It’s a Dog’s Life

January 20, 2012 at 5:43 pm. 1 Comment

Ah, it's good to relax. We see you eyeing that wine.

Here at PCI, you know we love the pups. We’re one of the few pet-friendly hotels on the beach, with our current pet policy accepting pets up to 25 lb. with a $50 pet fee. Your four-legged friend is allowed in your room (of course!), the lobby, the garden, and at the picnic tables toward the beach. SPB law prohibits dogs on the beach, but if you need some outdoorsy time with your pooch, head on out to Fort DeSoto Dog Park, about a 15 minute drive away.  http://fortdesoto.com/pawplayground.php  

Here are some of our fellow fido-friendly faves…

Chillin' on Corey. Hold up- it that a food truck!?

Corey Fresh Market

The Historic Corey Avenue Shopping District hosts a market every Sunday 9AM-2PM October-May (the summers here can get a little too warm for all that fresh goodness). Dogs of every shape and size accompany their humans to peruse produce, jewelry, crafts, snacks, and more. Currently there are TWO seperate dog treat booths. Both stands sell biscuits that are all kinds of delicious (not that we tried the paws-itively decadent smelling coconut clusters for ourselves…). Our resident doggie taste tester, Nassau, also recommends your pup try the lavender treats to calm even the most hyperactive of small breeds.

Style. You can buy it.

Gone to the Dogs Boutique

Also on Corey, check out this specialty store. They stock the finest in all-natural food and a wide variety of TOYS! If your four-legged friend is feeling festive, they always have the items to keep them dressed the best. From Christmas to St. Pete Pride, their seasonal get-ups are top notch for your top dog. If a nice bath and cut are needed, this place boasts expert groomers, as well! http://gonetothedogsboutique.com/

We took this pic from the official site just because it looks SO GOOD!

Best Buddies Boutique and Bakery

Just two blocks from PCI, also on Gulf Blvd., you can’t miss this absolutely adorable pet shop. The sign has cartoon versions of three of the cutest dogs we’ve ever seen (well… besides our own); the real life versions of these marketing pups belong to the proprieter himself, Alan Ronay. Alan was recently in the news for being called to court for his festive “violation” – an inflatable holiday pooch atop the Best Buddies pink van. Charges were dropped for this holiday merrymaker AND he’s now on the Pet Product News International’s list of 25 Names to Watch for 2012. Awesome job, Alan! We’re glad you turned around that life of crime (if you really count holiday decorations as actual crimes). Go pick up some of his signature Tastybone treats, or if you’re tired out from Fort DeSoto dog park, have them DELIVERED! Oh, and this store has a possibility of franchising, so be on the lookout for one closer to home.  http://www.bestbuddiesboutique.com/index.html

Those aren’t fleas. We know you’re itchin’ for more canine information, news, and events. Here are two amazing publications, both locally based!

http://thenewbarker.com/

http://www.petpridemagazine.com/

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‘Twas a Very Good Year

December 31, 2011 at 2:58 pm. 1 Comment

We can’t believe 2011 is in its final hours. It seems like just yesterday that we had guests jumping in the pool at the stroke of midnight 1/1/11 (don’t get any ideas!). The old saying “Time flies when you’re having fun” couldn’t be more true! Let’s look back just a few of our favorite PCI ’11 moments…

2011 started with a bang (and a splash). Although it was a little chilly, our poolside party brought in a great crowd who danced along to the music spun by our pool deck DJ until 2AM. It’s going to be difficult to top last year, but we think we’re on the right track. This year we’ve moved the party to the beach with LIVE music by Anchor Atlantic, plus we’ve done away with the cover charge, so entry is FREE.

Last March we introduced our new hot breakfast items at the PCI Snack Shack. No longer would guests have to walk a half mile or more for their brekkie faves. Open daily at 7AM, we’re still whipping up egg sandwiches and burritos, oatmeal, and fresh fruit cups to safisfy even the hungriest of our guests.

