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Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports

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Miscellaneous
Come inside Seabird's famous treetop house & see this stunning island interior.
Outdoor dining
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Breakfast available
  • Air conditioning
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer

Explore the area

Map
Marathon, FL
  • Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Coco Plum Beach
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Sombrero Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon)
    ‪4 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

1st Mate

1 Queen Bed

Master

1 Queen Bed and 1 Crib

The Loft

+1
4 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Double Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports

Seabird Key is yours exclusively. A private, 10-acre tropical island getaway located one-half mile offshore Marathon, in the heart of the Florida Keys. As our guest, you have the entire Private Island to yourself, including an exquisite Island Home that accommodates up to 10 guests. The Island home includes multi-level porches, decks and a 35' widow's walk which affords 360-degree Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico views, and a spectacular panorama of the bird sanctuary at sunset. The gardens throughout display vibrant flowering plants and trees.
You also have use of a 18' Boston Whaler throughout your stay. Enjoy your own private beach with hammocks & chickee huts, go swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, tubing, fishing and don't forget to go out on the boat at sunset for an unforgettable experience watching the sun going down, melting into the water and oftentimes displaying that "green flash" everyone remembers from their trip to the Keys.

Arrival
There are no bridges or causeways connecting Seabird Key to the mainland. Guests can only access Seabird Key by boat. Upon your arrival to Seabird’s mainland launch site in Marathon, Florida, guests are greeted by our manager. He will assist in loading the luggage onto the 18′ Boston Whaler. From the moment you cruise down the canal, only 10 minutes by boat, your private island adventure begins in the Gulf of Mexico.

Seabird Key offers Concierge Services allowing you to book Florida Key Tours, Fishing Guides, Jet Skiing, Water Skiing, Biking, Private Chef & Bar Tending, Private Yoga Instruction, Massage Therapy and more.

Seabird Key is an Eco-Friendly property. We are dedicated to complete sustainability with little or no impact to the surrounding environment. Guests will relish our beautiful accommodations and most mainland creature comforts. You will benefit from one of the most sophisticated solar energy systems in the US.

The Island Home includes solar panels on the rooftop and walkway lights. Outside areas are powered with solar panels which store energy in batteries. A generator waits on stand-by for emergency use, but is rarely needed. Guests enjoy hot water because the solar panels provide more than adequate hot water for in door and out door showers. Seabird Key’s water is supplied by an 18,000 gallon cistern built for rainwater collection. The Eco Friendly cistern reflects an old Caribbean sugar mill construction, which includes a native coral rock face. Guests can recycle, not just plastic but also glass. In addition, Seabird reroutes the waste water from showers to irrigate the gardens.

Seabird’s management also harvests the seaweed from the beach to recycle and enrich the soil. We are proud to say, Seabird uses Eco Efficient technology whenever possible. Most guests never want to leave the Island. But if you are looking for further exploration, within minutes you’ll find nearby underwater preserves, parks and wildlife refuges.

Experience the Florida Keys wildlife. Guests will find a narrow opening in the mangrove forest. Above all, if you have children, they will love snaking through the twisted branches to discover the unspoiled wilderness on the Island. Amazingly, the delicate ecosystem on Seabird Key ranges from tidal lagoons, salt flats, mangroves and sea grass beds. All of the above play a vital role in the survival of the areas coral reefs. You’ll want to stop your kayak and get very quiet to watch the herons and egrets snacking.

Relish Seabird Key’s sanctuary. For those discriminating few who are looking for an authentic Eco Travel experience, this private island retreat delivers! Seabird is a sanctuary for nesting pelicans, herons, ibises, cormorants, ospreys, and other avian species. Pack your binoculars, but you won’t really need them because its very easy to get up close and personal with the wildlife on Seabird. A narrow winding, wooden boardwalk takes you to the perfect observation point in the depth of the mangroves.

Your own private beach
Immerse yourself in the dream; a private island getaway; a place abundant with beauty, privacy, and ultimate tranquility. There is ample dockage to bring your own boat with you, or just enjoy the 19′ Boston Whaler provided for you.

No tropical island is complete without a private sandy beach, swaying coconut palms, swinging hammocks and the “must have” chickee hut. Sounds like a perfect setting for an easy day at play for everyone in the family.

Boats, kayaks and canoes
Exclusive use of Seabird’s 19′ boat for your enjoyment including: fishing, water skiing, snorkeling, diving and tubing. Seabird will provide the towing tube for the kids! The boat is also equipped with an assortment of masks, fins snorkels, and life vests. Full use of the boat allows for easy commuting to the mainland at your convenience.

