The Local Perspective

Due to Covid-19, more boats have been purchased in the U.S. in the last year than ever before! With the newfound flexibility of working remotely—consumers are aiming to spend more time on their recently purchased boat than commuting to the office.

Because of Covid-19, many popular boating destinations have been closed around the world. While this has been challenging for some, places that remain open and in proximity to population centers such as The Florida Keys which is experiencing an explosion of boaters looking for luxury destinations to visit and dock their boat.

Here are the top five luxury marinas in the Florida Keys:

#1: Marlin Bay Resort & Marina: www.marlinbay.com

This newer marina features state-of-the-art facilities in Marathon, Florida. With 74 wet slips that accommodate up to 75' vessels and 24 boat lifts that accommodate up to 32' vessels, the dock staff will care for your boat while you enjoy world-class boutique resort amenities. There are 13 luxury vacation rentals at the resort next to the marina.

#2: The Galleon Marina Key West:

Just a short walk from downtown Key West, this marina offers resort amenities and a great location that can accommodate yachts up to 150 feet.

#3: Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina:

Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina in Islamorada provides a public boat ramp and is located adjacent to a great park that boaters have access. It is a great marina if you are headed to The Florida Keys.

#4: Hawks Cay Marina:

Located on Duck Key, Hawks Cay Marina features 85 boat slips accommodating vessels up to 110’ and resort amenities.

#5 Stock Island Marina:

This is one of the largest marinas in The Florida Keys and can accommodate boats up to 450 feet. It is an ideal marina community with a 100 room hotel on-site

When most people travel, they want amenities and comforts they can’t experience at home. Extended vacation rentals are currently topping the market around the world because guests want to upgrade their accommodations without having to deal with the crowds of hotels. Marlin Bay Resort & Marina provides all the privacy and amenities you can dream of without the unwanted crowds.

When most people travel, they want amenities and comforts they can’t experience at home. Extended vacation rentals are currently topping the market around the world because guests want to upgrade their accommodations without having to deal with the crowds of hotels. Marlin Bay Resort & Marina provides all the privacy and amenities you can dream of without the unwanted crowds.

Discover the tropical beauty of the Florida Keys while enjoying one of our spacious three and four-bedroom vacation homes offering open-concept layouts, private terraces, high-end décor, and luxe linens. Change up your scenery, discover local attractions, and experience everything the Florida Keys and Marlin Bay has to offer.

Please visit our website for reservations.

Each winter, people head to the Florida Keys for its beautiful weather, crystal clear water, incredible dining, and stunning natural beauty. However, there is also a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. 

When the snow starts to fall, the snowbirds head south. Leave your winter boots behind and discover a world of snorkeling, boating, fishing, diving, and every type of water sport you can imagine.

We invite you to spend more days barefoot at our picturesque resort tucked into the turquoise waters of Marathon. Sip on tropical cocktails while lounging by our heated pool. The sun shines year-round, setting the scene of peace and relaxation.

If you’re feeling adventurous, we offer kayak and paddleboard rentals, so you can explore the surrounding areas with ease. There is something for everyone, so bring the whole family.

After all, isn’t paradise best enjoyed when shared? Visit our website to reserve now.

For your safety, we’ve implemented health guidelines according to the World Health Organization and local government standards to provide you with a safe and secure environment.

Experience the Florida Keys this winter season at Marlin Bay Resort and Marina. You deserve a bit of warmth and relaxation to celebrate the end of the year. Conveniently, we place you near the fun and excitement of the Keys so you can enjoy year-round summer weather.

Enjoy a drink of choice, tour the pool bar, and soak up some sun. The Keys offers a unique blend of island and metropolitan vibes that keep travelers coming back for more. The best part? There’s no snow, just miles of blue waters to explore.

With tons of water sports on site, days filled with family fun are never far away. We offer kayak and paddleboard rentals to help you explore the coast of Marathon and see the Keys from a different perspective.

Escape the cold to Marlin Bay Resort and Marina for a special winter experience. We’ve implemented health guidelines according to the World Health Organization and local government standards to provide you with a safe and secure environment.

Jump in on the latest family travel trend and take a Flexcation to the Florida Keys.

With more flexible work arrangements for adults and online classrooms for kids and college students, it’s time to make the most of this year’s unusual circumstances and plan a getaway to Marlin Bay Resort & Marina. If you missed out on your usual summer vacation or just need a great place to bring your boat and relax, we’ve got you covered.

