Marathon Vacation Rentals: Deep Blue Waterfront Villa Guide
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What Makes Marathon FL the Perfect Florida Keys Vacation Destination?
Marathon vacation rentals offer the ideal Florida Keys experience, combining waterfront luxury, world-class fishing, pristine beaches, and laid-back island living in the heart of the Middle Keys. Marathon sits perfectly positioned between Key Largo and Key West, providing easy access to both Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico adventures while maintaining the authentic Keys atmosphere that travelers crave. Properties like Deep Blue showcase why Marathon has become the destination of choice for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone seeking genuine Florida Keys living.
Quick Answer: Marathon FL offers the best value in Florida Keys vacation rentals with waterfront properties, exceptional fishing access, Cabana Club beach privileges, and authentic island culture all at better rates than Key West or Key Largo.
Where to Stay for Your Marathon Vacation
Deep Blue represents the pinnacle of Marathon vacation rentals, offering waterfront luxury, resort amenities, and authentic Keys living in one exceptional property. Located in exclusive Key Colony Beach, this 4BR/3BA waterfront villa provides everything discerning travelers seek in a Florida Keys escape.
Why Book Deep Blue:
- 112-foot private dock for fishing, kayaking, and boat access
- Heated pool + hot tub for year-round swimming comfort
- Exclusive Cabana Club access to private beach, ocean pool, restaurant
- Resort-style backyard with tiki hut, outdoor kitchen, multiple lounging zones
- Gourmet kitchen for preparing fresh-caught fish
- Two-story design providing privacy for multiple couples/families
- Complete entertainment including bikes, kayaks, games, commercial ice
Book Direct Advantage: When you book directly with Villa Paraiso you receive:
- Best available rates (no platform booking fees)
- Direct communication with property management
- Personalized check-in arrangements
- Local recommendations from Marathon experts
- Flexible booking policies
- Dedicated concierge support throughout your stay
Experience Marathon vacation rentals done right. Where waterfront luxury meets island authenticity.
Why Choose Marathon Over Other Florida Keys Destinations?
Marathon stands apart from other Florida Keys locations for several compelling reasons that make it the smart choice for your vacation rental:
Location Advantage: Situated at Mile Marker 50 in the Middle Keys, Marathon provides central access to the entire island chain. You’re under an hour from both Key Largo’s famous reefs and Key West’s attractions, yet Marathon maintains lower prices and less tourist congestion.
World-Class Fishing: Marathon is known as the “Heart of the Florida Keys” and the fishing capital of the world. Deep water access from properties like Deep Blue’s 112-foot private dock puts you minutes from tarpon, bonefish, permit, grouper, snapper, and dolphin fishing grounds. The nearby 7 Mile Bridge offers spectacular fishing from shore.
Exclusive Beach Access: Many Marathon vacation rentals include Cabana Club access. A rare amenity in the Florida Keys. Deep Blue guests enjoy private beach access, oceanfront pool, restaurant, and bar privileges without the crowds of public beaches.
Authentic Island Culture: Marathon retains genuine Keys character. Local seafood restaurants like Keys Fisheries, Sunset Grille, and The Stuffed Pig serve fresh catches in casual waterfront settings. You’ll find working fishing boats, not just tourist traps. The Marathon business community supports local fishing, dining, and water sports industries that create authentic experiences.
The Key Colony Beach Advantage
Deep Blue sits in the exclusive Key Colony Beach community, offering:
- Quiet residential streets with lush tropical landscaping
- Direct ocean access via deep-water canals
- Close proximity to Sombrero Beach (one of the Keys’ best public beaches)
- Easy boat launch access for exploring the backcountry and reefs
- Golf course nearby for non-water activities
What Amenities Should You Expect in a Luxury Marathon Vacation Rental?
Here are the must-have features that separate exceptional Marathon vacation rentals from basic accommodations:
- Waterfront Location with Dock Access: Deep Blue’s 112-foot private dock includes fishing station, water hookups, and electricity for boats. Launch kayaks directly from your backyard or tie up your rental boat for instant fishing access.
