Family Archives | Opal Collection

A large sailboat with two tall sails glides on the water at sunset. The sky is golden, and people on the boat are waving as the sun sets on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the ocean.

Two Coasts, One Tall-Ship Operation: A Q&A with Schooner Appledore’s GM

We sat down with Rod Veal to talk tall ships, tide charts, and why his classic wooden schooner operation calls two very different Eastern Seaboard waterfronts home.

A young boy in a striped shirt stands on a wooden bridge in a lush garden, gazing up in wonder at blue butterflies fluttering nearby among green plants and colorful flowers.

Your Ultimate Guide to Key West for Kids

While Key West might be better known for its buzzing bar scene and “devil-may-care” attitude, this southernmost paradise actually offers a surprising array of things to do in Key West for kids. You just need to know where to look.

An American flag stands on a rocky stone slab in the foreground by a calm coastal bay—anchored boats, seaweed, and pines under a blue sky evoke the serene beauty you’ll find when you cruise Vinalhaven with Opal Collection.

How to Make The Most of Your Cruise to Vinalhaven

Known for its lobster fishery, nature preserves, and fiercely kept local culture, Vinalhaven is a popular day-trip destination. Here’s our guide to everything the island has to offer, from well-known destinations to hidden gems.

A woman in a long dress walks on a sandy path lined with rope and wooden posts toward the best beach Florida has to offer, where blue umbrellas and lounge chairs await under a bright, partly cloudy sky.

Best Beaches in Florida: Delray Beach Wins Number One Yet Again for 2025

Scenic, natural, and accessible – these are just a few of the reasons Delray Beach was deservedly awarded “Best Beach in Florida” in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

A smiling woman and man stand indoors at a counter. The woman holds a card and looks at the man, who is focused on papers in his hands. The setting appears modern and warmly lit.

A “Sol” Mate Stay: A Q&A with Opal Sol’s First Guests

Phil and Stephanie Shirk weren’t just the first to check in at Opal Sol in February 2025 – they also claimed that title at Opal Sands in 2016. We caught up with the loyal Opal guests to find out what keeps them coming back – and why being “first” has become an Opal tradition.

An aerial view of The Sound at Coachman Park in Clearwater, Florida.

An Insider’s Guide to Coachman Park in Clearwater, Florida

Since its opening in June 2023, Coachman Park has quickly become a centerpiece of Clearwater’s cultural and recreational scene. Here’s everything you need to know about getting there, staying up to date on the latest events, and insider tips for maximizing your visit.

Top Activities & Attractions to Soak Up Lake Placid in the Fall

Autumn always comes early – and lasts longer – in the Adirondacks. And Lake Placid offers plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the season, from fall-flavored beers and film fests to perfect leaf-peeping places to post up and enjoy the rolling patchwork of color.

A couple walks along a gravel path by the water, surrounded by green bushes and trees; sailboats and a small island are visible in the distance under a clear blue sky, perfect for discovering fun facts about Maine’s scenic beauty.

7 Fun Facts About Maine You Never Knew

Maine is the first state to see sunlight daily, but did you know exact spots vary year-round? Or that, after lobsters and blueberries, potatoes are also a leading state export? If you think you know Maine, it might be time to brush up on your knowledge.

A little girl splashes in the water at Dubois Park in Jupiter, Florida.

6 Last Chances for Summer

Summer may be sneaking away, but it’s still the season of the sun until September 22. Send it out with a splash by indulging in one of these quintessential summer experiences in Opal resort and hotel destinations.

Electric violinist Matt Dendy performs on the beach at Lido Beach Resort.

10 Best Live Music Venues in Sarasota, Florida

Matt Dendy – acclaimed violinist with a sound all his own – is a Sarasota native who’s played nearly every major venue, giving him an insider’s take on the city’s best live music spots.

Two Coasts, One Tall-Ship Operation: A Q&A with Schooner Appledore’s GM

Your Ultimate Guide to Key West for Kids

How to Make The Most of Your Cruise to Vinalhaven

Best Beaches in Florida: Delray Beach Wins Number One Yet Again for 2025

A “Sol” Mate Stay: A Q&A with Opal Sol’s First Guests

An Insider’s Guide to Coachman Park in Clearwater, Florida

Top Activities & Attractions to Soak Up Lake Placid in the Fall

7 Fun Facts About Maine You Never Knew

6 Last Chances for Summer

10 Best Live Music Venues in Sarasota, Florida

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