May is usually a beautiful month for us here in Florida and I decided I wanted to take advantage of being able to use our outdoor space to throw a mahjong party.  Cinco de Mayo fell on a Thursday this year, so when I was with some friends; we came up with the idea of a Cinco de Mahj party!!  How fun is that??

So I immediately got to work and made a quick little invitation that I could text our to a group of Mahj friends and get the party rolling. 

I decided to have a pretty big group, I think we were around 24 people; so that meant I would need to rent some chairs, borrow a few card tables and throw up all the outdoor umbrellas.  We had 6 tables going and played at our table until people needed to start leaving one by one and then we shifted the tables around as needed.  

I set all the tables up before our guest arrived and used inexpensive colored table clothes from Amazon and one pretty tablecloth from Pomegranate (no longer available) that I loved where we sat outside to eat lunch.  

What do you think?? Are you read to throw your first big Mahjong bash???

The post Cinco de Mahj | A Mahjong Party appeared first on Home of Malones.

12 Best Girls’ Trip Destinations in the U.S.

Planning the ultimate girls’ trip? Whether you’re craving beachside relaxation, wine country indulgence, or a city adventure, the U.S. has endless destinations perfect for a memorable getaway with your best friends. From charming Southern retreats to vibrant big-city escapes, here are 12 of the best girls’ trip destinations to consider.

1. Charleston, SC | My Blog Posts

With its cobblestone streets, pastel-hued historic homes, and incredible food scene, Charleston is a dream for a girls’ getaway. Spend your days strolling along King Street for shopping, brunching at Poogan’s Porch, and exploring the stunning waterfront at The Battery.

2. Serenbe, GA | My Blog Posts

For a peaceful retreat, head to Serenbe, a wellness-focused community just outside Atlanta. Think spa days, farm-to-table dining, and scenic nature walks—all in a picturesque setting. It’s the perfect place to recharge with your best friends.

3. Palmetto Bluff, SC | My Blog Posts

Nestled along the May River in South Carolina, Palmetto Bluff is a luxurious low-country escape. Stay at the Montage Palmetto Bluff for world-class spa treatments, bike rides through moss-draped oaks, and sunset river cruises.

4. Napa Valley, CA | My Blog Posts

No girls’ trip list is complete without Napa. Wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and Michelin-starred dining make it an unforgettable destination. Don’t miss a visit to Castello di Amorosa, a stunning Tuscan-style castle winery.

5. Newport, RI | My Blog Posts

For a coastal New England escape, Newport is ideal. Tour the opulent Gilded Age mansions, sip rosé on a sunset sail, and soak up the charm of this seaside gem. The Cliff Walk offers breathtaking views and the perfect backdrop for group photos.

6. Palm Beach, FL | My Blog Posts

Palm Beach oozes luxury with its pristine beaches, upscale boutiques, and iconic pink-hued The Colony Hotel. Spend your days poolside, shopping on Worth Avenue, and enjoying elegant waterfront dining.

7. New Orleans, LA | My Blog Posts

From jazz-filled nights on Frenchmen Street to indulging in beignets at Café du Monde, New Orleans offers an energetic and unique girls’ trip experience. Don’t miss a swamp tour or a visit to the vibrant Garden District.

8. Sea Island, GA – The Cloister | My Blog Posts

For a five-star Southern escape, The Cloister at Sea Island is pure perfection. This private island resort offers everything from spa treatments to horseback riding on the beach, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.

9. The Dunlin, SC | My Blog Posts

One of the newest luxury retreats, The Dunlin offers a nature-inspired getaway with coastal beauty and Southern charm. Enjoy waterfront views, outdoor activities, and the ultimate spa experience.

10. Miraval, AZ and TX | My Blog Post

For a wellness-focused girls’ trip, Miraval resorts in Arizona and Texas offer mindfulness workshops, spa treatments, and activities like horseback meditation and aerial yoga. It’s the perfect place to disconnect and recharge.

11. 30A, FL | My Blog Posts

This stretch of charming beach towns along Florida’s Panhandle is known for its white sand beaches and laid-back vibe. Rent a beach house, explore Rosemary Beach, and bike along the scenic paths for the ultimate coastal retreat.

12. Fairhope, AL | My Blog Posts

Fairhope is an underrated gem with waterfront views, boutique shopping, and a quaint downtown area. It’s a great spot for a slower-paced, picturesque getaway filled with Southern hospitality.

For the Big-City Girls

If your group thrives on energy, nightlife, and endless entertainment, these big-city destinations are perfect for a fun-filled girls’ trip:

• Miami, FL – Beach clubs, rooftop bars, and Art Deco vibes in South Beach.

• New York City, NY – Shopping in SoHo, Broadway shows, and cocktails with skyline views.

• Las Vegas, NV – Luxury resorts, pool parties, and world-class entertainment.

