DISCOVER PARADISE AT THREE WATERS RESORT & MARINA

As I arrived at Three Waters Resort & Marina, the newest addition to the Islamorada Resort Collection, I was immediately swept into the laid-back luxury of the Florida Keys. Located in the heart of Islamorada—the Sport Fishing Capital of the World—this upscale resort offers an incredible mix of engaging programming, dynamic culinary destinations, and captivating design. From its chic guest rooms to waterside adventures, Three Waters is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience to savor.

Stepping into the resort’s modern lobby, I was struck by its design—coral stone, lush greenery, and an open layout that reflected the natural beauty of the surrounding mangroves. The Rum Library, a collaboration with Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, immediately caught my attention. Sampling locally made spirits as I checked in felt the perfect way to ease into vacation mode.

The resort features 214 island-inspired guest rooms, blending warm sandy tones with vibrant blues and corals reminiscent of the surrounding waters and sunsets. My room felt elegant and cozy, with thoughtful touches celebrating the Keys’ unique charm. For those seeking extra privacy, The Cove—a resort-within-a-resort, recently opened in 2024—offers king rooms, suites, and access to a private beach lagoon and pool.

One of the highlights of my stay was the incredible dining. With nine unique concepts, Three Waters has something for every palate. Here are just a few that stood out to me:

After checking in and settling into our room at the Three Waters Resort, we started our stay with a quick, light, and healthful bite at The Cove’s Hideaway. The casual yet inviting atmosphere made it the perfect spot to unwind after our journey.

On our first night, we had the privilege of dining at Kindler Restaurant. Though its official opening isn’t until early 2025, I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek—and a taste. The experience was nothing short of spectacular, with the highlight being their live-fire cooking. The wood-grilled seafood tower and Portuguese Piri Piri chicken were absolutely unforgettable. To top it off, the chef prepared freshly caught fish fresh caught from an afternoon fishing trip, making the meal truly personal and memorable.

The next morning, after a restful night, we headed to Mercado Morada for breakfast. The combination of fresh tropical fruit, creamy Greek yogurt, and homemade granola was exactly what I needed to kickstart the day.

For lunch and afternoon cocktails, we found ourselves at the iconic Tiki Bar. Famous as the birthplace of the original Rum Runner cocktail, the bar has been reimagined with mid-century flair while maintaining its rich history. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates local charm and culture.

On our second evening, we were in the mood for something lighter and discovered Little Limón, perched just above Mercado Morada. With breathtaking 270-degree ocean views, this raw bar was an absolute delight. The menu, featuring fresh ceviche, crudos, and oysters, was a perfect complement to the stunning surroundings.

The next morning, after sleeping in, we were ready for an early lunch with a roaring appetite. I couldn’t resist the Islander pizza—a unique and delicious blend of white sauce, Scotch Bonnet heat, and fresh conch. It was the perfect prelude to a sunny afternoon by the beachside pool.

We spent the afternoon soaking up the sunshine at the resort’s scenic beachside pool and Kokomo Bar. Relaxing in the water with one of their signature cocktails from the Keys’ only swim-up bar was a true highlight of the trip. It felt like the epitome of a perfect, relaxing vacation.

On our final day, just before heading to the airport, we couldn’t leave without one last indulgence—a stop at Lucky Twist, the beachside ice cream shoppe. A sweet treat by the water was the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable stay.

Whether I sought relaxation or adventure, the resort delivered on every front. As someone passionate about being on the water, I found the marina to be nothing short of a paradise. With the deepest channel in the Upper Keys, it boasts 72 slips, fishing charters led by seasoned captains, and even a convenient boat valet service.

Another highlight of my visit was participating in the “Fish Like a Local” class, an immersive experience that taught everything from fly casting to lobstering. This hands-on activity deepened my appreciation for Islamorada’s vibrant fishing heritage. Later, I challenged myself with paddle cast-and-catch lessons, which combined the thrill of fishing with the balance and focus of stand-up paddleboarding—an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

While exploring the resort, I discovered the BOTE House at La Siesta Resort & Villas, a sister property within the Islamorada Resort Collection. This watersports hub is a testament to the BOTE brand story, which began with founders Corey and Magda Cooper’s passion for water and their vision for a better paddleboard. Inspired by the laid-back, water-centric lifestyle in Destin, Florida, they set out to create a board that was stable enough for fishing, stylish, and easy to use. With just $7,000 from their cashed-in 401K, the Coopers left their successful careers behind to launch BOTE, which has since become synonymous with innovation in premium paddleboards, kayaks, and water accessories.

The BOTE House at La Siesta Resort is one of a handful of exclusive locations worldwide where guests can fully embrace the BOTE lifestyle. Destinations like Destin, where the brand originated, offer similar hubs for water enthusiasts. At the BOTE House, I paddled out into the calm waters, experiencing firsthand the exceptional quality and fun that define the brand. These unique locations combine state-of-the-art equipment with stunning natural surroundings, creating unforgettable adventures for anyone who loves life on the water.

Throughout the property, I noticed the attention to detail in the thoughtful design. From coral stone and mangrove-inspired vegetation to the palette of sandy neutrals and ocean blues, every element felt like an homage to the Keys. The resort’s three pools offered something for everyone—family-friendly fun, peaceful seclusion, and a swim-up bar for ultimate indulgence.

At night, I enjoyed seasonal events like live music and themed culinary experiences. Families and couples alike will find programming tailored to their needs, whether it’s a kids’ activity or a romantic sunset cruise.

Three Waters Resort & Marina offers more than just a Florida Keys getaway—it provides a rare and unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the spirit of Islamorada. From luxurious accommodations and diverse dining options to curated adventures like the exclusive BOTE House experience, every aspect of this resort reflects the unique charm and vibrancy of the region. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or a mix of both, Three Waters Resort stands out as a true gem in the heart of the Keys.

For more information or to book your stay, visit threewatersresort.com and follow @ThreeWatersResort on social media. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Keys or a seasoned traveler, Three Waters invites you to discover the magic of Islamorada in style.