“Just Back” blog posts are highlights of The Keys to Travel’s owner’s, Sarah Key, recent trips around the world. She’s sharing her first-hand experience to help you find the perfect destination for your next vacation.

Just Back: A Family Vacation to Grand Cayman Feature Photo

Just Back: A Family Vacation to Grand Cayman

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Salty hair, sandy toes, and a toddler’s squeal of joy. Grand Cayman surprised us in the best possible way. It’s not a destination I get frequent requests for, so to be honest, I hadn’t given it much thought.

That changed after meeting a few Grand Cayman hotel partners at a recent travel conference. Their passion for the island piqued my interest, especially when I started thinking about where to take our own family for a toddler-friendly escape.

After spending a week there, I can confidently say that Grand Cayman is a fantastic fit for families with young kids and multigenerational groups alike. In this post, I’m sharing everything we loved, from family-friendly resorts and activities to restaurants and travel tips, so you can decide if Grand Cayman is the right choice for your next family vacation.

View of the pool, beach, and ocean at Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman.

Why Grand Cayman is A Great Destination for Families with Young Kids

When you’re traveling with little ones, finding a destination that checks all the boxes for convenience, comfort, and fun can be a challenge. For our family, Grand Cayman delivered on all fronts.

Easy direct flights from the U.S.
Getting there is simple, with plenty of direct flights from major U.S. cities. Currently, you can fly nonstop to Grand Cayman from Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, Tampa, and Washington, D.C. New routes continue to be added, making it even more accessible.

Safe, clean, and welcoming
Safety is always top of mind when traveling with young children. After spending a week exploring the island — pregnant, with a toddler in tow — I can confidently say we felt safe and comfortable the entire time. The locals were incredibly kind and welcoming, and the island felt clean, calm, and easy to navigate.

English-speaking and easy to navigate
As a British Territory, English is the primary language, which makes travel logistics simpler for U.S. families. Renting a car is a great option to explore the island at your own pace. Just keep in mind, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road.

Calm beaches and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe
The beaches on Grand Cayman are stunning and ideal for young kids. Our toddler spent hours playing with his trucks in the soft white sand and floating happily in the calm, clear water. The island has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down and enjoy.

Family floating in the ocean at Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman

Where to Stay in Grand Cayman with Kids

During our trip, we stayed at three different hotels to experience a range of options and better guide clients in choosing the right fit for their families. While I don’t usually recommend hopping between multiple hotels on a single trip, it was invaluable for research.

We stayed at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, and Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa. Each offers a unique experience, and depending on the type of vacation you’re seeking, one of these hotels is likely the perfect fit.

The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

The Ritz-Carlton checks all the boxes for families who want luxury without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With spacious, well-appointed rooms, family-friendly touches like splash pads and kids’ activities, and personalized service that allows parents to truly relax, this hotel is a standout choice for travelers with children.

Sunset at Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman

Hotel Indigo, which opened in 2024, is just a five-minute walk from the beach. While not directly on the sand, the hotel offers ocean views and easy access to the shore via a scenic trail or shuttle cart. What really impressed us were the thoughtful details throughout the property:

  • Spacious, beautifully designed rooms
  • Delicious, unique dining options on-site
  • Grand Cayman’s only rooftop bar: Pom Pom
  • A zero-entry pool ideal for toddlers
  • Personalized touches that made our family feel welcome

This hotel isn’t specifically geared toward families, but our toddler felt right at home. I’d especially recommend it for couples getaways or girls’ trips thanks to its relaxed vibes, stylish atmosphere, and excellent service.

Toddler in a tent at Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman.
Mother and Son with turquoise Moke Vehicle at Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman

Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa

Kimpton Seafire makes traveling with kids effortless. Its modern, airy design blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, but what sets it apart for families is the room layout options. From spacious connecting rooms with bunk beds to multi-bedroom suites and bungalows with full kitchens and living areas, there’s a setup to fit families of all sizes. Add a fantastic kids’ club, daily family-friendly activities, and a beachfront location that never gets old, and it’s easy to see why this resort is a top choice for families who want both style and substance.

