Little Torch Key, Florida

Inns, Lodges, Resorts

May 2022

Photos by Jimmy Jacobs

For those that remember the good ol’ days in the Florida Keys, Parmer’s Resort takes you back to those early times. Their eclectic collection of cottages, efficiency studios and basic rooms will suit every need, whether a family getaway or a headquarters for your fishing party.

The Muller family owns the resort and come from five generations of innkeepers in New England. They had been visiting the Keys since the era when ferries still linked some of the islands. In 2017 they made the move down south and bought Parmer’s, becoming the resorts third owners since it first opened its doors in the 1970s.

That was when Frank Parmer drove down the Keys from Miami and opened a fishing camp on Little Torch Key. Parmer’s Place grew over the years and when Frank wanted to retire, Jay Marzella stepped in to fill his shoes. Jay was welcomed to the Keys with Hurricane George in 1998, but cleaned up, built up and expanded Parmer’s Resort to the fourteen buildings scattered over five acres that it is today.

Located on Little Torch Key, Parmer’s Resort is on a quiet residential street, less than 25 miles from Key West and 40 minutes to Curry Hammock State Park. The resort has its own 90-foot sand beach for relaxing and a pier with boat slips for access to the area’s fishing. The Mullers and their staff take the extra step to accommodate their guests. Free WiFi, light breakfast buffet, afternoon cookies, Bocce ball, four holes of mini-golf and a heated pool enhance one’s stay. Adirondack chairs, hammocks, grills and picnic table are available for use. Nearby you find kayak and paddleboard rentals, boat rental and outfitters offering snorkel or dive trips. Guests have the option of adding daily maid service, and all units have television.

But don’t worry about ringing phones during your stay. You won’t find those in the units.

Just a few blocks down the road from Parmer’s is Kiki’s Sandbar & Grille, a favorite watering hole and grill with the locals. It is a scenic drive to the east across the Seven Mile Bridge to reach the DIY action at Curry Hammock State Park, or the local charter guides close by can put you on some fish. Either way, Parmer’s Resort is standing by to make your fishing trip to the lower Keys all it can be.