• Nashville, TN – Live music, honky-tonks, and rooftop bars on Broadway.

• Chicago, IL – Stunning architecture, Michelin-star dining, and river cruises.

• Austin, TX – Food trucks, live music, and outdoor adventures.

• Atlanta, GA – Trendy neighborhoods, amazing brunch spots, and vibrant nightlife.

• Los Angeles, CA – Beach days, Hollywood hikes, and chic rooftop lounges.

• Dallas, TX – High-end shopping, trendy restaurants, and fun speakeasies.

• Denver, CO – Breweries, outdoor adventures, and scenic mountain views.

No matter your travel style, these destinations offer the perfect backdrop for making lifelong memories with your girls. Where’s your next trip taking you? Let us know in the comments!

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What to Pack

If you’re planning a spa weekend, packing intentionally makes all the difference. The goal? Comfort, ease, and a little bit of luxury.

First, think layers and loungewear. Miraval is beautifully relaxed — you’ll live in leggings, soft tees, cozy wraps, and easy sundresses for meals. Bring one or two swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs, and any water therapies, plus waterproof sandals you can slip on and off throughout the day. A light jacket is helpful for chilly mornings or overly enthusiastic air-conditioning.

For wellness activities — whether it’s yoga, meditation, hiking, or a fitness class — pack comfortable workout clothes and supportive sneakers. Even if you think you’re going just to relax, you may find yourselves signing up for something adventurous together (which is half the fun).

Toiletries can stay minimal since the resort provides beautiful products, but I always bring my favorite skincare essentials, sunscreen, hair ties, and a small makeup pouch for dinners. A reusable water bottle and a lightweight tote are also incredibly handy for moving between the spa, pool, and classes. These are a few of my favorites. Check out my full packing list here.

Daytime Activities

Whether it was a morning stretch class, a mindfulness walk, or just wandering the property with coffee in hand, here are pieces to keep you comfortable all day.

• I practically lived in a great pair of high-waisted leggings.
• A soft, breathable top, and my trusty HOKA sneakers for walking the property and staying comfortable.
• The leggings were supportive but comfortable enough to lounge in, and I chose a relaxed, slightly oversized top that felt polished without trying too hard. And the HOKAs were a must — lightweight, cushioned, and perfect for everything from light hikes to walks between the spa and our room.

The post What I Packed for the Miraval Spa in Austin appeared first on Home of Malones.

Last week I was able to share the most special vacation with my Mom for a little birthday getaway!!  I celebrated my 41st birthday and my Mom and I snuck away for 3 nights to Austin, TX to visit the Miraval spa and resort.   It was such a relaxing and luxurious treat.  It has been years since only my Mom and I have done a trip together and this felt so special.  Even though we live in the same town, we are often together with 3 kids running around us or with other family and don’t get to catch up just the two of us.

Back about 20 years ago, my Mom and I went with my aunt and cousin to Tucson, AZ to a spa for a few nights.  Both of us have been thinking this entire time that it was Miraval in AZ, but I just realized it was Canyon Ranch, not Miraval.  Anyway, we love a good spa and it’s so much fun to exercise and enjoy the healthy lifestyle; but also pamper yourself at the spa.

I wanted to break this post down into a few different sections for you and hopefully answer any questions you may have if Miraval is on your list to visit.

How to get to the Miraval Austin

We flew into the Austin airport and since we didn’t have a direct flight, we had to fly through Atlanta.  Once we landed in Austin, Miraval offers a complimentary ride to the resort.  Our driver was waiting for us as soon as we landed and then it was about a 25 minute ride to the resort.

Accommodations at Miraval Austin

We stayed in a Two Double Bed Dreamcatcher room which was located close to the reception desk.  There are buildings scattered all over the property and probably each have their own benefits as to location.  Our building was somewhat far from the dining room and spa area, but it is all still just a 6-8 minute walk away.   The entire property is walkable and it takes about a day (maybe a half day) to get yourself acclimated and feeling like you know where everything is.

Our room was fairly simple yet nice and they do offer tea and a hot kettle in your room, a mini fridge, and a small seat by the window to read or work.  The rooms do have a TV and wifi as well as a tiny wooden bed to encourage you to leave your cell phones behind and enjoy unplugging.

The highlight of the rooms were the most incredible and comfortable bedding that I’ve maybe EVER slept on.  One of my favorite things about luxury hotels is the incredible bed linens that they usually provide, but I am telling you these are next level.  They are so soft and to me the thing that stood out the most was the down comforter.  The trick with a down comforter is that it can be too hot, but this one was the perfect weight and felt like a lovely cloud lying on top of you.  Apparently, we are not the only ones that fell in love with the bedding because it turns out they sell the bedding package in their gift shop.   Of course my Mom and I had to go inquire about the bedding and we were astounded to learn that the duvet comforter alone (does not include the duvet cover) was priced at $2,200!!!!!!  Lawdy, that deterred us of course; but it does show that they use first class linens.