This fall, escape the northern chill and head south to the Sunshine State. From the best rates of the year on vacation rentals and marina slips to luxury resort amenities including a year-round heated swimming pool, Marlin Bay offers something for everyone to enjoy. Sign up for family fun at the outdoor games area, enjoy a sunset BBQ overlooking the Florida Bay, or order a round of refreshments at the laid-back pool bar.

Mix business and leisure while keeping up with work and school responsibilities from our sunny spot in paradise. Our spacious three and four-bedroom vacation homes feature open layouts, private terraces, high-end décor, and luxury linens. Enjoy a change of scenery, explore local area attractions, and allow our concierge to help you arrange an exciting excursion. Modern, on-site docks provide an excellent base for fishing, diving, kayaking, and boating in our famous Florida Keys waters. Get creative and make the best of both worlds.

Calling all seafood lovers—lobster season is almost upon us! But before jumping into the deep end, there are a few things you should know. 

First, it’s one of the most anticipated events of the year. Second, if you haven’t experienced the frenzy yet, be prepared for an action-packed diving adventure. Most importantly, remember to have fun! Whether you’re doing the catching or the dining, it’s one of the most exciting events of the year. The limit is six lobsters per person per day, making each precious catch taste even more delicious. Head out on a charter or bring your own boat. Either way, make Marlin Bay Resort & Marina your home base during the summer season. The regular eight-month lobster season kicks(ed) off on August 6 and goes until March 31 each year.

Marlin Bay offers serenity in the Florida Keys, with elegant residences in a waterfront location and a private marina. 

While you’re here slipping into relaxation, consider a day trip to bustling Key West to get a taste of the more touristy side of our island chain. We’ve outlined a few must-see and must-do items to make the most of a day trip.

Key West is “the end of the road”—not just for the Florida Keys, but for the continental United States, as it’s home to the Southernmost Point. On your way to the tip of the island, there’s plenty to do. Park your car and start with an Old Town Trolley Tour to get oriented in a comfortable, open-air seat. It’s hop-on, hop-off, and covers the entire city.

At the southern end of Duval Street, check out the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where you can also spot flamingo and live caterpillars.

Literary and history fans will love the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where descendants of Hemingway’s own cats still linger. Another historic home has a draw: the grand, well-preserved Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, where a wealthy ship captain lived in the 19th century amidst lush gardens.

Top off the afternoon with something sweet: Blue Heaven on Thomas Street is a must for a slice of their huge Key Lime pie.

End your day at the world-famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square with vendors and live entertainment, including artists, musicians, acrobats and, of course, The Cat Man and his trained cats. It’s a Keys rite of passage, and might just be the number one thing to do in Key West!

This summer, take a road trip that ventures to the very edge—all the way to the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States (a great place for a photo!). 

Just about an hour away from Marathon, it’s the perfect day trip to launch from a soothing sojourn here at Marlin Bay.

You’ll already have arrived in Marathon from mainland Florida via the one-of-a-kind Seven Mile Bridge. By heading out on an adventure to the end of the Florida Keys, you’ll completely traverse one of the most famous and historic highways in America that consists of 128 miles and 42 bridges.

As you travel down to Key West from Marlin Bay – there’s plenty to stop and see along the way.

Big Pine Key is filled with nature, from freshwater ponds with alligators to our world-famous miniature Key deer. Go for a dip and sunbathe at Bahia Honda State Park, which is one of the most attractive stretches of sand on our island chain. Grab some grub and a refreshing drink at No Name Pub, "a nice place if you can find it." The kids will love a stop at the Sheriff’s Animal Farm just before you arrive in Key West: they can check out rescued emus, pot-bellied pigs, ferrets, alpacas, tortoises, and even sloths.

Safe travels...see you in the Keys!

Going for a long, scenic drive can be such a breath of fresh air. Traveling to Marlin Bay in the Florida Keys is a memorable experience you will love. We’ve put together a little itinerary for a road trip from mainland Florida to Marathon on historic US1. 

It’s one of the most unique drives in the country—you’ll have to see it for yourself.

US1 transforms into the Overseas Highway once you leave the Southern Glades. A first stop can be found at Key Largo, where John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park provides an expansive natural area for stretching your legs and exploring local ecology. You can even snorkel there.

Onward to Islamorada, where you’ll find the Florida Keys History of Diving museum, which exhibits evidence of humanity’s journeys under the sea over the past 4,000 years. Stop for a jump in the sky-bright tidal flats at Anne’s Beach, and let the kids play in the mudflats.

