When the combination of value for money, amenities, and convenience is just right, a good resort can be the factor that takes a trip from average to epic. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo like me, with the family, or a couple of friends. If you’re looking for the best resort in Key Largo, I’ve got you covered. In this post we are taking a closer look at the details as I share my review of the Reefhouse Resort and Marina (formerly Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort.) Of course, if you have any questions, just let me know.
A Look At The Best Resort In Key Largo For Relaxation AND Adventure
Disclaimer
There are affiliate links included in this post. This means at no extra cost to you, I earn a commission if you book through the link.
FAQ for the Reefhouse Resort and Marina
Where is it located?
Key Largo, Florida.
What is the price range?
Mid-range.
Who is it good for?
Solo travelers, families, friends trip, all inclusive relaxation.
How to book?
You can book your stay through Booking.com here.
Highlights
Sandy beach, pet-friendly, location, activities, and amenities.
The rooms and resort
I’ll start with the basics to give you an idea of what to expect at the resort.
The rooms are standard for what you would expect at a resort. It was all clean, comfortable, and had everything you need for a relaxing vacation.
The only thing I think it was missing (especially for the more expensive rooms) was a robe because donning a fluffy, white robe is a special part of the vacay experience. I think for the price you pay for the rooms it’s not too much to ask.
But that’s really all I can think of that it was lacking. Otherwise, a very comfortable and relaxing place to stay.
If you can get a room with a Bay View, it’s well worth it!
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Across the board, all the staff from housekeeping, to front desk, to watersports team, and bar staff were all super helpful and created a warm, welcoming vibe. It really makes a difference when you’re traveling and I can’t speak enough good things about their customer service.
If you forget anything or want a souvenir, you can stop by the Sandy Dreamz Boutique store on site. They have a cool range of local goodies.
By the store there’s another cool feature, especially if you have kids, which is a free games area.
There’s a coin laundry area and the front desk can swap notes for change and sell single serve laundry detergent.
Games area
Water sports and activities
This is one thing that made the trip epic for me.
Pirates Cove Watersports is located on the resort, which means you have easy access to all sorts of activities and tours that you can conveniently charge to your room.
I took 2 snorkel tours and a sunset tour which were all fantastic. You can also rent paddle boards, wave runners, take a scuba diving tour or go parasailing so there is a lot to do. Best of all, it’s only a few steps from your room.
If you enjoy snorkeling, I definitely recommend taking a snorkel tour with them because once you get out to the reefs it’s an incredible experience. The water around the hotel is grassy, mangrove heavy and green, while the water further out is that beautiful electric blue that you are not going to want to get out of.
Depending on the conditions, you might be animal spotting in the reefs, swimming over shipwrecks, or even spotting the underwater statue of Jesus.
If you don’t have snorkel gear with you, they have some available to rent as well as underwater cameras.
Quick selfie on the sunset tour
One of the highlights of the snorkel tour
It’s got the best beach in Key Largo
Interestingly, you won’t see long stretches of sandy beaches in Key Largo. It’s just not built that way.
Instead, you’ll notice more coral and mangrove shorelines.
If you want that sandy beach feeling though, the Reefhouse Resort and Marina is your best bet because they have a beach area on site.
Another perk is that it’s stocked with lounge chairs, hammocks, shaded areas, and a pool bar right by it – hello frozen cocktails by the beach! The calm water in the bay is great for kids and leisurely floating, but there’s also a pool right behind the beach if you prefer that.
It’s also a fantastic place to watch the sunset at the end of the day.
Food at the Reefhouse Resort and Marina in Key Largo
I love seafood so the food in Key Largo was awesome for me.
While you’re there, I recommend stopping by Gus’ Grille for dinner.
As with most resorts, it’s a little pricier than the food you will get outside the resort. I don’t mind this because you get the convenience which comes in handy on big adventure days or when you arrive and are a bit tired from the travel day.
The only thing I don’t appreciate is when the resorts hike the prices up and the quality of the food is substandard. This wasn’t the case here though because the food was delicious and portioned well for the hungry traveler!
I can definitely recommend the Pan-Roasted Shellfish which is a big serving of pasta with a lobster tail, big juicy shrimp and clams. I’d also give an honorable mention to the crab cakes and fish tacos.
If you get hungry throughout the day you can also order food to eat by the beach or pool which I appreciated.
Breakfast views from Gus’ Grille
Spa
I probably don’t need to tell you how good a spa visit is. It’ll make you feel like a new person, right?
But, I just want to let you know that if you’re looking for relaxation, you’re in the right place. There’s a spa on site with all sorts of pampering services.
I got a massage and it was so relaxing that afterward it felt like I was coming out of a multi-year coma.
Amazing sunset views
Things to do nearby
With all the amenities at the resort, you could easily spend most of your time there and still have an action packed vacation.
If you want to head out and see a little more of Key Largo, here are a few things you can do.
For food nearby, I recommend checking out The Fish House, The Lazy Lobster, and the Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe. They are all nearby and have fantastic food.
If you’re looking for some activities, I recommend taking a trip to see Big Betsy the huge lobster and artisanal shopping at Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada. Another fun day out is at Robbie’s in Islamorada where you can go kayaking among the mangroves and see lots of wildlife as well as hand feed the tarpon.
I’ve linked some detailed guides for things to do and where to eat at the bottom of this post if you’d like more information.
It’s best to have a car if you want to venture out beyond the resort. If not, Uber is common there and I never had to wait long to get a ride. There is a walking and cycling path near the resort which is nice. But if you’re in other areas like Islamorada then you are just walking on the side of the highway which is not as nice.
Other guides you might enjoy:
Here Are The Top Things To Do In Key Largo For A Memorable Trip
A Drool Worthy Guide To The Best Seafood Restaurants In Key Largo
Solo Female Travel In Key Largo + How To Plan An Awesome Trip
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