ROCK REEF RESORT, Key Largo

The resort sits directly on Florida Bay with private beach access, a concrete sunset pier, and a garden overlooking the water. It is 5 km from John Pennekamp State Park, 20 minutes from the Southern Everglades, and about 200 km (2.5 hours) from Key West. Several restaurants, a gas station, a coffee shop, and a grocery store are within a few minutes' walk or a short drive - Ballyhoo's, Denny's, an Italian restaurant, and a seafood spot are all across the street or in the immediate vicinity. The property is located right next to the main highway (Overseas Highway), so rooms facing the street are exposed to traffic noise; rooms towards the water or at the back of the property are significantly quieter. Parking is free on-site and easy, but there is no airport shuttle or public transport worth relying on - having a car is strongly recommended for getting around.

The heated swimming pool is open from 9:30 am to 7:45 pm daily, with sun loungers, umbrellas, shallow end, and pool toys provided. Complimentary beach towels are issued at the front desk. The property has a small sandy beach with easy, gradual water access that is good for wading and children. Free kayaks (one double and five singles) are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 9:15 am to 7 pm daily - guests must sign an insurance waiver and minors (13-17) need adult supervision. A paddle boat is also available. The concrete sunset pier extends over the bay, with shaded seating, and is a prime spot for watching sunsets, dolphins, and manatees. Fishing is permitted only from the end of the pier under a catch-and-release policy; swimming in the bay is allowed. There is no spa or wellness centre. The property's 2 hectares include a Bonsai garden, hammocks, picnic tables, a BBQ grill area, and outdoor furniture throughout the grounds. For snorkelling, the immediate bay area has no coral reef - a commercial boat trip 8 km offshore is needed to see reefs. There are no paddle boards on-site, but nearby rental places are available.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort. Free private parking is provided on-site with no reservation needed; a parking pass is issued at check-in. RVs or trailers must be unhitched and parked in designated areas near boat ramps - jet skis and pets are not allowed. Luggage storage is available free of charge before check-in or after check-out. Laundry service can be arranged for an additional fee. Express check-in/out is offered; check-in is strictly between 16:00 and 20:00, and check-out is at 11:00 (no late check-out allowed). The front desk is open until 20:00; late arrivals should make arrangements in advance. The property has one ADA-accessible room (Efficiency Queen, ground floor) with a concrete accessible route from the accessible parking space (46 m), accessible ramp, a bathroom with roll-in shower, grab bars, and a hand-held shower. The pool is equipped with a pool lift with seatbelt and leg support. Security features include fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and key access. A fax/photocopying service is available for a fee. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas and on balconies. The resort does not have an elevator - second-floor rooms are accessible only by stairs.