Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club, an eco-friendly boutique resort and beach club, along with The Lagoon on Grassy Key, North America’s only saltwater cable park, located on Grassy Key, in the heart of the Florida Keys, recently hired Karen Thurman as their new General Manager to oversee daily operations, as well as, continued development at both the resort and the park.
A Keys resident for over 30 years, Thurman brings a wealth of hospitality experience to the family-owned properties. Co-owner of both properties, Matthew Sexton, commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Karen to the team and look forward to growing the resort and the cable park. We are confident that her experience and creative leadership will be key to achieving our goals this year.”
“I’m very excited to join the Grassy Family,” stated Thurman. “I have a passion for true island hospitality and giving guests a real Keys experience. Matt has a deep commitment to operating an authentic eco-conscious business and setting an example for others to hopefully follow suit. It’s a combination meant for success.”
Prior to Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club and The Lagoon on Grassy Flats, Thurman served as Area Director of Operations for Spottswood Companies where she oversaw operations for the Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, Faro Blanco Marina, and the Lighthouse Grill, as well as, Holiday Inn Express, Tarpon Creek Marina and Tiki Restaurant.
Thurman currently serves as President of the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce for the 2020/2021 Board of Directors; additionally, she’s on the board of directors for Monroe County Tourist Development Council’s District Advisory Council and their Fishing Umbrella. Thurman also serves on the board of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Monroe County chapter and Florida Keys Lodging Association. Thurman has been recognized for her work and success in the industry with the Middle & Upper Keys General Manager of the Year Award from The Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West.
The Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club is scheduled to temporarily close on April 19 to accommodate new construction that will add 30 new sleeping rooms, an ocean-front restaurant with a rooftop bar, and the addition of a second swimming pool.
About Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club
A family-owned eco-friendly resort located about 15 minutes from the Marathon airport, and from the city of Marathon with restaurants and shopping; midway between Key West and Miami on scenic US Highway One. The resort is located on a private beach with a lush garden in Grassy Key, offering the best of both worlds, beach and green landscapes. There are 11 luxury villas and suites; each has a private veranda with incredible views.
About The Lagoon on Grassy Key
Founded in 2011 and reimagined in 2020, The Lagoon on Grassy Key has been a Middle Keys staple for nearly 10 years. Keys Cable Park was created for teaching locals and visitors alike to enjoy a variety of board, wind, and paddle sports.