Three Kayaks are available: 2 singles and one double. These toys are provided for your enjoyment at no extra cost, and no waiting in line to check them out. Just grab a paddle and get on your way.

Hammocks and lounge chairs
There are many private areas for relaxing in the natural landscape of Seabird. Your problem will be trying to decide where to sit to enjoy your book or visit with your guests. The Island is equipped with hammocks, beach lounges, wicker chairs and wooden adirondack chairs. The front porch has rocking chairs and the multi-level decks, including a 35′ widow’s walk, are also furnished for relaxation.

Seabird provides two classic, conch cruisers located on our mainland base. You will love the fantastic view of the Gulf as you bike down the old seven mile bridge that leads to Pigeon Key.

“Al Fresco” outdoor kitchen
A chef is available upon request (at additional cost) for private dining, small gathering or events on Seabird Key; Our guests choose to grill or cook or bring their own meals as well. Also, there are many delicious restaurants in the Florida Keys, and we will be happy to share with you some of our favorite spots.

Gardens, Seabird Key is home to one of the Key’s most lush, tropical private gardens. There must be over 50 species of palms. We also nurture a fabulous collection of Cycads and numerous native species such as Black and Red Mangroves, Gumbo Limbo, Sea Grape, Joe Wood, Silver Buttonwood, Pigeon Plum and Giger Trees. You will also find a cactus garden and other succulents. Even a rain shower on the Island is moving.


Island Home. Seabird Key’s beautifully crafted “Old Florida” style home offers multi-level porches, expansive decks, and a widows walk towering 35 feet above the mangroves and wildlife sanctuary. The treetop elegance, colorful Caribbean furnishings, and antique nautical accents recall Swiss Family Robinson fantasies. Floor-to-ceiling cypress louvers + windows capture the cool sea breezes and provide spectacular views, although the air conditioning keeps the home very cool and most comfortable. The restful island hideaway accommodates up to eight comfortably with its two Queen bedrooms, each with its own private bath, and an upstairs loft with two bunk beds and another full bath. The indoor kitchen is fully equipped for gourmet cooking.

Al Fresco Dining
You will love Seabird Key’s Al Fresco style of dining that is casual where friends and family can gather for meaningful time together. And the best part is you won’t need to call ahead of time and make reservations! Our outdoor kitchen, fully equipped for epicurean or spontaneous cooking, with a superb gas grill and a splendid Chickee hut open-dining area will provide for instant, enjoyable and memorable breakfasts, lunches, cocktail hours and dinner parties.

Private Beach
Sunbathe, swim and snorkel on your own private beach. Enjoy the year-round water temperatures averaging 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit or 24-30 degrees Celsius. Feel free to stretch out in one of our beach hammocks, in the shade under Gumbo-Limbo trees. Enjoy a good book and a frosty drink. Take a walk on your own beach but remember, you are under no obligation to do anything if you choose not to. If you want to just unwind, you have come to the right place. Here exclusivity means restful privacy.





Property manager

Carley Hursey
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Kids love their Swiss Family Robinson adventure .
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Extra Fee for casual events with permission only.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Owner responsible for damage by pet.
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Outside only.
Adhere to the "no wake zone" in the canal and watch out for manatees. Keep the noise down. After dark, the boat only goes to and from the mainland.
No fire pits allowed on the Island. Do not burn wood at all.
Study the navigation charts and don't take the boat in or around shallow water where the boat prop could be damaged.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 16
Note from host: Extra Fee for casual events with permission only.
This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Marathon

Located in Marathon, this holiday home is on the beach. Crane Point Museum and Nature Center and Marathon Air Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center and Florida Keys Country Club. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Marathon, FL

What's nearby

  • Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Coco Plum Beach - 17 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Curry Hammock State Park - 4 min drive - 3.3 km
  • Sombrero Beach - 10 min drive - 8.8 km

Getting around

  • Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon) - 4 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Island Fish Company - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬7 min drive
  • Sparky's Landing Fish and Cocktails
  • ‪Keys Fisheries - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports located?

Nestled on the beach, this Marathon holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center, Sunset Park Beach and Coco Plum Beach. Curry Hammock State Park and San Pablo Catholic Church are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 84 out of 86 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 86 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 86 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 86 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 86 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Brad W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome vacation spot

Everything was outstanding. From the full kitchen utensils to the fishing gear, our island resort had everything. Great place to relax and unwind away from it all with all of the comforts of home. We found every chaise lounge and hammock on the island and put them to good use. Can’t recommend highly enough.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private island paradise!