In April we were honored with a visit by a true travelling celebrity. Travel Channel’s Samantha Brown not only came and stayed with us, but shot a commercial right here on property for her signature luggage line. We’re happy to report that she’s as nice as she seems on TV… maybe even nicer.

In June we celebrated St. Pete Pride with our friends from Watermark. For a celebration traditionally centered in the downtown area, this was a brand new option, bringing the pride to SPB. The party lasted all weekend long with activities and fun from the banquet hall to the beach.

We saw some fierce competition in mid-July during the SUP paddle board race. With multiple races based on distance and skill, this was an all day event. How did our racers celebrate their feats of atheticism? With BBQ and brews, of course!

Although we enjoy an endless summer here, we’re always down for a celebration. Labor Day, as the unofficial end of summer, was is a great excuse to party beachside over a long September weekend. Helping us do so, were our friends at Pacifico, who introduced Pacifico Draft to the U.S. East Coast right here at PCI.

Now there’s no calling us a spoiled only child because in November the classic Holiday Isle property in Islamorada  became our sister Postcard Inn! Not one to live in our vast SPB shadow, PCI-HI is already famous for the creation of the very first rumrunner. Next time you’re in the Keys, be sure to stop by and say HI!

We had a very merry December this year thanks to so many of you joining us! The weather was beach-perfect, rates were discounted, and Beachwood BBQ & Burger was open regular hours on Christmas Eve and Day. All in all it was a perfect holiday season.

Tonight we’re wrapping up this wonderful year and kicking off 2012 in true PCI style- on the beach with a  bonfire and live music by Anchor Atlantic. Yes, we’re ready for another awesome, adventurous, busy, fantastic, and above all fun year here at PCI. We hope you can join us!

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Get Bowled Over

December 15, 2011 at 4:10 pm. 0 Comments

Briana is a budding photographer. Thanks for the pic!

College football fans rejoice, for it is truly the most wonderful time of the year! Over the next three weeks, 35 College Bowl games will be played. Luckily for us, we have not one, but two bowl games played here in the Tampa Bay Area.

The first of these games is very near and dear to us here at PCI. Less than 9 miles away, Florida International University will be taking on Marshall University at Tropicana Field. Also known as the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl for the sponsor, be sure to be in St. Pete for this December 20th game. We’re offering special rates for fans of both the Golden Panthers and the Herd. So, why not keep the tailgate party going on the beach? Check out the link below for discounts and availability. “See ya at Beef’s” …Bowl!

http://www.postcardinn.com/l/stpetersburgbowl

Hold off on those New Year’s resolutions to not yell at the game. On January 2nd the Michigan State Spartans and the University of Georgia Bulldogs are going head to head at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The competition is sure to be steep between these formidable opponents. Whether you’re wearing green or red, you’ll probably need a little R&R after the clock strikes 0:00. Enjoy discounted rates to turn gametime into a beach vacation. Better yet, join us for the weekend before the game when we’ll have our NYE Beach Party in full swing! Check out the link below for exclusive discounts.

http://www.postcardinn.com/l/outbackbowl

If you’re rooting for good football, sunny days*, and cold drinks, you’re sure to pick a winner with PCI. We look forward to celebrating the season with you!

*Sunny days subject to availability.

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Happy December!

December 1, 2011 at 3:59 pm. 0 Comments

Can you believe it’s already December!? Where did the year go? It’s like they always say, “Time flies when you’re having fun.” And, trust us, this month is going to fly by too, because there’s more fun to be had here at PCI before the year is out.

Of course our pine is flanked by palms- this is PCI!

Join us Saturday, December 3rd for our Holiday Celebration and 2nd Anniversary. We’re offering everyone a little holiday cheer by making this event open to the public. If you missed that Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting “spectacular,” no worries- we’ve got your merriment covered. Our towering Christmas tree will be lit here on the garden patio for one and all.  Yes, come marvel, one and all.

Photo copyright Amy Pezz. Steal it and you're only getting COAL for Christmas.

