MARINA DEL MAR RESORT AND MARINA, Key Largo

The hotel sits directly on a canal marina, a short walk from the main road. Numerous restaurants, including Subway, Doc's Diner, and The Key Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar, are within 0.5 km. The nearest beach is at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, 3 km north. Homestead International Speedway is a 39-minute drive. Miami International Airport is about an hour away by car; a rental car is the most practical transport option. The property offers free parking, and the marina area features marine life like manatees and nurse sharks that are visible from the deck.

Accommodation includes marina-king rooms with a dorm-size refrigerator (no stove), studios with fully equipped kitchens, and suites with multiple bedrooms. Some rooms feature private balconies with sea or marina views. All include air conditioning, a coffee maker (Keurig in suites), and a private bathroom. The property is older, and many units show signs of wear: broken closet doors, poorly fitting blinds, and dated bathrooms. Spacious suites with sea views exist, particularly corner rooms on upper floors. A two-bedroom suite sleeps up to 5. Standard king rooms are small and may feel cramped. Room choice directly affects comfort - requesting a recently updated or corner room is recommended.

Skippers Dockside Restaurant serves American cuisine for lunch and dinner, with vegetarian and gluten-free options, and features live entertainment. The free continental breakfast includes assorted cereals, oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches, yogurt, Danish, juice, and coffee, served on a terrace overlooking the marina. A bar is located on site. Several casual restaurants and coffee shops are within a 0.5 km walk. The on-site restaurant is considered convenient, and breakfast provides a solid start to the day.

The property features a heated outdoor swimming pool open year-round, a hot tub, and a fitness centre. The pool is large with a shallow end, sun loungers, and umbrellas, and is well-maintained. Free pool towels are available. Guests also have access to the pool and hot tub at the adjacent Holiday Inn. Diving, snorkelling, fishing, and water sports are available from marina vendors for an additional charge. There is no beach on site; the nearest beach is at John Pennekamp State Park, 3 km away.

Free private parking is available on site without reservation. Wi-Fi is free in public areas; connectivity in rooms has been unreliable and requires daily renewal at the lobby. Luggage storage is free, and there is a business centre, safety deposit box, and room service. Laundry service and fax/photocopying are available for a fee. The property has an elevator, family rooms, and facilities for disabled guests. Pets are allowed (2 dogs max per room, 14 kg or less) with a one-time $75 fee. There is no airport shuttle. Washers and dryers are on the premises for guest use.