GUESTBOOK COMMENTS

Originally we set out to keep separate guest books for all the properties. Now we're combining them. Beach Cliff is our "most mature" property, so it has a lot more comments, spanning back to May of 2004. We're getting lots of great feedback from the guests in all our units, so expect to see this page grow!

(If you have stayed in one of our properties and would like to add to our online guest comments, please email us!)

Laurel, we had a blast!! I had so much fun watching all the dogs on the beach and seeing our "Bo's" reaction for the first time to the sand and sea. He loved it and I did too. We loved the cheeseburgers at Coneheads and the laid back atmosphere and great seafood at Dockside Marina Cafe. I was so surprised how isolated the Cape is from everything but I didn't miss my cell phone too much. Thanks for allowing us to share your beautiful home - it had everything we needed and then some. The outdoor shower under the carport is a wonderful thing!! Dawn, Water's Color August 2008

Laurel, We had a great time and enjoyed the entire week. I don't remember the last time I actually sat down long enough to read a book, but this time I did and it was great to finally relax. Thank you for allowing us to stay in your home, we ALL had a great time. I am so amazed at the sand there, it is like walking in powder and I didn't wear any shoes all week. We all ate plenty of oysters and shellfish while there. Thanks again, Rodney, Beach Cliff, July 2008

HI Laurel- We had a wonderful week at Beach Time. Thank you so much! On our last night our friend took this picture of us and we used for our save the date cards. (Ryan and Taylor are repeat guests of ours and will be getting married at Barrier Dunes in April 2009) I love how happy, tan and relaxed we look. That is what a week at the Cape will do for you. It was great meeting you! Take care, Taylor, Beach Time July 2008

Laurel, the family and I had a great time! The house was great and had everything we needed to be quite comfortable. We will definitely be getting in touch for future trips. If you have an accommodations for two , I would be interested in further info on that, particularly for 3-4 day rentals. Sadie , in particular, had lots of fun and made several friends. Thanks again! Julie, Water's Color July 2008

Hello Laurel. We had a vacation to remember and Beechy Keen was the perfect setting. We were pampered and appreciated your efforts to make our vacation special. This was the first familty vacation with our new daughter-in-law so we wanted it to be great. Thanks so much for the extra towels because it made it easy to keep everything in order. We had great fishing trips and snorkeling trips. The outdoor shower and wash offs helped us too. I hate it when you spend too much time trying to clean up. I will send some of our pictures because we think they are special. Someone else might get a couple of ideas about the kayaking. It is a great way to enjoy San Blas, Thanks again, Jymalyn, Beachy Keen July 2008

Hey hun.. yes we had a blast...it was perfect and our wieners dogs loved it too, even though only one liked the water ..hehe. I got too sun burned my first day out.. the sun was fierce. It is prefect family place too, maybe I can get my parents to go next time. Thanks so much. It was Wonderful. Emily, Beach Time, July 2008

THANKS LAUREL.....WE HAD A WONDERFUL, RELAXING TIME. THE WEATHER WAS GREAT AND I HOPE WE LEFT EVERYTHING TO YOUR STANDARDS. THE ONLY THING I THINK I FORGOT TO DO, WAS START THE DISHWASHER. I REALIZED IT AS WE WERE LEAVING PORT ST JOE. EVERYTHING ELSE, I THINK WAS JUST AS WE FOUND IT. I WOULD DEFINATELY RECOMMEND YOUR HOME TO OUR FRIENDS. THANKS AGAIN FOR ALLOWING US TO STAY FOR THE SHORT WEEK. IT WORKED PERFECTLY WITH MY HUSBAND AND BOYS "GUY TRIP" THEY HAD AND WAS VERY RELAXING FOR THEM AFTER THEIR HECTIC WEEKEND. Rebecca, Beachy Keen, July 2008

Laurel, We are on the road back home to the heat and reality. I just wanted to say thank you so much for opening your home, "Sea Ya", to us. We had a fantastic time! Chris and I were talking one morning on our jog along the beach about our 1st expirence of renting from an individual rather than through a company and how you really went above and beyond in all aspects in your service. From your attention "pre-trip" and arrival/check-in to departure and quick damage refund deposit made back to our account, but esp for all the time and effort you put forward in trying to make sure the girls got internet access to do their online clases. We would have never received that service through a company!!! I really appreciate all you did and all the "little details" that made us feel at home for a week! It was a great 1st time to the Cape and your attention made it even more welcoming. We really enjoyed dinner at Sunset Coastal Grill! The guest book and info was wonderful and full of great tips! I also was very impressed with the amount of info we were able to get off your website before leaving. The only thing I would note would be that the knives are all very dull and need to be sharpened and the 2 hand held can opener blades. Everything was nice and clean and, WOW, what a stocked kithchen! Oh, there are only 4 or 5 beach chairs. One umbrella was broken so we threw it away and there was a small one but it was "frail" and won't last a good wind. It was great having all the sand toys and cart available too! Again, words of thanks are not enough to express our pleasure of this past week. Chris even drove around jotting down #'s of "for sale" locations to check into for us to hopefully someday join the "Cape family". Any referals on who to contact on properties? If you hear of any "good deals" please let me know. Thanks again for everything! We had a very relaxing, wonderful time. Happy Vacationers, Cheryl, Sea Ya, July 2008

