too, where I found a sweet little oasis, dressed in silky white sand complete with a few quirky palm trees. The view from that particular vantage point (which sprouts out from a jetty) is mesmerizing. It’s the perfect place to celebrate something special, like a wedding or, in my case, just taking a moment to let the unbridled beauty of the ocean and lighthouse sink in.

As I stood there contemplating “My-So-Called-Life,” I couldn’t believe Spring was coming to an end and Summer was about to begin. What’s more, I was flabbergasted because for the last five months, I had actually managed to keep my 2016 New Year’s resolutions (getting physically fit, so I get in touch with my sexy side and spending more time in The Florida Keys).

As of late, taking care of my mind and body had become my full-time, unadulterated passion and following through with my goals (not that I’m a sexy beast just yet) had really empowered me. “So — what’s next, Sandoval?” I muttered quietly to myself. The possibilities at that moment seemed endless. Perhaps, a return adventure to Faro Blanco to enjoy some of their cool water activities would be a good place to start…

They offer scuba diving, snorkeling, boat tours, paddle fit and sunset cruises, just to name a few. In other words, more rest, relaxation and “Summer Fun at Faro Blanco” … because now — it’s one of my new favorite things.

Faro Blanco is in Marathon Key at Mile Marker 48, which is about an hour north of Key West. There’s plenty of parking and if you’re on a boat, even better, you can enjoy their easy access, state-of-the art marina.

It’s also close to The Turtle Hospital, Aquarium Encounters and the Dolphin Research Center (which make for a perfect family outing) and…

Don’t miss Friday’s Spotlight, as I dine at Faro Blanco’s LightHouse Grill. Although the restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, they have a steak and Jalapeño Cucumber Martini that’ll knock your socks off.

Reservations: 305-743-1234 or www.faroblancoresort.com
FB: Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club, Twitter: @faroblancoresrt IG: @faro_blanco_resort