Toddler on a balcony at Kimpton Seafire overlooking the pool and ocean.
View of the pool, beach, and ocean at Kimpton Seafire.

Choosing the Right Hotel for Your Family

  • The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman is ideal for families who want luxury, plenty of kid-friendly amenities, and a true all-in-one resort experience.
  • Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman works well for families who appreciate stylish, modern accommodations with thoughtful touches and don’t mind being a short walk from the beach. It’s also a great option for couples or smaller family groups.
  • Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa is perfect for families of all sizes looking for flexibility, spacious accommodations, and a resort that balances style with kid-friendly activities.

No matter which you choose, each offers a comfortable, welcoming, and memorable base for your Grand Cayman family vacation.

Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman with Kids

For this trip, we didn’t want to jam-pack our schedule. I aimed for a good mix of relaxation at the beach and exploring the island. This worked out well since our toddler needed a nap about halfway through each day, giving us time to rest and avoid too much sun. We focused on three main activities and saved the rest for our next trip.

Cayman Turtle Centre – Worth it or skip it?

We had heard mixed reviews, so I was skeptical at first. After researching, it seemed like a great option for families, especially with younger children. Highlights:

  • Plenty to see and do for kids and adults
  • Optional upgrade to swim with turtles and other marine life in a lagoon
  • Best visited earlier or later in the day to avoid the heat

We spent about an hour exploring, which was plenty on a hot day. It was a surprisingly fun and educational stop for our toddler.

Toddler watching a turtle swim at the Cayman Turtle Centre.
Large turtle swimming at the Cayman Turtle Centre

Stingray City and Starfish Point – Toddler-Friendly?

We booked the Grand Cayman North Sound Eco-Safari with Red Sail Sports, a 3.5-hour boat tour with stops at Stingray City, a coral reef, and Starfish Point. 

Why it worked for us: 

  • Shallow, calm waters perfect for young children
  • Staff and environment made it easy to enjoy as a family
  • Personal touches from our resorts (a stuffed stingray from the Ritz-Carlton and a starfish from Kimpton Seafire) made the experience magical for our son when he could see these animals in the wild

This ended up being the highlight of our trip. Our toddler had so much fun, which made it easy for us to enjoy the experience as well. I highly recommend this tour for families with children of all ages.

Family holding a stingray at Stingray City in Grand Cayman.
Stingrays in the ocean at Stingray City

Professional Family Photoshoot with Amy Strzalko Photography

Traveling with a toddler, professional family photos are now a must. Children grow up so quickly, and I want to capture their growth as we explore the world together. Plus, as a mom, I’m often behind the camera, so professional photos let everyone be in the moment.

We did a 1-hour session with Amy Strzalko, who did an amazing job with our toddler. We received about 90 photos, which will be hard to choose from when printing! If you decide to do a professional family photoshoot in Grand Cayman, I highly recommend Amy, and be sure to tell her we sent you.

Family Professional Photo in Grand Cayman photographed by Amy Strzalko Photography
Amy Strzalko Photography
Family Professional Photo in Grand Cayman photographed by Amy Strzalko Photography
Family Professional Photo in Grand Cayman photographed by Amy Strzalko Photography

Amy Strzalko Photography

Beach Days and Water Time

The rest of our time was spent relaxing on Seven Mile Beach and at resort pools. Highlights for our toddler:

  • Kids’ water parks at the Ritz-Carlton and Kimpton Seafire
    Beach toys and small trucks for sand and water play
  • Plenty of downtime for the whole family

Father and son playing in the sand on Seven Mile Beach.
Mother and son lounging at the pool at Kimpton Seafire

Activities We Missed But Would Try

There were a few activities we didn’t fit in, but would highly recommend, depending on your children’s ages:

HERE is a great list of kid-friendly activities to do in the Cayman Islands recommended by the tourism board.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Grand Cayman

While in Grand Cayman, we mostly ate breakfast, lunch, and snacks at our hotels, but we also explored a variety of on-site and off-site restaurants. Finding toddler-friendly spots was a priority, and here are some of our favorites:

