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Butterfly Garden Retreat - Ocean View Hot Tub - Authentic Keys Charm

Holiday home in Marathon with kitchen and lanai

Photo gallery for Butterfly Garden Retreat - Ocean View Hot Tub - Authentic Keys Charm

front yard
morning in front garden, perfect place for coffee
front door
primary bedroom, king bed
primary bedroom. doors to closet, hallway and bathroom

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8111.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Marathon, FL
  • Place, Marathon Air Museum
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, San Pablo Catholic Church
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon)
    ‪10 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom in primary bedroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Shared bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

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

About this property

Butterfly Garden Retreat - Ocean View Hot Tub - Authentic Keys Charm

Welcome to The Butterfly Cottage – Where Nature's Magic Meets Keys Comfort
Escape to a truly unique Florida Keys experience at our certified Monarch Butterfly Garden sanctuary! This charming traditional conch cottage offers families a peaceful retreat where butterflies dance through native gardens, ocean breezes meet hot tub relaxation, and authentic Keys living creates memories that last a lifetime.

OUR CERTIFIED BUTTERFLY GARDEN – A MARATHON RARITY
The Butterfly Cottage is one of the few Marathon Garden Club-certified Monarch Butterfly Gardens in the Florida Keys. Watch butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds visit throughout the day as you relax in this flourishing Florida-friendly landscape. It's not just a backyard – it's a living nature sanctuary that transforms your vacation into an immersive eco-experience. Children (and adults!) are mesmerized watching these delicate creatures flutter through the garden throughout your stay.

OCEAN VIEW HOT TUB – YOUR PRIVATE OASIS
Unwind under the stars in your private hot tub with distant ocean views. Whether it's morning coffee as the sun rises or evening relaxation under the Florida sky, this premium amenity elevates your Keys getaway. The combination of tropical gardens and hot tub creates an atmosphere you simply won't find in typical vacation rentals.

AUTHENTIC CONCH COTTAGE CHARM
Built in traditional Florida Keys style, our home features beautiful tile and terrazzo floors throughout, a spacious fully screened back porch perfect for morning coffee or evening games, and thoughtful touches that make you feel instantly at home. The open floor plan and comfortable furnishings create the perfect space for families to gather, relax, and reconnect.

WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL:
Marathon Garden Club-Certified Monarch Butterfly Garden – genuinely rare in the Keys
- Private ocean view hot tub – soak under the stars
- 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms – comfortable for families up to 6
- Traditional conch cottage architecture – authentic Keys experience
- Fully screened lanai – enjoy the outdoors bug-free
- Attached garage – protected parking and gear storage
- 4 bikes included – explore Marathon like a local
- Beach chairs, cooler, and gear – everything you need for beach days
- Central Marathon location – minutes to beaches, dining, and attractions
- Top-rated hosts – 10.0 rating on VRBO, 9.9 on Booking.com, 4.96 "Guest Favorite" on Airb&b

PERFECT FOR FAMILIES
As parents of four children, we designed this home with families in mind. The butterfly garden provides endless entertainment for curious kids, the spacious layout gives everyone room to spread out, and the location puts you close to incredible family-friendly attractions. Many guests return year after year, making The Butterfly Cottage part of their family's traditions.

YOUR MARATHON HOME BASE
The Butterfly Cottage sits in the heart of Marathon, giving you easy access to the best the Middle Keys have to offer:

Sombrero Beach (10 minutes) – pristine, family-friendly beach with playground

Coco Plum Beach (15 minutes) – shallow, calm waters perfect for children

Turtle Hospital (5 minutes) – rescued sea turtles and conservation education

Dolphin Research Center (15 minutes) – interactive marine mammal experiences

Seven Mile Bridge (10 minutes) – iconic views and world-class fishing

Crane Point Hammock (10 minutes) – nature trails and natural history museum

Local restaurants and shops – walking or biking distance

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL
Use our four included bikes to discover Marathon's hidden gems – from waterfront parks to local eateries to scenic paths along the ocean. The Keys are meant to be explored at a relaxed pace, and biking is the perfect way to soak in the island atmosphere.

ADVENTURES AWAIT
While our home isn't on a canal, Marathon offers world-class access to:

Fishing charters – nearby marinas and launch ramps

Diving & snorkeling – stunning coral reefs minutes offshore

Kayaking & paddleboarding – rental options nearby

Boat tours – dolphin watching, sunset cruises, eco tours

Water sports – jet skiing, parasailing, and more

THE BUTTERFLY COTTAGE EXPERIENCE
Imagine waking to butterflies visiting your garden, spending sun-soaked days at pristine beaches, returning to soak in your private hot tub as the sun sets, and gathering on the screened lanai to share stories of the day's adventures. This is the vacation rhythm at The Butterfly Cottage – peaceful, restorative, and uniquely memorable.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
My husband and I have loved the Florida Keys our entire lives, and we've raised our four children here. We want your family to experience the same magic we've found in Marathon. We've thoughtfully equipped our home with everything you need and maintain it to the highest standards. Your comfort, safety, and happiness are our priorities.

