As February nears, that inescapable day draws closer. Whether you’re excited for it, dreading it or couldn’t care less, Valentine’s Day has a way of making itself known.
So why fight it? Dare we say … enjoy it.
Yes, there’s the planning, gifting and, of course, the outing. While organizing something special might feel daunting, Key Biscayne offers a few refreshingly different ways to celebrate this year.
Two options that take full advantage of the island’s natural beauty, outdoor spaces and laid-back charm.
From an intimate dinner on the sand to a stunning sunset celebration by the water, these two experiences offer memorable Valentine’s Day alternatives and are perfect for couples, close friends, your favorite Galentine or even if you are flying solo this year.
Beachside Valentine’s Day Dinner
Why not take advantage of what Key Biscayne has plenty of, a wonderful beach and plan a nice romantic or special beachside dinner. The newly renovated Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, can provide a special setting right on the beach with a special dinner from their new beachside restaurant, Paralía Beachfront, which offers an authentic Aegean beachside escape, blending Greek and Turkish coastal vibes.
The intimate and private beachside five-course dinner is set directly on the sand, each secluded table screams elegance and features soft white drapery, glowing candlelight, is ideal for couples but also for a group of close friends.
The menu has been carefully curated by Paralía’s Chef and includes a delicious Mediterranean Crudo )Bluefin tuna, Sea bass, lemon zest and basil oil with a caper essence.) The third course includes a handmade lobster ravioli with saffron cream, tomato confit, basil and bottarga.
For the main course, you can enjoy a whole grilled Mediterranean branzino, served with fennel and charred lemon or a herb-crusted lamb loin, served with artichoke purée, baby vegetables and a rosemary jus.
Paralía’s beachside dinners will be offered starting at 6 p.m., Feb. 13-15. The cost of the Beachside Valentine’s Day Dinner is $799 per couple, and $399 per additional guest, up to four guests.
To make a reservation, click here.
Amoré al Atardecer (Love at sunset)
For nature lovers who want to share a breathtaking sunset view, combined with one of the most unique waterfront settings in Miami, this is the event for you; Amoré Al Atardecer – A Unique Valentine’s Experience @ The Cleat, at No Name Harbor inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
This is not your traditional “couples-only” scripted and stressful Valentine’s Day dinner or event but rather a casual evening designed to leave guests in awe of the natural beauty only The Cleat offers.
On Valentine’s Day, after the sun sets, The Cleat transforms into a casual social scene to dance to and enjoy live music from Cortadito, a dynamic, Miami-based band founded by Jose Elias, a Grammy-nominated guitarist and songwriter. The band’s melody can best be described as reminiscent of the famed Buena Vista Social Club.
This event is designed to feel casual, welcoming and naturally social.
The special VIP Experience package is intentionally limited to preserve space, service quality and intimacy and a preferred waterfront reserved seating area. It includes a welcome drink, a special signature cocktail and a select VIP three-course food offering which include appetizers such as a special charcuterie selection, followed by fresh seafood, chicken, beef or vegetarian shish kabobs (or shish kebab), served over a bed of rice pilaf and a decadent assortment of mini-desserts, including Boater’s Grill famous arroz con leche.
The VIP package is $179 for couples or $102 for individual single admission. Bill Baggs State Park Entrance fee included.
The general admission ticket is $129 per couple or $77 for single admission and includes a welcome drink, special charcuterie offering and the live performance by Cortadito, with access to a full-service cash bar. Bill Baggs State Park entrance fee included.
To make a reservation or more information, click here.
Editor’s note: Valentine’s Day isn’t over yet. Next week’s Taste of Key Biscayne will feature more last-minute options from local favorites to help you celebrate on the Island.