Saint June at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

  • Service was a bit slow, but the food was delicious
  • I loved the tuna bowl — perfect after a hot day in the sun

Cayman Cabana

  • Ideal for watching the sunset
  • A variety of fish dishes; we had the best fish on the island here

Macabuca Tiki Bar

  • We ended up eating here twice because of the convenience
  • Connected to the Cracked Conch for a slightly more upscale option
  • With a busy toddler, the outdoor, relaxed vibe was perfect

Gelato & CO

  • Recommended by an Italian after our boat excursion
  • Gelato melted fast in the heat, but was incredibly tasty

Ristorante Pappagallo

  • Our favorite restaurant of the trip
  • More upscale than the other spots, making it a special treat
  • Don’t miss the chocolate peanut butter pie for dessert

Overall Impressions

While the food in Grand Cayman is generally good, we found it on the milder side. Dishes tended to be less flavorful or spicy than what you might find on other Caribbean islands. That said, the variety of family-friendly options made dining easy and enjoyable, even with a toddler.

Sunset at Cayman Cabana Restaurant

Travel Logistics: Tips for a Smooth Family Trip to Grand Cayman

Traveling to Grand Cayman with young children is easier than you might think. Here are some practical tips we found helpful for a smooth and stress-free family vacation:

Flights and Airport Experience

  • Grand Cayman’s airport is small and easy to navigate.
  • Immigration and customs were quick and straightforward, even with a toddler.
  • Rental cars are readily available, and booking in advance ensures you get the right size for your family.

Car Seats and Strollers

  • Car seats are required by law and can usually be rented from your car rental company if you don’t want to bring your own. We rented a car seat through Avis, and it was a lot easier than hauling one from home.
  • Lightweight strollers are ideal for navigating both the airport and resorts.
  • Driving is on the left side of the road, so take it slow if you’re renting a car.

Getting Around

  • Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the island at your own pace.
  • Taxis are available but can be expensive for multiple excursions or longer trips.
  • Many resorts offer shuttle services to nearby attractions and beaches.

Grocery Shopping and Food Delivery

  • Several grocery stores around the island carry everything you need for quick meals or snacks. We stocked up on fruit and extra snacks when we ran out halfway through the trip.
  • Local food delivery apps make it easy to enjoy meals at your resort or vacation rental.

Babysitting and Parent Downtime

  • Some resorts, like the Ritz-Carlton and Kimpton Seafire, offer kids’ clubs or in-room babysitting services.
  • Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.
  • Even a short break for parents can make a big difference, whether it’s poolside relaxation or a quiet dinner.

Final Thoughts: Is Grand Cayman Right for Your Family?

If you’re a busy parent craving a luxury vacation that’s as easy as it is memorable, Grand Cayman should be at the top of your list. With calm beaches, service-oriented resorts, and plenty of kid-friendly activities, this destination takes the stress out of family travel without sacrificing comfort, style, or fun.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, grandparents, or all of the above, Grand Cayman offers that rare blend of ease and elegance that makes a trip feel truly restorative.

At The Keys to Travel, we specialize in helping busy families create lifelong memories through travel, without the overwhelm. If you’re wondering whether Grand Cayman is the right fit for your next getaway, we’d love to help you decide and take care of every detail for you.

Click HERE to start planning your Grand Cayman family vacation.

Let’s unlock your next adventure!

Family with toddler at the pool at Kimpton Seafire Grand Cayman

About Sarah

“Because Memories Matter” isn’t just a motto. It’s the reason I created this business. I believe the memories you create with people you love through travel are unmatched in any other capacity. Those shared sunsets, milestone celebrations, and meaningful moments become the stories you carry for a lifetime.

In 2018, I launched The Keys to Travel, a luxury travel agency dedicated to designing seamless, elevated experiences for couples, families, and groups. As a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, I specialize in honeymoons, anniversary trips, multi-generational family vacations, and group travel all curated with exceptional attention to detail and personalized service.

After spending 10 years in Colorado, I’m back in Wisconsin to be near family and the Green Bay Packers. When I’m not planning unforgettable trips, you’ll find me running, reading, or seeing the world through my sons’ eyes.

