We dawdled at breakfast, walked the beach, wandered around the Art Deco splendor in South Beach and finally got on our way south to our hotel in Key West, a 3.5-hour drive, where we would dress for dinner and drive a half hour north for dinner. Well, weekend traffic and our later-than-scheduled departure resulted in a Keystone Cop escapade of changing into dinner clothes in a gas station bathroom and skidding on the boat launch a few moments before departure to our romantic dinner.

The boat launch left Little Torch Key and sailed us to a private island resort, Little Palm Island, and all the stress of almost missing the boat faded away. By the time we landed we were ready for a romantic evening as promised.

There was only one table — just for us — on the beach. Rose petals were scattered over the groomed sand, Champagne started the meal, and a seven-course tasting menu replete with lobster and chateaubriand ensued. Tiki torches lit the scene as the sun set over the water.  Miniature deer gingerly peeked out from the bushes and nibbled the rose petals at our feet. The waitstaff magically appeared to pour wine, remove a plate or bring another course, and even enthusiastically helped us reenact our prom photo from high school.

The internet list was correct — it was one of the most romantic dinners ever. It wasn’t just the location, but the food, service, ambiance and pace were all extraordinary. We took the boat back to Little Torch Key and continued south to Key West for the rest of the stay.

We plan to return. Little Palm Island is a full-service resort and would make a great relaxing, do-nothing holiday. However, we will leave a little extra time to make sure we don’t miss the boat.

— Kimberly LaGueux, director of sales