Day-Cation: A Sunday at Plunge Beach Resort, A Beach Side Resort with a Monthly Art Initiative

I listened to an episode of This American Life recently and Ira Glass, the host of the show, was talking about how he had spent a lot of his time at the beach since COVID-19, though, he notes, he’s not particularly fond of it. This talk about being at the beach (and not being particularly fond of it) was fresh for me because I’d actually been at the beach the day prior. I liked the beach, but it can be pretty exhausting for me. At least in South Florida and in my experience. The scramble to grab everything you need (umbrella? check, sunscreen? check… mask..?) followed by the drive down to the beach just to circle A1A for 30-45 minutes to find parking. Then, you still have to get all your things and GO to the beach! All of this, and not to mention it’s BLAZING out. I really just took the glamour out of the experience, didn’t I? All of this and I wouldn’t say I DON’T like the beach, it can just be a mission. But, like Ira Glass, I found/find myself escaping to the beach during COVID. Open, fresh air… salt water.. and if you’re lucky enough to find a spot that has no one around, social distancing is a breeze.

So, on a beautiful Sunday in August, I found a new way to be at the beach without the mission. I visited Plunge Beach Resort in Lauderdale By The Sea, a four building oasis with a private beach, two pools and a bar/restaurant. Paradise, alas.

While touring the resort, it was brought up in conversation that Plunge offers day passes. Starting at $35 (for adults), the day pass includes FREE parking (normally valet, but because of COVID its self parking in their private lot), access to both of their pools, towels and access to their private beach that comes with your own umbrella and lounge chair. In addition to this, purchases made at the bar are 20% off.

Not having to deal with the hassle of beach parking and having my own little section of the beach was really a delight. Because this is in Lauderdale by the Sea (and because its private), it’s not as chaotic as other parts of the beach, so this is really suitable for a relaxing day, a day with family or some time with bae. This really appealed to me and hit a lot of my beach pain points, which is why I’m mentioning it here. i want to be transparent in saying this was not the reason I was touring the resort, but something I definitely found to be beneficial. The resort regularly offers different packages through the year and the day pass could be purchased via the hotel directly or through ResortPass.com.

The resort is charming and really a gem. The artwork is original and the rooms are modern. A stand out for me is the local art hanging throughout the lobby, all of which is for sale directly from the artist. The art is swapped out monthly by the resorts curator, giving different artists a chance to have their work showcased and sold. In addition to the work being on display, Plunge holds a ‘Plunge Into The Arts' series that gives the local community a chance to meet the artists behind the work that decorates the resort’s interior. Guests are treated to a wine and light apps while browsing new art from their local creatives. Without letting COVID get in the way, this initiative continues virtually. You can enjoy their curated virtual events on their Eventbrite, HERE.

This was really a great time for me! I do love swimming in the ocean and laying out feeling the breeze. This was the perfect day getaway, or staycation.

x

Alejandra

And, because of the times we are in, it is worth noting that there was full compliance in place! Masks to be worn indoors at all time, everything was spotless and the indoor bar/eating area was closed. The umbrellas by the beach were also spaced apart by party.