Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, Marathon, Florida in the USA / By Megan Lawton

 But while it might be populated with incredible Floridian wildlife, this slice of the sunshine state is far from busy, despite being just 90 miles south of buzzy Miami and 45 miles north of lively Key West.

Located on the Florida Keys, this hotel offers a laid-back, quiet vacation. It’s much loved by guests, recently winning a Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Award and it’s easy to see why.

Hotel

The Florida Keys resort boasts three glistening pools and a 2.5 acre private beach

From the moment you arrive at the white wood panelled entrance and enter this little paradise, any stress you’re carrying with you vanishes. The staff are friendly and welcoming with some of that famous southern charm, while the grounds of the resort are spotlessly maintained.

Then there’s the weather, which can only be described as tropical, and made enjoying the resort’s three glistening pools and 2.5-acre white-sand beach an immediate must do.

The Florida Keys aren’t short of accommodation options, but this one is perfect for families, boasting a dedicated child-friendly ‘lagoon pool’, allowing parents and their little ones to shriek and splash away without a worry in the world.

There’s also a separate private adult-only pool, plus a secluded tropical garden pool too.

For those seeking the ocean, there’s also a swimming area, neatly cordoned off from the main channel. Florida is a renowned surfing destination, which means swimming in the sea isn’t always the most relaxing experience, but that certainly isn’t the case here.

Real adventurers however needn’t fret, as access to the waves doesn’t end there. Tranquility Bay offers many on-site water sports, ranging from hiring private chartered boats to jet skis and kayaks, allowing guests to explore the surrounding coastline.

Room

Spacious Beach Houses offer panoramic views across the ocean

After all that action, guests need a place to unwind. At Tranquility Bay, there are no hotel rooms or suites, but villas, giving you the luxurious feeling of staying in your own private beach, on the famous Florida Keys.

The rooms at Tranquility Bay Resort feature white-washed walls with turquoise accents that perfectly mirror the sea. The shabby chic décor suits its beachside setting perfectly. Nothing here feels pretentious. Simple, weathered furniture stays out of the way, so the gentle ocean breeze and swaying palms take centre stage.

Our balcony overlooked the ocean, and we loved our mornings and evenings, taking in both sunrise and sunset, with a book in hand.

Food and drink

At Butterfly Cafe, the menu showcases fresh produce and beachside classics

Although guests have the option of cooking in their beach homes, I’d recommend trying Tranquility Bay’s two eateries too.

At Butterfly Café, the resort’s more formal restaurant, the menu showcases fresh produce and beachside classics. When we dined there, the catch of the day was mahi mahi, served on top of a zesty, crunchy salad with mango salsa and crispy wonton strips. You’ll also find blackened chicken on the menu alongside seafood linguine and steaks.

As you might expect, portions are generous, making it the perfect setting for a relaxed, beachside dinner.

For something more casual, head to The Tiki Bar.

The informal shack-style space sits front and centre on the sand in perfect view of both sunrise and sunset. The eatery pours tasty cocktails and serves casual dishes like hearty sandwiches, loaded tacos and vibrant salads. Don’t miss their mean key lime pie - tangy, sweet and just right for cooling off in the Florida Keys sun.

To do

From sunrise to sunset, Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort lives up to its name

It would be pretty easy not to leave the resort during a stay, but know that if cabin fever creeps in, there is much to do in the local area.

A short drive from Tranquility Bay sits two state parks, including John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can snorkel through mangroves and spot tropical fish.

Anglers should head to nearby Marathon’s offshore wrecks and the historic Seven Mile Bridge for some of Florida’s best fishing. A short walk brings you to the Florida Keys Turtle Hospital, where you can meet rescued sea turtles and learn about local conservation.

From sunrise to sunset, Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort lives up to its name. You’ll wake to dolphins and unwind to gentle waves on your private balcony.

The mix of laid back villas, friendly staff and on site amenities keeps you comfortable without feeling crowded. Whether you’re chasing adventure on the water or simply lounging by one of the pools, this resort delivers a relaxed, authentic Keys experience.

Factbox

Address: Tranquility Bay Resort, 2600 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050
Phone: +1 844-209-6758
Website: tranquilitybay.com