By Jill Martin
Located in peaceful Port St. Lucie, you'll find Club Med Sandpiper Bay a mere two hours south of Orlando and two hours north of Miami. It's a true all-inclusive, which means your accommodations, entertainment, food, drinks, snacks and activities are included in one price per person.
I had never been to a Club Med resort before, but others in our group had. All agreed that the experience and the food were outstanding and so were the fantastic choices of activities. The key differences between Club Med Sandpiper Bay and other Club Med properties are the outstanding Kids Club and Sports Academies available at this location.
This resort has recently completed a $28 million dollar renovation and it’s shining with exceptional possibilities.
Club Med Kids
Club Med Sandpiper Bay is a family resort, and there is something for all ages. They have a Club Med kids’ program onsite for children ages 4 months to 17 years old. Devon was in the "Manatee" age group with 8- to 10-year-olds. All age groups are in the Kidz Village that has its own splash pool and a Romero BRITTO Art Center where ages 4 and up can paint, sketch and color with a professional art teacher.
Here is a glimpse of Devon's daytime kid club schedule:
- 10 a.m. circus school
- 11 a.m. flying trapeze
- 12 p.m. lunch at The Marketplace
- 1 p.m. swimming
- 2 p.m. tennis/basketball/sports play
While Devon was busy flying through the air and spinning plates, I had my choice of adult activities (including the flying trapeze).
Sports
Club Med Sandpiper Bay is the flagship of Club Med’s Premium Sports resorts with academies in golf, tennis and fitness. They have 21 tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, a putting green and a driving range. Need lessons? No problem. The Golf Channel’s Brad Brewer will have you swinging in no time. Like the water? Dive in to water aerobics or the lap pool, or just chill in the adult-only infinity pool and oversized hot tub.
This could be the start of a new you, too, because their Fitness Academy offers personalized nutrition and fitness plans (additional charge). Or just visit their new fitness center.
Pampering
L’Occitane Spas are renowned in France-- and you have access to their breakthrough treatments and products at this U.S. flagship location. This 5,000-square-foot enclave offers rich and indulgent body treatments, many featuring "gifts from Provence" (like lavender and almonds) in comfortable rooms with superbly talented therapists. There are even treatments for Club Med kids, including TOEtally About Me pedicures and cheek facials. Devon loved being at the spa with me – it was one of those "never forget" mom and son moments . . . hanging in our robes, drinking ginger tea, listening to nature in our chaise loungers in a bamboo-lined outdoor relaxation room. Ahhhh.
You can do as much or as little as you want at this sprawling 216-acre resort and I haven't even mentioned the water activities -- sailing , stand-up paddleboarding, boat rentals and river cruises.
Food and Drink
The Marketplace is an enormous International buffet in its own building with so many different action stations, it’s like a cruise ship. Steamship of beef carving, freshly grilled salmon, Asian, Italian, salad bar, soups, breads (of which you must have the white chocolate bread), crepe maker station, desserts. You can dine here three meals a day or eat at their sit-down restaurant, Soleil. For nightlife, head to Slice. Dancing, music, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. Right next to the Club Meds Kids Village for easy pick-up and drop-off.
Special Rates
Check the Club's website for last minute deals and special dates.
You’ll love Club Med Sandpiper Bay. We sure did and we can't wait to return. I would recommend this for both families and for romantic getaways.