BOOKING DETAILS
7-night minimum stay – immerse yourself in the Keys lifestyle

Self check-in – arrive on your schedule

Professionally cleaned – spotless before every arrival

Communication – responsive hosts available throughout your stay

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
"The butterfly garden was absolutely magical – our kids spent hours watching the butterflies and hummingbirds. The hot tub was the perfect way to end each day. We'll definitely be back!"

"This is exactly what we needed – a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home. The location is perfect for exploring Marathon, and the home itself is beautiful. Highly recommend!"

"We've stayed in many Keys rentals, but The Butterfly Cottage is special. The garden is truly unique, and you can tell the owners genuinely care about their guests' experience."

COME DISCOVER YOUR SANCTUARY
The Butterfly Cottage isn't just a place to stay – it's a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create memories your family will treasure. Whether you're watching butterflies dance through the garden, soaking in the hot tub under the stars, or biking to the beach with your loved ones, every moment here is infused with the authentic magic of the Florida Keys.

Book your escape to The Butterfly Cottage today, and discover why our guests return year after year to this special place.

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Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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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
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Medium food bowls available
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No smoking on property. If guests smokes, or vapes there will be additional cleaning charges of minimum $250.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number VACA-22-423

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Marathon

Marathon is home to this holiday home. Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center and Florida Keys Country Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Sombrero Beach and Curry Hammock State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing, snorkelling and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling.
Map
Marathon, FL

What's nearby

  • Marathon Air Museum - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center - 2 min drive - 3.1 km
  • San Pablo Catholic Church - 3 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Marathon Visitor Center - 3 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Sombrero Beach - 7 min drive - 7.0 km

Getting around

  • Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon) - 1 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Brass Monkey - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Island Fish Company - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Butterfly Cottage to relax, unwind in garden, or lanai, enjoy view & hot tub pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

How much is parking at The Butterfly Cottage to relax, unwind in garden, or lanai, enjoy view & hot tub?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Butterfly Cottage to relax, unwind in garden, or lanai, enjoy view & hot tub?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Butterfly Cottage to relax, unwind in garden, or lanai, enjoy view & hot tub?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Butterfly Cottage to relax, unwind in garden, or lanai, enjoy view & hot tub located?

Situated in Marathon, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Marathon Air Museum and Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center. Sunset Park Beach and Coco Plum Beach 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.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 5 out of 5 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 5 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 5 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 5 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 5 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Melissa M.

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

Clean and well stocked

Easy to get to/from, clean and well stocked with extra linens, towels, household items. For a family staying everything was great and was a definite plus to include beach essentials and bikes to explore. Enjoyed our time here.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

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

Butterfly Garden tranquility in Marathon

We had a lovely six night stay in Marathon. The house was lovely and the location close to everything we wanted to do. Thank you for sharing this special home and garden.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dan T.

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

great

everything was like we expected and better. Host is awesome as well !
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

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

Loved the Butterfly House

Stayed at the Butterfly House for a family wedding we were attending. The house was clean and spacious. Everyone was easily accommodated. The home and ammenities listed were accurately described. We had an issue with one of the toilets. When we contacted the property manager, Marianna, addressed the issue in a prompt manner. Not only do I highly recommend, I would definitely stay again at this property if I was visiting Marathon.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven O.

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

Great location for visiting the Florida Keys.

The house was very clean and well stocked for your daily needs along with beach towels and chairs. Fishing poles and bicycles are there as well. We loved the variety of the different flowers and vegetation she has on the property which supports the butterflies. Everything was just starting to bloom but we still got to see a few of them. We spent a few hours in the jacuzzi which was wonderful as well. There is the airport just across the street that you can watch various airplanes as well as some helicopters fly in and out. Just a heads up, can get a little noisy at times! Do check out the various locations to enjoy the fabulous sunset there. We found a great little spot at a place called Sunset Park, I believe. Interacted to some wonderful residents there a few times! We made trips to several beaches and parks as well as to Key West while there. Overall, just a wonderful vacation and we thank you Erica for letting us stay at your home!!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Erika Susan Morris Barrow

Host profile image
My husband and I have enjoyed the Florida Keys our whole life. We have brought our 4 children to this beautiful part of the world their whole life and would love to share our home with you to enjoy.

Why they chose this property

Come relax in our charming traditional Florida Keys conch cottage, with tile and terrazzo floors throughout. Including a spacious, fully screened back porch, the length of the house adds more room for entertaining or enjoying the beautiful flower gardens. Attached garage for convenience, storage and protected parking. Also, enjoy the 4 bikes, cooler, and beach chairs in the sunny warm weather. It is nestled privately in a Marathon Garden Club-certified Monarch Butterfly Garden and Florida-friendly landscaping.

What makes this property unique

Sits in a beautiful garden where you can watch butterflies, hummingbirds and other beautiful bird visitors thru the day.

Languages:

English
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