Eight Steps to path of #1 Beach on Siesta Key! – Old Man and the Sea Inn (B)

This is the Old Man and the Sea, a Gertrude Rentals property! This Key-West-style Victorian is just 8 steps to the sand path of Siesta Key’s best beach. We DON’T have thru traffic, commercial businesses, or public parking.  We DO have hammocks, dormers, westerly facing decks, gingerbread cutouts, brightly colored columns, tropical plants, al-fresco dining, the top snorkeling fishing and kayaking on the island, and a beach holding the title “Best Sand Winner” at the Great International Sand Challenge.  Perfect for travelers in search of that rare combination of uncomplicated-seclusion and the worlds best beach. 

The Location  – Escape the institutional feel of a hotel-condo or the commerciality of Village shops, and sleep with Gertrude’s Old Man. Leave the car behind and walk to the top beaches, eco-activities and dining including the highest rated seafood, ice-cream, daiquiris, and Siesta’s only waterfront dining. The closest beach is a cove and boasts the calmest/clearest water on the island. Fifty yards south is a limestone reef with tide pools, colorful marine life, miniature conch, chameleons, “usually” dolphin, and “occasionally” turtle, that is perfect for exploring by foot, snorkeling, fishing, paddle-boarding or kayak.  If you prefer relaxation above activities you can nap on the beach, sit in the ocean, sun on the west balcony, swing to sleep in the hammocks, or walk to town for drinks at the Daiquiri Deck, Sniki-Tiki, or Orange Octopus. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen, there is a gas grill downstairs, and you can find fresh fish at the Village Market or catch your own at the beach nearby.

History – The Old Man and the Sea Inn is a Key West Victorian just one giant marlins length away from the sand. Its name is a nod to both my father Captain Allison Van-Lopik “Van” Jones and the Santiago character in the book of the same name. One believed in luck and one did not, only one had radar but neither had GPS, still both made a life on the ocean and with endurance, strength and humility.

Support Post Booking – I understand vacation time is precious and my job is to make sure you get the most out of it.  My number is the only contact information you need. My units are already at the top attractions on the island.  Cars are never required, but if you have one you get a private parking space. Check-in any day of the week at any time using your private door-code. No requirement ever at checkout. Free early/late check-in/check-out, whenever possible.  Never hidden fees or solicitations of any kind. No paper contracts and easy booking.  I’ll phone you to touch base after booking and the week vacation starts. Five days before arrival I’ll email instructions including your door-code address and guidebook. One day prior to arrival I’ll send you a “Reminder” email with all the same information.

When you book with me you get a fully accessible and knowledgeable owner/host and reliable advice from a Google approved local expert. I can recommend the best spot for fishing or fresh fish, Michigan or Ohio State games, romantic-dinners marriage-proposals or singles, Eco-tourism, family friendly activities, or safe ways to lose your kids when you need a break. For the less extroverted, every booking comes with an unabashed guidebook detailing the property, all my favorite things to do in the area, and never any advertisements or solicitations. This is the only rental offering of its kind on the key.

Terms – *Events or gatherings involving outside vendors or a headcount in excess of the combined occupancy rate are allowed with prior owner approval. A Location Event Fee of $2000 applies to events. A Guest based Event Fee of $23 per guest in excess of the maximum occupancy applies. Events can only be scheduled by reserving every unit on the given location. A parent or guardian must accompany guests under the age of 21. *We do not allow cancellations and all reservation payments are non-refundable.