Fall in the Florida Keys: Banana Bay Resort Travel Guide & Seasonal Events
B Hotels & Resorts

Fall in Love with Banana Bay Resort & Marina

As summer fades and the Keys settle into their golden glow, fall emerges as a magical time to escape – offering perfect weather, fewer crowds, and new adventures around every bend.

 

Why Fall at Banana Bay Is a Dream

Fall in The Keys greets you with sunny skies and balmy temps in the 70s–80s °F – just enough warmth to enjoy the water without the intense summer heat. Plus, with fewer visitors around, you’ll discover laid-back tranquility and better rates – making it an ideal season for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking peace or playful exploration.

 

The Resort: Your Laid-Back Autumn Oasis

Set on 10 lush acres in Marathon, Banana Bay Resort is your all-adult island hideaway – relaxed and replenishing.

  • Freshwater pool with hammock-laced lounging and ocean breeze serenity
  • Private marina offering 34 slips – perfect for guests arriving by boat
  • The Pointe: unwind with games, hammocks, waterfront drinks, and sunsets
  • B Nourished® buffet to kickstart your morning with a hearty breakfast
  • Free bike rentals to explore the palm-tree-lined charm of Marathon
  • Pet-friendly rooms boasting tranquil garden or marina views

 

Fall Adventures: Fishing, Festivals & Florida’s Best

World-Class Fall Fishing

The Keys are legendary among anglers, particularly in fall. As warm-water species migrate southward, places like Islamorada – the “Sportfishing Capital of the World” – buzz with activity. Target sailfish offshore, or chase bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, and redfish in the shallow backcountry—all possible in a single day Fantasy Fest. Plus, compete or admire anglers at events like the Fall Backcountry Fly Championship, held in Islamorada each October (often the first weekend of the month) adventureflkeys.com.

 

Fantasy Fest: A Costume Carnival

Each fall, Key West sizzles with Fantasy Fest—a spectacular, 10-day costume, parade, and masquerade extravaganza. In 2025, it runs October 17–26, with a theme of “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters.” Expect raucous fun and creativity with events like the Headdress Ball, Pet Masquerade, Zombie Bike Ride (October 19), Masquerade March, and the epic Fantasy Fest Parade on October 25 floridakeys.com.

 

Dive Into Conservation & Culture

  • REEF Fest (Oct 16–19, Key Largo): a weekend for reef enthusiasts featuring snorkeling, kayak eco-tours, and ocean conservation seminars
  • Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada: colorful roadside art hub highlighted by “Betsy” – a giant 30-foot lobster sculpture – plus studios, galleries, and handcrafted treasures
  • Full Moon Kayak Excursions: paddle under moonlight around Big Pine Key and No Name Key – available through the Florida Keys Wildlife Society in the fall/winter floridakeyswildlifesociety.org.
  • Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail: cycling or walking along this future 106-mile paved trail connecting Key Largo to Key West – perfect for scenic fall outings

 

Day Trips Worth Taking

  • Bahia Honda State Park: Known for its powdery beaches and nature trails – ideal for relaxing, bike rides, or sunset views
  • The Turtle Hospital: Located just minutes away, this inspiring facility rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles – guided tours offer both education and heart
  • Key West: A mere hour away, the island is alive with historic charm, vibrant nightlife, galleries, and colorful culture
  • No Name Pub & Key Deer Spotting on Big Pine Key: quirky pub vibes and the chance to glimpse adorable tiny deer wandering freely

 

How to Make Your Fall Trip Unforgettable

 

Theme Highlight
Serene & Scenic Soak in sunset views from The Pointe; bike peaceful Marathon lanes
Sport & Adventure Charter a fishing boat or paddle the backcountry
Culture & Conservation Kayak by moonlight, visit a turtle rehabilitation center, or explore reef-conscious events
All-Out Fun Dress up and join Fantasy Fest in Key West—themed parties, parades, and creative shows await

 

Your Fall Itinerary Suggestion

  • Morning — Wake up to a peaceful breakfast at Banana Bay, then hit the water—fishing charter or snorkeling
  • Afternoon — Enjoy a quiet bike ride, stop at the Turtle Hospital or cruise the Overseas Heritage Trail
  • Evening — Catch sunset cocktails at The Pointe. Head out for dinner in Key West or Islamorada
  • Night — Attend Fantasy Fest events (if visiting mid-late October) or enjoy a full-moon kayak under the stars in early fall
  • Optional Day Trips — Visit Rain Barrel Village for art and lobster photography or tour reef conservation at REEF Fest

Whether you crave calm or celebration, Banana Bay Resort & Marina is your perfect autumn escape – offering sun-drenched tranquility, thrilling fishing, conservation-focused outings, and the colorful wildness of Fantasy Fest. Fall isn’t just a season here – it’s an unforgettable adventure waiting to be yours.