Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports
Just 1/2 mile offshore the coastal town of Marathon, FL. nestled midway down the Florida Keys chain of Islands, you'll find a “secret” island hideaway that is as close to paradise as one could happen upon.
This lush, tropical 10-acre island is named Seabird Key and is surrounded by the calm blue waters of Florida Bay which provides the perfect setting for water sports of all kinds. Imagine waking up on your own private island knowing that you and your group are the only occupants (besides the seabirds, of course) and you have exclusive use and access to your own boat, dock, sandy beach, lush gardens, outdoor kitchen and jungle trails. Kayaks and paddle boards are also provided along with a towing tube that provides endless entertainment for kids of all ages.
Step out onto your private balcony or climb up a very sturdy ladder leading to Seabird’s 30-foot widow’s walk for the ultimate views and be amazed by the surrounding beauty. The sunset hour is the peak time to experience unforgettable, breathtaking Florida Keys sunsets.
As a guest, you'll enjoy the convenience of not one, but two full kitchens (one inside and one outside) complete with appliances and all the necessary pots, pans, plates and utensils to whip up delicious meals. Gather around the dining table with the 7 other people you invited to share this secret experience with and savor the flavors of the local Keys cuisine. If you like fish, you can go out in the boat and fish for whatever kind of fish you like or just drop a line at the dock where you can usually catch an abundance of yellowtail snapper.
If you chose to spend your day in the hammock, and you were not in the mood for offshore fishing or even fishing straight off the dock, there are local seafood shops where you can find fresh fish of any variety. If you are also not into cooking, Seabird’s concierge, Carly Hursey, can set you up with a private chef who is delighted to come over to the Island to cook for you. You’ll have to pay for the chef’s cost, but a meal served on Seabird is better than any restaurant anywhere. The setting is so unique and beautiful, it will be a well spent wad of cash should you decide to treat yourself.
When you're not exploring the Island, you might find yourself hanging out on the beach sunbathing, reading your book, playing with your kids or dozing off peacefully in a hammock listening to the gentle sway of the palm trees. Turn on your favorite music if you like because there are speakers on the beach. The music is controlled by the TV/Sound system in the Island home, but it’s up to you whether you have it playing on the beach or not. And, yes, you could be working on your phone or tablet because there is high speed Wi-Fi on Seabird, including the beach, but hopefully you will not even think about checking in with the rest of the world.
After a great night's sleep, you wake up the next day a bit more energized and although you have been feeling lazy, today will be different. You get to decide what activities to explore. You could kayak around the Island and get some exercise while experiencing some very interesting mangrove forests. The back side of the Island is where you can learn firsthand what the Florida Keys ecosystem is all about. This unusual, complicated and fascinating part of God’s creation will be interesting, and you might learn something new that will greatly enrich your stay on Seabird. So, off you go and have a fabulous adventure.
Upon return, everyone is now so impressed that you kayaked around the entire Island, so while you’re putting your kayak away, you see the paddle boards stacked nearby and since you know you’re a real dude, you take one down to the dock and jump on for a ride. Your arms may be a little tired already from the kayaking, but you can worry about that later. After all, you’re not trying to set any world records for speed. Thank goodness the water is calm! When you finish the paddleboarding, it’s already late morning and you are ready for a snack. You rinse off at one of the ground level outdoor showers. That was convenient because you're not changing out of your swimsuit! You grab a beach towel and mosey on over to the Trader Vic’s outdoor kitchen. You know you should have some coconut water for hydration, but instead you pull out the blender and mix up a pina colada. This is the most refreshing drink ever after all your morning activity.
Sombrero Reef is the place to go for snorkeling or scuba-diving. It's on the ocean side, but you're ready for another adventure, right? Seabird's manager cautioned you to only go out to Sombrero on a "perfect" day which translates to one with little or no wind. Otherwise, it makes for a very wet and bumpy ride over if you ignore sea conditions. Also, if you have limited boating skills, you may want to go out to the reef with a captain. There are numerous boats who take people out for a half-day with a group. This could be for you.
