Julie Boone
Married to Reed Boone
Came in 2012 and have been full-time on Marco since 2015
What brought you to Marco?
We had been going to Islamorada but when we wanted to be closer to shopping and golf, and on the west coast so we settled on Marco. Gara Ann Martin was our realtor and our first friend – we didn’t know a soul.
What's your favorite thing to do on Marco?
I LOVE to ride my bike, Marco is so bike-friendly and all the streets and paths are fantastic. Sometimes we ride out to Goodland, we love getting out early in the morning. I love a good beach walk or a round of golf with friends, or my husband. One of the best events is at Hammock Bay they have 9 and wine for a social game.
Best Happy Hour?
I love Deep Lagoon (LINK) with the girls, and sitting at the bar at DaVinci’s (LINK)– check out the flatbread pizza! We love The Salty Dog (LINK)– one of the few places that stay open late.
Why did you join Newcomers?
We didn’t know a soul when we arrived, and I was working full-time from home so I had to find a way to meet people. I would see people at the grocery- thinking maybe they would be fun to hang out with. Then my neighbor told me about Newcomers- and it has been the BEST decision I’ve made. I’ve met some of my best friends and we do some really fun activities.
What surprised you about Marco?
When looking for a house- look for one with Southern Exposure! No one tells you that- when we built our house we had that lined up and helps with the heat of the sun. I think we have been surprised to find out that everyone here is so kind, so friendly – it’s a very welcoming community and we absolutely love that. We go out to eat a lot – and some of our servers have become our closest friends.
Favorite travel destination?
We love to get ‘home’ to Kentucky to see family, but my true heart is in the Colorado mountains. We have been exploring different parts of Colorado each summer to escape the heat- and we love Breckenridge- it’s such a vibrant city.
Top pick for a day date?
A day on the boat- you cannot beat it- it’s so relaxing.
What do tourists need to know before they come here?
For people with families with teenagers, people need to know that Marco is a quiet community with little nightlife, it’s more family-focused. We are all home by ‘Marco Midnight’ – which is 9 pm- and we love that!
What other groups are you involved with?
We are a part of The Blue Zones through Newcomers (tips for a healthy longer life), it’s an accreditation you can get through healthy lifestyle activities. (LINK) They have events like a cooking demo for healthy pasta & salad we just attended, tips on healthy eating. They have walking groups at Mackle Park as well (LINK to Mackle Park).
Secret Spots?
Havana Café in Everglades City is a hole in the wall but worth the trip – amazing authentic Cuban food, covered in bulganvelia vines. The Citrus Grove – out 951 towards the interstate is great for produce (try the Amish Salsa), it’s a fun trip and they have a pumpkin patch in the fall!