I visit Key West every year. Here are the top 5 hotels I like to stay at and why.
One of my favorite vacation destinations is Key West. I try to make annual trips to this tropical locale because it is near and dear to my heart. I have a personal connection to the island because I got engaged and married here, and now I love making new memories each time I visit. Deciding where to stay can be a tough decision. Factors such as location, cost, and even time of year often play a huge role. Regarding location and cost, most people must decide which is more important, or try to find a happy medium as cost-savings may not equal a prime location. Location is more of a priority for me, so I look for a mid-range price, knowing that something less expensive may result in a less desirable location (and more money for transportation to and from Old Town).
There are several great options, and each has their own unique features. My advice - be sure to try new locations whenever you are in town so you can experience all the island has to offer. When I visit, these are some of my favorite places to stay and why.
The Opal Resort & Marina
What I ❤️: The sunset views & location The Opal Resort used to be a Margaritaville Resort. It changed hands late in 2021. The new Margaritaville Beach House opened in Spring 2022 (they relocated). However, I believe the new Opal Resort has the best ocean and sunset views on the island. The hotel property is right next to the world-famous Mallory Square, where you can catch those AMAZING daily sunsets, enjoy the atmosphere, watch street performers, musicians, and shop the little kiosks lining the streets. The Opal Resort is in Old Town, so it is close to many travelers favored bars and restaurants. You can easily walk to most attractions then stumble back to your hotel room in the evening. The rooms are very comfortable, clean, and have amazing views from their balconies.
Southernmost Beach Resort
What I ❤️: The beach & the views The name says it all – it is the Southernmost Resort in the US. Whether I decide to stay here or not, this resort is always a stop on our trip. The surroundings are beautiful, and the atmosphere is welcoming. The ocean views are stunning, so it’s no wonder why this is one of the top wedding destinations in Key West. The public beach is beautiful and clean, plus they have a Tanning Pier (a long pier jutting out into the ocean lined up with lounge chairs for that perfect view while catching some rays), three pools, and multiple restaurants & bars. There is also a spa, gym, and Starbucks on site. This resort is very close to the “Southern Most Point” in the United States. Be sure to take a walk by the monument, it is a great photo op! This site has been known to have busy times so give yourself ample waiting time or go during off hours. This resort keeps growing, adding new amenities, and they just completed a full renovation in 2021.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
What I ❤️: The service & location
The Hyatt is located on Front Street which is a desirable ocean front location. It is a short distance from The Opal Resort, so you can easily walk to Mallory Square to catch those amazing sunsets. The hotel has a concierge service which will help you book your excursion whether it be sunset cruises, jet ski tours, or one of the many other activities available. The rooms are clean and spacious. The Hyatt also has a great pool, with spectacular poolside service, and private sandy beach for those hot days. The Hyatt is just steps to Duval Street, the Historic Sea Port District, shops, restaurants and more which makes there no need to rent a car when staying in the Old Town area.
La Concha Key West
What I ❤️: The history & location
Crowne Plaza Key West-La Concha is right on Duval Street. For all you seasoned travelers, you already know Duval Street is the “main strip. ”It runs from one side of the island to the other. Most of your bars, restaurants, and night life happen right here. La Concha is in the middle of Old Town Key West. Even better, when you wake up and need that pick-me-up, there is a Starbucks store on the first floor. The hotel is designed with a vintage, luxurious feel capturing the history of Key West with the old plantation shutters. Notable visitors included Ernest Hemmingway, Tennessee Williams, and President Harry S. Truman.
Doubletree Grand Key Resort
What I ❤️: It’s affordable & quiet The Doubletree is a more affordable option on the other side of the island. It is right across from Smathers Beach. This is where I stayed my first few trips to Key West. The hotel has a complimentary shuttle that has service to and from the airport, as well as an hourly shuttle that will drop you off in Old Town at 4 separate locations. I like this hotel because it feels like a different experience than being downtown. It has the largest hotel pool on the island, amazing food, comfortable rooms, and right by the ocean (with beach access). It is a more relaxing and quieter atmosphere than several hotels downtown. With the easy access to downtown, you can experience the hustle of Duval Street then return for a quiet night’s sleep. This could help save you money you would otherwise spend on Ubers or taxis around town. The more money in your pocket, the more experiences you can have to make your vacation memorable.
We also asked our readers for their Key West hotel recommendations. Check them out here!
By Jen Urban
We hope some of these suggestions help you to plan your next vacation in Key West! Did we miss any of your favorite places to stay in Key West? We would love to hear from you…it’ll make our day! Drop us a line at winniwanderer@winni.com Top 5 Favorite Hotels in Key West