How I Can Help You

I take the stress out of travel planning so you can focus on what matters most: experiencing the world with the people you love.

Working with The Keys to Travel gives you:

  • Expert guidance every step of the way: Benefit from destination knowledge and travel expertise that ensures you’re choosing the right experiences, hotels, and details for your trip
  • VIP treatment and exclusive access: Through my industry relationships, I secure perks and upgrades you won’t find on your own, elevating your experience from start to finish
  • More time and less stress: I handle research, booking, logistics, and coordination so you can enjoy the excitement without the overwhelm
  • Personalized service tailored to you: Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted around your interests, style, and goals, with support before, during, and after your trip
  • Seamless support from planning to return: From our first conversation to the day you come home, I’m in your corner handling flights, transfers, accommodations, activities, and every detail that makes a trip unforgettable

I work best with travelers who want:

  • Expert planning and trusted guidance
  • Someone who understands their vision
  • Support every step of the journey

Ready to Plan Your Next Trip?

Schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation to discuss your travel goals and see if we’re a great fit to work together.

Fill out the travel inquiry form and I will reach out to schedule a call. 

For more travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments, follow along on Instagram or Facebook.

Just Back A Travel Advisor’s Work Trip to Rome, Florence & Venice

Just Back: A Travel Advisor’s Trip to Italy – Rome, Florence & Venice

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Why Italy, you ask? Why not Italy?! Italy is a classic for good reason. It’s a destination so many of my clients want to explore for the first time or return to again and again. And there’s no better way to help plan the perfect itinerary than to experience it firsthand. So, I packed my bags and headed off on a whirlwind, week-long trip to Rome, Florence, and Venice.

I partnered with Travelive and WTB Hotels to craft a seamless itinerary filled with beautiful hotels, curated experiences, and a few delightful surprises. Here’s a day-by-day look at what I experienced.

Inside the Colosseum in Rome

My Italy Travel Itinerary: Rome, Florence, and Venice

Day 1: Rome Tour by Golf Cart

On the first day, we all arrived early in the morning. To help us beat jet lag, we did a Rome Tour by Golf Cart. I always recommend doing some sort of city tour on the day of arrival. It helps you get your bearings and figure out where you want to spend more time. While on this tour, we got to see some famous spots like the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Colosseum.

Trevi Fountain

Day 2: The Best of Rome in One Day

Typically, we would break this tour up into two or three days. But since we had very limited time in Rome, we packed it all into one day. The day consisted of: 

  • The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
    2025 is the year of Jubilee in the Catholic Church. Once every 25 years, the Pope opens the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Many groups and individuals make the pilgrimage to experience this holy time. Whether or not you’re Catholic, visiting the Vatican is a magical experience. Doing so during the Jubilee and being able to walk through the Holy Door was very special. 
St Peters Basilica, Vatican, Rome, Italy
St Peters Basilica, Vatican, Rome, Italy
  • Street Food Tour
    I love the Street Food Tour we did. We tried restaurants and foods I would have never thought to try. I was worried it was going to be a ton of food and it would end up being wasted, but we tried small dishes at three different restaurants, which was perfect. One of my favorites was the fried artichoke at Sheva in the Jewish Ghetto.
Fried Artichoke at Sheva Restaurant in Rome
Food Tour in Rome

  • Colosseum Express Tour
    Since I’m not a huge history buff, the one-hour express tour of the Colosseum was just the right length. The Colosseum is, of course, a huge tourist attraction, but the history behind it and the fact that it’s still standing today is quite mind-boggling.
Colosseum in Rome, italy

Day 3: From Rome to Florence via Orvieto

Today, on our private transfer from Rome to Florence, we spent about 4 hours exploring the picturesque hilltop town of Orvieto, located in Umbria. Umbria is a wonderful alternative to Tuscany, an easy day trip from Rome. We walked the whole town, did some shopping, and had a wonderful lunch at Ristorante Maurizio. I highly recommend Orvieto for a day trip or to spend a few nights at Palazzo Petrvs for a slower, more relaxed pace.