Absolutely amazing private island experience for our family spring break trip. The host has thought of everything and have the island property outfitted with everything you need to keep everyone happy!thought of everythin the outfitted the property w
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

GT S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Paradise

Brautiful island with boat to visit the Keys. Friendly manager who auicly answered any questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxation

This is our favorite place to stay. We have been here 3 times and it never disappoints.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

margaret B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

We absolutely had an amazing vacation. Loved the peacefulness and solitude. The property is beautiful and everything you could want. Our property manager Shad was very helpful and responsive. Thanks for everthing.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

greg h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas Island

Had an extremely memorable stay on SeaBird Key for Christmas. One 5 year old was with us and he christened it "Christmas Island". Hard to describe what having you own private island is like, but it created memories for all that will never be forgotten. Any issues we had were immediately addressed, but they were precious few. Would definitely go there again. Thank you.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Brian S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Life in the Keys

We had a family vacation for the new year and decided to spend it on Seabird Key. What an amazing island. You feel like you have stepped into paradise from the moment you get to the dock. The landscaping is spectacular. The house is as described in the listing and makes for a wonderful stay. You have all that you need for a stay in the keys. Everything is well thought out and organized. There are some pros and cons to island life that should be considered. The pros; privacy, you have a 10acre island to yourself with its own private beach. The waters around the island are full of adventure and places to explore the cons; you are on an island and everything starts with a boat ride. Even if the wind is blowing and the rain is raining. This should be a consideration. Especially when thinking about moving luggage back and forth from the land dock to the island. We had 8 people and the boat is built for 8 people. It was a few trips out and back. The water surrounding the island is pretty shallow. This was particularly noticeable at the beach. The beach is stunning but not what I would call a swimming beach. It has inches of water until you get pretty far out. High tide helps but low tide pulls the water from the shore quite a ways. Additionally, we had excessive amounts of sea grass on the beach. The water depth at the dock is much better for swimming but still only about 3 feet deep. Just things to consider as you make your decision on island life.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather R L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A True Paradise

What a memorable vacation!! We had a wonderful 7 night stay at Seabird Key with our group of 10. We rented a big fishing boat and was able to dock it on the island. So convenient, totally private and magical! Lots of fishing off the boat and off the 2 main docks! The kids LOVED the towable tubes and the kayaks. The island has several life vests and lots of snorkel gear as well. The house/cabin was the perfect island-feel cozy stay for our 2 families. Kids enjoyed the loft with the bunks and the outdoor showers were a hit. Thank you to the management and maintenance staff who provided such wonderful hospitality and great customer service. Carly and Shad were so friendly and helpful and made us all feel very at home. This family trip was one of the best we've ever taken and will live in our memories forever! Hope to be back someday.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hodge R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Seabird Island Vacation August 2024

We have stayed in vacation rental homes at various places in the US, but this place is certainly unique! You can rent homes with a beach out your back door, but it is not private. Here you have the whole 10-acre island with a private beach plus speakers so you can listen to your music! The beach has shade and sun. We were a party of 5 family members; all truly enjoyed the island and all that it had to offer. The trails are wonderful. Took the Kayaks for a tour around the island. The observation deck is great both during the day and at night. Saw numerous hermit crabs. One day some were climbing trees. Someone did a Google search and learned that hermit crabs will climb trees when they sense rain is likely! Sure enough, it started to rain a few minutes later. The enclosed outdoor shower was another unique experience. We saw a manatee twice during our stay, so drive the boat slowly and be observant when entering the Marathon docking area. The owner told us they had added air conditioning about 2 years ago, we were certainly comfortable all day. The solar panels provided adequate power (always had significant reserve). Ran out of Propane while using the outdoor kitchen grill but swapped a canister for the house kitchen and continued cooking. We informed the island manager; we brought the empty canister to the mainland docks the next morning and a new full canister was waiting for use at the docks. Everyone agreed this was a great vacation experience!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Heather Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

AMAZING! The best vacation ever. The property was more than we could've ever imagined We did not want to leave. Everything was provided for us and if not the Concierge that runs the property was always right on top of everything. We will definitely keep this one in the list of returns!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Christmas

Unbelievable experience. Sarah and her husband did everything possible to make our stay special. Having a bit of boating experience and fondness for the water enhanced the novelty of taking the tender back and forth to our private paradise. This property and the hospitality exceeded our family’s expectations
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Don H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Adventure

A great spot to rest and relax and enjoy the Florida Keys.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded Expectations

It was amazing and more than what we all expected - we would definitely visit Seabird Key again and again.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melonie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely!

