This oceanfront paradise in Palm Coast is less than two hours from Ocala.
On the cinnamon-sand beaches of Palm Coast sits a classic and hospitable beach resort: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The location, grand common spaces, generous suites and sweeping Atlantic Ocean views aren’t the only things that will bring us back to this classic resort—the warm hospitality of the staff is an exceptional added bonus.
Even traveling solo, you’ll feel welcome and entertained. The resort also is perfect for families and groups because you can park and never leave with all the things to do and amenities available, including lots of choices to keep the kids entertained.
Getting there
Sometimes short getaways come with the hassle of getting to your destination, but for this one you don’t need to enter highly congested traffic. My road trip took approximately two hours. I recommend the route along Highway 314 from Ocala, through Palatka, which will give you time to decompress driving through the rural North Central Florida landscape. You’ll know you are getting close when you drive through roads with beautiful tree hammocks.
What to expect
Guests have to go through a security gate to enter the property, once they’ve confirmed your reservation, and we appreciated the extra layer of security.
After you are past the security gate, ready yourself for choices because this resort caters to both relaxation and adventure.
For those traveling with children, they’ll will likely never cry “I’m bored,” with every suite in site of the Fantasy Pool Complex, which features a lazy river, twisting water slide and zero-entry beach pool, providing effortless fun for families.
Kids Crew, a program designed for ages 4-12, offers activities such as scavenger hunts, beach games and pool fun. The Beach Arcade provides entertainment for all ages, with games like air hockey, Pac-Man and basketball.
There are pools that cater to adults, including a 32-person hot tub and one with a poolside bar. There is a large indoor pool, so even in the case of inclement weather you are guaranteed swimming.
There are two golf courses at the resort—the Ocean Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and the Conservatory Course, designed by Tom Watson, which looked beautifully maintained and had stunning oceanfront views. There is also a nine-hole putting course, where I saw families teaching young ones how to play.
Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy hydro-grid courts with views of the Intracoastal Waterway, while the state-of-the-art fitness center offers Peloton bikes, cardio and weight training equipment. Regular fitness classes, including spinning, aerobics, yoga and Pilates, ensure guests stay active during their stay. There also is beach volleyball and bicycles are available to ride around the neighborhood.
Of your choices of activities, both leisure and adventure, we heartily recommend booking time at the spa. Healing hands, soothing sounds of the ocean, good food, comfortable beds and warm hospitality equals a restful place to rejuvenate.
Lodging options
The one-, two- and three-bedroom suites across three towers provide more space than you’ll find in most beach hotels and the large private covered balconies overlooking the pools and beach ended up being a great spot from which to write.
For those of us who like to bring our own snacks and beverages, the suites have fridges, microwaves and coffee makers.
In addition to the suites in the towers, there is a small hotel called The Lodge with 20 rooms with ocean views that were quite well appointed and felt more private.
Food and drink
Dining options exceeded expectations at this resort. If you stay only for a weekend, you won’t have time to try them all.
Delfinos Italian Chophouse serves upscale Italian cuisine, premium steaks and fresh seafood, accompanied by an extensive wine list and house-made cocktails.
The elegant oceanfront restaurant, Atlantic Grille, focused on freshly caught seafood. It turned out to be my favorite breakfast spot after a morning walk on the beach.
For a more casual dining experience, the Ocean Bar & Café provides al fresco dining by a multilevel pool complex while Stix Authentic Sushi delights guests with high-quality sushi, sashimi and signature rolls. The Loggerheads Sports Pub offers a cozy atmosphere with local beers, elevated pub food and a selection of premium tequilas. Beach Brew serves gourmet coffees, teas and a variety of breakfast and lunch options. OS
