The Hammocks at Marathon

The Hammocks at Marathon is the Florida Keys at its best. The entrance road envelops you in lush tropical foliage and Caribbean music greets you at the door. The glass-enclosed lobby is impressive with its 60-foot cathedral ceilings and saltwater aquarium of a living coral reef. With so much to do on site, you might not even want to venture out. The resort is bayside with a view you’ll never forget. Admire a menagerie of wildlife, from parrotfish, tarpon and lobster in the lagoon, to egrets, herons and pelicans among the mangroves. And don’t be surprised to see an iguana perched amid the resort’s dense vegetation. Palm trees, hammocks and tiki torches dot the landscape, while a sparkling pool and hot tub invite you to relax. For a more energetic atmosphere, turn to Barnacle Barney’s, an open-air tiki bar overlooking the on-site marina. The bar offers two TVs, beer, wine, frozen drinks and a full menu. Every evening, Barnacle Barney’s hosts a “sunset celebration,” punctuated by the firing of a cannon as the sun touches the horizon. Both water sports and fishing are only steps away. You can rent kayaks, boats and jet skis on site or charter a fishing boat for a thrilling day at sea.