Wondering where to stay on Hutchinson Island? I’ve got you covered!
This past weekend the hubby and I decided it was time for a quick staycation. I booked two nights at the Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa, and counted down the days until the weekend arrived!
We wanted to stay somewhere rather close and were looking for a true vacation spot – somewhere we’d feel like we were on vacation but didn’t have to travel too far. when we saw that it won Conde Nast Traveler 2019 Readers Choice Award as one of the top 30 resorts in Florida – it sealed the deal!
Hutchinson Island, or “the Hutch” as known by locals and fans alike, consists of two barrier islands – North Hutchinson Island and South Hutchinson Island – of Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties.
First Impressions
I won a two-night stay at the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa and was very much looking forward to redeeming my winnings. The Resort is part of the Opal Collection – a collection of resorts and hotels ranging from Bal Harbour, Maine, to Key West, Florida.
It took us about 45 minutes door to door from the Wellington area to the resort itself.
The hotel isn’t exactly boutique-small at 178 rooms, but when you enter the lobby, it gives off that boutique, beachy feel. Once you check in, walk from the lobby to either the elevator to the north tower or the one designated for the south tower.
The Little Things
We loved the small, special touches that Hutchinson Shores offered, especially the “pantry” located on each floor. Chilled water bottles are available 24 hours a day in the mini fridge, with fresh fruit in the AM and warm cookies in the afternoon are in a wire basket on the countertop. You can also grab the daily newspaper. I still love reading a physical newspaper. It’s the little things…
The Jogger’s Station located just outside the entrance to the resort is so thoughtful. Joggers and runners can stop there on their way out (or in) for a bottle of water, towel, sunscreen, earbuds and more.
You can relax at either of the two pools, enjoy a day at the spa, or explore the beachside surroundings. The weather was perfect for walking the local farmer’s market and afterwards we thoroughly enjoyed the Navy Seals UDT Museum.
Drift Kitchen and Bar
We opted for dinner at the resort on the second night and we very pleased with our decision.
The clean, white design is carried through at Drift Kitchen and Bar. Seating is available indoors or out on the patio.
We chose the Seaside and Mango Chili Margarita to whet our whistle after a day of exploration.
The menu offers something for every palate. It was hard to choose appetizers, but after speaking with Executive Chef Michael Volger, we opted for the tuna poke’ and crispy calamari with housemade pomodoro.
Chef Michael was kind enough to take time away from catering for a party of 50 and a 160-guest wedding reception to give us a one-on-one intro of Drift.
Whenever I see “homemade fresh pasta” I am inclined to order it, so I chose the Bucatini Carbonara, while R went for the Blue Crab Crusted Grouper. Both great options. When we asked Chef what his favorite dish was, he said it was hard to choose just one, but he was privy to the Day Boat Scallops entree’.
Dessert was another hard choice to make. We shared the warm sugared donuts and gelato trio and then practically rolled our full selves back to our room.
Sublime Relaxation
We enjoyed a leisurely Sunday walking on the beach after breakfast and then headed back to reality. This staycation was exactly what the doctor ordered. Hutchinson Island is only a stone’s throw away, and the perfect option for a weekend to regroup and relax.
Have you ever been to Hutchinson Island?
Brianne Tursi Manz says
Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa looks amazing! The food looks amazing, and the overall vibe of the area looks relaxed and laid back.
melissa chapman says
That is some staycation it seems like it is a great place to get away to. My husband is a runner so this spa would really be perfect for him
Bonnie G says
That looks so pretty there. The food looks pretty tasty. Looks like a really great time.
Sarah Bailey says
This sounds like such a lovely place to go and visit. The Drift Bar and Kitchen seems to offer wonderful food, while all the little touches around the hotel are fab.
Tami Qualls says
I am long overdue for a weekend to regroup and relax. I am going to plan a trip to Hutchinson Island immediately.
Dana says
Tami, you are going to be so glad you did so!
Terri Steffes says
What a beautiful place. I had no idea where the Hutch was, so I am glad you took the time to share exactly where it was.
Lisa B says
That food looks delicious. Staycations can be a great way to relax. I’ll have to look into some locations near me that would be a good staycation spot. This looks like you found a beautiful location.
Dana says
It was truly beautiful, Lisa! I hope you find a beautiful spot by you as well 🙂
Janelle M says
Aww yaay! Good for you and hubby. I love ‘staycations’. Hutchinson Island looks so lovely and foods look fabulous. Glad you both enjoyed. SUCKS to leave though and come back to reality lol.
Dana says
Yes, reality is a bummer LOLOL
Theresa says
Hutchinson Shores Resort looks really inviting! So perfect for a staycation. And the food looks so drool-worthy! I’d probably book a stay there once a year if I lived close by for a little r&r!
Tammy says
Oh my this looks so amazing. And near the beach, makes it even better.
Ice Cream n Sticky Fingers says
I’ve never been to Hutchinson Island before but it sounds absolutely amazing. I’m long overdue for a vacation but it will be quite some time before I can go do anything. Hopefully soon. I’ll definitely add this hotel to my list of options.
Tasheena says
This looks like such an amazing stay. I would love to visit this Island. I have to look into booking a trip.
Dana says
I hope you get to go to Hutchinson!
Kimberly Rambles says
There is so much going on in our lives right now (mostly our newly adult child doing all the adulting things!) I need a break…. maybe a resort like this is just what we need. That one is for sure further than 45 minutes away from us but looks so worth it.
Dana says
Kim, I hear you about the adult children adulting which makes us more nervous…I hope you get to take a vacation soon – you deserve it!
Catalina says
This is an awesome place! And the food is just fabulous! I would like to visit one day!
Ashley says
I absolutely love the runner table. I wish all places had that!