This Florida Keys Eco-Resort Is a Masterclass in Barefoot Luxury

In recent years, I have explored several hidden gems along the less-traveled routes of the Florida Keys, immersing myself in its scenic beauty, snorkeling in its clear waters, and enjoying the vibrant sunrises that grace the region. My discoveries have led me to the Middle Keys, particularly Marathon, Florida, a destination that provide a tropical getaway filled with local charm and minimal stress—all without requiring a passport. Nestled behind a lush barrier of vegetation along the Overseas Highway is Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club, a premier locale that masterfully combines the allure of a quaint beach town with the sophistication of luxury hospitality.

At Grassy Flats, guests are treated to restful accommodations, attentive service, delectable cuisine, and a commitment to sustainable practices that promotes environmental consciousness throughout their stay. Heartfelt in its mission, the resort exemplifies how tourism can benefit visitors as well as the surrounding ecosystem and community.

A Boutique Resort Built Around Serenity and Sustainability

Upon my arrival, greeted by the gentle sway of palm fronds, I quickly recognized that I had discovered something special in Marathon. The resort’s verdant landscaping creates a dense, picturesque environment that occasionally feels like stepping into a Bahamian oasis.

During my stay, I resided in the Humidor House, which features rooms that open onto private balconies overlooking a tranquil beachfront retreat. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the sandy shore, gently swaying palms, and glistening tides. The room’s leather and dark-wood decor evoke the spirit of Florida's rum-running history, reminiscent of cigar lounges and speakeasies of the Prohibition era. This unique ambiance adds an elegant yet relaxing touch to the coastal experience.

The Humidor House stands as one of two adults-only accommodations on the property, complete with an exclusive pool and hot tub—an exceptional find in the Keys. I relished the serene poolside atmosphere, free from energetic splashes or cannonballs.

Spanning 50 acres, Grassy Flats boasts seven different room types, each uniquely themed to suit a variety of vacation preferences, from double rooms and king suites to multi-room condos equipped with full kitchens.

The resort prides itself on providing a luxurious retreat while adhering to eco-friendly principles. Resort manager, eco-enthusiast, and versatile entrepreneur Matt Sexton has curated chic spaces using reclaimed materials sourced from his own salvage operations and waterway cleanups. His extensive recycling program diverts thousands of pounds of waste from Florida landfills annually.

Moreover, Grassy Flats actively safeguards the Middle Keys ecosystem through a range of environmentally beneficial initiatives. Sargassum, the naturally occurring seaweed that washes ashore, is managed to protect local turtle populations and enrich the landscape. This practice is part of a dune restoration effort aimed at combating beach erosion.

"For the first time in a decade, we've had turtle nests on this beach," Sexton shared. "By planting native dunes, we've constructed access routes for the turtles, allowing easy navigation to the beach."

The property is also home to organic fruit orchards and a butterfly garden, fostering habitats for native bird species and pollinators. An essential feature is the 50,000-gallon rainwater cistern, utilized for landscape irrigation.

With numerous amenities, including pools, a sauna, cold plunge, restaurants, bars, bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards, guests can choose their pace, making it easy to engage in sustainable activities while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Water Sports, Catamaran Cruises, and a Sister Property to Explore

After a long journey, I found myself sinking into the plush king bed in my room, a welcome retreat offering tranquility and comfort at the dawn of a new day. The peaceful environment felt worlds apart from my bustling mornings at home in Maryland, where the daily cacophony of delivery trucks disrupts the peace before sunrise.

Eagerly, I prepared for a kayaking ecotour, excited for one of many new experiences awaiting me at Grassy Flats. The resort hosts the Florida Keys Watermans Company, an initiative stemmed from Sexton’s passion for water sports combined with his hospitality expertise. This on-site adventure team makes Grassy Flats a premier destination for canoeing, e-foiling, kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and more.

With my life vest securely fastened and equipped with safety tips from Sexton, I was ready to paddle into the clear waters. Beyond the limestone barriers, the current was calm, and I marveled at the visibility below, observing small shimmering fish gliding among seagrasses. As we paddled, Sexton shared intriguing insights on the history and ecology of the Florida Keys, referencing the historic railroad and the Florida Forever wildlife preserve.

Once back on solid ground, I visited Grassy Flats' sister property, The Lagoon at Grassy Key. Adorned with vibrant murals and flourishing fruit trees, this locale is a must-visit for those with an appreciation for beauty. Guests can explore this enchanting space by borrowing a bike and enjoying a brief ride.

Sexton envisioned and built this site from scratch, transforming a previously abandoned fish farm and limestone quarry into a multifunctional complex that includes a wakeboarding park. His years residing in the Lagoon trailer home played a pivotal role in shaping his modern vision.

"It was probably the most creatively enriching couple of years I've ever had," Sexton reflected. "I encourage guests to unwind and tap into that creative spirit."