Islamorada also boasts a local artists’ village, signaled by a giant crustacean: a very photogenic, enormous red lobster statue. Go for a little artisanal shopping before arriving at Marlin Bay Resort & Marina in Marathon.

When it comes to charter fishing, the Florida Keys are exceptionally fortunate. Year-round, there is a “targeted fish” to be found in our waters—or a fish most likely to be caught at the time of year. This makes planning a future fishing trip exciting, no matter what month you select.

While many species of fish can be caught in our warm oceans during any time of the year—even when they’re “out of season” in other places—there are certainly months that are ideal for one species over another. If you’re into fresh tuna steaks, for example, come see us during the autumn months, or again in March and April.

The summer months happen to be excellent for catching mahi-mahi, grouper, barracuda, and swordfish. It’s also a decent time for Bonita and blackfin tuna.

One advantage of our Marathon location is that we’re right in the center of the Florida Keys, with shortened travel time to any location by boat compared to locations at the ends of the chain of islands. A local charter company can advise on the best time of day for fishing, and the secret spots for ensuring a catch.

A charter fishing calendar can serve as a menu of sorts. Pick your favorite fish, and plan that future trip.

Now in its 44^th year, the Original Marathon Seafood Festival is the Keys’ premier annual gathering for fresh seafood and live musical entertainment.

On Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15, over 20,000 people will pour into Marathon Community Park to indulge with family and friends in delicious, local seafood, ice-cold beers, frozen cocktails, and more. Browse over 220 vendors selling nautical gear, home décor, clothing, toys, jewelry, and many handcrafted items by local artists and artisans. Marvel at, and perhaps even purchase, one of the many boats or engines on display at the boat show. Kick back to the cool stylings of live musical acts performing throughout the weekend in a range of genres, including rock, country, reggae, and others. This seafood and music extravaganza isn’t just for adults, either. In addition to all the other fun, you'll find plenty of rides and games to entertain your little ones throughout the festival.

Address: 200 Ocean, 36th St, Marathon, FL 33050

Since the day we opened, Marlin Bay Resort and Marina has had just one objective: to provide the very best in luxury travel accommodations and services to guests who want to enjoy all that’s made The Keys a top international vacation destination. 

With our luxurious three-story residences and a marina that’s second-to-none, boating and fishing enthusiasts are consistently thrilled by our 74 rental slips, expert dockmaster and team, and boutique resort amenities. When you tell us what you want and how we’re doing, we listen, and we couldn’t be more pleased by what you’ve had to say.

“We loved our stay at Marlin Bay,” writes Josie, who visited from Milwaukee just last month. “The property and location are beautiful, and the staff were very warm and welcoming! … We will definitely be coming back again soon!”

“This is by far the best place to stay in Marathon. Hands down!” exclaims Shay, from Charleston, SC. “Everyone is so kind that works there. … My crew went spearfishing, regular fishing, snorkeling on a gorgeous reef, and spent a few days catching lobster. We then cooked all our catches on the grills [Marlin Bay] provided. EPIC in every way.”

Another recent visitor was blown away by the dedication of our staff: “From the moment we pulled into the marina, we were greeted and assisted by Brian. Check-in with Barb was a breeze and so welcoming! All week the dockmasters Brian and Jose assisted us with all our needs at the marina. Great mojitos at the Latitudes Pool Bar. Everyone at the resort exceeded our expectations!”

At Marlin Bay Resort and Marina, we take great pride in a job well done. We can’t wait to give you the best boutique resort and marina vacation you’ve ever experienced! 

With 74 boat slips and a dedicated staff of seasoned pros, our private marina makes Marlin Bay Resort the Keys’ top vacation destination among elite boating and fishing enthusiasts. Here are some helpful tips on where to go in Marathon to find all the things you’ll need for a successful fishing expedition.

1. First, the basics—hooks, lines, sinkers, lures, nets, and other essentials. For all the top-notch tackle and gear, head to any one of these trusted Marathon shops:
- Marathon Bait & Tackle, 3740 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-2248
- Big Time Discount Bait & Tackle, 11499 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-0199
- The Tackle Box, 1901 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-0540

2. Now that you’ve got your gear in order, you’re nearly ready to set out. The final item to add to your arsenal is a trove of live bait:
- Big Time Discount Bait & Tackle, 11499 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-0199
- Captain Hook’s Marina & Dive Center (11833 Overseas Hwy) 305-743-2444
- Marathon Bait & Tackle, 3740 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-2248

