Travel - Marissa Mace

Our stay at the Sunburst Inn was very special for me. We’d planned this trip almost a year in advance. I remember watching the premier of HGTV’s 100 Day Dream Home Beachfront Hotel edition when it first aired. While we were watching it, I leaned over to Justin and told him “We need to go there!”

Many months later, we finally made it there. The Sunburst Inn generously hosted us during our magical stay. We were able to enjoy Indian Shores after four days at Disney World. If you ask me, this was the perfect combo – Disney and beach time!

Indian Shores is about two hours east of Disney World – but the drive is scenic and allowed us to explore new areas of Florida, including Tampa and Clearwater.

Once we arrive, it was pretty much love at first sight. Hour by hour the sleepy beach town grew on us. Which made it hard to leave. And, the decor at the boutique hotel is beautiful! The color wallpaper style of each room made you feel “chic-y, beach-y and boutique-y”!

We stayed in the Penthouse which fits six guests. It was the perfect space for our family – the full kitchen made for an extra amazing experience. We went grocery shopping before we arrived and stocked up on breakfast and lunch essentials.

Being able to have lunch just steps away from the beach each day made for uninterrupted beach time. We made lunch, ate on the deck and went right back out to the sand. It really made our experience that much better.

For dinners, we ate at local restaurants (tip: make reservations ahead of time. They get busy!). Our favorite spot for dinners and views was Caddy’s in Indian Shores. We went twice. Their food was super good. Also, Justin raved about their key lime pie.

To top it off, all the amenities the boutique hotel offers! From paddle boards, corn hole, bikes and so much more. They have everything you’ll need for fun in the sun!

Each night was gathered to watch those sunsets. They were so gorgeous. Pink and orange game skies like I’ve never seen. It was an event for all. Perfect way to wind down each day.

All and all, you will fall in love with the Sunburst Inn just like we did. We are already dreaming of going back and enjoying more time on the sugary sand of Indian Shores. Here is a quick video on my Instagram of the top 4 reasons we love the Sunburst Inn!

If you’re looking to stay at the Sunburst Inn – make sure to use my code “Marissa” to save on your first visit! Tell them I sent ya 🙂

I’d love to know, did you want the Sunburst Inn on HGTV?

Our first family trip to Breckenridge, Colorado was one I will never forget. There are multiple reasons why Breckenridge is family friendly destination in the winter, even if you don’t ski.

We ended 2023 by visiting another Colorado mountain town. Our family loves to ski, but this trip was all about the Breckenridge food scene and family friendly activities. We spent three nights in Breckenridge – and I’m already dreaming of going back.

Here are some of my tips for planning your first family trip to Breckenridge:

Tip 1: Stay Close to Main Street

We are a family of four and have two kiddos – a four year old and a six year old. From experience, we know we getting in and out of cars and driving places does not make for super happy kids. One of the reasons our trip was so amazing was WHERE we stayed.

We stayed in a small condo right on Main Street (The Carlin). The room had bunk beds – which our kids were obsessed with! We had a balcony where we were able to sit and enjoy the views. But aside from the views, we were able to walk everyone from our condo.

The heart of Breckenridge is on Main Street. It is a very walkable town as long as you stay in the right location. But even if you stay just off of Main Street, there is a free trolley that has multiple stops and drop offs. But with two littles, we were able to walk to all the restaurants, stores and activities.

Tip 2: Go See the Troll

You can’t visit Breckenridge without visiting Isak Hearthstone – the Breckenridge Troll. Our kids are still talking about the Isak the troll.

Don’t let the word “hike” scare you. This was a beautiful walk between trees that took three minutes. It is flat and if you go in the winter, the snow is packed down perfectly. The troll is MASSIVE. Take tons of photos and videos when you get there.

Check out this Instagram reel of our “hike” to the troll!

But after you visit Isak, head the opposite direction on the Illinois Creek Trail and take a beginner friendly hike through the woods. It will loop you right around to the start. The entire loop takes about 45 minutes or less.

If you want to up your hiking game and see some wildlife, check out the Blue River Trail in Breckenridge. The trail starts off in an open meadow where we saw two moose! Then it leads to a wooded trail where we didn’t see wildlife, but did see their tracks in the snow.

The Blue River Trail is just over 3 miles in and out. This trail is my favorite I’ve ever done – the beauty of it is indescribable.

Tip 3: EAT, EAT, EAT!

Plan to break that diet if you are visiting Breckenridge. I had no idea it was a culinary hub and foodies dream. I’m gluten free and had no problem finding delicious food at all their restarts.

Favorite Breckenridge restaurants: Fatty’s Pizza, Hearthstone, Blue Stag Saloon, Tin Plate and Dynamite Cookies for dessert! Check out the story highlight on my Instagram for pictures and videos.

No matter the season, Breckenridge is extremely family friendly. Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel – a full Breckenridge recap coming your way soon!

Sunburst Inn – Beach Review