Waterfront Vacation Rental in Florida Keys: Mermaid Manor | Villa Paraiso
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Why Mermaid Manor Is the Best Waterfront Vacation Rental in Florida Keys for Remote Workers and Families
A waterfront vacation rental in the Florida Keys offers something hotels simply cannot match: private dock access, space to spread out, and the freedom to work remotely while your family enjoys the water steps away. Mermaid Manor in Marathon delivers all of this with modern amenities like 500Mbps WiFi, a wireless printer, and a dedicated workspace, alongside a 50-foot deep water dock and a 6-person LED-lit hot tub. Built in 2019, this 4-bedroom retreat sleeps up to 10 guests and sits minutes from both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Quick Answer: Mermaid Manor combines luxury waterfront living with remote work essentials, making it the ideal Florida Keys vacation rental for families and professionals who refuse to choose between productivity and paradise.
What Makes a Great Waterfront Vacation Rental in the Florida Keys?
The best waterfront vacation rentals in the Florida Keys share certain characteristics that separate memorable stays from mediocre ones. Direct water access matters, but so does dock depth, distance to open water, and the quality of amenities both inside and outside the home.
Mermaid Manor checks every box. The property sits on a clear water canal in Marathon, the heart of the Florida Keys, with 50 feet of deep water dockage that can accommodate larger vessels. You’re just ten minutes from open water through Boot Key Harbor, giving you fast access to fishing grounds, sandbars, and the incredible reef system along the Atlantic side.
Inside, the home was designed for modern travelers. The 12-foot ceilings and open-concept layout create an expansive feel, while the fully stocked gourmet kitchen includes specialty cookware for preparing your fresh catch. Each bedroom features smart Roku TVs, and the master suite includes an en-suite bathroom with dual showers.
For families considering Marathon, our Luna Light property offers a similar waterfront experience with a heated pool, while Blue Pearl features a 70-foot dock for larger boats.
Can You Really Work Remotely from a Florida Keys Vacation Rental?
Yes, and Mermaid Manor was designed with exactly this in mind. The property features 500Mbps high-speed WiFi, a wireless laser printer, and furnished balconies that double as inspiring outdoor workspaces. Power-adjustable Tempur-Pedic beds in each bedroom mean you’ll sleep well enough to actually be productive.
Here’s what makes Mermaid Manor work for the workation crowd:
- Blazing fast internet: 500Mbps handles video calls, large file uploads, and multiple devices simultaneously without lag
- Dedicated workspace options: The upstairs sitting area includes a workstation, plus furnished balconies offer fresh air and harbor views while you take calls
- Time zone advantage: Eastern time zone works well for collaborating with both coasts
- Nearby conveniences: Publix, Walgreens, and UPS Store are all within five minutes
- On-site Tesla charger: EV owners can charge overnight and explore the Keys by day
The real magic happens after you close your laptop. Step outside to cast a line from the dock, soak in the hot tub as the sun sets, or grab a paddleboard and explore the canal. Your commute went from an hour in traffic to thirty seconds down the stairs.
Marathon’s central location also makes weekend exploration easy. Key West is about an hour south, while Miami is two hours north if you need a city fix.
What Can Families Do Near Mermaid Manor in Marathon?
Marathon offers more family-friendly activities than most visitors realize. The central Florida Keys location puts you within easy reach of attractions throughout the island chain, while the property itself keeps kids entertained for hours.
At Mermaid Manor, families can:
- Fish from the 50-foot dock using the included fishing poles
- Paddle around the canal on the complimentary paddleboards
- Play cornhole in the outdoor living space
- Watch marine life under the underwater dock lights at night
- Relax in the LED-lit hot tub after a day of adventures
For activities beyond the property, The Turtle Hospital offers educational tours where kids can meet and feed rescued sea turtles. It’s one of Marathon’s most popular attractions, so book your tour in advance. Crane Point Museum and Nature Center spans 63 acres of preserved tropical hardwood hammock with nature trails, a museum, and wildlife encounters.
Water lovers should check out Sombrero Beach, a public beach with calm, shallow water perfect for younger swimmers. The nearby reef at Sombrero Key offers excellent snorkeling for families with older kids.
For a truly memorable experience, consider a day trip to Bahia Honda State Park, consistently rated among the best beaches in the United States. The park is about 30 minutes south of Marathon and features pristine sand, clear water, and excellent snorkeling.
Our Mermaid’s Paradise property includes a game room that’s particularly popular with families traveling with teenagers.
Is Mermaid Manor Good for Fishing and Boating?
Absolutely. Mermaid Manor was built with anglers and boaters in mind. The 50-foot dock offers 6-8 feet of water depth, putting you second from open water through Boot Key Harbor. You’ll reach the Atlantic or Gulf in about ten minutes.
The property includes amenities serious fishermen appreciate:
- Fish cleaning station with a dedicated bait freezer
- Underwater dock lights for exciting night fishing (tarpon love these lights)
- Boat trailer parking in addition to four regular parking spaces
- Quick access to both reef fishing and flats fishing
The Florida Keys reef system is the only living coral barrier reef in North America, and the waters around Marathon teem with snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, and during the right seasons, tarpon and permit. Florida Fish and Wildlife maintains current regulations and license requirements.