When you are walking all around the Miraval property you notice all the detail they put into making the place as calming and relaxing for their guests as possible.  There are water features all around, fire pits and gas fires lit throughout and beautiful cactus and stone towers throughout the property.  You can find healthy snacks and treats all day long at the Nest as well as smoothies and a cocktail bar in the evening.

I thought the property was very nice and I will share more about the spa below.

What to do at the Miraval Austin

Miraval is a wellness spa and offers a plethora of activities all day long.  They put out a monthly calendar of events with an hourly schedule for each day of the week.  The best thing to do is look through all the activities that are offered during your stay and start picking out which activities look like something you are interested in.   The activities include things like hikes, yoga, stretching, meditation, bee keeping, farm tours, ropes courses, weight lifting, aqua cardio (during certain seasons), sound baths, floating meditations, cooking classes, and so many more.  The list may feel a little overwhelming at first and they do recommend booking activities before you arrive, but just know things can be changed when you are there.

Our favorite way to schedule the day was to have exercise classes in the morning (we loved doing a hike each morning on our own which were very well marked) and then workout classes after.  Then we enjoyed lunch and had a spa service in the afternoon.  When we did our spa services, we loved doing the whole thing.  We would do the hot tub, then steam room, then sauna and then shower off before heading to the relaxation room to wait for our spa treatment.

After the afternoon spa treatment, it was fun to schedule things like a cooking class, drink-making class or maybe a meditation or stretching class to enjoy in the evenings.  They run classes through about 9pm, so you can book things late into the evening or just have dinner and head back to your room and relax.

There were so many classes and things to do that we did not experience during our stay, but the things we really enjoyed were the pasta making class, the floating meditation, the hikes, our drink making class and all our spa treatments.

I will note that they do not have tennis courts, pickleball courts or a golf course on property.  I did see a golf course very close by on our way to the airport, so I imagine people use that course if they are golfers.

The Miraval Spa

The Spa itself was very nice and had all the amenities that we were interested in.  Have I ever been to a bigger and newer spa?  Yes, but this one had everything we needed plus the most incredible treatments.  My Mom and I each had 4 treatments.  We had one per day which was so a treat and after each one we walked out of our rooms gushing over how good they were.  We did a 20 minute Neck and Head massage our first evening there, then an 80 minute Vitamin C facial which was outstanding, an 80 minute Ginger Healer massage which was a message with an amazing body scrub and then a 100min Predhana Veda treatment.  This Predhana Veda treatment is designed for total body rejuvenation, mental clarity, and balancing the body’s energy.  My friend, Lea, told us about this when we ran into her at the airport and she said it was such a unique experience and highly recommended it.  I loved how unique it was and the way they slathered you up with warm oil and wrapped you up like a cocoon.  They then pour warm oil on your forehead and down through your hair and it’s this incredibly relaxing feeling.  I’m wishing I was back there as I type this!

Don’t skip the spa treatments if you make it to Miraval and make sure you enjoy the included amenities like the steam room and sauna.  As a resort guest, you can enjoy the spa amenities each day regardless if you have a spa treatment scheduled or not.

What is included at the Miraval Austin

There is a lot that is included in your stay at the Miraval resort.  Each day we received a $200 resort credit per person, a complimentary shuttle ride to and from the airport, all of our food, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, and a lot of the classes throughout the day.  Some of the classes did require an extra fee such as the cooking classes, floating meditation, and several others.  Another thing that is included throughout the resort which was really nice not to have to think about was gratuity.  Gratuity is not only included but not permitted on property.  All the spa treatments have tip included and you do not tip any of your instructors.  That made things very simple and nice not to worry about carrying cash around.

Where to eat at the Miraval Austin

There is one main restaurant on property that has indoor and outdoor seating.  They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in this restaurant each day.  Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, but they also have a small menu that you can order from as well.   For dinner, you order from the menu and the items change each night.  They serve each entree with a calorie count next to it and all entrees are quite healthy.  The food was really quite good and I loved that they offered a delicious soup for every meal.

I mentioned they have a little place called the Nest.  That is a coffee and smoothie shop by day and then a bar in the evening.  They also have grab and go food there and some delicious snacks you can pick up.  All of this is included in your stay.  They made the best energy balls and these avocado chocolate cookies that we loved.  I came home with the recipe, so I will have to try and make them.

What to Pack for the Miraval Austin

We traveled to Miraval in mid February and managed to pack everything in a carry on bag which I was very proud of.  The nice part is that you really only need workout clothes and cozy sets, but somehow I still struggled to squeeze all of that into a carry on.  You need tennis shoes and a pair of sandals for walking back from the spa.  Then workout clothes by day, a bathing suit, light jacket, a couple sweat sets ( I love Varley, Rhone and Spanx) for the evening, and a little Fannie pack was really convenient to be hands free.  They give you a refillable water bottle, a nice tote to carry around which was helpful and then they ended up giving us a Fannie pack as well which I wore every day!  I brought makeup but really only put some on for the plane flight home and then packed my toiletry bag as well.