- Heated Pool and Spa: Year-round swimming comfort with the heated pool and separate hot tub. The pool area at Deep Blue features tiki hut shade, outdoor seating, and direct canal views. Creating a resort atmosphere in your private backyard.
- Gourmet Kitchen for Fresh Catch: After fishing, you need a proper kitchen to prepare your catch. Deep Blue’s gourmet kitchen features high-end appliances, large island with seating for five, and all cookware needed for fish dinners.
- Multiple Outdoor Living Spaces: True Keys living happens outdoors. Deep Blue provides outdoor kitchen with grill, rooftop-style terrace for sunbathing, tiki hut for shade, ping pong area, cornhole, fire pit, and multiple seating zones.
- Cabana Club Beach Privileges: Exclusive access to private beach, oceanfront pool, full-service restaurant, and bar. This members-only amenity is rare in Florida Keys vacation rentals and adds tremendous value.
- Resort Style Entertainment: Commercial ice machine for boat coolers, bikes for exploring the island, kayaks for backcountry paddling, ping pong table, board games, and smart TVs throughout ensure everyone stays entertained.
- Spacious Bedroom Layout: Four bedrooms with three full bathrooms provide privacy for multiple couples or families. Deep Blue’s two-story design separates sleeping areas for comfortable cohabitation.
- High-Speed WiFi for Remote Work: Marathon’s laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for “workcations.” Reliable high-speed internet supports video calls while you work with water views.
How Does Deep Blue Compare to Other Marathon Vacation Rentals?
| Feature | Deep Blue | Standard Marathon Rental | Hotel/Resort |
| Dock Length | 112 feet (private) | 30-50 feet or none | No dock access |
| Pool | Heated pool + hot tub | Pool only (maybe) | Shared pool |
| Beach Access | Private Cabana Club | Public beach only | Resort beach (crowded) |
| Kitchen | Full gourmet kitchen | Basic kitchen | None (dining out required) |
| Outdoor Space | Multiple zones + tiki hut | Patio/deck | Balcony only |
| Guest Capacity | 10 (4BR/3BA) | 4-6 typical | 2-4 per room |
| Privacy | Complete privacy | Varies | Shared hallways/facilities |
| Cost Per Person | $40-60/night per person | $80-100/night | $150-250/night |
Deep Blue delivers resort amenities with home privacy at vacation rental prices, the perfect combination for Marathon stays.
What Can You Do Near Deep Blue in Marathon FL?
Marathon and Key Colony Beach offer activities for every type of traveler:
On-Water Activities:
- Fishing: Cast from Deep Blue’s dock for snapper, grouper, and barracuda. Book a charter from nearby marinas for offshore fishing targeting sailfish, marlin, and tuna. Fish the 7 Mile Bridge for tarpon.
- Snorkeling & Diving: Sombrero Reef (just offshore) offers spectacular coral formations and tropical fish. Book diving trips to Coffins Patch or explore the Thunderbolt wreck. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects these pristine underwater ecosystems.
- Kayaking: Paddle the calm canals from Deep Blue’s dock, explore mangrove tunnels in the backcountry, or kayak to Curry Hammock State Park.
- Boating: Rent a boat and cruise to nearby islands, sandbars, and hidden beaches. Deep Blue’s 112-foot dock accommodates boats up to 40+ feet.
Beach & Outdoor:
- Sombrero Beach: Marathon’s crown jewel, wide sandy beach, clear shallow water, playground, pavilions, and stunning sunsets. Just minutes from Deep Blue.
- Curry Hammock State Park: 260 acres of pristine Keys wilderness with camping, paddling trails, and wildlife viewing.
- Crane Point Hammock: Nature preserve with walking trails, butterfly garden, and Museum of Natural History of the Florida Keys.
Dining & Entertainment:
- Keys Fisheries: Working marina with fresh seafood, famous lobster reuben, waterfront seating, and feeding tarpon.
- The Stuffed Pig: Locals’ favorite for breakfast. Don’t miss the French toast and eggs benedict.
