Coral Bay Resort

With palm trees and bright tropical flowers lining the way, the gravel roads and paths that wind through the Coral Bay Resort immediately set the tone at this humble, laid-back holiday destination. The resort is made up of several coral-colored buildings, and the atmosphere is Florida Keys through and through. There isn't much in the way of common areas -- there's no on-site restaurant, bar, or lounge -- and the lobby is small, but homey, with a kitschy vibe from the fish figurines and pictures. There's a table with free coffee and tea, and a cabinet stocked with typical tourist pamphlets. It can get a bit noisy from time to time, often from boaters docked at the resort who are enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, or from kids playing in the pool or in the lagoon. Guests here are predominantly families, a few couples, and those who are fans of fishing and boating. 

Islamorada is one of the more low-key islands in the Florida Keys, and the nearby outfitters and restaurants all speak to that fact -- there are plenty of fishing and boating outfitters, plus a decent handful of casual, family-friendly restaurants. Popular restaurants include Mangrove Mike's Cafe, a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and Lazy Days, five minutes away by car. Ziggie & Mad Dog's -- known for its steaks, chops, and local seafood -- is a 10-minute drive from the hotel as well. There are plenty of nearby attractions, including family friendly Theater of the Sea, which features dolphin and sea lion shows and is a 13-minute drive from the hotel. Long Key State Park, renowned for its fishing, is a 20-minute drive from the hotel, while the picturesque, palm-lined white sands of Sombrero Beach are about 40 minutes away by car. The History of Diving Museum features exhibits, events, and educational programming and is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Florida Keys Marathon Airport is a 30-minute drive, and Miami International will take an hour and 45 minutes to reach by car. Key West is a 90-minute drive west. 

In keeping with the hotel's humble and laid-back atmosphere, rooms are basic and clean, with dated decor like bright tropical-print bedspreads and matching curtains. Tan tile floors are set with simple light wood veneer and wicker furniture, and yellow walls are hung with faded tropical art. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioners, microwaves, and refrigerators. There are a range of rooms available, from standard motel rooms to multi-room apartments and stand-alone cottages. Larger units have full kitchens with modern appliances and a dining area. We did spot some areas that need attention, including some curtains hanging from rods in the standard room we visited, but the rooms are largely pleasant, particularly for those traveling on a budget or who need extra space for their beach holiday. Modern bathrooms have tan mosaic-tile floors, tan tile walls, and shower/tub combos plus toiletries and small vanities. Rooms also have generous patios with a table-and-chair set that are a nice spot to relax in the evening.

There aren't many features on offer at this simple hotel, and guests looking to eat or enjoy any outdoor activities like kayaking will need to head off the property. That being said, the hotel has free boat docks, a private boat ramp, and a swimming and fishing piers -- plenty of underwater life is visible in the lagoon between the piers for those who bring snorkeling gear. There is also ample trailer storage on the grounds and grills for those looking to cook outdoors. There's a heated pool on site and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.