Orvieto, Italy
Ristorante Maurizio Orvieto

Day 4: Exploring Tuscany – San Gimignano and Siena Tour with Wine Tasting

Today was one of my favorite days. I loved getting out into the Tuscan countryside. 

San Gimignano is a historic Tuscan town encircled by a 13th-century wall. I’m glad we visited this town first and earlier in the morning. It’s a smaller town and can get packed with tourists quickly. Make sure to take time to just explore the streets, shops, and restaurants here!

In between San Gimignano and Siena, we had a wine tasting and lunch at a nearby winery called Podere la Marronaia.

Our final stop was Siena, a much larger medieval city. It’s well known for its historic city center and Palio horse races. I highly recommend taking a tour to learn about the history and hidden gems.

San Gimignano Tuscany Italy

Day 5: Walking Tour of Florence with the Academy Museum and Transfer to Venice

Today we did a walking tour of Florence and stopped at the Academy Museum to see the famous David by Michelangelo. 

After a morning of walking, pizza and gelato were a must! Make sure to grab the salted caramel gelato at La Sorbettiera when you’re in Florence!

David by Michelangelo
La Sorbettiera Florence

For our transfer from Florence to Venice, we took the train to be able to experience this type of transfer. We went with business class for extra comfort and convenience for the 2-hour train ride from Florence to Venice. 

Once we arrived in Venice, we caught our water taxi to the hotel. Many transfers in Venice end up being water boats due to all the canals! It is a really fun way to show up at your hotel in style.

Water taxi transfer in Venice, Italy
Water taxi transfer from Venice Train Station to L'Orologio Venezia

Day 6: A Day in Venice –  City Tour, Food & Wine Tour, and a Gondola Ride

Today was a full day of experiencing Venice. Typically, I wouldn’t recommend doing all of this in one day, but with our short time frame, we packed it all in. We started with a Venice City Tour. It’s easy to get lost in Venice, so it was nice to have a guide show us around and share a little history. Then we enjoyed another food and wine tour. You just cannot get sick of all the delicious food and wine in Italy! It’s definitely my favorite country for food. And finally, we ended with a classic gondola ride. Very touristy, of course, but a peaceful and enjoyable way to see Venice from the waterways. I’d definitely recommend experiencing a gondola ride in Venice at least once!

Canals of Venice
Grand Canal in Venice, Italy

Where to Stay in Italy – Rome, Florence, and Venice

One of our partners for this trip was WTB Hotels. While our specialty is in luxury travel, many of our clients prefer to spend their money on experiences rather than splurging on higher-end hotels in every destination on their Italian adventure. WTB Hotels are perfect for this situation. They are 4-star plus quality hotels located in prestigious locations in Rome, Florence, and Venice. 

While on this trip, we got the opportunity to stay at Hotel L’Orologio Roma, Hotel L’Orologio Firenze, Hotel Santa Maria Novella, and Hotel L’Orologio Venezia. The location and quality of service reaches that of 5-star hotels. When you stay at these unique properties, make sure to ask about the history and stories behind the designs. It’s a special treat, especially for those interested in horology.

Hotel LOrologio Rome
Exterior of Hotel L’Orologio Roma
View of Grand Canal from Hotel LOrologoio Venezia
View of the Grand Canal from Room at Hotel L’Orologio Venezia
View from Hotel Santa Maria Novella
View from Hotel Santa Maria Novella

My Top 3 Recommendations from My Trip to Italy

  1. Set expectations early.
    Italy is busy all the time, no matter when you visit. It is especially busy from April through October. Italy is the number one travel destination for US travelers, so it’s hard to avoid the crowds. As long as you have set your expectations, it’s not an issue.
  2. Dine at Trattorias
    By far, my favorite part about visiting Italy is the food. In each city, we had the opportunity to dine at a local Trattoria. Trattorias are less formal restaurants. They have a very homey and welcoming feel. They are family-run and serve regional dishes. We dined at Ristorante Lagana in Rome, 13 Gobbi in Florence, and Casa Cappella in Venice.
  3. Add More Time
    If you want to do a similar itinerary to what I did (Rome, Florence, and Venice), add a day to each city. My preference would be to add an additional 2 days to Florence since there are so many day trip options from Florence, like Cinque Terre and Tuscany.
Podere La Marronaia Winery in San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

Ready to Unlock Italy? Work with The Keys to Travel for Your Trip to Italy

Have you always wanted to travel to Italy? Or have you been eager to go back for a second or third visit?