Dear Laurel, What a beautiful home you have! I hope you got the write-up from your cleaning crew - if not, you really put a lot of thought into your beach home. It was absolutely beautiful! I was inspired to come home and try to make our lake home as lovely as yours. It was a great time for refreshment. Cape San Blas was a blast! We all had fun and the dog was enchanted! We'll send pictures when we download them. Of course my 14-year-old daughter left something AFTER I told her to check -check and re-check. Her toiletry bag with her orthodontic supplies may still be under the sink in the bedroom with the 4-post bed. If so, could it be mailed? If not, it's a lesson. Thanks again for providing such a wonderful haven. We will never forget it. Allison, Sea Ya, June 2008

Thanks, we had a great time. The house was wonderful...no traffic...privacy at the beach...good food...we will be back. Bradley, Beach Cliff, June 2008

Hey Laurel! Among the many tasks on my first day back at work today (YUCK), I planned on emailing you to tell you how nice your place is and how much we appreciated being able to stay there. We had a great experience and will definitely keep it in our plans for future visits. Our friends who stayed with us early last week were impressed and asked me to send them your website. Your condo was a tough place to leave Saturday. Thanks again! Mark, Beach Time, June 2008

Hi Laurel, We just wanted to thank you for a wonderful anniversary. We loved the townhouse and the beach was awesome. We are already talking about when to make another visit. About the upstairs room. We just thought it was warmer because it was on the top floor and figured it would be a little warmer. That wasn't a problem. (NOTE: UPSTAIRS A/C UNIT HAS BEEN ADDED) The only thing I would check out is the dusty smell in the foyer that seemed to be coming from the vents. Again, thank you so much and we absolutely loved our stay. You're the best, David and Bridget, Sea Ya, July 2008

We certainly had a GREAT time. Peace and relaxation was exactly what we were needed and that is what we got. Your apartment/condo is very nice and we worked very hard to get it as clean as we could. Thank you for refunding our money so soon, that is very nice of you. We will definitely want to rent your condo again, just cannot tell you exactly when that will be right now. I will check PayPal to see if the money is there and again, thank you. Take Care, Dan, Beachy Keen, May 2008

hi laurel - we just returned from the cape yesterday and we had a blast. we saw 2 bobcats, and kayak'd right over the top of an alligator. i think we might have even rubbed its head on the underside of the kayak. the beach was beautiful and the weather held out the entire week for us. the bugs were a bit bothersome at times, but we took your advice and used a really good insect repellant. your townhome was great - exactly what we expected!! i left a few comments for the housekeeper noting a few items we saw upon arrival. we tried to follow the check-out procedures as closely as possible. please let me know how and when we will be receiving our returned deposit. thanks again for allowing us to stay in your beautiful home, we will be back!! dan, tina and madison, Beachy Keen May 2007

I very much enjoyed the Cape!! I know you won't believe it, but I have the same shower curtain you have in the upstairs bath, the same red, soft velour-like blanket ( I believe they were both from Target), almost the same carpet in my bedroom and stairs to the basement as you, the very same leather colored chair in the upstairs bedroom in my living room with a couch and chair and the same size, color and grout color tile in my bathroom as you have throughout your condo, except mine is smooth and shiny and you have texture! I was worried that we got some dirt on the bottom staircase carpet, but took dogs in the back way, and left my shoes at the doorway. It's the nature of light colored carpet--wish I was there now--very cold and rainy and have to go back to work tomorrow but loved every moment--will send pictures after getting developed. Thanks again for the gift cert. and the wine--hope you have a lovely summer, sincerely Karen, Bailey & Peaches-------They really loved chasing the seagulls and the sand pipers! Karen, Beachy Keen May 2008

Laurel, We had an absolute great time! The dog loved the beach and the beeping of the construction wasn't too bad. It was kind of cool to watch them work and see the sand spray out. BTW, the pipe was moved on Friday morning! That was cool to watch too. Angie, Sea Ya, May 2008

Laurel, Just wanted to drop you a note regarding the beach house rental. The house was fabulous. I appreciate your work with respect to getting the phone operating during our stay. It was greatly appreciated. Duke(dog), Anne and I had a wonderful time. We are looking forward to coming back to Beach Cliff in the future. We will recommend the house to all of our friends. Brent, May 5, 2008

We have rented houses and condos on Sanibel Island (3 times) Bahmas twice and other places over the years .We have never found a place as inviting as Beach Cliff. You have thought of everything from spices and cookware to beach toys and towels. The pet bowls and towels are a nice touch. When we come next year, we won't have to bring beach chairs towels and other stuff we didn't need. Your neighbors and all the business folks were very helpful and friendly. Cape San Blas is an enchanted place. Thanks again for allowing us to share your beautiful home. Margaret, April 2008