- Sunset Grille & Raw Bar: Casual waterfront dining with live music, tiki bar vibes, and spectacular sunsets.
- Castaway: Upscale waterfront dining for special occasions.
Family-Friendly:
- Dolphin Research Center: Interactive programs where kids can meet, learn about, and even swim with dolphins.
- Turtle Hospital: Educational tours of this working sea turtle rehabilitation facility, one of Marathon’s most unique attractions.
When Is the Best Time to Book Marathon Vacation Rentals?
Understanding Marathon’s seasonal patterns helps you plan the perfect Keys vacation:
Peak Season (December – April):
- Weather: Perfect 75-85°F, low humidity, minimal rain
- Fishing: Exceptional offshore and flats fishing
- Availability: Book 3-6 months ahead for Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break
- Rates: Premium pricing but worth it for guaranteed sunshine
- Insider tip: Early December and late April offer peak weather with slightly lower rates
Shoulder Season (May – June, November):
- Weather: Warm but not hot, occasional rain showers
- Fishing: Excellent—tarpon season peaks in May/June
- Availability: Easier booking, more flexibility
- Rates: 20-30% lower than peak season
- Best value: Perfect for fishing enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers
Summer (July – October):
- Weather: Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms (brief)
- Fishing: Still very good, especially for reef fish
- Availability: Wide selection of properties
- Rates: Lowest of the year (40-50% off peak rates)
- Hurricane consideration: June-November is hurricane season, but most pass by harmlessly
Special Events:
- Seafood Festival (March): Marathon’s biggest culinary event
- Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March): Food, music, crafts
- Boat parades (Various): Holiday boat parades light up the canals
How Much Do Marathon Vacation Rentals Cost?
Marathon vacation rentals offer excellent value compared to other Florida Keys destinations:
Deep Blue Pricing Structure:
- Nightly rates vary by season (winter peak vs. summer low)
- Weekly Savings: 10% discount on 7+ night stays
- Monthly Savings: 15% discount on 30+ night stays
What’s Included at Deep Blue:
- All utilities and WiFi
- Cabana Club beach access ($40+ value per day)
- Kayaks and bikes (rental value $50+ per day)
- Heated pool and hot tub operation
- All linens and towels
- Fully stocked kitchen
- Commercial ice machine
- Parking for multiple vehicles
Cost Comparison: When you factor in what you’re NOT paying for:
- Beach club fees: $40/day per person = $400/day for 10 people
- Kayak rentals: $50-75/day
- Bike rentals: $25/day per bike
- Hotel parking: $25-35/day
- Dining out every meal: $100+ per person per day
- Hotel rooms for 10 people: $400+ per night
A $500/night rental sleeping 10 people = $50 per person per night. Comparable hotel rooms for 10 would cost $800-1,200 per night without any amenities.
What Do Guests Love About Deep Blue?
Real guests consistently praise Deep Blue’s exceptional qualities:
Resort-Quality Backyard: “We felt like we were in a resort. The only thing missing outside was a cabana boy/girl… Each morning we spent under the hut watching the sun come up and the fish swimming in the canal… Each evening, we spent under the hut watching the sun go down.” – Christine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Better Than Other Marathon Rentals: “Amazing property and we’ve stayed at lots of places in Marathon. We would definitely stay here again!!” – Kenneth Michael ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Exceptional Host Service: “Michel went above and beyond to ensure everything about our stay at his beautiful home was next level. The house was beautiful, location was amazing and amenities so fun! We will be back!” – Mary ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect for Celebrations: “Our stay was amazing. The home was lovely inside and outside and the backyard had so much for us to do from games to the heated pool and hot tub… Choosing this listing for our pre-honeymoon was the best decision we made after a hectic wedding week.” – Pa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practical Amenities: Guests specifically mention the downstairs mini-bar area, large refrigerator for drinks, commercial ice machine for boat coolers, and the privacy of having couples upstairs and downstairs.
