From Vacation Spot to TV Star: How Pines & Palms Became HGTV Gold
For two Naples families, what started as a love affair with the Florida Keys has become the star of HGTV’s newest series, Renovation Island: The Adventure Continues. Premiering June 7, the six-episode show follows the remarkable transformation of Pines & Palms Resort, a longtime Islamorada treasure that went from charming but tired to coastal showstopper.
See the HGTV teaser
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A Friendship, a Shared Obsession and One Big Leap
Nick and Raynie Reizen and Chad and Katie McKimm were not looking for a reality TV adventure when they met in Naples back in 2017. They were simply two families who loved boating, fishing and escaping to the Florida Keys whenever possible. With six children between them and a shared passion for island life, friendship came naturally.
Then came the twist worthy of its own TV episode.
In early 2022, word spread that Pines & Palms Resort, a beloved oceanfront property in Islamorada, might be available. One visit was all it took. Between the tropical landscaping, sweeping Atlantic views and loyal fan base, the resort felt like more than a business opportunity. It felt like home. The families purchased the property in May 2022 and began a journey that would change their lives.
When "A Few Updates" Turned Into a Full-Blown Adventure
Like many ambitious projects, the renovation started with optimism.
Then reality arrived.
Behind the postcard-perfect scenery were aging systems, leaking roofs, failing appliances and infrastructure issues that demanded much more than a fresh coat of paint. What began as a renovation quickly became a full-scale rescue mission.
Fortunately, help arrived in the form of HGTV power couple Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, stars of the wildly popular Renovation Island franchise. What started as an introduction evolved into a partnership, a friendship and ultimately a television production.
Lights, Camera, Renovation
Construction officially began in July 2024 and wrapped in December 2024, with cameras rolling through every triumph, surprise, setback and breakthrough. Viewers will get a front-row seat to the transformation as the team works to preserve the soul of Pines & Palms while elevating the entire guest experience.
Sarah Baeumler’s vision focused on creating spaces that feel both relaxed and refined, a place where guests can settle into the easy rhythm of the Keys while enjoying thoughtful design and modern comforts.
The result is a refreshed resort that captures everything people love about Islamorada: sunshine, sea breezes, waterfront views and that magical feeling that time somehow moves a little slower here.
More Than a Makeover
At its heart, this is not just a renovation story.
It is a story about taking a chance.
It is about two families who loved a destination so much that they decided to become part of its future. It is about preserving a piece of Florida Keys history while giving it new life for the next generation of travelers. And yes, it is also about surviving construction challenges that might make even the bravest DIY enthusiast sweat a little.
The Pines & Palms Experience
Today, Pines & Palms Resort sits on four oceanfront acres in the heart of Islamorada, offering 25 cottage and suite accommodations designed around the laid-back spirit of the Keys. Guests can wake up to fiery sunrises, enjoy waterfront living at its most relaxed and experience the warm hospitality that has made the resort a favorite for years.
And now, thanks to HGTV, the rest of the country gets to see the story behind the transformation.
So grab the popcorn, set the DVR and prepare for a renovation adventure filled with island charm, big dreams and plenty of Florida Keys magic.
Renovation Island: The Adventure Continues premieres Sunday, June 7, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on HGTV.
