Casa Morada
Islamorada, Florida Keys, United States
Reviewed by
Maia Tarrant
Set in the mangroves of Upper Key's Islamorada, the most scenic part of the archipelago, this 16-suite boutique hotel is comfy, romantic, tranquil and refreshingly eclectic. As we leave the open-air reception, our feet barely touch the sand before we're in relaxation mode. Better yet, the hotel’s nooks and crannies are utterly charming: a hidden pond here, a lovers' bench there, a lone hammock at the end of the pier…
Just 90 minutes south of Miami, this 'Village of Islands' has a unique atmosphere. We spent our days snorkeling in the six-foot shallows, kayaking through dense mangroves in search of manatees, and swimming in Casa Morada's turquoise pool. Later, the resort’s island gazebo bar makes the perfect venue for cocktail-hour sundowners, after which we cycle over to the harbour for a seafood supper serenaded with live music. Nightcaps on our veranda's sheltered daybed prelude a peaceful night's sleep, lulled by distant waves. Bliss.
Just 90 minutes south of Miami, this 'Village of Islands' has a unique atmosphere. We spent our days snorkeling in the six-foot shallows, kayaking through dense mangroves in search of manatees, and swimming in Casa Morada's turquoise pool. Later, the resort’s island gazebo bar makes the perfect venue for cocktail-hour sundowners, after which we cycle over to the harbour for a seafood supper serenaded with live music. Nightcaps on our veranda's sheltered daybed prelude a peaceful night's sleep, lulled by distant waves. Bliss.
Highs
- Stunning 1.7-acre bayside location, with a wooden bridge to a private island (pool, loungers and gazebo bar); all just 90 minutes from Miami
- The hotel has a private dock and 30-foot Skipjack sailboat; snorkeling trips, sunset sails and sailing lessons are available
- Airy, spacious suites with handcrafted Mexican furnishings and modern Italian accents; generous private outdoor spaces, some with Jacuzzis
- Exceptionally efficient and friendly staff dedicated to fulfilling any request - expect a welcome drink on arrival
- Complimentary snorkelling equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, bikes and yoga
Lows
- No on-site beach, but there is a pool, plus you can swim and snorkel from the hotel’s private island
- Limited dining provisions: a light breakfast, all-day snacks and no dinner. Luckily, there are excellent restaurants nearby
- In-room décor is eclectic and relatively understated – to some, it might feel overpriced, but you're paying for the magical setting and unique atmosphere
- The breakfast veranda AstroTurf strikes the wrong note in these beautiful natural surroundings, but it keeps the sand from clumping
Best time to go
Balmy December to April is the best time to visit, and March is the most popular month in Florida with near perfect weather. Note that other parts of south Florida can be overrun during March with spring breakers but Islamorada is the most sophisticated Key and thankfully free from such high spirits. Hurricane-season runs from June/July to November, and it can get very hot and sticky from June to September.
Our top tips
This is a place to relax, take it island-slow and listen to Bob Marley, so plan for at least one full day at Casa Morada to hang out like a sloth. Due to its central Upper Keys location and homely ambiance, it is also a great base to explore the rest of the Keys. Ask for recommendations from Casa Morada’s concierge. Four nights would be the perfect length for a stay here, giving you plenty of time to chill out and discover.