What a gorgeous place. Walk the paths around the gardens. Kayak around the mangroves. Nap in a hammock by the beach. Snorkel around the dock. Take a sunset cruise in the boat. Cook in the nicely equipped outdoor kitchen. The house is very comfortable, we barely missed air conditioning, and loved that there was a Christmas tree in the living room. The managers were so charming and welcoming. The only negative was the bugs. Some of us barely noticed them, others were not so lucky. Bring lots of your favorite repellent.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Peggy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

FANTASY ISLAND!!

We were celebrating our 40th Wedding Anniversary and wanted to do something different and special. Seabird Key fit the bill 100%! My jaw literally dropped when I stepped onto the path leading to the house. First impressions are everything and Seabird delivered!! The cook house was wonderful and we used it for every meal and it was so wonderful getting a tan on the beach in January!! The love the owners have for this paradise is obvious at every turn. We greatly respect and appreciate Seabird in every aspect and hope to return again next year with family in tow!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christine S., Chalfont, PA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

Hands down this was the best place we have ever stayed! The location can’t be beat! The island was absolutely beautiful! Perfectly maintained! The house and outdoor kitchen are so spectacular and have everything needed to make life easier! Adam and Carly were unbelievable hosts! We were all so sad to leave and will definitely return! This was a perfect experience I highly recommend for families of all ages! Thanks Seabird Key!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cindy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

relax

most relaxing trip in a long time
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Peaceful Island

If you want privacy and a chance to unwind and enjoy nature, this is ideal. The outdoor Kitchen is super nice and perfect atmosphere!! We will be back!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kayla J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical Family Vacation

This was truly a magical vacation with our adult kids and their spouses. There was something for everyone and gathering around the outdoor kitchen and preparing our meals was one of my favorite parts. The lack of AC had concerned me but it wasn’t an issue at all with the fans. Adam was great to work with and show us the ropes. I think it would be a challenge with no boating experience so something to keep in mind.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Samuel S., Roanoke, VA, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Paradise for First Time Visitors

This was our first time staying on Seabird Key. We had read the many great reviews, read up on this special island, and looked longingly at previous guests' photos and videos of their stay. I can only say that even with all of that preparation in place, we were blown away by this wonderful island paradise. The managers/caretakers of the island, Adam and Carley, were beyond amazing. Their communication prior to and during the trip (even while they were personally on vacation as well) was helpful, reassuring, and made me realize that there really are folks in the world who do care about their jobs and providing a top-notch experience to their customers and clients. The assistant caretaker, Harriet, was always available by phone and went out of her way to make sure our stay was perfect. Whenever we had a question or needed something, she was immediately available and even made a trip out to the island to help us with an issue with the dryer. The week that we stayed here was incredibly hot; however, the breezes on the dock and the beach felt great! The fans in the house helped keep the air moving and the fan at the outdoor kitchen (where we spent a great deal of time) chickee hut kept us comfortable. You truly have everything that you need on the island and it is a unique and incredible adventure. The landscaping is impeccable. The amount of water adventure items (fishing gear and tackle, snorkel items, water shoes, toys, buckets, tubes, floats, kayaks, the boat) will keep you busy for the entire week if you so desire. Definitely take the boat out to watch the sunset. It is one of the most breathtaking sights you will ever see. Never in a million years did I think that I would have the chance to take my family (and my father in law) on a private island vacation. Yet this was just the escape that we needed. Beautiful clear water, a gorgeous private island just for us, boating, tubing and fishing whenever we wanted. I still smile thinking about how much fun our entire family had. Be warned that during the summer there are periods of time where the "no-see-ums" are particularly bad in parts of Florida. There was plenty of insect spray on the island, and there are several essential oil sprays available to purchase that target no-see-ums. Definitely be prepared, just in case. But don't let the possibility of insect nuisances keep you away. This place truly is a piece of paradise and we can't wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect week.

