| check-in time: 3:00 pm. other amenities include a palm-lined pool with a waterfall, as well as a sandy beach, a tiki bar, and a picnic area offering barbecue grills. there's also a marina (fee). this relaxed oceanfront hotel on a 7-acre nature preserve is as 12-minute walk from theater of the sea marine park and 2 miles from the history of diving museum. cozy rooms offer flat-screen tvs, minifridges and microwaves, as well as whirlpool tubs and balconies. upgraded rooms add full kitchens; some have pull-out sofas or patios. parking is complimentary
Miami International Airport 1 hr 27
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park (6 min)
A former limestone quarry, this park offers trails with cross-section views of fossilized coral. Keys History & Discovery Center (6 min)
Thoughtful displays & a model depict the early culture & history of the Keys in a sleek space. Lignumvitae Key (14 min)
Ranger-guided tours showcase this tiny island's lush forest, accessed by boat or kayak. Windley Key (13 min)
Small island featuring a fossil reef geological park with a visitor center & a marine mammal park. Upper Matecumbe Key (5 min) Rain Barrel Village (3 min)
Funky, rustic spot with a big lobster outside for local sculptures, paintings, pottery & gifts. Robbie's (11 min)
Marina, pelican, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing Alligator Reef Light House (5 min)
45-acre park offering a swimming pool, splash pad, sports facilities, playgrounds & ocean access. Anne's Beach (15 min)
Dedicated to a local environmentalist, this beach features a swim area, picnic tables & boardwalk. Theater of the Sea (7 min)
Popular marine park destination for swimming with dolphins, snorkeling & shows in lush setting. Alligator Reef Light House (3 min)
Compact, unique museum with relics, exhibits & equipment showcasing the evolution of diving. Lower Matecumbe Key (13 min)
A small island with lush vegetation, sandy beaches, resort hotels & fishing charters. Harry Harris Beach and Park (15 min)
Sheltered beach & swimming area with showers, a boat ramp, barbecue areas & sports facilities. Indian Key Historic State Park (9 min)
Deserted 11-acre island with ruins of an 1800s town & reefs for snorkeling, accessible by boat. | 