Cape San Blas was my internet searching dream which became a reality this spring. Thank you Laurel for making that happen. We always travel with our dog (since he has had two ACL surgeries on his back legs) and wouldn't consider leaving him in a kennel. After searching for "Pet Friendly" locations, Cape San Blas and Barrier Dunes seemed surreal. We stayed at Beachy Keen and it was everything, if not more, than what we were looking for. The amenities were wonderful, such as all toiletries, washing liquids, beach toys and more. We are very picky when it comes to cleanliness and were very impressed with how clean and well appointed Beachy Keen is! We just wish we could have stayed longer! If you come, make sure you go to the State Park and see all the sea life within reach. We saw many deer also. It's so nice to see land protected in which you are able to view nature at its best. We only wish we had brought our fishing poles! My daughter, age 12, thought this was the best part of her spring vacation. Thanks again Laurel, we hope to visit you again. If not, I will definitely refer you to our friends. Holly, Beachy Keen, April 2008

Hi Laurel: What a wonderful place. Thank you for letting us stay in your home. Our trip was perfect. The weather was wonderful and we all truly enjoyed being unplugged from our busy lives for the past week. My daughter Annie ( a freshman in high school) said to me while we were there, "mom, this is the first time in so long I remember being totally stress free". Even the kids need to unwind. We loved getting to bring Buddy with. He was such a good dog and did great on our 17 hour car journey there and back. He was just happy to be with us. We loved getting to meet all the other pooches all week too. The house was just beautiful. We loved the colors of all the rooms. As a matter of fact both girls want to repaint their rooms at home with the colors of the rooms they slept in. If you know and it is not to much trouble can you email me the colors of the downstairs bedroom and the second one upstairs with the smaller bathroom. The gulf water was great. We enjoyed riding the waves and it was so nice that you had all the beach toys for our use. The kids found some great sea shells. Sarah has already made necklaces out of some of them to pass out as souveniers to her friends at school tomorrow. Annie loved seeing all the live hermit crabs and snails in the bay. She took so many pictures. One really great one was from St. Vincent's NWR. There was a huge pelican sitting on the end of the boat launch. She took a picture of it and when she loaded it on her computer you could see a fin in the water right behind it. We are thinking it may have been a shark! I will send you the photo. Again, just wanted to thank you. We arrived back home today (Sun) about 1pm and are getting ready for real life to resume tomorrow! Thank God it has warmed up here a little (about 60 degrees today). Also I wanted to let you know that we only saw one set of keys in the house. It was on a purple key ring. We left them on the counter where we found them and I left a note for housekeeping. We tried to leave everything just as we found it. Warmest Regards, Diane, Water's Color April 2008

Hi Laurel, Just want to let you know we had a wonderful time at Beachy Keen. The Weather was great, sunshine the entire time!! Monday was a little cool with some strong winds, yet we enjoyed a long walk early on the beach with our dog and then when she was tired out the four of us played tennis and then sat by the pool (away from the gulf wind). The location of Beachy Keen was perfect for us. Our daughter was loving the fact that she had tennis courts in her backyard! We managed to play a little everyday. She also loved her room with the view of the gulf. Our son met some boys and girls and enjoyed hanging out with them. Baked a ham on the grill on Easter (felt bad when we called our son back home at college and he said it was snowing!) My husband tried some fishing on the gulf and found success catching 7 whiting. We kept four of them and enjoyed a delicious snack before dinner. I tried oysters for the first time. Someone told us the Raw Bar had the best oysters so we went with him. My husband loves them and he managed to get me to try one raw. I have to admit I think I'll stick to the baked. They were pretty tasty. We spent most of our time just relaxing in the sun, shell hunting, catching the awesome sunsets, and watching our dog swim like crazy! Your townhome is beautifully kept. We were pleasantly surprised at how clean and nice everything was. We met some very friendly people and had great time! I'm sure we will find our way back to Cape San Blas again!! Ellie, Beachy Keen, March 2008

Laurel- we really enjoyed the week. You have taken great care of your place and we really appreciate how well stocked it was- chairs, boogie boards, grill, appliances, simple necessities (spices, etc.), wireless access, dishes. Whatever influence you had on the weather we appreciate as well. We will point our Ohio friends in your direction if asked... Thanks, Mike, Beach Time, March 2008

Laurel, I'm sorry I haven't written sooner to let you know how we liked staying at Beachy Keen. We loved it. Especially the quietness after all the Labor Day people left. Our dogs, Porky and Lucy, didn't really care for the beach - the noise of the waves scared them. The jellyfish got stirred up on about Wed. or Thurs. and that made it hard to go in the ocean - but walks on the beach were very nice. Alot of shells! The pool up by the beach was wonderful with the breezes coming off the ocean. We went fishing with Capt. Ron on Charisma Charters Charisma boat on Tues. I have never been fishing like that and loved it. Tim caught a huge king mackerel that they said would have won the tournament the previous week. I am attaching pixes of Tim and his king and Tim and I and a 3rd party on our fishing boat along with our haul - red snappers, groupers, dolphins, sea bass, and trigger fish. If we had caught some crab, we would have had a seafood platter. We hope to get back there sometime in the future. Thanks for sharing your home with us. Tim and Lynn McLaughlin Orlando, FL, Beachy Keen September 2007

