We stayed her during a weeklong vacation in the Florida Keys. True to many of our attempts at warm-weather vacations, we had rain every day except for our first day there, but we still had a wonderful experience. The hotel itself was wonderful--nice room with an extremely helpful book the owners had prepared with recommendations for activities in the Keys. Given our weather, we made good use of the book!

The hotel itself offers its own little private beach, which provided beautiful sunset views (when visible). They had free kayaks for guests, and we took the kayaks out a couple of times to the large mangrove area, and had a fun time exploring this site. We ate several meals at Chad's--a nice little restaurant within walking distance.

Our favorite experience in the Keys itself was a visit to the Sea Turtle Hospital. We're suckers for injured and abandoned animals, so the educational and visual aspects of the hospital were truly heartwarming.

Overall, we would certainly stay again at this hotel on a return trip to the Keys. The owners were so nice and friendly, and we loved the cozy, out-of-the-way feel.

W just had a wonderful stay at Island Bay Resort over Thanksgiving. A very comfortable room (we traveled with two young kids, so we had connecting rooms 9 & 10 which worked out perfectly). A short stroll down to the private beach was heavenly, as were watching the beautiful sunsets each night! Mike and Carol are wonderful hosts, always willing to help with suggestions of any kind. We also enjoyed taking one of their kayaks out to explore the bay. Overall, just a wonderful experience at a wonderful place!

There are huge resorts you can stay in on the Keys, and at the other and better end of the spectrum there is tiny and beautiful Island Bay Resort.
It's simple really, nine or so little cottage rooms with little kitchens, very nicely furnished and all with sitting out/eating al-fresco space. At the end a lovely little private beach complete with pet cats and iguanas and from time-to-time a passing egret. Kayaks you can use for free. Loads of loungers and easy chairs.
We were only there two nights, so the first night we stocked up at the market down the road, and ate out. But that was it, after that we didn't stir out of the grounds until we had to check out.
The owners were friendly and helpful when we checked in, and then left us to our own devices unless we approached them with a question or request. Great.
It was November, but the sun shone and the water was warm enough for a quick swim (me) or a long snorkle (other half).
Loved it.

We took a chance at this resort after seeing the reviews and are SO glad we did. We prefer to stay in smaller, unique hotels and this was one of the best we have found. The rooms are spotless, the grounds well manicured, and the personal service is superior. Several reviewers cited road noise as an issue, but we did not find it distracting at all. We explored the Keys on day trips and by day's end we were looking forward to heading back to watch the gorgeous sunset and enjoy the peace and tranquility of Island Bay. This is exactly what we were looking for - - total relaxation in a little slice of paradise! We're already making plans for next year.