3. What if something goes wrong with your boat’s motor or navigational equipment? Not to worry. In Marathon, there’s no shortage of highly-skilled outboard/inboard mechanics and purveyors of state-of-the-art electronics:
- Marathon Boat Yard, 2059 Overseas Hwy, (305)735-4594
- Shelter Bay Marine, 77 Coco Plum Dr, (305) 743-7008
- S.A.L.T Services, Inc., 2992 Overseas Hwy, (305) 289-1150
- Florida Keys Diesel / All Keys Diesel, 531 107th St, (305) 289-2070

4. When its time to fuel up, you have several great dockside options for both gas and diesel:
- Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, 1996 Overseas Hwy, (305) 743-1234
- Marathon Marina & Boatyard, 1021 11th St Ocean, (305) 743-6575
- Captain Hook’s Marina & Dive Center, 11833 Overseas Hwy, (305) 743-2444
- Pancho’s Fuel Dock & Supplies, 1280 Oceanview Ave, (305) 743-2281

5. Finally, once you’ve made your catch, you’ll want to avail of yourself of the “Hook and Cook” services at one of Marathon’s many wonderful restaurants. These are some of our favorites:
- Sparky’s Landing, 13205 Overseas Hwy, (305) 363-2959
- Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, 1406 Oceanview Ave, (305) 743-6247
- Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, 3660 Overseas Hwy, (305) 743-5516

If you’ve ever spent time in the small towns of the American heartland, you probably know the pleasure of savoring a scoop of handmade ice cream at the local ice cream parlor or selecting the perfect pastry made fresh that morning at the bakery on the square.

Here in Marathon, you don’t have to trade the glistening sands of our tropical paradise for that heartland charm. Head over to Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop, a popular mom-and-pop café where you can indulge in a variety of fresh homemade cakes, cookies, candies, cupcakes, and pies, plus two dozen flavors of ice cream made right in the shop. Just five minutes by car from Marlin Bay Resort & Marina, the one-of-a-kind café is a must for anyone who has a sweet tooth. As an added bonus, Sweet Savannah’s charming décor and its delightful selection of children’s books and toys make it a doubly great stop for families out on a day of exploration in Marathon.

Address: 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

From kayaking to kiteboarding, from snorkeling to scuba diving, there are plenty of ways to see the Florida Keys both above water and below. But how about a bird's-eye-view?

We’ve got the perfect tour company for you. From November through April, Coastal Biplane Tours carries countless lucky travelers up to the sky and back to the past for a thrilling open cockpit adventure that abounds with breathtaking panoramic views of the islands and plenty of sure-to-be iconic selfies. Your pilot, Phil Ulrich, is one of the friendliest, most seasoned professionals ever to fly the North American skies, with over 39 years of flying experience, 25,000 hours of flight time, 40,000 highly satisfied customers, and a lifetime love of aviation. All tours depart from and return to the Marathon Airport, just a quick seven-minute drive from the Marlin Bay Resort & Marina.

Address: Marathon Airport, 9400 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL

The waters surrounding the Florida Keys constitute one of the most wondrously complex ecosystems in North America. Unfortunately, human development often troubles the delicate balance of nature, which can endanger the Keys’ vibrant sea life.

Since 1986, the Turtle Hospital of Marathon has rehabilitated and released more than 1,500 sea turtles. If you’d like to gain greater insight into the challenges these gentle sea creatures face, we highly recommend checking out this fascinating facility. You’ll get to observe the turtles up close as friendly, expert staff introduce you to many different species, including greens, loggerheads, and Atlantic ridleys. You’ll also learn about the cutting-edge techniques the hospital employees for treatment and rehabilitation, and you’ll even get a chance to feed the turtles. Best of all, your admission fee will help fund the hospital's many efforts to treat, rehabilitate, and protect the sea turtle population of the Florida Keys. Guided tours run every day on the hour starting at 9 A.M., with the last tour beginning at 4 P.M. Reservations are strongly recommended. To book your tour, call the Turtle Hospital at (305) 743-2552.

Address: 2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

If you’d like to explore the marine life of the Keys up close in a fun and informative environment, we highly recommend checking out Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters during your stay with us.

Based at the Florida Keys Aquarium & Conservation Center, just a seven-minute drive from our resort, Aquarium Encounters offers both guided aquarium tours and a range of more unusual aquarium activities. At the Stingray Encounter, you’ll not only swim among the gorgeous gliding creatures; you’ll even be able to invite a trained stingray to sit on your lap. The Coral Reef Snorkel Encounter will give you a chance to explore the delightfully varied assortment of strange and wonderful animals in the unique coral reef immersion tank. The Big Shark Bay Encounter might sound scary, but in fact, it’s a very safe way to experience the aquarium’s amiable collection of nurse sharks as an expert marine biologist explains just how the aquarium staff goes about training these slow-moving members of the shark family. Private aquarium tours are also available.

