There are 10 cottages on the resort that can accommodate up to two people and include wi-fi, air conditioning, wood deck, small fridge, flat-screen TV, bathroom, Weber Grill, dresser, and nightstand. The cottages are located throughout the resort, but all are just a short walk to the beach. However, the Key West Efficiency Cottage is the only beachfront accommodation.
Fishing is a popular activity in the Keys, and guests can choose from backcountry fishing, deep-sea fishing, or party boats for large groups. Kayaking through the marinas and harbors as well as trails through parks are common adventures.
Island Bay Resort is partnered with Conch Republic Divers. This dive shop has been serving divers in Florida for over 30 years. Located in the Tavernier Creek Marina, the center has access to the reefs and wrecks along the Florida Keys. It is conveniently located less than 10 feet away from the boats, and tanks and weights are loaded onto the boats by the crew. The dive center has two boats: the Republic Diver and the Aquatic Diver. The Republic Diver is a 46-foot Newton Custom Dive boat that makes for a calmer ride in most conditions. The Aquatic Diver is a 30-foot island hopper used for exploring uncharted reefs and traveling with smaller groups. This boat is available for private half or full-day charters. Both boats have water, showers with toiletries, camera storage, rinse bins, a toilet, a cooler for divers to store their snacks, and two ladders to increase accessibility. The crew is trained and certified in oxygen administration, emergency first aid, and CPR.
The dive center takes guests to dive sites throughout the keys. This includes the colorful corals and fishes throughout the Secret Garden and Camille’s Reef in Tavernier Creek. Divers can also explore the military transfer ship, Spiegel Grove, that was purposefully sunk in 2002. The ship lies just six miles from Key Largo and is now home to a vibrant coral reef with algae, sponges, coral, barracuda, and jacks. The dive center has access to what may be one of the world’s most explored wrecks: the Duane. This ship sits straight up at a depth of 120 feet and is ideal for advanced divers who are comfortable diving in strong currents. This site has a visibility of more than 100 feet. There are more wreck dives, reefs, and drift dives available through the Conch Republic.
Conch Republic offers dive and snorkel trips, gear rental, sales, service, dive training for all levels, hotel accommodations, and more. The center also offers air and nitrox fills in tanks fitted with both DIN and yoke adapters; 100 CF Steel tanks are available upon request.
Narrative text and photographs courtesy of Island Bay Resort and Conch Republic Divers.