If you’re looking for an easy summer escape, within a reasonable driving distance from Boca Raton, get on your feet and into your SUV to Vero Beach because Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa is my latest recommended family vacation destination.
Owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan (who knew?), it has everything you could possibly want for a few quality days away with your Boca kids before sending them off to camp or relaxing prior to school returning in August.
First Impressions
Once you arrive onsite (welcomed by a glass of champagne, naturally), you can officially say goodbye to your car. Costa d’Este happens to be located in an extremely walkable and bike-able area of Vero Beach near restaurants, shops and an adorable oceanfront park. And if you’d rather stay put? With its breezy cabana bar and on-site restaurant, The Wave, you won’t have to go far to satisfy your umbrella drink cravings or enjoy a delicious Cuban-inspired meal with a view.
This oceanfront escape is full of unique rituals starting with the Costa d’Este monkey statues. Guests toss seashells into their bellies for a little extra good fortune…because if you’re on vacation already, how much more good fortune could you possibly need? (Fun Fact: The #CostaMonkeys represent none other than the Estefans, along with their children and grandchildren.) Once you’ve paid tribute, the only thing left to decide is…
Beach, Pool or Balcony?
FYI: there’s no wrong answer.
That’s because all 94 contemporary-designed guest rooms and suites have spacious balconies with either pool, beach or Vero views. In case you weren’t aware, those Treasure Coast sunrises are pretty impressive! Cozy robes, connecting rooms like we had (highly recommend a king + double for a family of 4), in-room dining, and the friendliest staff truly made our stay extra comfortable.
Once you’ve enjoyed a cup of coffee on your balcony (or perhaps, a free 7 a.m. sunrise yoga class?), be sure to reserve a beach cabana for the day. Your resort fee includes stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and boogie boards so there’s plenty to keep everyone in your family entertained. Or take the laid back route: kick back in your cabana, order a bite to eat for lunch and enjoy the Florida sunshine. (Or, relax in the shade. It is summer after all!)
Making Memories in Vero Beach
After taking that final afternoon dip in the ocean or Costa d’Este’s beautiful infinity pool, I highly recommend borrowing some of the resort’s beach cruiser bikes for a ride through town or maybe a sunset happy hour stop or two? It’s so much fun. And, if you decide to dress up and treat your family to dinner at The Wave Kitchen & Bar (a must at least once during your stay!), make sure to carve out a little extra time for a photo op on the resort’s vintage Fun Cycle for two. We couldn’t stop laughing while trying to coordinate pedaling and steering our way around the front driveway. We worked up quite the appetite!
It’s not difficult to make memories at Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa. In fact, it’s probably why the Estefans opened it in the first place—I got the impression during our stay that family is at the heart of everything there and as a mom that truly resonated with me.
Book your own family getaway and take advantage of the great summer deals on costadeste.com.
Michelle Olson-Rogers is a mom of one and the founder of Modern Boca Mom, a lifestyle website for the stylish & modern South Florida Mommy. She can also be found on Instagram at @modernbocamom. She and her family were hosted by Costa d’Este Resort & Spa for 2 nights for review consideration.