That’s it.  Its simple and so nice to just be comfortable for a few days!

You can check out my full packing list here with everything I brought.

Final Thoughts on our Stay at Miraval Austin

I truly loved my stay at Miraval.  We stayed for 3 nights and I think that was the perfect amount of time to be there.  You definitely could stay longer because there are so many different activities that you can try, but 3 nights felt perfect for us.  It was also so fun to do this trip with my Mom because I feel like it is such a good mother/daughter trip (we saw several other mom/daughter duos on our trip) and it is not a trip that my husband would really be into.  We did see men there, but they have to be the men that are into healthy eating, workouts and a little spa time.  This would also make an excellent girls trip with a group or even a solo trip.  You did see people here all by themselves which I thought was really cool too.

We did have hopes at one point planning this trip that we might go out and see some of Austin while we were there, but it really just didn’t work out.  Once you are on property, it is nice to just totally enthrall yourself into the healthy, relaxation mode.  Downtown Austin was going to be a 40 minute drive or so each way with traffic and it just didn’t feel worth it for our short trip.  So now, we will just have to go back and see Austin again another time!

As for Miraval resorts, it’s now been added to my bucket list to hit all three locations – Austin, Tucson and Berkshires!  Mom and I said we need to make this an annual thing, ha!!

They also had two pretty pools with hot tubs on property to sit and relax and enjoy.

The post Our Mother Daughter Trip to the Miraval Spa in Austin appeared first on Home of Malones.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Bahamas in a way that feels peaceful, special, and truly unforgettable—Kamalame Cay is it.

We took our family trip in August with our three kids (ages 12, 10, and 7) and it was the perfect mix of barefoot luxury + easy family fun. Think: turquoise water, salty hair, slow mornings, and the kind of relaxing that feels rare when you’re traveling with kids.  Our travel agent, Melanie, put this spot in our minds a few years ago and we just had to find the right timing to make it work since it is not the easiest place to get to.

Kamalame Cay is a private island resort off the coast of Andros, Bahamas, and the moment you arrive, you can feel the difference. It’s quiet, beautiful, and just… magical.

Kamalame Cay is 3.5 miles long and privately owned island with 19 bungalows on property available for rent.  Bikes and golf carts are your only form of transportation and that was definitely the kids favorite part!!

How to Get to Kamalame Cay

Getting to Kamalame Cay feels like part of the adventure, and Matt’s face says it all in the picture below!!  We flew American Airlines from Pensacola to Miami and then Miami to Nassau.  Once you are in Nassau, you have to head over to the “Domestic” terminal and get on one of the local airlines flights over to Andros.  This is an adventure.  We flew Le Air which thankfully got us to and from Nassau safely, but it feels super sketch.  I mean look at that plane in the picture below.  There are a couple of different airline choices depending upon what day you are flying and I know we would definitely try one of the other ones if we make it back, ha!!

Once we landed in Andros, we had around a 30-40 minute drive (I think) to then hop on that cute little ferry boat pictured below to take us right over to the resort.

Where We Stayed in Kamalame Cay

The island is lush, tropical, and stunning—but the best part is the vibe. It’s not flashy or chaotic. It’s quiet luxury, in the most natural way.

The second we stepped onto the island, I remember thinking:

Okay. This is going to be really fun and relaxing for a few days. 

We checked in and rode our golf cart to our two bedroom villa that was right on the beach called Indigo Palm.  It was super spacious and sprawling along the beach with a king bedroom on each end of the house and then even had the perfect little extra bedroom nook in one of the hallways for one of the kids.

We were there the first week of August and it was definitely hot.  As beautiful as the villa was, it stayed warm pretty much our whole trip.   The AC could not keep up with the sun beating through all the windows and doors.

I loved that you could step right outside our back door and be right on the beach.  The kids had fun playing in the water; but unfortunately there was tons of seaweed on the beach while we were there, so it was not at its prettiest.

Another thing to note about this island and resort is that there is zero wi-fi.  So it is a time to completely disconnect and force the kids to be outside and explore.

The island feels so incredible safe which I loved and since it was small, we allowed the kids to go out and do some exploring on their own. Its definitely one of those places that you never bother even locking your doors.

Where We Ate at Kamalame Cay

You basically have two restaurants and two bars on the island to dine while you are visiting.  We ate dinner every night at their main restaurant and then they have a beachside restaurant that served a wonderful lunch.

We ate breakfast every morning at the main restaurant as well and I couldn’t stop ordering the avocado toast with bacon and a poached egg on top.  It was just the best!  But they also delivered a basket of fresh baked goods to our doorstep each morning and a pot of coffee which was lovely.