Events need entertainment. This is a fact. Since they put on such an amazing show last year, we’ve invited back Entertainment Revue. These performers may be young, but their talent is undeniable. Their professional-style show includes song and dance acts that would even put Mr. Grinch himself in the holiday spirit.

If you’re not thoroughly convinced yet that “It’s a Wonderful Life,” there’s more in store! Santa will be in attendance and available for photos, interviews, and all of the usual celeb stuff. If you’re thirsty, there will be hot chocolate all around, as well as a cash bar featuring the brand new Beachwood bourbon. We’re also presenting a cozy fireside movie in our garden courtyard.

Since we’re getting excitingly close to Christmas, we’re giving you naughty ones the opportunity to get on Santa’s nice list. We’re teaming with Kids Charity of Tampa Bay, Inc. for a special clothing drive to give back to the community and help our less fortunate little ones. We’re especially looking for donations of socks, underwear, and PJ’s for children ages 5 to 7, but any kids’ clothing item is much appreciated!

All this festive fun is scheduled from 5PM to 8PM, but you can keep the party going at PCI Beach Bar until 2AM. If you’re looking to really make a night of it, we still have rooms available that even Mr. Scrooge would call a good deal!

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PCI-HI !

November 19, 2011 at 5:38 pm. 2 Comments

By now you might know, but if you haven’t heard, this is BIG news… PCI has a sister property! That’s right, now there are TWO Postcard Inns. Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina at Holiday Isle is the new addition to the PCI family, located in Islamorada, part of the beautiful FL Keys.

Becoming a Postcard Inn is no overnight transformation! Even here on St. Pete Beach, it took an absolutely amazing team of designers, and months of renovations. The same goes for PCI-HI (cute, huh?). The vintage structure known as Holiday Isle was originally built in the 1950′s and received an intensive rejuvenation and full makeover. Kudos to all involved with this project- the results hold true to the PCI vibe, while creating something fabulously original.

While Postcard Inn here on St. Pete Beach is all about surf decor, PCI-HI has a ”boathouse chic” theme. In the guest rooms, walls are adorned with whimsical trophy fish and beds are dressed with crisp white linens. The lobby has a floor to ceiling chalkboard that lists the daily temperature, tide times, and surf height, reminiscent of ours here on SPB. A collection of hundreds of postcards can be found on a wall in the lobby and the kid’s corner is done all in astroturf with tiny flickering lights like fireflies. This place really has to be seen to be believed!

As gorgeous as the interiors are, you don’t visit the Keys to stay inside all day. That’s why there’s so much to do here! Jet ski, paddle board, kite board, and kayak rentals and lessons are all available. The dive shop offers not one, but two dive trips per day for snorkeling and scuba diving. For those who would rather catch fish that mingle with them, did we mention that Islamorada is the sport fishing capital of the world? True statement. From the amateur to the award-winning, anglers almost always have a good fishing day here.

For those who believe vacations require hammocks and frozen drinks, PCI-HI has not forgotten about you traditionalists! The World Famous Holiday Isle Tiki Bar is one of the multiple bars and restaurants on property. Its claim to fame? The original rum runner was created here in 1972. Another hot spot coming soon is Shula Burger, opening December 2nd. Here, you can enjoy a piping hot grilled Shula signature burger either in the cool a/c surrounded by an impressive collection of sports memorabilia, or out in the fresh air on the large shaded deck. World famous and soon-to-be world famous; these are just two of your delicious options located directly on property.

There’s really SO much available at PCI-HI that we can’t fit it all in this blog entry! 

From decor to dining to spectacular ocean views, Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina at Holiday Isle has it all! Be sure to check out their website for updates, photos, and reservations. It’s not the age, it’s the attitude.

http://holidayisle.com/

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Holiday Preview

November 5, 2011 at 4:59 pm. 0 Comments

Can you believe it’s November already? Of course, it’s still 75 and sunny, and we’re enjoying our days playing and laying out on St. Pete Beach, but the holiday season it fast approaching. Don’t have a ho-hum humbug holiday- join us for fun and festivities all season long!