The kids are gathered looking at hermit crabs, so you decide to see what the fascination with hermit crabs is all about. They found crabs painted with art and people’s names on the crabs. This seems to be a Seabird thing. Paint your own personal crab and throughout your stay, try to spot it around the Island. So, the kids are now painting their names on the little crabs. I did see a page in the Seabird guidebook that was a warning from the owners…You can’t take them home with you!! Their home is on Seabird!
you can unwind in the cozy living room, catch a movie on the smart TV, or challenge your friends to a game night. The property also offers a range of amenities to make your stay truly comfortable, including free high speed Wi-Fi, a washing machine and dryer, and an array of entertainment options for both adults and children.
You look at the brochures for the nearby attractions, such as the picturesque Coco Plum Beach, the serene Sombrero Beach, or the captivating Curry Hammock State Park. A trip to Marathon offers the experience of swimming with the Dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. The younger kids will ask to go to the aquarium where they can interact with the sea life. It's less than 3 minutes from Seabird's mainland lot, so you can't say no. You read that another really great organization is the Turtle Hospital located also in Marathon. Take a tour. These are just 3 of our favorites. There is so much more to explore.
Embrace the laid-back island lifestyle and create lasting memories in this enchanting beachfront vacation home.
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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, please.
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items
Return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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 navigational charts and don't take the boat in shallow water where the boat prop could be damaged. Seabird charges guests for prop damage
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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.
How much does it cost to stay at Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports?
As of 6 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports on 16 May, 2026 start from S$2,867, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Private Island, Florida Keys with unique home, Boat, Dock, Beach, Water Sports?
On-site parking is available at the property.
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.
Exceeded our high expectations in every way. The property is immaculate and very organized. Every detail considered and well executed.
Jimboy M.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Mar, 2026
Thank you so much for the excellent review. As you can imagine, Island management is not so easy and we appreciate that you complemented us in your review. We have a dedicated team that continues to deliver a first class experience in Island living. Seabird will welcome you back anytime.
Our host Adam and Carly are the BEST, so welcoming, warm, and calm. Our 50 year college friendship couples all had the same opinion that we would love to take them home with us. I am an ocean lover but I think the beautiful foliage planted on this Island by the longtime owners topped the water. It truly is a paradise with easy trails throughout the Island.And when the description says it is equipped the really mean it, just bring your suitcase with a few clothes. We loved our cocktails and dinners in the outdoor kitchen.Would rate this vacation Aplus.Thank you to Deborah and Jim for their blend of careful planning of its improvements while keeping the feel of island life.Thank you Adam for being so kind in your boat rescue.Jenifer from Ky
Jenifer D.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Mar, 2026
We’re delighted that you enjoyed your experience on Seabird Key. We’re very fortunate to have a dedicated team and from the top -down, each team member brings their individual talents to make a positive difference in the way Seabird is maintained for your best and most exciting week of Island Living. The owner, Jim appreciates the mention of the jungle gardens throughout Seabird. That’s his project!
This a is lovely property, just as advertised. Adam was very helpful and we thoroughly enjoyed our time on the island and using the boat to explore the area. We will be back!
Julie A.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept, 2025
Thank you for this lovely review! We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay on Seabird Key. We now consider you part of our Seabird family and hope that you'll visit again in the future. Our goal is to always have happy clients! Thank you for your business and we'll look forward to welcoming you back to Seabird Key anytime.
Everything far exceeded our expectations! I will definitely be back!
Matt S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that your experience exceeded expectations. Knowing you'll be back is the best compliment we could receive. Can’t wait to welcome you back to the island for another unforgettable stay!
Loved the kitchen, but mostly used the outdoor kitchen with music and strawberry daiquiris while cooking. My 18 lb full grown aussalier (king charles cavalier mixed with mini australian puppy learned to swim and had a blast with toys at the beach also. My mom was amazing and had the time of her life even though she is about half way through Alzheimer's. She hasnt stopped talking about going back next year and would rather be at sea bird key that anywhere in Europe or over seas is what she told my dad and I both. As always it was an amazing experience and hopefully we can visit again soon. Your team has done a wonderful job and the air conditioning was a great addition. Thank you fro the bottom of our hearts for this vacation and hope to see you again
Anne Marie K.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Nov, 2025
Reading your words truly touched our hearts! Knowing that you, your family, and your sweet puppy made such special memories together at Seabird Key means the world to us.