We stayed on Kamalame Cay for 3 nights and never ended up bringing any food to our villa.  If you were there for a whole week, you would probably enjoying cooking at your house a night or two or you could hire a chef to come cook for you.

I would recommend to have your taxi driver stop on your way to the island and grab a case of bottle waters to bring to your villa and a few groceries if you would like them.  They stocked our refrigerator with sodas, a few beers and champagne, but no water.

I will share more below, but one of the days we took a private fishing excursion and came back to the island and the chefs cooked up our fresh fish for us and it was the most incredible meal and gorgeous presentation.  That was the fun and beauty of it being such a small and quint island that they could provide personal touches like that.

They also left us amazing homemade cookies in our villa every afternoon that of course the kids thought was the very best!

If you love a good island cocktail, you can’t miss the Samson Special!  Oh my goodness, this is not to be missed.  Samson works on the island and he’s concocted the best rum punch and they named it after him!

What We Did on Kamalame Cay

We were only on the Cay for two full days and we knew we wanted to get out on the water.  We scheduled a boat excursion for both days.  One day more focused on fishing and the other one more focused on snorkeling the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world.

We loved how easy the excursions were each day.  We just drove our golf cart right to the boat docks and we left on our excursion right from there.  The boats were small, but comfortable and you didn’t have to go far out.  The resort schedules all of this for you and because the island is so small, it’s just all very simple.

My son had just gotten stitches on his stomach just before we left for this trip and he was not allowed to get in the water.  That was pretty devastating going into the trip, but he was such a trooper.  He fished his little heart out and tolerated the heat without being able to jump in the water to cool off.

We loved finding little treasures throughout our excursions and absolutely loved the snorkeling.  I thought it was some of the best we’ve done.  This area is really known for its bone fishing if you have any bone fishing lovers in your house.  We didn’t do any of that, but we talked with people that really enjoyed it.  Also, one day on our excursion, they packed us a beautiful picnic lunch and we sat out on a pretty beach and enjoyed our lunch out there which was fun.

Other things you can enjoy on the cay are time by the pool, paddle boarding, tennis (and soon to be pickle ball courts), and a beautiful over the water spa.  I was scheduled to have a treatment on our last day before we left, but sadly it was cancelled.

If we had one more day here, I would have tried to do the Blue Hole excursion over on Andros.  It was about a 20 minute drive and then I think you do a small little hike to then jump and swim in the blue hole.   I believe there are some other things to see over on Andros if you have the time as well… I heard Conchy Joes on the beach has the best tacos in town, Androseria boutique store, and the light house marina may be worth a stop.

We met the cutest family from Georgia that was on the island the same time as us.  They had two teenage daughters that were so sweet to my kids.  We had fun with them our whole stay and even had dinner together our last night when the chef cooked all of our fresh fish for us!

This meal was so delicious!!  And that’s Matt and Samson!  Matt was a big fan of the Samson Special Rum Punch.

The whole island is just this lush and beautiful.

Our last day exploring the beautiful overwater spa.

On our trip home from Kamalame Cay, we flew from Andros to Nassau and stayed in Nassau for the second half of our vacation at the Rosewood Baha Mar.  It was exciting to go from a nice quiet few days on Kamalame Cay to a busier, lively few days over at Baha Mar where we met up with our friends.

Final Thoughts on Kamalame Cay

I really enjoyed this short trip and the kids had a lot of fun.  We loved our excursions both days and felt like the prices for our excursions were so reasonable.  A lot of times that can be a really big expense.  I think if we went back, it would be fun to go with some family or friends.  I really did love the feel of how quiet and private the island was, but it would be fun to have other families there to make your own fun as well!

I mentioned above the fact that there was no internet which really wasn’t a problem for us, but I will say that the bugs and house being hot during our stay were a little unfortunate.  So keep that in mind when you are looking at what time of year to enjoy the island.

The charm of the island and the workers being so incredibly friendly would definitely bring me back to this barefoot luxury resort.  I know it will hold a special little place in my kids heart.

You can watch our video recap of our trip here:

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Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be over-the-top to feel special. This year, I’m leaning into a softer, more timeless take on the holiday—one that celebrates connection, beauty, and lingering at the table a little longer. Enter: a romantic Valentine’s Day tablescape inspired by VIETRI, where Italian craftsmanship and effortless elegance set the scene.

I started with classic VIETRI dinnerware as the foundation—pieces that feel both refined and welcoming, the kind you’ll reach for long after February 14th. Layers of soft whites and subtle textures keep things feeling fresh, while hints of blush, deep red, and natural linen add just enough romance. There’s something about VIETRI’s handcrafted details that instantly elevate the table without making it feel fussy—perfect for an intimate dinner at home.