Water Colors/Barrier Dunes/Cape San Blas was wonderful. We were even told that during the week we stayed it was quiet due to the fact that most elementary/high schools started that week and so most units seemed to be empty. So we had the beach and pool pretty much to ourselves. Unfortunately Allie did not seem to take to the beach as we hoped. We had taken her to a day trip to the beach a couple years ago and she seemed to of enjoyed just relaxing on the beach sand. However, the first evening and next morning were the only two times she would leave the boardwalk onto the beach. So she stayed in the unit and the complex the rest of the beach. It was nice to see other doggies enjoying the water and playing catch etc. We are going to try another day trip to a closer dog friendly beach when it gets cooler to see what she does. Either way we will probably bring her again next year and if she prefers to stay inside then so be it. Dessa, Water's Color August 2007

Hi Laurel, Thanks so much for allowing us to stay at your home for our vacation. The weather was perfect; the tide was up a couple of days when Dean crossed over the Gulf, but it didn't get under the house. My husband did catch a 20" red fish in the surf between the sand bar and the beach which we thoroughly enjoyed for dinner one evening! We also caught some blue crabs, a hammerhead shark, several black tips, a short grouper, and croakers. My kids had a blast. We rented a boat slip for the week from the marina behind Piggly Wiggly. They were reasonable and very helpful/friendly. Phone service was restored Monday. Everything was absolutely wonderful. All the appliances worked and it was easy to keep clean. We didn't encounter any problems at all! I did wash as much laundry as possible, including the throw rugs on the first level. Thanks again for allowing us to stay there. We'll be sure to look you up if we plan a visit in the future. Susan Hamilton, Beachy Keen, August 2007

Thanks, Laurel. We really had a great time! The area is so nice; we’ve been recommending it to everyone who asks. Barrier Dunes was the perfect place for our family. We made use of the pool frequently. And, we took some time to visit the bay area of the park. Thanks for all of your help…and directions. Larry’s was great also! Thanks again. Kris, Sea Ya, August 2007

Hi Laurel,I just wanted to say thank you for the use of your condo at Cape San Blas. As usual, we had a wonderful time. To my surprise, we had never stayed at Barrier Dunes. Your home was comfortable and well appointed for us. I didn’t have time to fill out the questionnaire before we left, but the only suggestion we had was that a small kitchen rug by the sink would be helpful to catch water drips when loading the dishwasher and an egg crate mattress cover for the sleeper sofa would make it more comfortable. Other than those two, there wasn’t anything we would suggest. Again, thank you for your hospitality. We’ll be back next year! Appreciatively, Dani, Beach Time, August 2007

Your house was great!!!!!!!we carried an extra coffee pot ,a latte machine and coffee grinder and all these were there already.We had a wonderful week, the waves were strong and fast and great for riding.It really was a great vacation. Thanks for allowing us to use your really neat house. The dogs enjoyed themselves and the sunsets were outstanding. Thanks Again!!!!!!!! Becky, Beach Cliff August 2007

Laurel, Thanks for the most wonderful stay!! See ‘Ya is a wonderful home with an excellent location. Jim and I have never been to a friendlier and more beautiful beach. Thank you for the wonderful hospitality!! Lisa, Sea Ya August 2007

Dear Laurel, Many thanks for allowing us to stay in your lovely home at Barrier Dunes Friday night and for arranging that early check in. We had a wonderful anniversary trip to the beach and thoroughly enjoyed the accommodations. We ended up taking only one of our dogs and I'm attaching a picture of her having fun on her beach vacation! Jennifer, Beach Time July 2007

Good Morning Laurel, Sorry I have been so remiss is relaying how very much we enjoyed our stay at your beautiful rental home. Of all the places we have stayed on the Cape my family voted Beach Cliff numbero uno. :-) Unfortunately the day before vacation, I came down with a nasty bug which held on the entire week. As I was not up to par I did not take any photographs. However, one of the boys did take some shots and when he sends them to me if there is anything I think you would find of interest I will email them to you. BTW, your photographs were lovely! I also wanted to let you know I received your check for the deposit. Again, thank you very much for sharing Beach Cliff with us! Candy Crawford, Beach Cliff May 2007

I asked my daughter (Brooke Harvey) to find a wonderful house on the beach for me as I have cancer and wanted something special. Your home is fabulous and I certainly have enjoyed this week. The doctor couldn't have ordered anything better. I have so much enjoyed being here with my daughter and her husband, the beach, quiet time, wonderful house, and good neighbors (next door). The photos do not do justice for your home. I was so pleasantly surprised. Again, many many thanks, Marcella, Beach Cliff Guest, May 2007

