If you are planning a trip to the Florida Keys, finding the right balance between luxury and convenience is essential. Coral Lagoon Resort and Marina, located in the heart of Marathon, offers a unique experience for travelers who want to enjoy the water while staying in a comfortable, home-like environment. This resort is specifically designed for those who appreciate boating, fishing, and the relaxed pace of island life.
Visitors often choose this destination because it provides more than just a standard hotel room. It offers spacious villas paired with a full-service marina, making it a favorite for families and boating enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the location, amenities, and local attractions to help you plan your perfect getaway.
Where is the Resort Located?
The resort is situated at 12399 Overseas Highway in Marathon, Florida. Marathon is often referred to as the “Heart of the Keys” because of its central location halfway between Key Largo and Key West. This makes the resort an ideal base for travelers who want to explore the entire island chain without spending all day in the car.
Getting to the resort is straightforward. If you are flying into the area, you can arrive at the Florida Keys Marathon International Airport, which is just a few minutes away. Alternatively, many visitors fly into Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and take the scenic three-hour drive down the Overseas Highway.
The Advantage of a Marathon Location
Choosing a stay in Marathon offers several benefits over the more crowded areas of Key West. You will find a quieter atmosphere that is more geared toward families and outdoor recreation. The waters surrounding Marathon are famous for world-class fishing and diving, particularly around the nearby reef systems and the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.
Understanding the Accommodations
One of the primary reasons travelers book a stay here is the quality of the accommodations. Instead of cramped hotel rooms, the resort features individual villas that offer plenty of space for groups or families. These units are typically multi-level and designed with a coastal aesthetic that reflects the beauty of the Florida Keys.
Most villas include three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. This layout provides privacy for parents while giving children or guests their own space. The living areas are open-concept, allowing for easy transitions between the kitchen, dining area, and living room.
Key Features of the Villas
- Gourmet Kitchens: Each unit comes equipped with modern appliances, including a stove, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. This is perfect for guests who prefer to cook their own meals or prepare the day’s fresh catch.
- Private Balconies: Most villas feature private porches or balconies. These are excellent spots for enjoying your morning coffee or watching the sunset over the marina.
- Modern Amenities: Expect to find high-speed internet, flat-screen televisions, and in-unit laundry facilities. Having a washer and dryer is a significant convenience for those spending a lot of time at the beach or on a boat.
Marina Facilities and Boating
For many guests, the marina is the main attraction. The resort is built around a protected harbor that provides easy access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This makes it one of the most boat-friendly destinations in the Florida Keys.
The marina offers deep-water slips that can accommodate various vessel sizes. If you are bringing your own boat, it is important to contact the management in advance to secure a slip and confirm that your boat meets the size requirements. The protected nature of the lagoon means your vessel stays safe from the rougher waters of the open ocean.
Boating Convenience
The resort’s layout allows many guests to walk right from their back door to their boat slip. This convenience is rare in the Keys and eliminates the need to commute to a separate marina every morning. Whether you are heading out for a day of offshore fishing or a sunset cruise, having your boat just steps away is a major luxury.
Resort Amenities and Guest Services
Beyond the villas and the marina, the resort offers several amenities designed to make your stay comfortable and relaxing. The grounds are meticulously landscaped with tropical plants and palm trees, creating a serene environment from the moment you arrive.
One of the highlights is the heated swimming pool. It is centrally located and serves as a great place to cool off after a day in the sun. The pool area is surrounded by lounge chairs, providing a perfect spot for reading or sunbathing. Because the resort is smaller and more intimate than the massive hotel complexes in other cities, the pool area rarely feels overcrowded.
On-Site Services
The resort is professionally managed, ensuring that guests have access to assistance when needed. From maintenance requests to local recommendations, the staff is available to help ensure your stay goes smoothly. Additionally, the resort accepts all major credit cards, making the booking and check-out process simple and secure.
Things to Do Near Marathon
While the resort offers plenty of reasons to stay on-site, Marathon has a wealth of activities for visitors of all ages. Exploring the local area is a must to get the full Florida Keys experience.
The Turtle Hospital
Just a short drive from the resort is the world-famous Turtle Hospital. This is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the different species of turtles and see the patients currently being treated in the hospital’s tanks.
Sombrero Beach
If you are looking for a traditional beach day, Sombrero Beach is one of the best in the area. Unlike some of the rocky shorelines found elsewhere in the Keys, Sombrero Beach offers soft sand and clear, shallow water. It is a public park with plenty of parking, picnic pavilions, and restroom facilities.
Crane Point Hammock and Museum
For those interested in history and nature, Crane Point offers 63 acres of tropical hardwood trees, nature trails, and a museum. You can explore the historic Adderley House, which dates back to the early 1900s, or take a walk through the bird aviary and the touch tanks at the museum.
Dining Options in the Area
Marathon is home to some of the freshest seafood in the country. While your villa has a full kitchen, you will likely want to sample the local cuisine. Many restaurants in the area offer “cook your catch” services, where they will prepare the fish you caught that day for a small fee.
- Waterfront Dining: Several nearby restaurants offer dockside seating, allowing you to watch the boats go by while you eat.
- Local Specialties: Be sure to try the Key Lime pie, conch fritters, and Florida stone crab (when in season).
- Casual Eats: There are plenty of sandwich shops and cafes for a quick lunch between activities.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
To ensure a smooth trip, keep these practical tips in mind when planning your visit. First, because the resort is popular with boaters, it can book up quickly during peak fishing seasons and holidays. It is a good idea to make your reservations several months in advance.
Second, consider the weather. The Florida Keys are beautiful year-round, but the summer months can be quite hot and humid. If you prefer milder temperatures, the period from November through April is the most popular time to visit. However, if you are looking for better deals and fewer crowds, the late summer and early fall can be great, provided you keep an eye on the tropical weather forecasts.
What to Pack
Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sun protection. High-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats are essential for any time spent on the water. If you plan on snorkeling or diving, you may want to bring your own gear, although there are many rental shops nearby.
Conclusion
A stay at this resort offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. With its spacious villas, convenient marina access, and central location in Marathon, it provides everything needed for a memorable Florida Keys vacation. Whether you are spending your days on the water or exploring local landmarks like the Turtle Hospital, you will appreciate having a comfortable home base to return to each evening. For more tips on travel and lifestyle, feel free to explore our other guides to help you make the most of your next journey.