Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina

Postcard Inn is located in Islamorada, also dubbed the “sport fishing capital of the world.” Situated directly off of Overseas Highway, this waterfront hotel has been transformed from a ‘50s-style motel into an updated mid-range resort. An impressive complex, the hotel features rooms spread out between several buildings.

The inn has updated the design in the public areas and guest rooms from Florida kitsch to contemporary nautical themes. Decor throughout the property includes dark woods, driftwood detailing, light-colored walls, and splashes of blue and green ocean hues. Guest rooms present fish art, driftwood furniture, and tropical curtains, and some rooms feature a clear view of the Atlantic Ocean or the marina. There’s also a lagoon-style pool and a neatly manicured beach with white-and-yellow lounge chairs.

Postcard Inn sits on the waterfront near Overseas Highway, with access to a marina and Whale Harbor. Most travelers to the Middle Keys find it necessary to rent a car, as restaurants and shopping are quite spread out. Located within short driving distance to the north and south, respectively, the Theater of the Sea offers aquatic shows while Robbie's Marina offers visitors the chance to feed the tarpon. Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, five minutes away, is also known to have some of the best Key lime pie around.

Rooms range from standard studios with queen beds to two-bedroom oceanfront suites with a kitchen. Spaces with the best views are located in buildings 100 or 200. Rooms have standard furnishings, plus mini-fridges, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms in some of the smaller spaces have been the subject of guests’ complaints and could use an upgrade -- some have aging bath tubs, peeling paint, and other issues asking for attention.

On-site restaurants and bars include the World Famous Tiki Bar with live music performances and happy-hour specials, the steak and seafood spot Shula's 2, and Jaws Raw Bar, with fresh oysters and a killer view. Paddleboards, jet skis, kayaks, and more are available for rent at the marina. Longer aquatic adventures can be booked through the hotel, like snorkeling trips, eco-tours, and diving. There’s a large oceanfront swimming pool on the property and a private beach with chairs and umbrellas. A bright green arcade room features games and activities for kids.