I can't begin to tell you how much we all loved Cape San Blas. Although it was our first visit, we felt so welcomed and at home. The beaches are beautiful, the sunsets spectacular, and the guest are the nicest people we have ever been around. Our dogs also had a great time. They are still sleeping after their vacation of running, swimming and meeting new friends. We can't wait to head back down to the greatest place ever!!!!! Water Color is a beautiful condo. We have never stayed at a condo so equipped. Like you said you can come in and everything is there, from soap to hair dryers. The thought that you put in decoration and convience is wonderful. Thanks again for a great vacation and I will be sending you pictures. I am sharing them with everyone at work now. Maybe we will have a big crowd next year to go. Teresa, Water's Color Guests July 2007

Hey Laurel, Well, we got back to Southern Indiana last night about 7:00. It was good to get back on Saturday so we could leave the unpacking until Sunday. We had just enough time to read through the mail (check out the bills!), try to restore life to the withering plants, fill the bird feeders, and clean up all of the little gifts that the cats left for us. In other words a quick trip back to reality.

Our vacation to Cape San Blas and, in particular, your lovely Beach Cliff home, was truly a week long visit to paradise. I am frequently criticized by my family and friends for doing so much analysis and pre trip studying that I am rarely surprised, or have my expectations exceeded. This trip, however, was an exception! Nothing could prepare you for the beautiful cape. I think the biggest surprise to me was seeing just how many stars there are. City lights sure can reduce star visibility, don't they? Even on cruise ships, in the middle of the ocean, we have not seen so many celestial bodies. I think that all of us came back feeling like we were now amateur astronomers. It was a pleasure being able to observe the moons of Jupiter, and see Venus and Saturn through your telescope. We were able to utilize the internet at night to help us identify what we were looking at. I guess I am now in the market for a telescope!

We also all learned a lot from the Sea Shell book on the coffee table. My grandson, Nate, was thrilled by the animal life (fish, crabs, shrimp) that lived in the sergassum (sp) grass. So was my youngest son Eric. That 30 year old acted like he used to when he was 7! Most people would probably view the sergassum grass as sea weed, but, they would be missing out on so much.

For me, personally, one of the best parts of the day, was at 7:30 in the morning when our 5 year old, Nate would come in and say, "Pappy, let's go get the paper". Walking to the Traders Post every morning became a special time for the two of us. He is a chatterer and he challenged me with questions like: Where does sand come from? Why aren't there waves on the bay? Why are there gates on peoples drive ways? What are tides? Why do some crabs have a big thumb? I don't know which of us learned more. These little walks turned into a very special time for me.

One of my daughter in laws, Michele, told our son Brian that this was the best away from home vacation she ever had. And, that was on Sunday! Quite a statement when you think that we have had them to Kiawah Island, Virginia Beach, Destin, and St. George Island and we hadn't even been to the cape for 24 hours. The other daughter in law is quite the adventurist. Typically, she lines up horse back riding, kayaking, hiking, whatever. Not this time. When I asked her why not, she said "didn't need to". She just enjoyed the surf and vegging.

On Monday, I told the two daughter in laws to get their heads together and tell us where they would like to go next summer. They could have picked anyplace that they wanted to. On Tuesday, they came back with a decision. They chose to come right back to Cape San Blas and Beach Cliff. So, I guess you will be hearing from me shortly on that.

We were fascinated by the plans to restore the cape and will be following that closely. If you hear of anything, please share it with us. That will be an amazing project, won't it?

We must also complement you on the house, its furnishings, and all the accessories that you provide. The house is simply the best. And, it was absolutely perfect for us. That reminds me of one more question little Nate asked, "why do we have to go home"? Some questions there just are no "good" answers to.

070707 was truly our lucky number. Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to stay at Beach Cliff and for all of your hospitality. You were wonderful to work with. I may never use a rental agency again as you have spoiled me. When I get a few minutes, I will take a look through our photos and see if any of them would do justice to your photo gallery. Regards, Al, (Jan, Brian, Michele, Nate, Luke, Kristi, and Eric) Beach Cliff Guests, July 7, 2007

We had a blast.  It was a beautiful week and, as I shared with you earlier, we really liked your place and its location.  Hopefully, we will have an opportunity to stay again in the future. The Alexanders, Beachy Keen, June 2007

Hi Laurel, I just wanted to thank you for sharing you AWESOME home with us. We ABSOLUTELY loved the house. Sometimes the internet can make things sound more attractive than they really are, but your house was even more than we expected. We were surprised at how clean it was and how fully stocked it was. We brought a lot more than we needed to.