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, planning an Italian getaway should feel exciting, not overwhelming. From the ancient streets of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, Italy offers something unforgettable at every turn.

Let The Keys to Travel turn your dream trip into a perfectly curated experience, tailored just for you. I’ll handle all the details, so you can simply enjoy la dolce vita!

Ready to unlock Italy? Let’s start planning. Click HERE to fill out our travel inquiry form and schedule a complimentary consultation. 

A Travel Advisor's Trip to Italy Rome Florence and Venice Pin

About Sarah

“Because Memories Matter” isn’t just a motto. It’s the reason I created this business. I believe the memories you create with people you love through travel are unmatched in any other capacity. Those shared sunsets, milestone celebrations, and meaningful moments become the stories you carry for a lifetime.

In 2018, I launched The Keys to Travel, a luxury travel agency dedicated to designing seamless, elevated experiences for couples, families, and groups. As a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, I specialize in honeymoons, anniversary trips, multi-generational family vacations, and group travel all curated with exceptional attention to detail and personalized service.

After spending 10 years in Colorado, I’m back in Wisconsin to be near family and the Green Bay Packers. When I’m not planning unforgettable trips, you’ll find me running, reading, or seeing the world through my sons’ eyes.

How I Can Help You

I take the stress out of travel planning so you can focus on what matters most: experiencing the world with the people you love.

Working with The Keys to Travel gives you:

  • Expert guidance every step of the way: Benefit from destination knowledge and travel expertise that ensures you’re choosing the right experiences, hotels, and details for your trip
  • VIP treatment and exclusive access: Through my industry relationships, I secure perks and upgrades you won’t find on your own, elevating your experience from start to finish
  • More time and less stress: I handle research, booking, logistics, and coordination so you can enjoy the excitement without the overwhelm
  • Personalized service tailored to you: Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted around your interests, style, and goals, with support before, during, and after your trip
  • Seamless support from planning to return: From our first conversation to the day you come home, I’m in your corner handling flights, transfers, accommodations, activities, and every detail that makes a trip unforgettable

I work best with travelers who want:

  • Expert planning and trusted guidance
  • Someone who understands their vision
  • Support every step of the journey

Ready to Plan Your Next Trip?

Schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation to discuss your travel goals and see if we’re a great fit to work together.

Fill out the travel inquiry form and I will reach out to schedule a call. 

For more travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments, follow along on Instagram or Facebook.

Just Back A Wellness Retreat Cover Photo - Wild Rice Retreat in Bayfield, Wisconsin

Just Back: A Wellness Retreat

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I’ve talked about doing this for years, but that was it, all talk. But finally, I booked a trip to a wellness retreat. My husband and I talked for a while about how it would be helpful to start off the new year with a few days at a wellness retreat. A great way to reset, get focused, and start the year rejuvenated and restored. Of course, life always gets in the way. It was always something, from having too much work, financial strain, or big life changes like having a baby or moving across the country that held us back from ever making this dream a reality. Well, not this year! A friend of mine shared about Wild Rice Retreat a few years ago. It’s located near Bayfield in the very northern part of Wisconsin. Ever since it’s been taking up space in the back of my mind as a great idea.

Last year, my husband and I decided to make a big life change and move back to Wisconsin from Colorado to be closer to family. It is very important to us that our son and any future children grow up around our close family and friends. I knew we had this big change coming at the end of the year. Along with wondering what to get the hubby for Christmas and stressing about moving, the idea of a wellness retreat getaway popped back up in my head. Specifically the Wild Rice Retreat. What better way to get reacquainted with our home state while recharging from a big move and starting a new year fresh than spending a few days at a retreat in a part of the state neither of us has ever been? So, I put aside all the excuses, found a babysitter for our son, and booked a stay at Wild Rice Retreat. Our first annual wellness retreat getaway!