Pro Tips from Local Marathon Vacation Rental Experts
After years managing luxury Marathon properties, our Villa Paraiso team shares insider knowledge:
Maximize Your Dock Access: The 112-foot dock at Deep Blue is your gateway to Keys adventures. Rent a boat for even just one day. Explore nearby islands, find deserted beaches, fish productive spots, and experience the freedom of island hopping. Many guests wish they’d rented a boat for more days.
Cabana Club Strategy: The private beach club is Marathon’s hidden gem. Arrive mid-morning to claim beach chairs, enjoy lunch at the restaurant, and stay through sunset. The oceanfront pool offers swimming when canal water temps are cooler (winter months).
Grocery Shopping: Stock up at Publix or Winn-Dixie in Marathon before check-in. Keys Fisheries sells fresh local fish if you don’t catch your own. The commercial ice machine at Deep Blue keeps coolers packed for beach days and boat trips.
Fishing from the Dock: Early morning and dusk produce the best dock fishing. Use live shrimp for snapper, cut bait for barracuda. Check Florida fishing regulations for size limits and seasons. The fishing station includes a cleaning area with running water.
Weather Patterns: Summer afternoon thunderstorms are brief (20-30 minutes). Don’t let them ruin your day. Plan beach/boat time for mornings, use afternoons for shopping or naps, then enjoy evening activities when storms pass. Check the National Weather Service Key West for marine forecasts before heading out on the water.
Bicycle Exploring: Key Colony Beach is perfect for bike rides, flat, safe streets with beautiful homes and water views. Ride to Sombrero Beach (10 minutes), explore the golf course area, or cruise to nearby restaurants.
What is the best vacation rental in Marathon FL?
Deep Blue is consistently rated as one of Marathon’s premier vacation rentals, offering 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, heated pool, 112-foot private dock, hot tub, and exclusive Cabana Club beach access. Located in Key Colony Beach, this waterfront villa accommodates 10 guests with resort-style amenities including outdoor kitchen, tiki hut, kayaks, and bikes.
How much does it cost to rent a vacation home in Marathon Florida?
Marathon vacation rental costs vary by season, size, and location. Luxury waterfront properties like Deep Blue offer excellent value when booked for weekly (10% discount) or monthly stays (15% discount). Per-person costs average $40-60 per night for group bookings, significantly less than hotels when you factor in included amenities like Cabana Club access, kayaks, and full kitchens.
Does Deep Blue have a private dock for fishing?
Yes, Deep Blue features a 112-foot private dock with fishing station, water hookups, and electricity for boats. The deep-water canal location provides direct access to both Atlantic and Gulf fishing grounds. Guests can fish from the dock, launch kayaks, or moor boats up to 40+ feet for daily fishing adventures.
What is included with Cabana Club access in Marathon?
Deep Blue guests receive exclusive access to Key Colony Beach’s private Cabana Club, which includes oceanfront private beach, oceanfront swimming pool, full-service restaurant and bar, beach chairs and umbrellas, and shower facilities. This members-only amenity typically costs $40+ per person per day at other Keys resorts.
Is Marathon better than Key West for vacation rentals?
Marathon offers better value, less crowding, superior fishing access, and more authentic Keys atmosphere compared to Key West. Marathon vacation rentals like Deep Blue provide private waterfront locations with docks, pools, and beach access at 30-40% lower rates than comparable Key West properties. Marathon’s central location also provides easy access to both Upper and Lower Keys attractions.
Can you swim in the canal at Marathon vacation rentals?
While the canals at Marathon vacation rentals are swimmable, most guests prefer Deep Blue’s heated pool for swimming and the exclusive Cabana Club’s oceanfront beach for ocean swimming. The canals are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and viewing marine life. The property’s heated pool and hot tub provide the best swimming experience year-round.
How far is Deep Blue from Marathon’s best restaurants and attractions?
Deep Blue sits in Key Colony Beach, centrally located to Marathon’s top destinations. Sombrero Beach is 5 minutes, Keys Fisheries and Sunset Grille are 10 minutes, Dolphin Research Center is 8 minutes, and Turtle Hospital is 12 minutes. The property’s location provides a quiet residential atmosphere while keeping all Marathon attractions within easy reach.