To finish the look, I added simple florals, glowing candles, and glassware that catches the light just right. The result is a tablescape that feels thoughtful and warm, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for two, celebrating with family, or gathering friends for a Galentine’s soirée. It’s a reminder that Valentine’s Day is less about perfection and more about creating moments that feel meaningful.

This is the kind of table that invites you to slow down, pour another glass, and savor the evening—exactly the way love should be celebrated. All products linked below!

Papersoft Love Napkins | Papersoft Heart Napkins | Hibiscus Pink Bud Vase | Flatware | Hibiscus Glass Red Vase | Incanto Pleated XOXO Plate | White Heart Mini Plate | Glass Pink Heart Plate | Glass Charger | Scalloped Place Mat | Gold Wine Glass | Gold Water Glass | Red Striped Wine Glass | Red Round Placemat | Red Striped Stemless Wine Glas

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The Best Pensacola, FL Date Ideas for Every Couple

Whether you’re planning a special anniversary, a first date, or just looking to switch up your usual dinner routine, Pensacola has so many fun, romantic, and memorable date ideas to offer. Here’s my ultimate list of Pensacola date ideas for every season and budget!

1. Sunset Picnic at Pensacola Beach

Nothing beats a classic beach date! Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks, grab a blanket, and watch the sunset over the Gulf. Bring a Bluetooth speaker for music and enjoy an evening swim if you’re feeling adventurous.

Want to take it up a notch?  Book Pensacola Picnic Company to supply the whole set up for you and you walk right up to a romantic beach setting ready to go.  They do the BEST job!

2. Dinner & Drinks Downtown

Pensacola’s downtown scene is buzzing with cozy restaurants and lively bars. Try a progressive dinner: appetizers at Jacksons, entrees at Global Grill, and dessert or drinks at The Kennedy.

3. Catch a Blue Wahoos Game

Baseball fans will love cheering on the Blue Wahoos at Maritime Park. Grab a couple of hot dogs, sit back, and enjoy the fireworks show if you catch a Friday game in the summer.  If baseball isn’t your thing, check out our Ice Flyers hockey team in the winter for games.

4. Take a Sunset Sail

Book a private or group sunset sail out of Pensacola Bay. There’s nothing more romantic than watching dolphins play in the wake while you sip a glass of wine.  This is always one of my favorite things to enjoy in our area.  My friend’s captain the Southern Star catamaran which is absolutely beautiful.

5. Go on a Food Tour

Explore Pensacola’s food scene with a guided food tour or create your own! Try sampling oysters, fresh Gulf seafood, and local craft cocktails at different spots.

6. Stroll Through Palafox Market

Spend a Saturday morning wandering the Palafox Market downtown. Pick up fresh flowers, homemade pastries, and local art, then grab brunch nearby at Polonzo.

7. Portside Pickle

Have some fun playing Pickleball together at the new Portside Pickle.  Drinks and food trucks line the courts to make it a one-stop shop.

8. Beach Bonfire Night

Check local rules, grab your fire permit, and set up a beach bonfire (or join a local tour company that handles the setup for you). Roast s’mores under the stars!

9. Couples’ Spa Day

Book a couples’ massage at a local spa like Still Waters Day & Medical Spa, then grab lunch and linger in your post-massage bliss.  If you are close to the beach, check out the Portofino spa.

10. Take a Cooking Class Together

Try a cooking or mixology class at Bodacious Shops or So Gourmet. It’s a fun way to learn new skills and enjoy a delicious meal together.

11. Get Active Together

Go paddleboarding at Quietwater Beach, rent kayaks at Big Lagoon State Park, or take a scenic bike ride along the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

12. Try a Unique Experience

Looking for something out of the box? Book an escape room, take a sunset horseback ride on the beach, or sign up for a ghost tour in downtown Pensacola.  Also, check the schedule at the Pensacola Saenger Theater and see if they have an upcoming show that you might enjoy.

Final Tip: No matter what you choose, the best date is the one where you’re both present, laughing, and soaking up all the Gulf Coast magic.

Have a favorite Pensacola date idea? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to add it to my list!

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I had been wanting to host my first bagel bar brunch for a while and had seen so many cute ideas on the internet to make it fun and special.  So this past Summer when my 14 year old niece was in town visiting us in Pensacola, we decided it would be fun to introduce her to some girls her age and teach them all how to play Mahjong!

It ended up being so much fun and I was amazed at how quickly the younger girls caught on.

As you can see, I picked up some bagels from our local bagel shop called Bagelheads and then I added some yummy fixings!  I utilized some breakfast options, but also picked up chicken salad from Chicken Salad Chick and put out a fruit plate.

After the girls finished eating, we sat them down at the tables with at least one adult that knew how to play and we taught them the game.

I think they really enjoyed it and definitely caught on a lot quicker than we did!

WINNER WINNERS!

