Driftwood Resort
This is the quintessence of Old Florida. Originally planned as a private estate by eccentric entrepreneur Waldo Sexton, the Driftwood was opened to the public in the late '30s. Its location is stellar, right on the beach, and the resort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has lots of quirky charm and a handsome if rustic wooden facade. But it definitely has issues. All of the guest rooms were last renovated in 2000 and could use a revamp. They also look quite different one to the next. Some have terra-cotta floors and lighter furniture, while others have a more rustic feel with hardwoods and 40’s era antiques. All are equipped with full kitchens and sleep at least four. One of the best units: the Captain’s Quarters, which overlooks the ocean with a private staircase to the pool. There are two pools and a popular bar and restaurant, Waldo’s (historicwaldos.com), surrounding one of the pools and open every day until midnight (Sundays til 11pm), so there are also noise issues. But did we mention this place has oodles of charm?
This is the quintessence of Old Florida. Originally planned as a private estate by eccentric entrepreneur Waldo Sexton, the Driftwood was opened to the public in the late '30s. Its location is stellar, right on the beach, and the resort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has lots of quirky charm and a handsome if rustic wooden facade. But it definitely has issues. All of the guest rooms were last renovated in 2000 and could use a revamp. They also look quite different one to the next. Some have terra-cotta floors and lighter furniture, while others have a more rustic feel with hardwoods and 40’s era antiques. All are equipped with full kitchens and sleep at least four. One of the best units: the Captain’s Quarters, which overlooks the ocean with a private staircase to the pool. There are two pools and a popular bar and restaurant, Waldo’s (historicwaldos.com), surrounding one of the pools and open every day until midnight (Sundays til 11pm), so there are also noise issues. But did we mention this place has oodles of charm?
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