On Friday I was having coffee on the deck and about 40 yards away, I spotted a turtle that appeared to be covering up eggs. She was there for a while and then we all watched while she slowly made her way back to the ocean. I called a phone number that was on the refrigerator and left a message. I explained what we had witnessed and left the phone number and address and a couple hours later somebody from the turtle patrol showed up at the house. We showed him the spot and he dug down and showed us the eggs and then he covered them back up and staked off the area and posted a sign. He said she must have come ashore later than they normally do because they had already walked that stretch of beach earlier in the morning and saw no signs of turtle tracks. It was really something to see.....we got some good pictures of it. Thanks again for everything. We all had a WONDERFUL vacation at the Beach Cliff and hope to have the opportunity to go back next year. Sincerely, Michelle Willett (Beach Cliff Guests, June 2007)

Laurel, Our family had one of the best vacations ever! My seven year old son enjoyed every minute of every day. We loved your beautiful home and the ocean view could not have been any better then we daydreamed about. WE all were so very happy during the week and experienced so many awesome things. My son learned how to snorkel in the bay off the boat and seen so many different types of marine life. This is all he talked about with his grandparents when we got home. My husband and I enjoyed the sunsets each night from the deck(s).

Everyone on the cape was very nice and I want to mention the individuals working at the "trading post" right out from the beach house made us feel s o welcomed and introduced us to some of the activities that were available around the cape. They were extremely helpful to us! We again thank you for renting your home out to us. I believe that the Lord directed our paths to cross and to give this family a much needed vacation as the one we received spending it at your home. We do look forward to making this area a vacation spot for our family and will hope to return to your home soon! Thank you again! Tim, Yvonne and Zachary Collier OLIVE as well enjoyed her time there!! Loved chasing the crabs at dusk back into the ocean surf each night! (Beach Cliff Guests, June 2007)

Thanks, Laurel, for allowing us to use your rental. Beach Time was homey with lots of great amenities—games, DVDs, books and a blender! Our schnauzer, Gracie, thoroughly enjoyed herself as well. She made lots of friends—both human and canine—and loved sniffing around Barrier Dunes (and on the beach). This is our third trip to the Cape, and we love how the area continues to be high-rise free. The beaches were beautiful as always, and the rental unit was very accessible to the beach. Having the cart to take all our stuff down was convenient. We used the pools quite a bit too, which were very clean and nice. We shopped at Piggly Wiggly our first day in and got most of our supplies. We did takeout from Loggerhead Grille one night. The fried shrimp was excellent. Coneheads made us fried shrimp sandwiches, which were also pretty good. The weather was a mixture of sunny skies and overcast, but it never actually rained, which was great. The no-see-ums were out with a vengence, and I read in a user forum somewhere that there's only one real remedy that works: Purple Parrot Tanning Oil (SPF 8) in Pineapple/Mango for some reason keeps the bugs at bay. The third day our bodies were dripping with oil, and the no-see-ums would land on us, but wouldn't bite any spot that had the oil. The mosquitoes, however, could be controlled with your run-of-the-mill spray. Thanks again for an absolutely fantastic, relaxing vacation. We'll be back soon! Claire, Stephen and Gracie Vath Birmingham, Ala. (Beach Time Guests, June 2007)

Hello! We just wanted to thank you so very much for allowing us to stay at your beautiful home in Cape San Blas! We absolutely loved it! The Cape is beautiful and so very quiet! Our dogs loved the beach and it was so fun to watch them play! Also, thank you for allowing us to check in a bit early. It was so nice to drop off our things and head to the beach. The weather was gorgeous, high 80s every day! My first time to the Gulf coast was fantastic! I can't wait to go back! Hope you had a nice weekend as well! Julie (Beach Time Guests, May 2007)

Laurel {...and Rich...} We appreciated that "Beach Cliff" at Cape San Blas was not only 'dog-friendly', but welcomed our LARGE Rhodesian Ridgeback, Embra. Great accommodations all around!!! Excellent and SUPER-PROMPT communications (emails,cellular,postal, etc.) before, during, and after our stay, from you, our hostess (and host). Our favorite place to eat, Sunset Coastal Grill in Port St. Joe (three times!!). The Loggerhead Grill at Cape San Blas was superb too. Got great seafood at great price (fresh shrimp, fresh oysters, crab legs) at the Piggly Wiggly, Port St. Joe, which we brought back to Beach Cliff to prepare. Absolutely DISSATISFIED with lousy food at Toucan's Restaurant at Mexico Beach (plffff!). Not impressed either with food at Steamer's Raw Bar in Apalachicola, wish we had eaten at Fast Eddie's Magnolia Grill instead. Tried Dockside Cafe at marina in Port St. Joe, but strongly recommend Sunset Coastal Grill instead. The week's weather began cool,windy,and BIG surf, then warmed-up considerably by Thursday. It was at week's end we realized just how much our dog had enjoyed the 'cooler' weather during our daily LONG morning walks on the beach. In front of Beach Cliff we saw mature Bald Eagle twice, Osprey once, dolphins four days. Dana packed the trunk with her collection of seashells from the beaches at Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Salinas Park, St. Joe Beach. Great area of Florida (the forgotten coast) for a much needed R&R. TO FAMILIES CONSIDERING ONE OF LAUREL AND RICH'S PROPERTIES AT CAPE SAN BLAS, WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM AS YOUR HOSTESS AND HOST!!!! Regards, Embra, Lee & Dana. Lewis Smith Lake , Alabama. Beach Cliff Guests, May 14, 2007