Gobble Gobble Nom Nom

This Thanksgiving, make tracks to the beach! Beachwood BBQ & Burger is open for the greatest feast of the year. Our inclusive menu gives you delectable choices for your appetizer, entree, and dessert, all for $35 per person.

APPETIZER

Butter Nut Squash Soup with Wild Rice

 or

Stuffed Artichoke – Braised Artichoke Stuffed with Herbed Bread Crumb and Drizzled with Lemon Oil

Entrees

Smoked Turkey with Sage Stuffing, Candied Yams, Garlic Green Beans & Giblet Gravy

 or

Seared Salmon with Toasted Orzo ‘Risotto’ with Dried Cranberries, Chestnuts & Parsley

or

 Smoked Prime Rib Au Jus with Spiced Potato Wedges & Sautéed Spinach

Dessert

 Homemade Apple Pie A la Mode

or

Pumpkin Pie a la Mode

You can totally feel free to tuck your napkin into your shirt collar here. We’re all friends.

The Terrific Two’s

Join us on December 3rd for our annual holiday party, which just-so-happens to also be our TWO YEAR anniversary celebration! We’re kicking things off at 5PM for an evening of holiday-inspired fun, as a thank you for two unforgettable years. The performers of Entertainment Revue will be back to bring down the house again this year with their song and dance numbers. There will be holiday treats and hot chocolate all around for all of our guests who have been good all year (or at least most of the year). Patrick Brophy will officiate our annual tree lighting. We’ll also welcome Santa, who’s coming to visit PCI by way of paddle board! Ho, Ho, Ho-liday cheer!

3… 2… 1…

Ah, the sun sets on another wonderful year here on the Gulf beaches. We’ve got a good feeling about 2012, so we’re starting it off right! Come join us to ring in another fabulous year here at PCI. There’s nowhere we’d rather be, so we’re staying up poolside for a champagne toast under the stars! Join us for dancing, drink specials, revelry, and live music by Anchor Atlantic. This year we’ve done away with the party entry charge, so absolutely everyone is invited to count down to midnight with us. If you’re looking to really make a night of it, be sure to book your rooms soon, as they’re filling up fast!

We have even more fun in store, all winter long, so check back soon and be sure to “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

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Beachwood Update

October 20, 2011 at 1:36 pm. 0 Comments

Mahi mahi, grouper, crab cake, "kobe" dog... We'll still be hungry for some death by chocolate afterwards.

It’s been a few months now since we debuted the (then) all-new Beachwood BBQ & Burger menu, this past summer.

First off, thank you for all of the great feedback! We’ve gotten such positive reinforcement on site, at events (like last week’s Bluz & BBQ in Tampa), and over the interweb. Thank you, thank you, you like us, you really do! For those of you who haven’t tried our classic favorites and original specialties, we hope to see you soon. Beachwood is open daily at 11:30 AM for those of you who like to get a jump on lunch. For evening diners, we’re open until 9PM Sunday through Tuesday and until 10PM Wednesday through Saturday.

Secondly, it’s about time for an update, huh?

Who’s Hungry? …We Mean Really Hungry.

It's like we're bringing the whole smoker to your table.

Join us Monday through Friday for our BBQ pit specials. These heaping portions include two sides and are certainly enough to share (but only if you want to). Yessirree, this is BBQ as it was meant to be!

Monday – Classic Combo 1/2 rack of spare ribs and 1/2 smoked chicken with apricot glaze

Tuesday – Three Little Pigs spare ribs, pulled pork, and double cut bacon

Wednesday – Rib Sampler dry 1/2 spare and 1/2 baby back

Thursday – Grand Pit Master 1/2 smoked chicken, 3 baby back ribs, 3 spare ribs, carolina pulled pork, Texas smoked brisket, and double cut bacon

Friday – Best of the Best Texas smoked brisket, carolina pulled pork, and 1/2 smoked chicken 

So, what’s your new favorite day of the week?