We’re especially moved to hear that your mom had such a wonderful time. The image of her enjoying the island, the beach, and those joyful moments with family is exactly why we do what we do. It’s an honor to know that Seabird Key brought her so much happiness and comfort and that she’s already dreaming of coming back!
From all of us at Seabird Key, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being such wonderful guests! We can’t wait to welcome you back for more sunshine, laughter, and ocean breezes next year.
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.
Brad W.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 May, 2025
Hey Brad!
Thank you for your review of Seabird Key. We appreciate your enthusiastic tone and are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and had a great experience. Sometimes, people like you had a great time, but don't bother to write about it. The reviews are important to us and again, thanks. You were a great guest, and we hope to welcome you back in the future.
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
Daniel A.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2025
Daniel, we appreciate your great review, but most of all, it makes us happy to know that you enjoyed all aspects of the Island experience. We work with people like you and your family in mind and prepare with the purpose of creating an unforgettable vacation. As you know, Seabird is like no other place you've been. Thank you for your business and please do come back to visit again.
Extraordinary. We didn't even know that it was possible to rent an island and have it all to ourselves. Seabird Key is private and beautiful. From watching the sunrise on the dock w/ coffee to sunset from the widow's walk and everything in between, it was a wonderful experience. There are so many things you can do (kayak, fish, snorkel, exploring, etc.) or do nothing at all (soaking up the sun-my personal favorite) they've thought of everything at Seabird Key. That's the great thing about it; you're on your own schedule. The bonus is that it's not all "peopley", like a lot of destinations. We can't say enough about how awesome Adam and Carly were with all our requests and questions and our private chef, Cindy (Impeccably Gourmet) took the island experience to a whole new level. Even though going in we felt it was a "once in a lifetime" vacation, by the last day we were trying to find a way to return as soon as possible.
Sheri C.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Nov, 2025
Thank you so much for your incredible review! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the magic of Seabird Key — from sunrise coffees on the dock to sunset views from the widow’s walk.
You captured exactly what makes the island special: the freedom to adventure or simply relax and soak it all in at your own pace. And we’re so glad Chef Cindy helped make your stay even more memorable.
It means the world that your “once in a lifetime” trip has turned into a “can’t wait to come back” dream. We can’t wait to welcome you back to the island!
We're so happy that you and your family had such a great time at Seabird and glad you got to relax. It was a pleasure meeting you and we hope to see you again soon!
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.
margaret B.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Feb, 2025
Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy to hear you had an amazing vacation and enjoyed the peacefulness of the property. We appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back soon!
We celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary and included our three daughters, their husbands, two young children and one on the way!It was an amazing, magical time. We very much enjoyed being outdoors and using the incredible kitchen. The sunrises on the dock and the swimming on the beach were a family favorite.Spending time together in a quiet, secluded place that made you feel you were in a tropical paradise. We look forward to coming back again to celebrate our growing family. Thank you for everything. The property is beyond words.
Todd A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun, 2025
Todd!! Thanks for your review. We are so happy to hear that your week on Seabird was tons of fun. Happy 40th wedding anniversary! I hope you received the mangoes I left for you from Seabird's special tree and most of all, I hope that you enjoyed them. It was wonderful having your family visit the Island and we do hope you will return as those toddlers grow. We put an enormous amount of work into keeping Seabird Key warm & inviting while keeping the gardens blooming and flourishing. Glad to know you enjoyed the beach with the kids. It's perfect for the little ones. Thank you for your business and for purchasing Seabird tee shirts. Hope to see your family again one day!
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.
Daniel A.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
We are happy you and your family got to enjoy all the great things the island has to offer! Thank you for staying with us and we hope to see you again soon!
My family of 4 had a great week at Seabird Key. We enjoyed the outdoor kitchen, tubing in the bay, spotting hermit crabs, iguanas and fish in the water.