How are you? I am really sorry that I haven't gotten back to you sooner! We have just been really busy! I tried calling you back while we were at Sea Ya, but all four of our cells phones had no service and I didn't have a calling card to call out. I thought we would be fine with four cell phones. We had a wonderful time! We absolutely loved Sea Ya and will definately come back! The views from each bedroom were amazing and we thought the townhome was comfortable, cozy and decorated nicely. I have attached several pictures from our trip. My girls (Breanna 10 and Reagan 6) had a great time! They met several friends, enjoyed the swimming pool, beach, and even rode horses on the beach! Thanks again for all your help! We were really appreciated the binder with all the helpful info as well!!!! Thanks again! Mary Marshall (first guests in our newest addition, Sea Ya! for March 31, 2007)

We thoroughly enjoyed our week at the cape. We will probably be repeat customers. It was so "laid-back" compared to Destin. I used to take my varsity softball team to Destin during spring break. That was my first Florida experience. We are kind hooked now. I wanted to clean the grill better, but needed a grill brush. Hopefully, that is something that can be supplied, or maybe I just did not find it. I did look for one tho. Thanks for everything........and I would not doubt it if we bugged you for a spot next year at the same time. Sincerely......Dan (Guests in Beach Time for March 31, 2007)

Hi Laurel, I wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful time this past week. Sorry I missed your call. We arrived later than planned on Saturday. I left a comment sheet on the kitchen counter when we checked out yesterday. Everthing was just as you described. We all loved the townhouse and the location. As soon as we get time, we will send a picture of Trooper for your "pet page". He enjoyed the vacation as much as we did! Thanks again for everything! Your cleaning people should find everything in order, I cleaned, washed, and put everything back in its place before we left. Have a Happy Easter! Connie (Guests in Beachy Keen, March 31, 2007)

We had a BLAST at Beach Cliff!!! The weather couldn't have been ordered up to be any better. It was the most relaxing time we have had on vacation since 2001 when my aunt let us use her house on Siesta Key for the week of 4th of July. It was so important for Lauren to get the dogs back in the ocean again...they are getting up there in age. Clint especially loved diving into the waves. Lauren alone took along about 5-6 MB of media cards and was successful in filling up most of the memory with picture after picture after picture. When we have weeded out the best, and if you want, we will send you a disk so you can use them on your website. The house exceeded our expectations and EVERYTHING needed, less disposable food items, was there at our beck and call. It really felt like it was our home for that week. We took the Bayou/"Deliverance" route and it worked out perfectly. I suggest people from our neck of the woods take this way only. We WILL be contacting you again in the future. And, if you don't mind' I'll pass on your info to anyone else who is curious. With all the pictures we took, someone in the practice is bound to be interested...we use them as wallpaper on our computers in all the treatment rooms. Also, Lauren has a digital picture frame that she keeps running at the reception desk. EVERYONE wants to know where we were! Thanks again!!! (Beach Cliff Guests, Dr. & Mrs. David Niles, Illinois, March 24, 2007)

Just what the doctor ordered. While we expected peace and quiet, we were pleasantly surprised by the accommodations. Home away from home would be the best way to describe it. All the comforts of home (plus some) and a beach as a back yard! Just wish I had more time at my “home away from home”. Thanks for such a great place. We hope to visit often. The Hensleys from Kentucky, Beach Time Guests February 2007.

Loved the area, the condo, the people, the beach -- pretty much everything and won't hesitate to recommend to others -- Thanks.  The Jones Family from Jasper, Georgia, Beachy Keen Guests February 2007.

Hi Laurel, We are expecting ANOTHER snow storm....I want to go back to your house!...although it looks like some pretty rough weather has come through that area today as well. You can use any of my statements for your guest book that you would like...but I am serious, I dont care to take a phone call if you need a reference...you can just give them that on a one on one basis instead of internet posted though. Also if you would like to add...

It was wonderful being able to enjoy the beach and some very needed time away...but I think the most enjoyable thing was being able to bring our two little buddies...Sammy, the older dog is a diabetic and has been for the last 7 years..so needless to say its hard to find a vet or a friend that wants to be responsible for keeping him..so being able to spend that time with him and seeing how much he enjoyed taking long walks on the beach and being with us was so much fun...and now, he is acting like a puppy again!...

the first night we got to the house we knew after driving 500 miles from Nashville that we were to tired to fool with going out to dinner so we stopped at the Port St. Joe Shrimp co...on the way to the house....bought 2 pounds of peel and eat shrimp... a bottle of wine from the store down the street and cooked that for dinner...we ate almost all of it!...it was so good and fresh...the boys even got a few...I told you they are spoiled!....

