Hotels with Boat Slips: The Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys

Bringing your boat to the Florida Keys? You’ll want a hotel that makes it easy to launch, dock, and relax. But not every hotel with a marina offers the same experience. Some are great for families with kids, others are ideal for couples, serious fishermen, or even pet owners. To help you find the right fit, we’ve organized some of the best hotels with boat slips by traveler type—so whether you’re headed to Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, or Key West, you’ll know exactly where to stay.

Best for Families with Boats

If you’re traveling with kids, convenience matters. The best family-friendly hotels in the Keys offer safe docking, easy water access, pools, and enough space for the whole crew to unwind. These options make it simple to balance time on the boat with time by the pool.

Islander Resort – Islamorada

Islander Resort stands out for boating families thanks to its guest-accessible boat slips and practical setup. The Bayside Villas are especially convenient—they offer two-bedroom, townhouse-style space with bayside pool access and slips available for rental boats. You’ll also get full access to the resort’s oceanside amenities, including beachfront areas, pools, and dining. With trailer parking on site and the marina just steps away, it’s an easy place to stay if you’re planning to be on the water often.

Skipjack Resort & Marina – Marathon

Located near Vaca Cut, Skipjack offers a central location for exploring both sides of the Keys. The marina has 54 rent slips available for guest use, and the resort features large suites with kitchenettes—ideal for families staying a few nights. After a day on the water, the pool and tiki bar offer a casual spot to relax with the kids. Not to mention their pickleball courts, beach volleyball, ping pong, bikes for rent, and more!

Reefhouse Resort & Marina – Key Largo

With 50 boat slips and a family-friendly environment, Reefhouse is a solid pick for boaters exploring the upper Keys. The marina provides power and water hookups, and the resort itself is packed with things to do, on and off the water. Guests can rent kayaks, join a dive trip, or unwind with a game of basketball before heading out for a sunset cruise. It’s a laid-back spot with easy access to the best of Key Largo.

Best for Couples or Quiet Getaways

If you’re planning a relaxed trip for two, you’ll probably want a hotel that offers a more peaceful atmosphere, without sacrificing access to the water. These hotels are great for boat owners looking to unwind between outings on the ocean.

Amara Cay Resort – Islamorada

Amara Cay has a calm, modern feel and offers dockage for small boats, up to 24 feet with shallow draft, though space is very limited. It’s a good option if you’re traveling light and just need a spot to tie up between short outings. The resort also has paddleboards and kayaks for guests, so you can still get out on the water even if you’re not bringing a boat. Quiet setting, ocean views, and an easy pace make it a solid choice for a more relaxed trip.

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina – Key West (Stock Island)

Just outside the bustle of downtown, Oceans Edge combines a quieter setting with a full-service marina that has over 100 slips, accommodating boats up to 140 feet. Slips include power, water, Wi-Fi, and access to fuel, pump-out service, dry-rack storage, and 24-hour security. It’s a solid choice if you want dependable dock access along with spacious suites, multiple pools, and on-site oceanfront dining—all in one place.

Parmer’s Resort – Little Torch Key

Parmer’s is tucked away in a quieter stretch of the Lower Keys, with dock space for smaller boats and a relaxed, old-Florida feel. The property has a mix of rooms and cottages spread across several waterfront acres, plus hammocks, a small beach, and a pool. It’s not fancy, but that’s the point—this is the kind of place where you can unplug, watch the water, and slow things down for a few days.

Best for Serious Boaters and Fishing Trips

If your idea of a perfect trip involves early mornings on the water and gear always within reach, these spots are built for you. With on-site fuel, bait, and marinas that can handle bigger boats, they make it easy to focus on what matters: getting out, fishing hard, and coming back to a place that’s ready for you.

Postcard Inn Marina & Resort – Islamorada

This well-known Islamorada resort is built with boaters in mind. The 54-slip marina includes fuel, bait, and plenty of space for larger boats. It’s also a favorite among sportfishing crews and charter captains. After a day on the water, the on-site tiki bar is a laid-back place to relax and swap fish stories. 

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club – Marathon

This resort is ideal if you need full-service dockage and want to move easily between the Atlantic and the Gulf. The marina has deepwater slips with hookups and space for boats up to 140 feet. You’ll also find a lighthouse, pool, and a harborfront restaurant that makes it easy to grab dinner without leaving the docks. It’s a practical spot, but with some charm.