A wellness retreat in northern Wisconsin, Wild Rice Retreat. Red lounge chairs overlooking frozen Lake Superior in January..

My Experience at A Wellness Retreat

I’m not going to lie, the first night was pretty tough. We are in the middle of selling our house in Colorado, so the whole 5-hour drive up we were negotiating concessions and talking to our realtor. This is also the first time my husband and I have been away from our son together for an extended period of time, so I was also missing the little guy a lot. I also decided to take the four full days off of work and not check any emails or social media. As a solopreneur in the heart of the busy season, this was HARD. So I’m stressed from the process of selling a house, mom-guilting about leaving my son, and business owner-guilting about not immediately responding to clients. 

Then we get to Wild Rice Retreat and it’s in the middle of the woods next to Lake Superior. Incredibly gorgeous but also so silent and I started to feel really lonely, even though my husband was there. Talk about ALL the emotions! Without technology to distract me, it really gave me time to sit in these feelings and realize how much I really put self-care to the side. We talk about all these “guilts”, from mom-guilt to wife-guilt, business owner-guilt, and more. But do we ever talk about self-guilt? Meaning, do I ever feel guilty about not making time for myself? Nope. Definitely not. Here I am finally taking a few dedicated days to myself and all I can feel is guilt for not being there for everyone else right now. Clearly, I needed this time away. I can’t serve everyone else from a cup that isn’t full.

Wild Rice Retreat arrow sign in the snow and in the woods in Bayfield, Wisconsin.

The next day, we woke up and participated in a yoga class in the morning. I love yoga and how much it grounds me. Doing this class finally helped me settle into the retreat. I felt so much better after that class and stopped feeling guilty for being there and started focusing on relaxing and recharging myself. I haven’t had this much time to just sit and read, stare off into space, daydream, and explore without ANY other obligations in as long as I can remember. What a blessing to have this opportunity. This is exactly what I needed to reset and get ready for what is going to be another amazing, busy, fun-filled year!

This retreat was such a great reminder that I need to make time for myself. It’s important and it’s not selfish. I have an amazing support system, from my husband to my parents, in-laws, friends, and colleagues who are here to help support me. 

An annual wellness retreat is definitely going to be a priority moving forward as well as continuing daily self-care rituals, like meditation, yoga, and being present.

Wild Rice Retreat Nest Room. Views of winter outside.

The Importance of Going to a Retreat Resort

I want to note how important I think it is to actually leave your house and go to a new setting for a wellness break, like a wellness retreat resort. You can easily say you’ll spend a day at home not checking email or social media to recharge. But it feels completely different when you remove yourself from your everyday life. 

When you’re home, the never-ending to-do list will still be in the back of your mind. You could quickly just do some laundry or pay some bills. But when you go to a different place, you’re removing the everyday stress that piles on your mind. You don’t have to worry about doing the dishes, planning and making meals, or cleaning. When you’re away, you can truly disconnect and focus on recharging without the everyday guilt of your to-do list being front of mind.

Additional Wellness Retreats On My Must-Visit List

When I first came up with the idea to do a wellness retreat getaway at the start of each year, I came up with an ever-growing list of hotels I’d want to visit. Here is my current list: 

I always want to add more to my list, so please email me with any wellness retreats or wellness resorts you have visited or are on your list!

Are you ready to book a wellness retreat getaway?

While I am obviously a big proponent of taking advantage of a wellness retreat gateway, it can be very overwhelming to find the right one for you. Let me take that stress off your plate. Let’s work together to find the ideal wellness retreat for you, one that will take your self-care journey to the next level. If you have been like me and keep putting this trip off, email me or fill out our travel inquiry form so we can make this important self-care trip a reality for you!


Sarah Key, the founder of The Keys to Travel, just returned from a wellness retreat. The new blog post "Just Back: A Wellness Retreat" is her review of Wild Rice Retreat in Bayfield, Wisconsin and why she thinks we should all prioritize taking a wellness vacation.