In recent years, the concept of sustainable tourism has emerged as a beacon of hope in the realm of travel. It encourages both tourists and hosts to consider their economic, social, and environmental impacts. This is especially important to us in the Florida Keys, where delicate and diverse ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangrove nurseries, and hardwood hammocks require our protection.
Going Green During Your Stay
From the moment you arrive at Grassy Flats, you become part of our sustainability journey. Our commitment to reducing environmental impact starts with a paperless check-in process and a digital guest guidebook, eliminating paper waste right from the beginning. Upon check-in, you’ll receive reusable wooden room keys, replacing plastic key cards.
We prioritize recycling and composting, ensuring that as much waste as possible is diverted from landfills. Since 2023, we've recycled over 27,000 pounds of cardboard alone—about 76 pounds daily! Additionally, we've phased out plastic straws and water bottles, opting instead for biodegradable alternatives and recyclable aluminum bottles. These efforts make it easy for you to join us in making a difference.
The Rhum House: A Commitment to Sustainable Dining
Dining at Grassy Flats goes hand-in-hand with our sustainability principles. Our on-site restaurant, The Rhum House, is dedicated to offering an exceptional culinary experience that aligns with our commitment to sustainability. We collaborate with family-owned, small-production wineries from around the world to bring you a unique selection of handcrafted wines. These wines are sourced from producers who practice sustainable, biodynamic, or organic farming methods, ensuring that every glass you enjoy is not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.
The Rhum House is also committed to serving only the freshest, locally caught fish. We also offer fine certified Angus beef and free-range chicken raised without antibiotics, all butchered on-site at the Grassy Key Land and Sea Market. Whether you're savoring a flavorful entrée or enjoying a fresh tapas dish, you can be sure that your meal supports sustainable, local practices.
With four dining options on-site, we provide healthy, wholesome food all day long—without the need for vending machines or snacks in single-use packaging.
Empowering Communities
Sustainable tourism isn’t just about protecting the environment; it’s also about uplifting communities. The Florida Keys have long been home to local artists and musicians, but rising prices and tourism have changed the landscape. At Grassy Flats, we are proud to contribute to revitalizing this artistic legacy. Through our partnerships with local artists, we nurture a creative environment that draws artists back to the Keys.
Our Artists in Residency program provides local artists with a place to live and work, while the walls of our Conch House rooms give them space to breathe life into their creations. Meanwhile, at our sister property, The Lagoon on Grassy Key, local mural artists have transformed spaces into vibrant open-air galleries that celebrate the cultural richness of our community.
Cultivating Responsible Travelers
We are committed to inspiring and educating our guests to become responsible travelers, both during their stay and beyond. From offering digital resources to encouraging participation in recycling and composting, we make sustainable choices accessible and easy. Small steps, such as reducing waste or opting for locally sourced meals, can have a significant impact on our environment.
At Grassy Flats, sustainability isn't just a choice—it's a way of life. It's our path toward a brighter future for generations to come, and we invite you to be part of it. Ready to dive into luxury that leaves a positive footprint? Join us at Grassy Flats, where luxury meets sustainability, and every visit helps make our world a better place—starting right here in the Florida Keys.