Name: Little Basin Villas
Address: 84 Johnston Road, Islamorada, Forida, 33036, USA
Telephone: 305-363-8999
Price range: $$$$

Fodor's Expert Review

If you’ve ever wanted to quit your job and move to the Keys, these villas might just make you do it. The units are so spacious and comfortably posh, you’ll never want to leave. Think "coastal chic meets modern technology," and their location in the heart of Islamorada will make your stay that much more spectacular.

You Should Know Although there is no daily housekeeping or front desk, should you need anything during your stay, just pick up the phone.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Room

Jaw-dropping might describe your reaction when you first open the keyless front door. Score! This place is huge! White walls with crown moulding, high ceilings with recessed lighting, all white furniture, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen (white, of course), smart TVs, driftwood (tiled) floors, and a built-in sound system are all yours. You'll find one bedroom downstairs and two spacious bedrooms upstairs. Note that the only closet for hanging clothes is in the upstairs hall. Bedroom furniture is minimal, throw pillows are abundant, and plantation shutters let the light in early.

Tip Every villa is a two-story, 3-bedroom/3.5 bath that sleeps six. Bring another couple (or two) to share the costs and it’s a real bargain.

Bathroom

You’ll find a simple yet stylish ½-bath downstairs, then each bedroom has its own bathroom and shower, and the design is coastal modern. Neutral tiles, river-rock shower floors, good lighting, vessel sinks, and seaside accents sum up the style. There's a hairdryer as well as plenty of towels in each full bath.

You Should Know Bring all your own bathroom amenities, including a box of tissue, as none are provided. And if you’re picky about your toilet paper, you won’t like the paper-thin quality of what’s here.

Lobby

There is no lobby, or front desk area; all of your paperwork will be handled online. Since the doors are keyless, you'll be provided your own private code for check in and check out.

Tip There's a binder in your villa with everything you need to know, including the manager's phone number. Call with anything you need.

Pool

The pool area is simply stated, yet beautiful. It’s gated around the perimeter and there’s a small Tiki hut that covers some of the shallow end, perfect for a respite from the sun. The deck is spacious and you can move the loungers to enjoy a quasi-view of the bay. Even the poolside bathrooms are stylish.

You Should Know Pool towels are in your villa in the upstairs closet. You can launder them if needed, in your provided washer and dryer.

Dining

There are no onsite dining options but you do have a full kitchen so you can cook your own gourmet meal. Delivery is also an option. Look in your binder for a list of restaurants.

Grounds

Spend a little time outdoors beneath the large Tiki by the water. You’ll find a propane BBQ grill and picnic tables, with space for everyone. This is a shared space with other villas guests so don't be a Tiki hog. A floating dock is right down the coral steps, perfect for launching a kayak, which can be delivered to your door, for a fee. This is also where your private charter boat (if you booked one) will pick you up to take you snorkeling, diving, or bar-hopping by boat.

Activities

For a completely unique experience that you won't find elsewhere, have the resort manager arrange a "lazy river float" for you. This is such a cool "ride" and it's completely dependent on Mother Nature and the natural current that runs behind the resort, through Little Basin Channel. You'll either float from the resort toward Lorelei Cabana Bar or vise-versa, depending on tide table. Entry/exit is before Lorelei, at a convenient boat ramp. Slather on the sunscreen and float your cares away, my friend.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

From here, you can easily walk to shops, restaurants, museums, and the Islamorada Art District. To explore further, you’ll need a car or you can take an Uber or a taxi.

Restaurants

There are so many good restaurants within walking distance and many deliver right to your door. Chef Michael’s (3-minute walk) offers a fine dining experience, reservations necessary. The Green Turtle (6-minute walk) is famous for its chowder; they have a good breakfast, too. Ma’s Fishcamp (4-minute walk) is casual, has indoor and outdoor seating, and offers several reasonable fish of the day options.

Bars

Taste local craft beers at Florida Keys Brewing Company (6-minute walk). The famous Tiki Bar at Holiday Isle (7-minute drive) is home to the original rumrunner and is completely outdoors. Like to play pool? Come drink with the locals and play a few games at the Whistle Stop (2-minute drive). Sunset celebration is held nightly at Lorelei Cabana Bar (2-minute drive).