For those who prefer guided trips, Marathon is home to dozens of experienced charter captains. The marina at Keys Fisheries hosts charter row, where you can find captains specializing in everything from backcountry flats fishing to offshore adventures.
Speaking of Keys Fisheries, it’s also one of Marathon’s best waterfront restaurants. Their lobster Reuben has earned a devoted following, and the fresh stone crab during season is as good as it gets anywhere in Florida.
If you’re bringing a larger vessel, our Vista Del Mar and Azul Paradise properties also feature substantial dock space with deep water access.
What Amenities Does Mermaid Manor Include?
Mermaid Manor offers a comprehensive list of amenities that rival boutique hotels while providing the privacy and space of a private home. Here’s what’s included:
| Category | Amenities |
| Tech & Work | 500Mbps WiFi, wireless printer, 55″ 4K OLED TV, smart Roku TVs in all bedrooms, Bluetooth speaker |
| Outdoor Living | 6-person LED-lit hot tub, outdoor kitchen, cantina bar, paddleboards, cornhole, hammock |
| Water Access | 50ft dock, underwater dock lights, fish cleaning station, bait freezer, 10 min to open water |
| Comfort | Tempur-Pedic adjustable beds, wine cooler, gourmet kitchen, walk-in closets |
| Convenience | Tesla charger, boat trailer parking, 4 regular parking spots |
The outdoor living space at Mermaid Manor deserves special mention. The ground level features an outdoor kitchen perfect for grilling your catch, a cantina bar for mixing sunset cocktails, and the hot tub positioned to watch boats return to harbor. The elevated main living area on the second floor offers sweeping harbor views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Original artwork by local Keys artists throughout the property adds authentic Florida character that you won’t find in any hotel room.
Where Should You Eat Near Mermaid Manor?
Marathon’s dining scene ranges from casual seafood shacks to waterfront fine dining. Here are local favorites within easy reach of Mermaid Manor:
Sunset Grille and Raw Bar sits at the foot of the historic Seven Mile Bridge, offering arguably the best sunset views in the Keys alongside fresh seafood and a massive oceanfront pool. The grilled hogfish is outstanding when available.
Keys Fisheries combines a working fish market with a casual waterfront restaurant. Order the lobster Reuben and Key lime pie, then browse the market for fresh fish to cook back at Mermaid Manor’s outdoor kitchen.
For a more upscale experience, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant offers sushi and fresh seafood with water views. Locals also recommend Island Fish Company for reliable seafood in a relaxed atmosphere.
One recent guest summed up the convenience perfectly: “Close to grocery store, pharmacy, restaurants (Go to The Sunset Grill!) and a convenient store in walking distance.”
How Does Booking Direct Save You Money?
When you book directly through Villa Paraiso Vacation Rentals, you typically save 15-20% compared to third-party booking sites. You also get direct communication with our management team for any questions or special requests.
We offer a 10% discount on weekly stays at Mermaid Manor, making extended workcations even more attractive. For families planning spring break or summer vacations, booking early ensures availability during peak season when Saturday-to-Saturday rentals are required.
Our team responds quickly to guest questions before and during your stay. As one recent Mermaid Manor guest noted: “Michel was EXCELLENT in responding to texts when something popped up and we needed assistance or had a question.”
Browse our full collection of Marathon vacation rentals to find the perfect fit for your group, or contact us directly with questions about any property.
What is the best waterfront vacation rental in the Florida Keys for remote workers?
Mermaid Manor in Marathon offers 500Mbps WiFi, a wireless printer, dedicated workspace, and furnished balconies for outdoor working. The property combines professional-grade connectivity with resort-style amenities including a hot tub, 50-foot dock, and paddleboards for after-work relaxation.
Does Mermaid Manor have a dock for boats?
Yes, Mermaid Manor features a 50-foot deep water dock with 6-8 feet of water depth. The property sits second from open water through Boot Key Harbor, putting you approximately 10 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Boat trailer parking is also available.
How many people can stay at Mermaid Manor?
Mermaid Manor accommodates up to 10 guests across 4 bedrooms. The master bedroom has a king bed, two bedrooms have queen beds, and one bedroom includes a queen bed plus a twin bunk bed. An additional sitting area offers flexible sleeping arrangements.
Is Mermaid Manor good for families with kids?
Yes, Mermaid Manor is excellent for families. Kids can fish from the dock, use the paddleboards, play cornhole, and watch marine life under the underwater dock lights at night. The property is close to family attractions including The Turtle Hospital and Sombrero Beach.
Does Mermaid Manor have a hot tub?
Yes, Mermaid Manor features a 6-person LED-lit hot tub in the outdoor living area. The hot tub is positioned to enjoy harbor views while relaxing after a day of fishing, working, or exploring the Florida Keys.
What is the WiFi speed at Mermaid Manor?
Mermaid Manor offers 500Mbps high-speed WiFi, sufficient for video conferencing, large file uploads, and multiple devices streaming simultaneously. The property also includes a wireless laser printer for business travelers.
How far is Mermaid Manor from Key West?
Mermaid Manor is located in Marathon, approximately one hour north of Key West by car. The central Florida Keys location makes day trips to Key West convenient while offering a quieter, more relaxed base for your vacation.
