TripAdvisor #3 Top Small Hotel in the US

Every year TripAdvisor publicizes “The Very Best of Travel” as “Chosen by Millions of Travelers”. The Travelers’ Choice Award recognizes top 25 lists within different travel categories. It is a coveted award and Port d’Hiver has been selected as the 2017 #3 Top Small Hotel in the US!

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Mike and Linda

We are Honored to Receive This Accolade

“We are so thankful to have received TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice distinction for being one of the top three best small hotels in the U.S.! In the last 10 years, we’ve had the great pleasure of meeting many wonderful people from around the world and this honor is owed, in part, to them as well. We love sharing Melbourne Beach’s rich history, friendly neighbors, and natural beaches, while providing a luxurious and unique getaway. As we look forward to our next 10 years, we hope to have a few surprises in store, yet always continuing to put our guests’ needs, comfort and happiness first.”

– Mike and Linda Rydson, Port d’Hiver owners since 2003



Beautiful Room

Mike and Linda Rydson Biography

Michael and Linda Rydson opened Port d’Hiver in 2003 and continue to run the 10-bedroom Inn today with help from their 3 daughters, Jade, Meg and Summer.

Mike is originally from Elkhart, Indiana. Mike attended Purdue University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s of Business Administration. Linda calls Elkridge, Maryland home. Linda attended Florida Atlantic University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English. They both put these skills to use throughout their careers working for defense contractors and nationally recognized manufacturers. Mike and Linda have called Melbourne Beach, Florida home for over 30 years.

In May 2003, Mike and Linda Rydson purchased Port d’Hiver with the idea of saving the historic landmark for their town. That month, the Rydsons met with the original homeowner’s granddaughter Mimsy Brown who shared family photos and documents, many of which still hang in the Inn’s guest and sun rooms today. With its original sand chimney, fireplace, French doors, longleaf pine floors, exposed ceilings, and courtyard complete with a coquina fountain, Port d’Hiver is a wonderful reminder of our beautiful history.


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Our spacious and beautiful rooms, some with private balconies, special touches like a nightly turndown service & concierge service make for an incredible getaway. Book a getaway today.

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