Casa Morada

My husband and I have traveled extensively and typically stay in well-reviewed 3-4 star boutique hotels. We couldn't have been more disappointed with our $900/night (after all fees and taxes) Shangri-La Suite Casa Morada stay. At that price point, you expect a very nice room and some type of amenities other than a beach towel and an unheated small tiny pool. There was no shower. (The only way to bathe was a very small faucet wand serving a large tub, with no shower curtain, that sat in the middle of the bathroom). There is no beach, and what could be a very nice outdoor bar is not staffed or equipped. There was no help with luggage across a gravel drive and up a long flight of stairs. No food offering of any kind -- except the meager continental breakfast and fully closed at 10:30. One has to trek about a block from the seaside to get your own Cokes and Water at the front desk. There was no extra blanket in the room and no way to get another blanket (or anything else) after the front desk closed early. This is not a 4.5 rated beach destination resort, but a 2.5-star, lightly staffed motor inn that happens to be located on the beach.

We so wanted to love Casa Morada, having been recommended the hotel by dear friends who has stayed previously. There are some real positives to the property – the location, the gardens, the "private island" – but sadly there are also a number of fundamental flaws. The rooms are tired and desperately need an urgent refurb. If I was being kind, I would say they have gone for the "shabby chic" look but in reality, the rooms are just old and a little decrepit. Our room (Coconut Palm) was badly laid out, with a poor use of space. The bathroom looked like it hadn't been touched since the 70's. The plumbing was hit and miss (no hot water in the sink, the shower head would decapitate anyone over 5'10" etc.). The saddest aspect was the lack of use of the facilities. Offering only breakfast, we found the gardens, dock and pool largely abandoned, especially in the evenings, as guests sought refuge elsewhere. Be aware that the front desk closes at 8pm; fortunately, we had called ahead due to a delayed flight so were able to organise access to our room. The overall vibe was of a "has been B&B" in need of some urgent TLC. Fine perhaps at $150-200 / night but at over $500+ / night, this did not represent good value.

What a gem. Gorgeous use of space, and the details were lovely. We made wonderful use of the amenities. The bikes, breakfasts, pool, convenient location….LOVE!

We have been coming to Casa Morada Motel for over 10 years every February for about a week. We really like this place. Very peaceful. We always stay in one of the ocean rooms. This year 2026, they have better Staffing this year then the last few years after "covid". But also I found out it got sold, so perhaps that's the plus too. We will be coming back 2027 as scheduled :-). A really great place. Very pretty and peaceful. Not very kid-oriented and as before I believe you have to be 16 to stay here. Plus-- their staffing has really improved, really outstanding staff.

We had a delightful stay. Our second floor "garden view" room was both comfortable and charming. The simple and delicious breakfast buffet was in its own building, closer to the water. Ruth, who both was at Reception and prepared breakfast, was lovely and welcoming. While we could have wished for warmer weather, it was still far colder up North :) it started to be more typical Keys weather as we were leaving!