92530 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida, United States | (937) 315-4602
Located right by water in secluded part of Florida Keys
Lushly landscaped and well-maintained grounds
Individual cottages are quaint and clean
Owners Mike and Carol go above and beyond for guests
Freebies include parking and use of kayaks and snorkel gear
On-site boat dock that guests can use
Swaying hammocks for relaxation and sunset watching
No food served on the property
Kitchens in rooms could use an upgrade
No on-site pool; beach isn't conducive to swimming
Deposit charged upfront
Fee-based cancellation policy
Island Bay Resort is a boutique-style beachfront property located in the Middle Keys with its own boat dock. A romantic getaway for couples and diving enthusiasts, the property features 10 tropically decorated cottages ranging from studios to two-bedrooms -- all with either full kitchens or kitchenettes. Owners Mike and Carol keep the grounds immaculately clean and well-landscaped, and provide guests with personal attention and service. Rates vary greatly depending on the season, the size of the cottage, and the proximity of the cottage to the water.
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Scene
Whimsical and romantic beach hideaway with immaculately clean grounds
Island Bay Resort is a boutique-style mid-range hotel that's located just off the Overseas Highway on one of the quieter spots in the Florida Keys. A quirky stone manatee mailbox outfitted in a pink dress greets guests at the driveway to the property. At the end of the stone drive, the office is located in a tiny mint green cottage, and inside there’s a check-in desk with two chairs and a display of brochures with information about activities in the area.
There are fewer than a dozen buildings on the property, 10 of which are the individual guest cottages surrounded by lush landscaping, private decks, and palm trees. A stone pathway leads past the cottages and out to the private beach where there are a series of tiki huts, hammocks, and Adirondack chairs facing the water, as well as a private boat dock. The owners keep the grounds and rooms immaculately clean and have green polices in place to reduce their environmental impact on the island.
Most guests who stay at this property are looking for a romantic getaway or want to experience the picture-perfect diving opportunities of the nearby reef.
Location
Nestled on a private beach in one of the more laid-back islands in the Florida Keys
Located on a little-known key called Tavernier, Island Bay Resort is situated on its own waterfront beach with a boat dock. With the area known for its excellent diving and snorkeling, charters and tours are available for guests to explore the nearby reefs. Most guests find it necessary to have a car on property, as is the case for anywhere in the Florida Keys except Key West. Snapper’s Waterfront Restaurant is located about two miles north in Key Largo, while Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar is located almost 11 miles south in Islamorada. There are a number of diving shops located within a few miles of the hotel as well.
Rooms
10 cozy beach cottages with eclectic tropical decor and kitchens
Each cottage is completely different at Island Bay Resort -- both in decor and size. Spaces range from studios to two-bedrooms, and the price varies depending on size and proximity to the water. The cottages run perpendicular to the beach, with Number 1 being closest to the water and Number 10 being closest to the road. Decor is beach-y and eclectic, and rooms feature original photography by the owners. Each space has either a kitchen or a kitchenette and appliances are sufficient, but could use an upgrade. Units have private terraces, some with their own barbecue grills.
Features
No pool, but located on a private beach with boat dock
Island Bay Resort has its own private beach that’s dotted with umbrellas, lounge chairs, and hammocks tied between palm trees. There’s no pool and the beach is not ideal for swimming because of seagrass, rocks, and boat docking. (Guests with boats are more than welcome to park at the dock.) The beach is a great place to take out the free kayaks and snorkel gear available on the property. There are fishing and diving charters available as well.