Galleon Resort & Marina – Key West

Galleon is right in the mix—close to downtown Key West but equipped for serious boating. The marina has 90 slips and can handle vessels up to 150 feet. You’re steps from Duval Street, but also have access to a private beach and all the marina services you’d expect. Great if you want a full day offshore and still make it to dinner without a cab ride.

Best for Pet Owners

Boating is better with your dog on board—and these hotels make it possible to bring your pet along without hassle. They offer pet-friendly lodging as well as access to slips and water adventures.

Sands of Islamorada

Sands is a quiet, pet-friendly spot that keeps things simple and relaxed. There’s room for trailer parking, grassy areas for your dog, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to find at bigger resorts. Their boat ramp and slips are currently under construction, but they may be available soon, so it’s worth reaching out if you’re planning a trip. If you’re looking for a low-key place to stay with your pup and possibly bring the boat, Sands could be a great fit. Learn more about Boat Ramp Etiquette: Master the Spoken & Unspoken Rules here.

Marina Del Mar Resort – Key Largo

This canal-front resort is a solid pick if you’re traveling with a dog and a boat. It’s pet-friendly, has slips right out front, and offers easy access to nearby restaurants, pools, and shops. It’s a more affordable option in Key Largo that still gives you the basics, without having to leave your pup behind.

Tips for Booking a Hotel with a Boat Slip

While there are plenty of great hotels with boat slips in the Keys, the best spots can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons. If you’ve got a specific location or setup in mind, booking early gives you more flexibility and peace of mind.

Winter and spring are the busiest seasons. From December through April, the Keys are at their peak. Snowbirds, anglers, and spring break travelers all converge on the islands during this time. If you’re planning a trip during these months, it’s best to book both your room and slip at least three to four months in advance.

Summer is popular for families and boaters. June through August brings warm weather, long days, and great fishing, especially for mahi-mahi and lobster season. While it’s technically the off-season for general tourism, many hotels still book up quickly, particularly those with marina access. Aim to reserve your stay at least one to two months out.

Fall can be hit or miss. September and October are quieter months in the Keys, which can make them a great time for a last-minute trip—just keep an eye on hurricane season. Some hotels offer discounts during this time, but boat slips may have limited staffing or services, so call ahead to check availability.

No matter when you go, always confirm slip reservations directly with the hotel. Some properties list marina access but only have a limited number of slips, and not all slips are available to guests year-round. Ask about boat size limits, dock amenities (like power and water), and whether trailer parking is included or off-site.

Booking early gives you more flexibility, better prices, and peace of mind—especially if you’re bringing a boat.

Tips for Boating in the Florida Keys

If you’re planning to bring your boat down to the Keys, there are a few things worth knowing ahead of time. Conditions here can be ideal, but they can also change quickly, so it pays to prepare.

Pay attention to tides and depth: Many areas in the Keys have shallow water, especially on the bay side. Knowing your boat’s draft and checking local tide charts can help you avoid running aground, particularly when pulling into hotel marinas or island channels.

Book slips in advance: Slips fill up quickly during peak seasons. If you’re visiting during spring break, holidays, or summer weekends, call ahead to reserve a slip—even if the hotel website says “marina on site.” It’s also smart to confirm whether water, electric, or trailer parking is included.

Know the marina rules: Every hotel marina has different rules about fueling, noise, dock usage, and even overnight stays on the boat. When in doubt, check with the front desk or marina manager. It’s an easy way to avoid misunderstandings and keep things running smoothly.

Watch the weather: The Keys are famous for quick-moving squalls, especially in the afternoons. Always check the marine forecast before heading out and have a plan for where you’ll dock if weather moves in faster than expected.

Plan your fuel and supplies: Not all hotel marinas have fuel docks or tackle shops. If your hotel doesn’t, find the closest public marina where you can stock up. This is especially important for anglers or anyone planning long days offshore.

Planning the Perfect Boating Stay in the Keys

Whether you’re chasing tarpon in Islamorada, cruising from marina to marina in Key West, or just looking for a relaxing weekend with the family, staying at a hotel with a boat slip makes everything easier. The right location can cut down on travel time, keep your gear secure, and open the door to spontaneous adventures on the water.

By choosing your destination carefully, booking early, and knowing what each property offers, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth, memorable experience, on and off the boat!

Make Room for More Than Just a Boat

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Whether you’re launching from Islamorada or cruising the backcountry from Marathon, Manta Racks make it easy to bring everything you need for a full day on the water, without sacrificing space, comfort, or fun! Shop Manta Racks now.