Florida Keys Best Places to Stay...We Tested Paradise for You…and Here’s What Happened (plus January events in the Keys)
- Debbie Kronebusch
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
We Hope This Gives You a Little FOMO 😉
A couple times a year, we pop down to Casa Feliz to do what owners should do—check every detail, fine-tune the experience, and make sure everything is just right for the families coming next. That means the practical stuff (maintenance, repairs, making sure everything works exactly as it should)… and the fun stuff, too—new games, fresh touches, and those little upgrades that make a stay feel effortless.
Happy report: when we left, Casa Feliz was in tip-top shape and ready to welcome new arrivals.
But the real fun? That came from fully “field-testing” some of the concierge experiences offered through our wonderful property partner, Coco Plum Vacation Rentals. We packed a lot into three short days—and here’s the honest scoop.
Chef Heather is a bit of a legend in the Florida Keys—four years running as Best Chef of Marathon, and after this visit, we completely understand why. We hired her to handle every single meal, and it was hands-down one of the best decisions of the trip.
Our first night kicked off with an in-home chef-prepared dinner: beautiful appetizers, perfectly cooked prime rib, and—no exaggeration—the best Key Lime pie we’ve ever had. We also asked her to bring a bartender, which meant no one ever saw the bottom of a glass all evening.
Each morning, Chef Heather delivered a full breakfast spread that people are still talking about (those pancakes and French toast deserve their own fan club). She even prepared grab-and-go lunches for our day on the boat—fresh, easy, and delicious.
And the true luxury moment? Walking back into a spotless kitchen after every meal. No dishes. No cleanup. Just more time to relax and enjoy each other. Glorious.
Ena, the heart behind Yoga Keys, offers her sessions in Marathon—but bringing the experience directly to Casa Feliz takes it to another level.
We began with a beachside yoga session, ocean stretching out in front of us. Her flow was thoughtful and accessible, with just the right pace. She gently guided everyone toward connection—with breath, with nature, and with gratitude—which set the tone for the entire day.
From there, we moved to the pool for sound healing…floating peacefully on the water. The vibrations from the sound bowls moved through the body in the most calming, grounding way—almost like a full reset. It was soothing, restorative, and surprisingly powerful.
One of our favorite “didn’t-know-we-needed-this” moments was a paint party with Sandra Lee—right on the beach at Casa Feliz. We painted the cutest whimsical coconuts with the ocean in front of us and toes in the sand… honestly, it doesn’t get more Florida Keys than that.
Sandra brought everything: all the supplies, beautiful examples for inspiration, and step-by-step instruction that made it easy for everyone (even the “I’m not artistic” folks) to relax and have fun. The best part? Time absolutely flew. It was laughter, creativity, and quality time rolled into one—and everyone ended up with a keepsake to take home.
Under the poolside cabana, with waterfalls softly running in the background, Arlene and her assistant provided massages for four members of our group.
The setting alone was incredibly relaxing—but the feedback afterward said it all:
“The most relaxing massage I’ve ever had.”“Hands-down the best massage.”
Sometimes the simplest moments—quiet, care, and time to unwind—end up being the most memorable.
When you book Casa Feliz, a Florida Keys best places to stay, you’re not just reserving a beautiful home—you’re stepping into a fully curated escape where everything is already taken care of. If this gave you even a little FOMO, we’d love to help you plan your own stay.
🎉 Here’s What’s Happening in and Around Marathon This January
🏊♂️ Orange Bowl Swim Classic
January 3 – Islamorada
Collegiate swim teams from across the country kick off the new year in this spirited, fast-paced annual meet. It’s fun to watch and a great excuse to soak up some morning sunshine.🔗 Details: https://www.themooringsvillage.com/orange-bowl-swim-classic/
🍀 Florida Keys Celtic Festival (Right here in Marathon!)
January 10–11 – Marathon Community Park
Bagpipes, Celtic rock, Highland games, Irish dancing, local artisans, and plenty of family-friendly fun. This one always brings the community together—and it’s just minutes from Casa Feliz.🔗 Details: https://floridakeyscelticfestival.com/
👯♀️ 5th Annual Key West Chick Fest
January 14–18 – Key West
An upbeat mix of live music, wellness gatherings, boutique pop-ups, and beachside energy. Ideal for girlfriends’ outings or anyone craving that lively Key West sparkle.🔗 Details: https://www.centercourtkeywest.com/explore/key-west-events-festivals/
🎻 13th Annual Baygrass Bluegrass Festival
January 16–19 – Islamorada
Listen to world-class bluegrass musicians while surrounded by swaying palms and waterfront views. A laid-back festival the whole family can enjoy.🔗 Details: https://www.baygrassbluegrass.com/
⛵ The Southernmost Regatta
January 19–24 – Key West
Sailing pros from around the globe gather for a week of open-water competitions. Even if you’re not a sailor, the views alone are worth it—and Key West is always a fun day trip.🔗 Details: https://southernmostregatta.com/
🚤 Island Boat Show 2026
January 23–25 – Islamorada
One of the biggest marine events in the Keys, featuring boat dealers, gear, marine innovators, and on-water demos. A great option for families who love the water.🔗 Details: https://islandboatshow.com/
🎶 Mile 0 Fest
January 27–31 – Key West
A beloved Americana and Red Dirt festival with nightly shows, beach events, and warm island nights.🔗 Details: https://mile0fest.com/
5-Star Reviews of a Florida Keys Best Places to Stay ~ Casa Feliz
"Your home is BEAUTIFUL! Anything we could ever need was right at our fingertips. So much space for everyone to both spend time together, but allow quiet time to take a break. The sunrise view from the Grand Suite was dreamy every morning. That dock makes for some paradise photography. Thank you for sharing it with us."
~ Alissa & Sean, Sarasota FL
"We were able to slow down, reconnect, and savor precious time together. Casa Feliz offered the perfect setting to relax, reflect, and create unforgettable memories. This trip will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Thank you for giving us the gift of time and togetherness when we needed it most."
~ The William & Ruth Rother family, Plainview MN
Winter has a way of dragging on—but it doesn’t have to. At Casa Feliz, winter looks like morning coffee on the balcony, afternoons by the pool with the people you love most, and evenings that unfold without a single agenda in sight. This is where families reconnect without rushing, where three generations can laugh, relax, and actually be together—with space for everyone to do it their own way.
And if you’d like to elevate the experience, our concierge team is ready to handle the details, from private chefs and in-home yoga to on-property experiences that turn a great stay into an unforgettable one. If your family is craving sunshine, simplicity, and time that truly counts, our beachside oasis is ready when you are.
Looking forward to welcoming you soon!
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