The grounds are perfectly maintained and very beautiful.
katie p.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
Thanks for the terrific review! It's so nice to have a family who appreciates the beauty of Island living. If you love the outdoors and being surrounded by the ocean and beautiful gardens, I think you'll enjoy Seabird Key. Our guests really get caught up in their island adventures and find that they almost never go inside.
This property was so amazing! We loved the treehouse-feel of the main house, the property had gorgeous landscaping and looked almost unreal it was so beautiful! We loved the privacy, the outdoor kitchen and the hammocks! Check in and communication was easy and we LOVED our time on the island!
Brian P.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
We are so glad you and your family had a great time and got to enjoy your island vacation to the fullest! Thank you for the nice review. Hope to have you stay with us again very soon!
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.
greg h.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful experience! We're thrilled to hear that SeaBird Key made for such a memorable Christmas for you and your family. It’s so special to know that your little one named it "Christmas Island" what a perfect memory! We’d love to welcome you back anytime to create more unforgettable moments. Thank you again!
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.
Suzanne N.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
Thank you for your kind review! We are so happy you enjoyed all Seabird has to offer. Having a private chef is definitely is a nice touch to make your visit extra relaxing. Thank you for staying with us and we hope to see you again next year!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Kari O.
3 Apr, 2017
Relaxing adventure for all ages!
Family members from 82 years to 11 years thoroughly enjoyed this island get away. The house is well setup for any of your needs along with all the outdoor amenities such as the outdoor kitchen/bar area, private beach, and the boardwalks. This family looks forward to our next island getaway. Thanks for the great memories!
Kari O.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
Thank you for this great review! We applaud the 82 year old in your group for taking on the adventure of Island living. We hope it was an experience of a lifetime and we look forward to your return in the future. We enjoyed having you as our guests.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Frank C.
9 Nov, 2010
a perfect retreat
An absolutely remarkable retreat, Seabird Key’s private ten acre island may just be the best kept secret of the Florida Keys. A full on emersion into paradise awaits prospective visitors with an added bonus; an all inclusive boat rental for the stay. Exuding authentic charm and undeniable character while at the same time tastefully including a great deal of modern conveniences, Seabird Key is perfect
Frank C.
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
We very much appreciate the review from Cast5 and assume that their comments are sincere given they have visited Seabird on an annual basis for years. We welcome their return to Seabird Thanksgiving 2010.
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.
Erich H.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
We are so pleased that you had such a great time! Glad you took home some ideas to enjoy a slice of paradise in your own back yard. Thank you for your nice review. Hope to see you again soon!
About the host
Hosted by Carley Hursey
Seabird has been a labor of love for 40+ years for my husband and me. We both grew up in Alabama, but we met in New York City where he was working on wall street, and I was in graduate school working toward a degree in piano pedagogy. We lived in New York for ten years, and it was during that time we purchased the untouched Island. When our second child was on the way, we decided to move to Miami to be closer to Seabird. We've been here 34 years now and still enjoy Miami where he continues to work with investments and I work with Seabird. I've found that owning a small business translates to "I do anything needed on a particular day."
For over 30 years I managed the Seabird Key reservations and during that time, I got to know many of our clients really well. We had so many repeat guests who came back year after year and I learned their children's names, grandma's name, and even knew their pets names. Many of those children from our early days are coming to Seabird today with their own children. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know our clients. That part of my job was very rewarding just hearing the stories of their family adventures on Seabird.
As for our family, our oldest daughter and her family live in Murfreesboro, TN. Their three beautiful girls have frequently been the models for my casual Seabird photoshoots. Their younger brother was adopted from China and can be found in several island photos as well. Our son and his family live in Dallas, TX. He and his wife have 3 precious little girls who LOVE Seabird. He and his little sister grew up in Miami and were the two who spent the most time on Seabird while Jim and I were working there. They had fun on the Island, but grew tired of riding in the SUV from Miami down to the Keys with palm fronds hanging over their faces because the back was stacked with plants. Little sister, now 34, does Seabird's social media and lives in Miami. She is still single but enjoys her 2 pups, Lady and Cowboy.
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
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests