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Please note that during peak season Marathon, Florida can only rent from Saturday (check-in) - Saturday (check-out) and homes are only available for 7 night minimum stays.

Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ page for Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals in Marathon, Florida Keys. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions our guests ask before and during their stay at our luxury waterfront vacation homes. Whether you’re planning your first visit to the Florida Keys or you’re a returning guest, we hope this information helps you prepare for an unforgettable vacation experience.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact our team for personalized assistance.

Booking and Policies

What are your booking conditions?

At Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals, we strive to make the booking process for your Florida Keys getaway as simple and transparent as possible. Here are our key booking requirements:

  • Primary Guest Age: The primary guest must be at least 25 years old (or active military) and must occupy the property during the entire rental period.
  • Occupancy Limits: Each property has specific occupancy limits defined in the listing, which comply with Monroe County ordinances. Please note that infants and children do count toward occupancy limits.
  • Identification Required: To finalize your reservation, you’ll need to provide (1) a driver’s license or other government ID and (2) the front and back of the credit card used for payment.
  • Transient Status: All guests are considered transient occupants under Florida law (§82.045 Fla. Stat.), with no rights to tenancy.

We recommend booking your Marathon vacation home well in advance, especially for peak season (December through April), as our waterfront properties with boat docks tend to fill up quickly.

What are your payment terms for Florida Keys vacation homes?

Our payment schedule is designed to secure your vacation rental while providing flexibility:

  • Reservation Deposit: 50% of the total rental cost is required upon booking to secure your dates.
  • Balance Due: The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to arrival, ensuring a stress-free lead-up to your vacation.
  • Late Payment: If the balance is not received by 50 days before arrival, Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals may cancel the reservation and re-list the property.
  • Payment Methods: We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or any other major credit or debit card.

When you book directly with us, you’ll avoid the service fees charged by big corporate booking sites – saving you 5-15% compared to platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

  • 61 Days or More Before Arrival: 50% refund of amounts paid, minus a $350 administrative cancellation fee.
  • 60 Days or Fewer Before Arrival: No refund of any amounts paid; no date changes or rebooking permitted.

Example: If your total paid amount is $2,000 and you cancel 61 days prior to arrival, we would refund $1,000 (50%), then deduct the $350 administrative fee, resulting in a net refund of $650.

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance here to protect your vacation investment against unforeseen circumstances like illness, flight cancellations, or weather events. Unless mandated by law (such as official hurricane evacuations), no refunds will be provided beyond what’s outlined in our cancellation policy.

How does your damage protection work for vacation homes?

To protect both our luxury properties and our guests, we have the following damage policy:

  • Nonrefundable Damage Waiver: A $45 nonrefundable damage waiver fee is included with your booking, which covers accidental, unintentional damage up to $3,000 (with no deductible).
  • Reporting Damages: Any damages must be reported immediately to qualify for coverage under the damage waiver.
  • Exclusions: The damage waiver does not cover intentional damage, gross negligence, unauthorized pets, or any violations of the rental agreement.
  • Guest Liability: If damage exceeds $3,000 or is excluded under the waiver, the guest’s credit card on file will be charged for repair or replacement costs.

Our damage waiver provides peace of mind during your stay, allowing you to relax and enjoy your Florida Keys vacation without worrying about minor accidents.

What fees or fines might apply during my stay in Marathon?

To maintain our luxury waterfront properties in pristine condition for all guests, the following fees may apply for policy violations or incidents:

Violation/Incident Fee/Charge
Smoking indoors $500
Unauthorized pet $300
Exceeding maximum occupancy $200 per additional guest (plus potential eviction)
Late check-out (without approval) $100 per hour (30-min grace period first)
Lost physical key $100
Food/drink spills on billiards table $500
Odor removal (e.g., smoke, strong odors) $500 flat rate

These fines address unauthorized or willful acts. Standard wear and tear or accidental harm up to $3,000 is typically covered by the Damage Waiver included with your booking.

Our goal is to provide a wonderful vacation experience while maintaining our properties in excellent condition for all guests to enjoy.

What is your minimum stay requirement for Florida Keys vacation rentals?

Our Marathon Florida Keys rentals typically require a minimum stay of 7 nights, with Saturday-to-Saturday bookings during peak season. During off-peak periods, we may offer more flexible minimum stays of 3-5 nights for select properties.

This allows you enough time to truly experience all that the Florida Keys have to offer – from relaxing by your private pool to exploring the area’s world-class fishing, snorkeling, and diving spots.

Please note that all of our Villa Paraiso properties are properly licensed for short-term vacation rentals with appropriate minimum stay requirements, ensuring a smooth and legal vacation experience.

What is your hurricane policy for Florida Keys vacation homes?

Hurricane season in the Florida Keys runs from June 1 to November 30. Our hurricane policy is as follows:

  • Mandatory Evacuation: If local authorities issue an evacuation order for the rental area, you may receive a prorated refund of unused nights if you do not have travel insurance.
  • No Other Weather Refunds: Inclement weather or flight cancellations outside official evacuation orders are not grounds for a refund; travel insurance is strongly recommended.
  • Force Majeure: In the event of Acts of God (including fire, flood, earthquake, storm, hurricane, or other natural disaster), war, invasion, pandemic, epidemic, government-ordered shutdown, or any other cause beyond reasonable control, you may rebook for a future date within 12 months, subject to availability and any rate differences.

Your safety is our priority, and we monitor storm developments closely during hurricane season. The Florida Keys have excellent emergency management systems in place, and mandatory evacuations are rare but taken very seriously when issued.

Many of our repeat guests enjoy visiting during hurricane season (June-November) to take advantage of lower rates, fewer crowds, and the excellent fishing that this time of year offers. With proper travel insurance, you can book with confidence even during hurricane season.

What happens if I need to dispute a charge?

Per Florida Innkeepers Statute (§ 509.151 Fla. Stat.), disputing a valid charge after occupying the property may be considered a felony. All concerns must be handled via Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals’ grievance, arbitration, or legal process.

If you have any concerns about charges, please contact us directly at info@paraisovacationrentals.com or (786) 348-1396 so we can address your concerns promptly and appropriately.

As a local, family-owned business, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing and excellent customer service. We’re committed to resolving any issues quickly and fairly.

Arriving at Your Marathon Waterfront Vacation Home

What are the check-in and check-out times for your Florida Keys rentals?

Check-in time for all Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals properties is 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Check-out time is 10:00 AM Eastern Time. These times allow our cleaning staff to thoroughly prepare the property for incoming guests, ensuring you arrive to a spotlessly clean vacation home.

Upon arrival, you’ll find your Florida Keys vacation rental ready with fresh linens, towels, and starter supplies to begin your vacation immediately. Many of our properties feature welcome amenities to help you settle in and start enjoying paradise right away.

What if I need to check-in early or check-out late from my Marathon rental?

We understand that travel schedules don’t always align perfectly with standard check-in and check-out times. Early check-in (between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM) may be available for a fee of $75, and late check-out (between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM) may be available for a fee of $75. Both are subject to availability and must be arranged at least 72 hours in advance.

Please note that unauthorized late check-outs will incur a fee of $100 per hour (with a 30-minute grace period). If you need to arrive earlier or depart later, we’re happy to suggest local attractions or restaurants where you can spend your time comfortably.

Our local team can provide recommendations for storing luggage or enjoying Marathon while waiting for check-in, such as visiting Sombrero Beach or enjoying lunch at one of our waterfront restaurants.

Luxury Amenities in Our Florida Keys Vacation Homes

What amenities are included in your Marathon vacation rentals?

Our luxury Marathon vacation rentals come fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable Florida Keys getaway. Standard amenities in all properties include:

  • Fully equipped gourmet kitchens with modern appliances
  • High-quality linens and towels
  • High-speed Wi-Fi internet
  • Smart TVs with cable/streaming services
  • Washer and dryer
  • Air conditioning and ceiling fans
  • Outdoor living spaces (patios, decks, or balconies)
  • Gas or charcoal grills
  • Beach towels and basic beach equipment
  • Starter supplies of paper products and toiletries

Premium properties may also feature private pools, hot tubs, boat docks, outdoor kitchens, and other luxury amenities. Each property listing details the specific amenities available.

Unlike cookie-cutter hotel rooms, our vacation homes offer spacious living areas where your group can gather together, as well as private spaces to retreat when you need some quiet time. Many of our properties feature stunning water views that you can enjoy from your private deck or pool area.

Do your Florida Keys properties have pools? Are they heated?

Many of our Marathon waterfront rentals feature private pools, offering the perfect place to cool off after a day of Florida Keys adventures. Each property listing specifies whether a pool is available.

Pool heating is available for an additional fee:

  • Pool Heater Fee:
    • $250/week (+ taxes & fees) if requested before arrival
    • $325/week (+ taxes & fees) if added after check-in
  • Temperature Information: Heat is set up to approximately 90°F; however, we cannot guarantee a specific temperature as this depends on weather conditions.
  • Heating Time: Please note that pools may take up to 48 hours to reach maximum temperature.

For safety reasons, we require that pool gates, doors, and pool alarms remain engaged where required by law. Please report any malfunction immediately.

All guests must swim at their own risk. No diving is permitted, and children, elderly, or at-risk persons must be supervised at all times.

Many of our guests tell us that having a private pool is one of their favorite features of our vacation homes. There’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip while enjoying the beautiful Florida Keys sunshine and water views.

Is smoking allowed in your Marathon vacation properties?

No, smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property (inside). This policy helps us maintain a clean, fresh environment for all guests. Violation of this policy will result in a $500 fee for odor removal and additional cleaning.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with this policy, which ensures that guests with allergies or respiratory sensitivities can enjoy our properties without concern.

Waterfront Properties & Boating in Marathon

Do your Marathon properties have boat docks?

Many of our Marathon vacation rentals feature private boat docks, making them ideal for fishing enthusiasts and boaters. Each property listing specifies whether a dock is available and includes details about dock length and water depth. If you’re planning to bring a boat, please consider the following important information:

  • Dock Verification: You must verify water depth and dock length when booking waterfront properties to ensure compatibility with your vessel.
  • Boat Restrictions:
    • Boats over 30 feet may be prohibited
    • Trailers are prohibited without written permission from Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals
  • Storm Safety: You must remove any boat and not use the dock if a severe storm warning or tropical storm watch is in effect.
  • Regulations: You must comply with all Florida boating regulations, including Chapters 327 & 328 of the Florida Statutes.

By booking a waterfront property, you acknowledge the inherent risks of waterfront activities and accept full responsibility for yourself and your party.

Having your boat right outside your vacation home is one of the most convenient and enjoyable ways to experience the Florida Keys. Wake up, have coffee on your deck overlooking the water, then step onto your boat for a day of fishing, snorkeling, or exploring nearby islands.

Do your Florida Keys properties have pools? Are they heated?

Many of our Marathon waterfront rentals feature private pools, offering the perfect place to cool off after a day of Florida Keys adventures. Each property listing specifies whether a pool is available.

Pool heating is available for an additional fee:

  • Pool Heater Fee:
    • $250/week (+ taxes & fees) if requested before arrival
    • $325/week (+ taxes & fees) if added after check-in
  • Temperature Information: Heat is set up to approximately 90°F; however, we cannot guarantee a specific temperature as this depends on weather conditions.
  • Heating Time: Please note that pools may take up to 48 hours to reach maximum temperature.

For safety reasons, we require that pool gates, doors, and pool alarms remain engaged where required by law. Please report any malfunction immediately.

All guests must swim at their own risk. No diving is permitted, and children, elderly, or at-risk persons must be supervised at all times.

Many of our guests tell us that having a private pool is one of their favorite features of our vacation homes. There’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip while enjoying the beautiful Florida Keys sunshine and water views.

Are there boat rentals near your Marathon vacation homes?

Yes, Marathon offers several reputable boat rental companies within a short drive of our properties. Whether you’re interested in a fishing boat, pontoon boat, or kayaks, we can provide recommendations based on your needs. Some rental companies will even deliver the boat directly to your vacation rental’s dock (subject to water depth and access).

Popular boat rental options in Marathon include:

  • Center console fishing boats
  • Family-friendly pontoon boats
  • Kayaks and paddleboards
  • Jet skis
  • Guided fishing charters

Please note that Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals may recommend third-party service providers (including boat rentals) as a courtesy. Any vendor or service used is solely at your discretion and risk, and we cannot be held liable for any issues that may arise.

Our local team can help arrange boat rentals or fishing charters as part of our concierge services, making it easy to plan your perfect day on the water.

What are the best boating destinations near Marathon?

Marathon’s central location in the Florida Keys makes it the perfect starting point for countless boating adventures. Some popular destinations accessible by boat from our Marathon vacation rentals include:

  • Sombrero Reef: Part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, this spectacular reef offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Keys, just a short boat ride from Marathon.
  • Bahia Honda State Park: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day trip by boat.
  • Pigeon Key: A historic island that once housed workers building the Overseas Railroad, now offering tours and excellent snorkeling.
  • Duck Key and Hawk’s Cay: Visit by boat for dining options and marina facilities.
  • Content Keys: A group of mangrove islands offering excellent fishing and wildlife viewing.
  • Seven Mile Bridge area: Famous fishing spots around this iconic Florida Keys landmark.

Our local team can provide detailed maps, GPS coordinates, and insider tips for the best boating destinations based on your interests, whether you’re looking for fishing spots, snorkeling locations, or waterfront restaurants accessible by boat.

Pet-Friendly Florida Keys Vacation Rentals

Are your Marathon vacation rentals pet-friendly?

Many of our Marathon vacation rentals are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry family members along to enjoy the Florida Keys. Our pet policy includes:

  • Maximum Pets: Up to four (4) dogs allowed if each is declared and the Pet Fee is paid. Cats or other animals require explicit written approval.
  • Pet Fee: $250 per pet per stay.
  • Service Animals: Defined by §413.08 Fla. Stat. (2022). Service Animals are exempt from fees if properly disclosed. Misrepresenting a service animal is a misdemeanor.
  • Emotional Support Animals: ESAs are not considered Service Animals and are subject to standard pet rules and fees.

Pet Rules:

  • Pets must be crated if left alone in the property
  • No pets on furniture or bedding
  • No pets in the pool
  • Pets must be up-to-date on vaccinations
  • Pets must be on a leash when outside
  • You must clean up all pet waste

Violations of these rules can incur additional fees or result in eviction. Unauthorized pets will result in a $300 fee.

Each property listing indicates whether pets are allowed. If you’re traveling with pets, please let us know at the time of booking so we can help you find the perfect pet-friendly property.

Marathon offers several dog-friendly parks and outdoor spaces where your pets can enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys weather. Our team can provide recommendations for pet-friendly beaches, restaurants with pet-friendly outdoor seating, and nearby veterinary services.

What are your quiet hours and property use policies in Marathon?

To ensure all guests enjoy a peaceful stay and to respect our neighbors, we maintain the following policies:

  • Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM – 7:00 AM daily; comply with Monroe County and local noise ordinances.
  • No Parties/Events: Unauthorized gatherings can lead to eviction under §509.141 Fla. Stat.
  • Social Functions: Must be pre-approved in writing if outside normal occupancy guidelines.
  • Occupancy Limits: The maximum number of guests (including children and infants) is strictly enforced and specified in each property listing. Exceeding this limit will result in a $200 fee per additional guest and potential eviction.

All guests are considered transient occupants under Florida law, with no rights to tenancy.

Our vacation homes are located in residential neighborhoods where many full-time residents live. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a peaceful environment that allows everyone to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Florida Keys.

Safety and Security in Our Florida Keys Rentals

What safety features do your Marathon vacation properties have?

Your safety is our priority. All Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals properties are equipped with:

  • Smoke detectors
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • First aid kits
  • Emergency contact information
  • Exterior lighting
  • Secure locks on all doors and windows

Properties with pools have additional safety features as required by Florida law, which may include pool alarms, self-closing gates, or door alarms. We ask that you maintain all safety features in their proper working condition and report any issues immediately.

Marathon and the Florida Keys have excellent emergency services, with the nearest hospital (Fishermen’s Community Hospital) located in Marathon. Our digital welcome guide includes information about the closest urgent care facilities, pharmacies, and emergency services.

Do you use smart home technology or monitoring devices in your Florida Keys rentals?

Yes, our properties use smart home technology to ensure policy compliance and maintain security. These may include:

  • Thermostats (to prevent excessive energy usage)
  • Door locks (for security)
  • Pool/spa heater controls (to prevent damage)
  • Decibel meters (to enforce quiet hours)
  • Video surveillance (limited to front door and pool area only)

Privacy: No cameras are installed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or other private areas.

Tampering: Please do not tamper with, disable, or damage any monitoring devices. Violations will result in a $500 fee per device plus the cost of replacement.

These smart home features also allow us to provide enhanced service, such as remotely assisting with thermostat adjustments or troubleshooting if needed during your stay.

Stay Connected in Paradise

Is Wi-Fi available in your Marathon vacation homes? How fast is the internet?

Yes, all of our Marathon vacation rentals include complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. Internet speeds vary by property but are generally sufficient for streaming movies, video calls, and basic work needs. The Wi-Fi password will be provided in your check-in instructions and is also available in the property information book at the rental.

Many of our guests now combine work and vacation (the popular “workcation” trend), and our properties are well-equipped to accommodate remote work with reliable internet connections, comfortable workspaces, and peaceful environments conducive to productivity.

What entertainment options are available in your Florida Keys vacation rentals?

Our properties feature various entertainment options, which may include:

  • Smart TVs with cable or streaming services
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • Board games and books
  • Outdoor games

Specific entertainment amenities vary by property and are detailed in each listing.

Of course, the greatest entertainment in the Florida Keys is often found outdoors – whether you’re watching a spectacular sunset from your private deck, spotting dolphins from your dock, or simply enjoying the peaceful sound of water lapping against the shore.

Exploring Marathon and the Florida Keys

What are the best local attractions near your Marathon vacation rentals?

Marathon and the surrounding Florida Keys offer numerous attractions for visitors:

  • Beaches: Sombrero Beach, Coco Plum Beach
  • Wildlife: The Turtle Hospital, Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
  • Outdoor Activities: Snorkeling at Sombrero Reef, fishing charters, kayaking through mangroves
  • Parks: Crane Point Hammock, Curry Hammock State Park
  • Day Trips: Key West (1 hour), Islamorada (30 minutes), Bahia Honda State Park (20 minutes)

Our properties include a digital guidebook with detailed recommendations for local attractions, restaurants, and activities. As local residents ourselves, we can provide insider tips that you won’t find in typical tourist guides – from the best time to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds, to hidden gems that only locals know about.

Marathon’s central location in the Florida Keys makes it the perfect home base for exploring the entire island chain, from Key Largo to Key West, while enjoying a more relaxed, authentic Keys experience away from the tourist crowds.

What are the best fishing opportunities near your Marathon rentals?

Marathon is known as one of the premier fishing destinations in the Florida Keys, offering year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Fishing options include:

  • Offshore Fishing: Target mahi-mahi, sailfish, tuna, and marlin in the deep waters of the Atlantic.
  • Reef Fishing: Catch snapper, grouper, and other reef species along the Florida Keys reef system.
  • Backcountry Fishing: Pursue tarpon, bonefish, permit, and redfish in the shallow waters of Florida Bay.
  • Bridge Fishing: Try your luck from the Seven Mile Bridge or other local bridges.

Many of our waterfront properties offer direct access to excellent fishing right from your private dock. For those seeking guided experiences, we can recommend reputable local fishing charters with captains who know the best spots for whatever species you’re targeting.

Marathon hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year, including the Marathon International Tarpon Tournament and the Original Marathon Seafood Festival Fishing Tournament.

Why Book Direct with Villa Paraiso

Why should I book directly through Villa Paraiso instead of through a third-party site?

Booking directly through Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals offers several advantages:

  • Best Rates Guaranteed: No additional service fees that third-party sites often charge (saving you 5-15%).
  • Direct Communication: Speak directly with our local team who know the properties intimately.
  • Flexible Policies: More flexibility with check-in/check-out times and special requests.
  • Local Expertise: Access to our team’s extensive knowledge of Marathon and the Florida Keys.
  • Personalized Service: We can help match you with the perfect property based on your specific needs.
  • Special Offers: Access to exclusive deals and packages not available on third-party sites.
  • Concierge Services: Assistance with arranging boat rentals, fishing charters, private chefs, and other services.

As a local, family-owned business, we take pride in providing exceptional service and making your Florida Keys vacation memorable from the moment you book until after you check out. We live and work in Marathon, and we’re passionate about sharing our beautiful island community with our guests.

When you book directly with us, you’re supporting a local Florida Keys business rather than a large corporation, while also getting better service and value for your vacation investment.

Do you offer any special packages or discounts for your Florida Keys vacation rentals?

Yes, we offer several special packages and discounts throughout the year:

  • Extended Stay Discounts: Save on stays of 14+ nights, perfect for “snowbirds” or remote workers.
  • Last-Minute Deals: Special rates on bookings made within 14 days of arrival (subject to availability).
  • Return Guest Loyalty Program: Exclusive discounts and perks for our returning guests.
  • Off-Season Specials: Reduced rates during certain times of year, particularly September-November.
  • Military & First Responder Discounts: Special rates for active duty military, veterans, and first responders.

These special offers are typically only available when booking directly through our website or by phone. Our team can help you find the best available package for your specific travel dates and preferences.

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