Tres Chic Meets Surfer Cool

Mel, one of our favorite Beachwood/PCI Beach Bar bartenders, gets to serve in the lobby.

We kick off the weekend with a wine tasting, in part with Taste of the NFL, a charitable program benefitting Feeding America. Here’s how it goes: You stop by our lobby between 3PM and 5PM on Friday, enjoy a complimentary glass (or two) of wine, and we donate. Yup, every case we go through helps put food on the plates of those who desperately need it. And in case you’re feeling a little munchie yourself, we have cheese cubes to pair with our wine varieties.

Beachwood BBQ & …Bourbon!?

A barrel of our very own... but we're willing to share.

 

Bourbon lovers convene! That’s right. In addition to our BBQ, burgers, and more, we are introducing our very own bourbon. Our bourbon menu is already quite impressive, but this special blend bourbon is the real deal, distilled in Kentucky, and available exclusively here at PCI. If you just can’t get enough while you’re here, there’s no need to fret- Beachwood Bourbon will be sold by the bottle. Just when you thought you’d never find the perfect Christmas/Hanukah/Kwanzaa gift for dad this year- PCI to the rescue!

Make it a Beachwood Holiday

Thanksgiving in Florida. No worries, folks. These particular birds will still be alive and well at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo!

There’s nothing like a Thanksgiving feast, but let’s face it- cooking is hard work. You’re in Florida, so let’s just say you’re on vacation and let Beachwood do all the work! This year, we’re offering our 10-12 lb all natural turkey rubbed with our poultry blend and smoked to perfection. If you’re looking to feed the family, get our aptly named “Feed the Family” package, which includes the turkey (of course!), apple and sausage stuffing, mashed sweet potato, brussel sprouts with onions and bacon, cranberry marmalade (sooo much better than jelly), giblet gravy, and a whole pie. Still hungry? Impressive. Additions are available by the pound, so why not add on a side of brisket or mac & cheese? Get your order in by November 22nd and it will be ready for pick-up on Thanksgiving Day! 727.367.2711

Between promotions, events, and specials at Beachwood, there’s always something new and something delicious.

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Introducing the Hyundai Veloster

October 14, 2011 at 11:33 am. 0 Comments

We happen to favor the blue one that matches our sign.

No, here at PCI, we’re not in the business of selling cars. On the other hand, you definitely have to check out the brand new 2012 Hyundai Veloster! This car has so many amazing features, it would be impossible to name them all. This vehicle boasts a standard 7-inch multimedia touchscreen, automatic volume control based on speed, a rearview camera, a functional third door, and up to 40 MPG hwy. Oh, and you can play video games when parked. Plus it looks pretty darn slick.

The press filled the banquet hall to learn more about the Veloster.

So, how do we know so much about this 2012 model already? Hyundai chose PCI as the location to launch its press release! We really can’t think of a better fit for such a youthful, hip, and stylish vehicle.

FYI These cars were all made in Montgomery, Alabama.

This overcast and rainy morning was brightened up by an armada of Velosters in every color, filling the PCI front lot. Members of the press really lucked out; in pairs of two, they drove to Wesley Chapel and back in one of these brand new vehicles. Perhaps the early rain was a plus, as they got to experience the superior handling on wet pavement. Either way, totally lucked out. Again, we are not car salespeople here at PCI, but we can’t help coveting this car!

We love creative USB ports- ours are surfboards!

We had a great time welcoming the press and getting a sneak peek of the 2012 Veloster. Huge thanks to Hyundai for choosing PCI! Looking for more information on this American-made vehicle? Check out http://www.hyundaiusa.com/vehicles/2012/veloster/

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Fall Fun

October 7, 2011 at 3:30 pm. 0 Comments

Just because we’re situated in a tropical paradise (not to brag), it doesn’t mean that we can’t partake in some fall fun! We’re loving these cooler temperatures with highs in the mid-80′s and nights cool enough to take out our favorite sweatshirts. Here are some of the things we’re particularly pumped for in October.