After several games, they were ready to let some energy out with some fun in the sun; so we headed out to the pool!

They were so sweet playing and having fun and including my younger daughters.  I would love to do this again next year with the girls.  I felt like I was hosting a little one-day Summer Mahjong camp for them and I loved every second.

Have you ever thought of hosting a group of tweens to come over and learn mahjong??  If its a game you love, you should consider it!!

If you are interested in host a mahjong party for Valentine’s Day, you can check out my birthday party from a couple of years ago that was so much fun!

The post Bagel Bar Brunch + Mahjong appeared first on Home of Malones.

The Caribbean is the ultimate destination for romance, offering secluded beaches, luxury resorts, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or just want a romantic escape, these 15 destinations provide the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and indulgence.  It is my goal every year that my husband and I escape for a few days just the two of us to enjoy a vacation without our kids and without any other couples.  It definitely does not always happen, but I keep a running list on the notes app in my phone and dream of our next vacation.

1. Hermitage Bay, Antigua

Nestled along a secluded bay, Hermitage Bay is the kind of boutique, all-inclusive refuge where the world fades away. Think intimate hillside suites, each with its own private plunge pool, set amongst vibrant greenery and overlooking turquoise water that laps gently at a pristine white-sand beach. With only a few dozen cottages, you get exceptional service, peace, and the feeling that the resort was made just for you. A perfect sanctuary for couples who want privacy, romance, and understated elegance.

This is on the top of my list for one of the next trips Matt and I get to take together.

2. Round Hill, Jamaica

Timeless elegance meets laid-back island charm at Round Hill. Located near Montego Bay, this historic resort features Ralph Lauren–designed oceanfront villas set in lush, tropical gardens. Imagine spending your days reclining on veranda swings, sipping rum cocktails at sunset, and strolling through manicured gardens: it’s classic romance with a Caribbean twist.

We made it here two Summers ago and loved how beautiful this resort was.  You can read our full recap here.

3. Amanera, Dominican Republic

Perched atop cliffs above Playa Grande Beach, Amanera is a masterclass in serenity. Private casitas tucked into the hillside offer sweeping ocean vistas, and there’s an infinity pool that feels like it spills into the horizon. Wellness seekers will appreciate its yoga pavilions and the peaceful spa moments. It’s ideal for couples wanting to unwind in luxury and style.

We have never stayed at an Amanera resort, but it is on my bucket list to stay one someday.  They are known for next level service and beauty.

4. Sandy Lane, Barbados

When you say “luxury Caribbean resort,” Sandy Lane immediately springs to mind. A favorite among celebrities and discerning travelers, it’s known for its impeccable beach, indulgent spa, and refined gourmet dining. Glamorous, polished, romantic — it’s where you go to feel utterly pampered.

My brother and SIL honeymooned at this resort and they speak so highly of it.  I hope to make it to this resort one day soon.

5. Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Sandals St. Vincent brings the all-inclusive dream. Overwater bungalows, candlelit gourmet dinners, lush grounds, and an adults-only atmosphere make this resort perfect for couples who want zero worries and all indulgence.

We have been to one Sandals resort before in the Exumas and I said if I was ever going to go back to another one it would be this one with the over water bungalows.

6. Cap Juluca, Anguilla

Part of the Belmond family, Cap Juluca exudes barefoot elegance. Whitewashed villas lie along Maundays Bay; sunset cruises and beachfront dining under swaying palms are the order of the day. It feels like stepping into an island painting.

We stayed at the Four Seasons in Anguilla years ago and had dinner over at this resort and it was beautiful.  You can read my review for other fun things to do and check out on the island of Anguilla.

7. Four Seasons Resort, Nassau, Bahamas

On the prestigious Paradise Island, this Four Seasons resort mixes lavish amenities with sweeping oceanfront views. Villas that open to the sea, excellent service, and the option to tee off at the Ocean Club Golf Course all help seal its reputation as a top-tier romantic destination.

We have never stayed at this Four Seasons resort, but have stayed on Paradise Island at the Atlantis as well as Baha Mar in Nassau.

8. Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda

For those craving peace and seclusion, Oil Nut Bay delivers. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, it’s an eco-luxury hideaway featuring overwater villas, private beaches, and the kind of quiet evenings where the only sound is waves and stars.  You have access to other close by islands in the Virgin Islands which I love as well.

We stayed at this resort for our 10 year wedding anniversary and loved our beautiful one bedroom villa with our own personal dip pool.  You can read our trip recap from Oil Nut Bay here.

9. The Dunmore, Harbour Island, Bahamas

Pink-sand beaches, curated decor, and welcoming bungalows make The Dunmore feel like a beautifully kept secret. It mixes relaxed island vibes with enough polish to feel special — perfect for couples who want charm and exclusivity, but without the fuss. Harbour Island is one of our very favorite islands with a multitude of fabulous restaurants to enjoy.