This was a pre 60th birthday present and it did not disappoint. Adam and Carly made check in a breeze. 6 people on the island and we all had the best vacation ever. This island was nothing short of amazing.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ellsworth S C., Oakley, Utah

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Castaways

Property and location was exactly what we expected. Rustic and typical of the Florida Keys with plenty of amenities.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Daniel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family get away

We had an amazing time on the island. You really never have to leave since the island has all the great amenities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and cooking out. Our family had a great time and will plan to come back.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Vrbo experiences to date

Carly and Adam were wonderful hosts. The house and island are private and beautiful. Everything you need for fun in the sun and water is there. Highly recommend the private chef. Can’t wait to come back.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erich H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

Thank you for sharing this tropical paradise with us. We had a fabulous time. I am actually designing an outdoor kitchen and eating area similar to yours due to our experience.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022

About the host

Hosted by Carley Hursey

Host profile image
My husband & I are originally from Alabama, but we met in New York City where he was working on Wall Street, and I was in graduate school completing a degree in piano. We lived in New York for ten years, and purchased the Island during that time, but we decided to move to Miami to be closer to Seabird. We've been here 32 years now and still enjoy Miami where Jim continues to work in the financial industry and I work with our company, Seabird Enterprises, Inc. in the marketing/decorating areas. Over the years, I've found that owning a small business translates to "I do anything needed on a particular day."

For over 30 years I took care of the Seabird Key reservations and during that time, I got to know most of our clients really well. We had so many who came back year after year and I learned their children's names, grandma's name and what they all liked to do first when they got to Seabird. Many of those children are coming to Seabird with their own children today. I enjoyed getting to know our clients and hearing their stories of their family adventures on Seabird.

As for our family, our oldest daughter, her husband and their family live in Murfreesboro, TN. Their three college age girls have grown up visiting the Island annually and have frequently been the models for my casual Seabird photoshoots. They have a younger adopted brother from China who loves Seabird and can be found in a photo or two himself. Our son lives in Dallas, TX with his wife and 2 little girls. He and his little sister grew up spending the most time on Seabird while Jim and I were working there. They didn't complain except Jim did plant too many plants and they grew tired of riding in the SUV down to the Keys with palm fronds hanging over their heads and faces. The little sister, now 32, helps with some of Seabird's social media. She lives in Miami as well.

Why they chose this property

It was my husband's childhood dream to own an island. We lived in NYC and came down to the Keys for a quick vacation and fell in love with the Florida Keys. The weather, the gorgeous water, the coral reefs, the fabulous fishing and the 'laid-back' feeling of the area captured our hearts and provided the perfect get away from New York's fast pace. While visiting the Keys, Jim saw an ad that read 'Island for Sale.' The Island posted for sale was fabulous with white sandy beaches, but it was a risky purchase because it could literally get blown away in a hurricane. We returned to NY with a seed planted in Jim's mind. Months later we got a call from a broker who said an island was for sale that might meet our needs. Located on the bay side and made of solid coral with good water access, it didn't matter that the island looked pretty rough. Jim realized that a thorough clean-up and some heavy duty palm tree planting could transform the Island into the paradise we feel it was meant to be. 38 years later, we're all enjoying Jim's vision.

What makes this property unique

Wow! First, have you ever rented an entire island? This is one of the most unique vacation rentals in the world. I’m not talking about a little bungalow with 80 other bungalows scattered about, but rather an Island where you have the ENTIRE island to yourself. This is what Seabird is all about. Total privacy! Your own beach with either your family or your friends there to enjoy it with you. You even control the music on the beach. There is so much to enjoy on Seabird Key starting with incredible beauty. Everywhere you walk on this entire 10 acre island, there are sandy or grassy paths with gorgeous vistas wherever direction you look. Whether you're on the beach, the dock, or reading in the gardens, there are Adirondack chairs in abundance along with a good supply of sturdy hammocks. Seabird Key has been described by our guests, friends & clients as a place where they come to refresh and restore. The beauty of the Island is only a part of what makes Seabird Key a special place. Being at one with the environment and nature has true healing effects. You can request a massage or a yoga class…in an exotic garden, whatever suits you. For the adventure lovers, jump in the 19’ Boston Whaler and go out for a fishing expedition or spend some time on the reef either scuba diving or snorkeling. Sombrero Reef is close enough to Seabird you can easily boat out and explore the waters with a front seat view. The many species of birds that come to roost every night on the Island are fascinating to observe. The 35' widows walk offers an opportunity for not only 360 degree views of the Florida Bay, but you are literally towering above the birds' nests. It doesn’t matter if you love adventure or simple peace, Seabird delivers on all its promises.

Languages:

English

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