Is Little Palm Island Worth It? Our Full Review & Tips for Visiting the Private Island in the Florida Keys

Did you know that one of the world’s best private island resorts is right here in the USA? This Florida Keys dream-of-an-island is like having the Maldives experience right here in our own backyard. And I am HERE FOR IT. Waking up in one of Little Palm Island‘s thirty thatched-roof bungalows, surrounded by palms and beautiful beaches, endless watersports, chic pool cabanas, and five-star dining at every meal, I swear I felt a million miles away, despite only being a 20 minute boat ride away from the nearest Little Torch Key in Florida. 

Here is your honest hotel review of the US’s dreamy private island, Little Palm Island

Part of this feeling of sweet, complete disconnection, is because, on a private 4.5-acre island full of white-sand beaches and idyllic views, it’s easy to escape mentally from the ‘real world’. It’s the reason why for more than 40 years this island has been a notoriously posh getaway for celebrities, presidents, and the jet-set. The vibe is very vintage tiki / British West Indies meets retro-modern poolside cabanas and beachfront lounges. It’s secluded and exclusive in the best way. I felt a little like an island castaway here, a little like Jackie O on vacation in the 1950’s. It was perfection.

Little Palm Island recently underwent a HUGE renovation after being devastated by Hurricane Irma. They added a dreamy two-story spa (where you should definitely book a hot stone massage to amp up the relaxation – because WOW). And they level upped on all their interiors and facilities in a big way. The new pool is GORGEOUS and where I spent 90% of my trip on the island.

Each of Little Palm Island’s thatched-roof bungalows comes with a dreamy four-post plush bed, a gorgeous deck, a private sunning area, an outdoor shower, one of the most beautiful copper bathtubs ever, and ocean views. Some have fire pits too, for cuddling by at night.  If you have a boat, you can book a slip and stay on your own boat, as well.

Complimentary resort activities include paddle boards, fishing equipment, snorkel gear, kayaks, Hobie Cat sailboats, and four 13-foot Boston Whalers for guests to take out as they please to nearby sandbars and reefs.

   

The food is all excellent, five-star-restaurant food, the cocktails are DELICIOUS, and the service is fabulous. Seriously, this island is magical, you guys, you will LOVE it. Now let’s get to answering all the frequently asked questions you all were asking in my instagram DM’s during our stay!

What It’s Like to Stay at Little Palm Island Resort

In a word: dreamy. The vibe is ultra-laid-back yet incredibly refined. Guests spend their days kayaking, lounging by the pool, indulging at the spa, or simply doing absolutely nothing. The resort is adults-only, so the tranquility is unmatched. Every inch of the island feels intentional, from the hammocks strung between palm trees to the champagne waiting in your room.

How to Get to Little Palm Island

To get there, you’ll fly into Key West or Miami and drive to the resort’s welcome station on Little Torch Key. From there, a private boat whisks you across crystal-clear waters to the island itself. The boat ride is part of the magic—champagne in hand, salty breeze in your hair, and your vacation officially begins.

FAQ: Little Palm Island Resort

How do you get to Little Palm Island?

Island guests can arrive via private boat, seaplane (chartered through Tropic Ocean Airways), or car. Those who drive are greeted at the Shore Station in Little Torch Key with Gumby Slumbers — the island’s signature coconut-soaked rum cocktail, invented by a former bartender and named for the delirious way it makes you feel — with just 10 minutes aboard the Woodson or Truman motor yacht separating you from lush Little Palm Island, where an alternate reality awaits.

Is Little Palm Island all-inclusive?

Not exactly. Meals and activities are a la carte, though you can add inclusive packages.

Is it adults-only?

Yes! No kids under 18 are allowed.

How much does it cost to stay at Little Palm Island?

Rates start around $3,000+ per night depending on the season and room type.

Can you visit for the day?

No, the island is exclusive to overnight guests only.

The Little Palm Island room rate is very expensive, is Little Palm Island worth it?

A stay at the idyllic Little Palm Island definitely doesn’t come cheap, especially when you add in the cost of food and drinks there, but, in my opinion, you are paying for the convenience of a Maldives or Bora Bora level luxury travel experience, without having to fly halfway across the world. It was incredible.

What is the clientele at Little Palm Island like?

We found the clientele to be active couples, mainly in their 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and older. There are no kids under 18 allowed on the island.

What is the food and drink like on Little Palm Island?

Though there is only one restaurant, the menu changes every dinner, and every bite is soooo good, so there’s really no more that you need. I highly recommend breakfast in your bungalow (or at the restaurant), and be sure to get lunch poolside too (the tuna tostadas are OUT OF THIS WORLD!). You will not be disappointed in the food here. I was also impressed by the wine list (and prices were not that bad! $85 for a belle glos pinot bottle – one of my favorite wines), and the cocktails were some of our favorites we’ve had anywhere in the world (if you follow on Instagram, you know my fiance Kenny is famous for his pina colada reviews, and he gave this one his best review ever!)

Is Little Palm Island a good honeymoon destination?

Yes, yes, and yes!! Little Palm Island is definitely one of the very best honeymoon destinations in the USA. You might, however, get a little island fever on such a small island if you spend more than 3-4 nights, so I would couple it with a trip to the Florida Keys, or even the Caribbean!

How far is Little Palm Island from Miami?

Little Palm Island is a two and a half hour drive from Miami to Little Torch Key, or a one hour drive from Key West (where we flew into), and from Little Torch Key, you take a 20 minute boat ride to the island.

How to Book Little Palm Island with Free VIP Perks like $100 Resort Credit?

If you’re interested in getting VIP perks.like a complimentary upgrade on arrival (subject to availability), daily breakfast, a $100 resort credit, and an early check in/late check out, reach out to me with your dates and I can personally help book your trip with VIP perks through my travel agency! These perks come at no cost to you, it’s simply a perk for booking through Jetset Christina.

Is the transfer to the island included in the room rate?

Yes! If you arrive by one of their boats, it is included in your room rate, they leave every hour from Little Torch Key. 

Is Little Palm Island snobby?

No. Despite being one of the most expensive luxury resorts in the USA, the vibe on Little Palm Island is very casual, not snobby or pretentious in the LEAST, which I loved.

Where can I book Little Palm Island at the best rate?

Check here for the latest rates for your dates!