A few weeks ago, our family, along with two other Orlando families, ventured to St. Pete beach on the Gulf Coast to celebrate a little friend’s 8th birthday at the Postcard Inn. I was attracted to the aesthetics of this trendy spot since it was transformed from a Travelodge in 2009 and was super excited to finally check it out in person.
Postcard is extremely unique with a 70s style hipster Florida ambiance… think faded photographs of surfers and other beach scenes on the walls of the rooms and couches and chairs that look like they’ve been handpicked from a thrift store. This is not your run of the mill beach property.
The kids loved the outdoor movie on Friday evening in the garden. The birthday girls’ mom had the necessities to make S’mores so our the crew was able to enjoy sweet snacks while watching a kiddie flick. A local surf instructor, recommended by the front desk, gave the girls an hour long surf lesson Saturday morning. This was the highlight of their weekend for sure.
Pool
The hotel pool is huge. Nothing fancy, but reminisce of your 70s beach side pool with the perfect view. Wait staff circle the lounge chairs to take food and drink orders, but during busy times, I recommend popping over to the snack window or stopping off at the bar to order.
Beachside Bar
The clientele was a mix of locals hanging out at the beach side bar, families and couples. The beach on the spring Saturday we were there was definitely more calm and family friendly during the morning hours from 9 am – 12 pm. After that, it was bustling with locals and early 20 somethings who wanted to be stationed near the beach bar on a Saturday afternoon.
Food
From morning to night, Postcard Inn serves delicious food and beverages in a variety of locations throughout the hotel. P.S. Grind has a grab-and-go menu that is filling enough to keep you going on morning beach excursions. Locally roasted Kahwa coffee, homemade donuts and pastries, and fully loaded breakfast sandwiches are all available. In the evenings, Stamps serves inventive takes on classics such as seafood and burgers, as well as creative cocktails and a selection of delectable wines.
Rates are reasonable and Florida resident rates are almost always available. The garden rooms were we stayed went through a complete overhaul last year and the poolside cabana rooms will be updated next fall.
If you are looking for the swank surroundings and service you’d receive at the Ritz, this isn’t the spot for you. However if you are looking for an eclectic laid back beach weekend, I say this is the place to be.
Postcard Inn
6300 Gulf Blvd
St Pete Beach Florida 33706
800-237-8918