Alys Beach

Alys Beach came as a total surprise to me. In fact, you could drive through the entire city in 10 minutes and not realize you just missed a diamond sparkling in the Florida sun. As you meander through Rosemary enjoying the Bavarian-style architecture, rising out of the dunes comes gleaming white, alfresco buildings seeming something out of a film about Spanish Royalty. The place isn’t in its final form and yet it is striking.

Peaceful and charming, the white buildings balance an luxury you will not see again in this state until you reach South Beach. Actually, Caliza, Aly’s little oasis for its guests, may quietly outshine even Miami’s most popular beach resorts. With private cabanas, beautiful colonnades, hammocks sagging between palm trees and beach views from the second story terrace, this place has no equal. And the food at the restaurant hidden in the luxurious escape serves fresh seafood and juicy grilled steaks prepared by famed French chef Olivier Gaupin.

Touring Alys Beach, I was almost overwhelmed by the beauty and the solitude. No place I’ve ever been, and I’ve been lots of places, has ever made me feel so comfortable. If you’re on 30A don’t let Alys Beach slip by you because it may very well be the one place you will never forget.

-Cebo Campbell

Alys Beach is an idyllic little spot that you can literally drive through in seconds – however it is actually home to two fantastic restaurants, the casual yet upscale George’s, and Caliza, an uber elegant dining paradise. The whole feel of Alys Beach is very Spanish, think white-washed buildings, cobblestone walkways and remarkable architecture. It’s stunning, peaceful and unlike anything else on scenic 30a. Roaming around the interior of Caliza’s, I felt like I was in a South Beach resort, there were take-your-breath-away swimming pools, private cabanas, swaying palms and opulent furnishings. It was all utterly spectacular. Alys Beach still has some more developing to do – but it’s most definitely worth spending some time there, either strolling around and taking in the atmosphere, or dining at one of its great restaurants.

- Ellie Cominos