The Coral Cove

Welcome to Julia Whitehead Guest Suites! Built in the 1890s on the site of what had been a small provisions and butcher shop, this charming building has a rich and captivating history. In the 1930s, while Hemingway lived a few houses down, it was home to a popular Cuban bodega. From the 1980s through the turn of this century, potter Charles Pearson created ceramic masterpieces which are still collected today. If you keep a watchful eye, you will find some of his ceramic fish adorning buildings and homes in the neighborhood still.

Its current guardians have spent nearly a decade painstakingly bringing the building back to life, with three one-bedroom apartments, and hosting Dog Tired Studio gallery up front as the proud face of the building. Julia Whitehead, the patron mermaid of the building, has been keeping an eye over this landmark since she first surfaced here in the 1800s, and she invites you to come and live like a local, just steps from Duval St., in the shadow of the lighthouse.

Here, at charming Coral Cove, you’ll find an updated, modern space with colorful, beachy decor. The full kitchen makes it easy to whip up meals or snacks, and you can dine alfresco at the bistro table on your enclosed patio. Spend the day snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park, then let the AC splits in each room cool you down. Watch a bit of TV or use the free WiFi to scroll social media, then call it a night in the serene bedroom, with sweet dreams of mermaids and swaying palms in store.

All three apartments in the building may be rented as Julia Whitehead Guest Suites to accommodate up to six guests.

Things to Know

Permit number: LIC2018-000316