Oktoberfest

The 2nd Annual St. Pete Oktoberfest in the Grand Central District will be held on October 15th 5PM-9PM. Tickets are $30 and include unlimited beer samples (unlimited! yes, this is a beer festival!), live entertainment, and festivities up and down Central Ave. Even better this year? The trolley line has been extended, so you can take a trolley from right across the street from PCI all the way down to the Grand Central District (and to the Pier, if you please)- no changing trolleys or worrying about parking/driving/etc.!

http://www.stpeteoktoberfest.com/

Rock-tober

The October Concert Series in the Park is back for its fifth year. Every Friday in October a different band will be performing at 7PM at Horan Park, by the St. Pete Beach Rec Center. Food, beer, and wine will all be available to purchase, but the concert itself is totally free.

October 7th Green Flash

October 14th Horny Toads

October 21st Vodkanauts

October 28th Act III

Double the Market Action

While the world market may be in a volitile state, the St. Pete Beach market has doubled! Last year the Corey Avenue Market in the Historic Corey Avenue Shopping District offered locals and visitors (and their pups!) a great lazy Sunday activity, with fresh produce, acoustic entertainment, and a variety of arts and crafts vendors. This year, we have the choice between the Corey Fresh Market, still on Corey Avenue, and the Corey Sunday Market, with the new location at Horan Park. Both markets run from 9AM to 2PM every Sunday. Our old friend the Fresh Market has its opening day set as October 9th, while the Sunday Market starts up on October 16th. Both are within walking distance to PCI, so we look forward to hearing your feedback and preferences!

Halloween Poolside Concert

We’ve teamed up again with Backline Music Group for this extension of the Summer Break Concert Series. Our Halloween Poolside Concert on October 29th 6PM-10PM welcomes headlining act B-Liminal, a band we’ve been looking forward to seeing for a while! This reggae/surf/rock (there’s really no categorizing these guys!) group opened for Sister Hazel the last time they played Jannus Live. This is your chance to check them out, while you dip your toes in the water and enjoy a weekend cocktail.

Fire It Up

There’s really no better way to spend a chilly fall night than with friends around a toasty fire. Realizing this truth, we now have a new and improved firepit in our garden courtyard! This firepit is already proving to be quite popular, so gather your friends and join us in the garden early to grab a good spot for your own little fall celebration.

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BizMix Recap

September 30, 2011 at 4:13 pm. 1 Comment

On September 29th Tampa Bay Business Journal hosted their BizMix Networking Happy Hour. Where would the highly respected TBBJ choose to be the locale for such a business/social affair? Right here at PCI, of course! This totally free event included two complimentary cocktails, hors d’ ouevres, and so much more.

The garden was set with a generous buffet, including one of Beachwood’s famous roast pigs. Satellite bars were located in both the garden and pool areas, so shop talk did not have to be interrupted in search of a cold drink. In addition to food, drink, and fine company, our 300+ guests enjoyed amazing and unique entertainment!

One of Tampa Bay’s top cover bands, the one and only Anchor Atlantic, started and ended the evening at PCI Beach Bar. We cannot rave enough about this band! Whenever they play here, it’s a great time and the evening of this networking event was no exception. Our first special BizMix act hailed from the island of St. Pete Beach and brought that island feel with them. Professional hula dancers offered photos with guests (c’mon, great photo op- how often do you meet real hula girls!?) before taking the poolside stage  and impressing us all with their luau moves. Many were wondering how the next act could possibly be on par, but they definitely brought the heat! Over in our garden area, a duo of fire dancers wowed the crowd (who all took a step back in unison). This pair literally had no fear, juggling lit up clubs and spinning a hula hoop ablaze. This was seriously world class entertainment, right here at PCI!

BizMix brought together locals from from every business and background. We hobnobbed with  investors, cigar makers, hoteliers, photographers, hairdressers, and members of the community representing every occupation in between. The one thing that everyone seemed to agree on was what a great time they were having at PCI. Thanks to TBBJ and everyone who joined us!

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