Isla Bella Beach Resort

"The whitewashed, Greek-inspired architecture and blue and white interiors set the tone at this family-friendly resort, opened in 2019. It's the first—and only—full-service luxury hotel in Marathon and holds claim to the largest private waterfront of any property in the entire Florida Keys. It is the total package with a large private beach, five pools, a marina, waterfront restaurants, and an outward-facing design for all 199 guest rooms and suites, such that each has its own fabulous Atlantic Ocean view." - Paul Rubio, Nancy DePalma

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What’s the vibe? We’ll forgive you for wondering if this is Marathon or the Mediterranean. The whitewashed, Greek-inspired architecture and the eye-catching blue and white interiors set a sophisticated tone at this family-friendly resort. Elegant and upscale without any trace of pretense, it is one of the Keys’ best resorts. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? Every room has an ocean view. You had us there, but Isla Bella outdoes itself with a soothing blue and white design that looks every bit like Ralph Lauren’s beach house. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? No. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? There is a Marketplace for grab and go, the Beach Bar for fresh seafood and umbrella drinks, and Mahina, a Hawaiian-inspired restaurant with stunning ocean views. And the service? Off-property fishing charters and dive boat excursions can be arranged through the concierge. What type of travelers will you find here? Isla Bella proves that family travel doesn’t mean having to shirk your sophistication. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? It’s located on Knights Key in Marathon, midway between Miami and Key West. It’s a perfect location for exploring the Keys. Is there anything you’d change? Parking is not included in the resort fee and is an additional $25 per day for self-parking, or $50 daily for valet parking. Any other hotel features worth noting? It’s the total package with nearly a mile-long private beach, five pools, a marina, waterfront restaurants, and a large spa. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? Absolutely. You’ll find European-style elegance without the sticker shock or long flight." - Nancy DePalma

"To feel like you're in Santorini, with white washed buildings and water views at every turn, Isla Bella Beach Resort on Marathon is truly transporting, too."

"Justin Nels, managing director, suggests tipping at the end of your stay, or in the moment if special services were provided." - Bailey Berg

"Isla Bella Beach Resort is in Marathon, about halfway down the chain, perched on one mile of sandy shoreline. We stayed in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom guestroom with an oceanview balcony and enjoyed sitting by firepit tables on the beach with a cocktail each evening before dining on fresh seafood at Mahina, an open-air restaurant with a Hawaiian feel. The resort has five pools, a marina with water sports, and an on-site marketplace." - Travel + Leisure Editors