Address: 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

When you think of the Florida Keys, you probably imagine pristine beaches, crystal clear water, and maritime adventures. And though it’s true that we do specialize in the pleasures of the sea, there’s one spot in Marathon that’s sure to lift your imagination up into the clouds.

One of the finest small museums in the Keys, the Marathon Air Museum is run by a chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association and housed on the north side of the Florida Keys Marathon Airport. During your visit, you’ll journey through the history of aviation as you marvel at a variety of aircraft from different time periods, plus an impressive array of memorabilia and equipment related to air travel past and present. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 A.M. – 4 P.M. and Sunday from 1 – 4 P.M. Guided tours are available.

Address: 9850 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Since at least the 1960s, when the popular TV series Flipper debuted on NBC, Americans have been in love with dolphins. Though the show is set in Key Largo, the best spot in the Keys to learn about and play with dolphins is actually located in Grassy Key, just a short 15-minute drive from the Marlin Bay Resort & Marina.

The Dolphin Research Center is a state-of-the-art research and rehabilitation facility dedicated to promoting the welfare of bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. The center endeavors whenever possible to release its marine mammal residents back into the wild, but roughly half the permanent population of the center cannot be returned to the open ocean, as the creatures would not survive, and the other half were born at the center. During your visit to the facility, which is open daily from 9 A.M. – 4:30 P.M., you’ll learn all about the dolphins and sea lions from the center’s friendly and expert staff. You’ll also have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. The animals are never forced to do anything, however, so the timing of direct dolphin encounters varies from day to day.

Address: 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, FL 33050-6019

One of the nation’s most beautiful and ecologically diverse travel destinations, the Florida Keys offer seemingly endless opportunities for adventure. If you’re looking for a fun, new way to explore the natural splendor of the Keys during your stay with us, consider checking out AquaVentures Eco Tours, Marathon’s premier provider of kayaking tours for the whole family.

Whether you’re a total novice or an advanced kayaker, AquaVentures will customize the ideal adventure just for you. Tours can accommodate up to six guests and are led by friendly, professional guides who are eager to share their extensive expertise as they introduce you to the astonishing variety of flora and fauna native to our tropical paradise. Take a relaxed 1-hour tour on the Mangrove River, or opt for the extended 3-hour tour for a more challenging journey around the Keys and into the mangrove swamps.

Address: 1 Knights Key Blvd, Marathon, FL 33050

The Crane Point Museum, Nature Center, and Historic Site is a 63-acre preserve nestled inside the Marathon shopping district. An absolute must-see for anyone visiting Vaca Key, Crane Point includes a Museum of Natural History, a Children’s Museum, the Marathon Wild Bird Center, and the George Adderley House.

The Museum of Natural History is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute and features stunning exhibits on Native-American inhabitants, early European explorers, and the ecology of the Keys. The Children’s Museum provides various interactive displays that let kids get up-close (and sometimes hands-on) with fish, rays, crustaceans, and even a nurse shark! The Marathon Wild Bird Center is a research institute and clinic that specializes in rehabilitating injured birds and educating the public about these majestic creatures. The George Adderley House (a.k.a., the Bahamian House) is a historic museum constructed as a home in 1903 by George Adderley, who had emigrated from the Bahamas. The Adderley House is the Keys’ only extant “tabby house.” And of course, the extensive nature trails and botanic gardens make Crane Point the perfect place to lose yourself in the natural splendor that makes the Keys a paradise on earth.

Address: 5550 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Head west from the Marlin Bay Yacht Club, and you’ll quickly come across a bridge. Crossing it, though, takes considerably longer; but you’ll want to take your time. The Seven Mile Bridge is as much a part of Florida as the keys which it spans. 

Officially opened in 1912, it originally operated as part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad before making way for a new road bridge in 1982.

While it no longer handles the bulk of traffic, the old bridge still stands, easily visible from its newer counterpart. It’s a piece of local history, and holds a special place in Keys culture; it’s withstood numerous hurricanes and has appeared in the “James Bond” and “Fast and Furious” movie franchises.

Nowadays, the old structure is open to pedestrians, and once a year, the new bridge closes for the 7 Mile Bridge Run. Regardless of when you visit, be sure to make the trip across; whether you stroll or jog, cycle or drive, it’s bound to be a memorable experience.