Mike was able to golf twice at the Port St. Joe Country Club...great prices after 1:00...only $31.00 dollars with a cart...nice course.. where else can you golf with about 10 eagles flying over head!....and when it comes to golf courses we are used to the best Golfing in the country..our house is only 1 mile away from Cog Hill where the western open is played...

we went down to Apalachacola one day...neat little town...found a few great antique stores...and of course, left with a few things....tried Oysters for the first time in my life....wont say I will jump to try them again...but I'm glad I did and they sure were fresh...kept seeing pick up trucks with burlap bags full of oysters come in to town...We ate dinner at Loggerhead Grill, Peppers and Sunset Coastal Grill...all wonderful restaurants...met the owner at Sunset and talked with her quite a while...nice, nice lady...she told us about the road going to the light house...I thought that was all government property...but she said no, it was a public road and we could go down there...found some great shells over there....went to the State park and walked the beach...saw lots of wild life including white tail Deer....then what we did most of the days was just get up, make a pot of coffee...take the dogs for a long walk...picked up LOTS of shells....then would make a simple dinner at night and watch the sunset...I think it was one of the most relaxing vacations I have ever had...If you want to find things to do in the area, you can...but at the same time if you want to just chill and be left alone you certainly can do that as well...I think I have become a BIG BIG fan of Florida's forgotten coast.. we are looking forward to going back soon. Thanks again, Mike and Denise Hanes, Homer Glen, Illinois Beach Cliff Guests, January 20, 2007

Sorry I didn't get back to you following our visit - I have had some back trouble and the drive down and back to Florida was a bit of a painful nightmare for me. I loved the place though - it was just what we were looking for. I enjoyed walking along the beach and through the State park. My wife commented that the condo was the best accommodations we have ever had on vacation - so beautifully kept and comfortable. We all really enjoyed our stay. Thanks for the followup - your attention and service was excellent and you made everything run smoothly - very professional. Thanks again. Steve Arscott Beach Time January 2007 Guests from Canada

Dear Laurel, My husband & I stayed with Charlotte & Larry Johnson at Beach Cliff on the Cape last week. We had a great time, the weather was wonderful and the house was in the most perfect spot on the beach for sunset watching (one of my very favorite past times!). I think Larry and Charlotte were sorry that they hadn't brought their dog since the house is dog friendly. I'm sure that's a plus for lots of people. We all enjoyed watching several dogs frolic on the beach from the deck. Good dolphin watching, too! We kept changing the count of the lights of shrimp boats. Larry seemed to have the best eyes for that. We all liked the casual atmosphere of the whole place & the fact it is still relatively undiscovered (no high rises). I hope Cape San Blas keeps up the good work! Marghuerita Roberts, Elberta, Al

Laurel - Finally have a few minutes between loads of laundry and unpacking to tell you about our trip. We loved the condo and had a wonderful time, in spite of the initially cold weather. Everyone we met was extremely friendly. Mark and our son got to fish a few days, the grandson caught the biggest keeper and is still excited about it. Bridgett got to run on the beach, took a swim or two and is still exhausted from the trip. We mentioned going "to the beach" yesterday morning and she was up off the couch and waiting at the door so I know she had a wonderful time. We plan to go back next October which is when Tim said the fishing is the best, crowds are down and weather is great. It will be a last minute due to my job, I can't plan anything too far in advance, only hope we can get a unit. Paula's condo is decorated so beautifully, we were really surprised how elaborate everything is in a rental. Everything was very clean too, I wrote a note to your cleaning lady. This is actually the first time we've rented anything for a week and are hooked on this new way of vacationing. Cruises have always been our favorite but with the dog, I prefer to take her with us, after all, she deserves a vacation too. The Hartnagel Family, guests in Water's Color Thanksgiving 2006

The weather was great, as was the house and everything else. We loved it and had a great time. Can't wait to come back. Our dogs, Honey & Eli, had a great time too. They smiled the whole time we were here (so did we). Love in Christ, Sharon & Charlie, Tulsa, Oklahoma September 23-30, 2006 [OWNER'S NOTE: The following is an email from Sharon after they returned home. Be sure to check out their photos in the pets at play and guest photos gallery!] Thanks for your kind words, we always try to be the kind of guests that we would want in our own home. I wish we were there now, we have roofers here this week so the dogs are having to stay in & it's a beautiful day out! We ALL had a wonderful time & enjoyed the house so much that we never even went out to eat! I went to the grocery store a few times but I think Charlie only went once! We will send u some pics, especially of the dogs on the beach, they enjoyed it so much that they were smiling the whole time! We got some really good ones of Eli, the Aussie, playing ball with "dad" on the beach & in the water. He can really jump & we got a few of him actually in the air. Honey, our 11 yr old dog, really took to the water, must have been the Lab coming out in her. Charlie said the trip added 2 yrs to her life. I'm sure it did to mine! ha The only problem is that a week isn't long enough. We have a friend who stays in PC Beach every Oct. but I don't like to leave the dogs that long w/Charlie so now that I know a place to have at least 1 of them w/me I might stay at least 2 weeks next year. (maybe a month?!) ha Anyway, once again we thoroughly enjoyed the use of the house & I wish we had been able to meet u,maybe next time. Sincerely, Sharon

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