You can read about our stay in Harbour Island here and here.

10. Le Toiny, St. Barths

If French-Caribbean luxury is what you seek, Le Toiny is your match. Private villas with infinity pools, gourmet cuisine, and upscale sophistication throughout. Think chic, romantic, indulgent — for couples who want refinement with a view.

We spent my 40th birthday in St. Barths and it was one of the most beautiful and fun islands I have ever been to.  We absolutely loved it.  You can read about our trip here.

11. Six Senses La Sagesse, Grenada

A newer arrival on the luxury scene, Six Senses La Sagesse blends sustainable design with upscale comfort. Organic cuisine, immersive wellness programs, and serene beachfront surroundings make it a dreamy spot for couples needing recharge and reconnection.

This resort looks luxurious if I ever make it over to Granada and I have never stayed at a Six Senses resort but have always wanted to.

12. Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Iconic. Majestic. Romantic. Jade Mountain is famed for its open-air “sanctuaries” (rooms with one wall entirely open to the beauty outside), private infinity pools, and views of the mesmerizing Pitons. Butler service 24/7 ensures nothing gets in the way of pure romance.

Matt and I spent our honeymoon in St. Lucia at what is now called Sugar Beach.  We took a boat over to dinner at Jade Mountain one night just so we could come see how cool this spot is.  I love the open air and private dip pools. You can read our post from St. Lucia here to see other great things to do on the island.

13. Rock House, Turks and Caicos

Hewn from limestone cliffs, Rock House is dramatic in all the right ways. Elegant design, a secluded beach, and a striking infinity pool make for a setting that feels like an exclusive retreat suspended above the sea.

This is a newer resort on the island of Turks and Caicos that I think looks fabulous.  I am always a sucker for a private dip pool as well and they have rooms with this option.  Many years ago, Matt and I stayed at the Grace Bay Club on Turks and Caicos and enjoyed the island.

14. Cotton House, Mustique

Hushed, private, luxurious — Cotton House embodies colonial-style elegance. Beach horseback riding, intimate dinners by candlelight, and a private island feel give you escape without sacrificing comfort.

This is not an easy island to get to, but it is what gives it even more allure.  This island has been on our radar for a few years now and hope to explore it one day.

15. Potlatch Club, Eleuthera, Bahamas

Rustic chic meets serene isolation at Potlatch Club. Off-the-beaten-path bungalows, untouched beaches, and the calm stillness of island life — perfect if you want romance minus crowds.

This newly renovated resort is the most recent spot we have traveled to as a couple and I loved checking it out and staying on the island of Eleuthera for the first time.  We had a beautiful boat day on this trip and enjoyed this gorgeously styled resort. You can read about our stay here.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re after secret hideaways, glamour and spa indulgence, or barefoot luxury, these Caribbean gems deliver romance in every form. Each resort offers a different magic — choose what feels right for you: quiet and serene, lush and elegant, simple and soulful.

Which one would you pick for your next romantic escape?

The post My Travel Bucket List | 15 Romantic Caribbean Couple Destinations appeared first on Home of Malones.

In 2025, travel became the rhythm of our family’s year—a thoughtful mix of mountain air, island time, and city energy. From snowy mornings in Deer Valley and Aspen to sun-washed days in St. Barths, the Abacos, Eleuthera, and Kamalame Cay, each destination offered its own kind of pause and perspective. We balanced barefoot luxury with family tradition, spontaneous moments with carefully chosen stays—Evermore Resort, Rosewood Baha Mar, and weekends anchored by places we return to again and again.

There were iconic experiences woven in, too: the electric energy of the US Open in New York City, a celebratory girls’ birthday weekend in the city that never sleeps, and grounding escapes to Jackson Hole and the quiet elegance of the Henderson in Destin. This post is a reflection on where we went in 2025—and how these places, near and far, shaped our family’s memories in ways both big and beautifully ordinary. Here’s a highlight reel of our adventures!

Deer Valley

We rang in the new year of 2025 in Deer Valley.  Here is a travel guide sharing our family’s stay at the Montage Deer Valley, with highlights on luxury accommodations, ski-in/ski-out convenience, dining, kid-friendly amenities, and the best things to do, eat, and experience in this iconic mountain destination. Full Blog Post & Packing List

St. Barths

Rosemary Beach

We rang in the last day of 2025 in one of our favorite places close to home, Rosemary Beach.  We rented a house with two other families and enjoyed bike rides, morning walks to our favorite Charlies Donuts, an outing to Top Golf and lots of time hanging as a group.  This was our first time spending NYE in Rosemary or anywhere on 3oA and we were pretty shocked how crowded it was considering it was “off season” for them.  I don’t have a full blog post for this trip but you can find all of our Rosemary Beach trips here.

The post Everywhere We Traveled in 2025 appeared first on Home of Malones.