He affectionately describes the Lagoon as a patchwork quilt, crafted from 15 years of recycled materials, hurricane recovery efforts, and site restoration. His former residence now serves as a restroom for patrons; what was once the old fish farm is now home to the Lagoon Saloon Surf Shop, while Bongos Cantina is designed from a shipping container and reclaimed wood. Each feature adds charming, rustic appeal, even without direct ocean views.

After an exhilarating morning, I enjoyed lunch at Bongos Botanical Beer Garden, which perfectly satisfied my appetite. I opted for the huli huli chicken—grilled chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce, served alongside rice, vibrant mango salsa, fresh avocado, and pickled red onions. Do take the time to order the Grassy Gatorade, a refreshing concoction of rum, watermelon juice, coconut water, and mint.

Post-lunch, I wandered through the botanical garden and admired the art, while Sexton highlighted the various trees, including mango, cherry, jackfruit, coconut, banana, and tamarind. I also sampled sapote, a syrupy fruit reminiscent of brown sugar. The garden murals vividly narrate Grassy Flats' story through dynamic visuals, including depictions of the resort’s resident cat, "Wilma," and Sexton's children.

The following day found me back on the waters of Florida, this time aboard a small catamaran. Sexton and the Florida Keys Watermans Company team prepared the Hobie Cats for our sailing excursion, meticulously adjusting sails and securing ropes. As we set sail, the initial smoothness soon transformed into exhilarating movement across the surf. The refreshing ocean spray and gentle winds heightened the experience, and my anticipation only grew as we approached a nearby sandbar. Here, warm, crystalline waters revealed a mesmerizing underwater world while cormorants soared gracefully above.

The lightweight catamaran relies solely on wind and water current, making it a zero-emissions way to enjoy the ocean. This sailing experience expanded my perspective on water sports, showing the effortless joy it can bring to many. Eagerly, I returned to the shore, ready to indulge in more culinary delights.

Dockside Dining, Classic Florida Flavors, and Saying Goodbye to the Keys

Grassy Flats features four distinctive on-site dining options, all dedicated to serving food at peak freshness and embodying a strong commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing practices. The fish is locally caught, while beef and chicken are farm-raised and butchered on-site.

Sexton notes that their menus cater to diverse preferences; whether craving a fresh fish sandwich for lunch or filet mignon paired with a Robert Foley red for dinner, guests can enjoy the best of both culinary worlds.

"Initially, the menu was overly formal, which didn’t reflect our true identity. While we do offer caviar and oysters, everyone appreciates a cheeseburger in paradise," he remarked.

For breakfast or lunch, the Grassy Key Land & Sea Market is the perfect spot to fuel up for the day’s adventures. I enjoyed a piping-hot sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich nestled in a flaky homemade biscuit. Coffee aficionados can find a steaming cup of fresh brew available from 6 AM. Beyond hearty fare, the market also offers a premium selection of butchered meats, freshly caught fish, beers, wines, and other kitchen staples—evoking Sexton’s childhood experiences in the family-owned deli of New York City.

Don’t miss The Palm Deck, a sophisticated rooftop bar offering small plates and expertly crafted cocktails paired with a stunning view of the blue sky. Be sure to try the felon fish dip, a delightful mixture of smoked wahoo, zesty red onion, and pickled chilis served with crispy plantain chips. For those new to conch, the Caribbean conch croquettas provide a taste explosion of minced conch encased in a crispy shell, enhanced by zesty lemon-garlic aioli. I savored a refreshing Grassy Flamingo cocktail while enjoying the lively tunes and waning sun before my final meal of the day.

Lauded as the jewel of Grassy Flats, the Rhum House features a cozy, inviting ambiance ideal for romantic moonlit dinners. With a carefully curated wine selection, exceptional entrees, indulgent desserts, and impeccable service, this restaurant has the potential to become a culinary frontrunner in the Keys. The sweet, tender stone crab claws set a new standard for freshness, while the certified Angus filet served with succulent Key West pink shrimp was nothing short of spectacular. To finish, the Key lime pie, with its ethereal meringue topping, was an immaculate sweet ending to a delightful meal.

My final experience—a sunset cruise hosted by Grassy Flats—served as a bittersweet farewell to the Keys. Sexton captained our evening journey through the Florida Bay, highlighting the Seven Mile Bridge and the Sombrero Key Lighthouse. As the sun cascaded over the ocean, I reflected on my stay. Grassy Flats is indeed a sanctuary where one can disconnect from daily life, recharge, and fully embrace new adventures. Despite my many excursions to the Keys, this trip was defined by my memorable first experiences at Grassy Flats—a destination that inspired me to step out of my comfort zone.

Getting to Grassy Flats

Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club is conveniently located a 75-minute drive from Key West International Airport (EYW) and approximately 2.5 hours from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), depending on traffic conditions. Travelers are advised to book airport rental cars in advance, as they are in high demand.