Pet Friendly Resort with an Old Florida Feel

Old Florida meets the Caribbean at Capt Hiram’s Resort. Since I had not heard of this boutique hideaway, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. All I knew was that the resort was on the water, it was pet friendly and a reader recommended we write about it. So we packed our bags and our fur baby Lola and drove the hour and a half to Sebastian Inlet.

Upon our arrival, I met with Karen Lufkin, the property manager, who showed me around the resort while she greeted guests, acknowledged the staff and shared some history of how it all started as a small marina. The resort, complete with a variety of restaurants and bars, a full service marina, music stages, river boat tours, meeting rooms and many amenities, has something for everyone. Its unique name comes from Owner Tom Collins’ great uncle, Sergeant Hiram Collins, a World War II soldier who was killed on Normandy Beach. Tom promoted him to captain when naming the resort, as it had a better ring to it.

After touring the property, we headed to the Sandbar with Lola to grab a snack. The employees were attentive while many local regulars came by boat to enjoy the live music, which is scheduled twice a day on weekends. Our server mentioned that he has been working at the resort for over 10 years, which is typical of the staff.

Although Lola was invited to hang out at the front desk, we dropped her off in our room after lunch and headed to relax by the pool. There was plenty of seating and a small tiki bar available to quench our thirst.

Dinner was at Blackfins, a restaurant on property that sits on the riverfront and features fresh seafood and local favorites. One of our favorites was the Dirty Oysters, a Capt Hiram’s signature that features freshly shucked oysters and is served with caviar, sour cream, onions and hot sauce.

Before calling it a night, we stopped by the outside stage and listened to some live music while enjoying a handcrafted nightcap at Scoop’s Bar.

Although we were only there for one night, there was so much to do – or not do – to have a relaxing time. The staff is attentive and helpful, the resort is well-maintained and the rooms are very clean. You would never know this was a pet-friendly resort if you didn’t see the dogs around the property. I would definitely visit Capt Hiram’s Resort again to rent a jet ski and visit one of the many islands, but next time I will stay longer.