Hotels in Key West

Key West Hotels

The Key West sunshine may be perennial, but that doesn’t mean the locals take it for granted. Each evening on the waterfront, festivities break out beneath a richly hued sky as the sun sets. Key West is a place worth celebrating - nature has been kind to this far-flung spot in the Gulf of Mexico. Literary figures flocked here in the Roaring Twenties, drawing inspiration from languorous everglades, pearlescent beaches, and bourbon-sipping lifestyle. Why not come and experience it for yourself?

Things to see

For a taste of Key West’s old-style glamor, start your explorations in the city center’s Historic District. Supremely elegant, Colonial-era mansions line palm-fringed avenues, and local artisans exhibit their works in boutique galleries. Stop for a slice of key lime pie at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a mainstay of Key West dining since the 1930s. Book-lovers won’t want to miss the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, where the great writer lived. You can glimpse into his well-preserved study, complete with books and typewriter. Coming with the family? Entertain the kids at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. With actors bringing the historic harbor to life, it’s a fascinating exploration of the island’s history. Once the sun begins to set, make sure you’ve bagged a good spot in Mallory Square. As the sea and sky are infused with orange light, acrobats, tightrope walkers, and jugglers are among the performers silhouetted against the setting sun.

Hotels in Key West

Independent and characterful, the hotels in Key West help to create a vacation you’ll remember. Luxury hotels put in a strong showing here, with something to suit every style. If you’re on a family break, there are resort hotels with children’s clubs and outdoor pool areas to keep the little ones busy, while you can relax in the onsite spa. On a romantic getaway? Key West hotels also include adult-only retreats, where you’ll be pampered with luxury suites and private beach facilities. Alternatively, stay in one of the traditional guesthouses, where period furnishings and wooden verandahs add to the charm.

Where to stay

For front-row seats at every sunset, choose one of the hotels on the western oceanfront, close to Mallory Square. As well as the views, the marina area has a lively restaurant culture, with some great seafood on offer. It’s also easy for hopping on boat trips and touring the Keys, while family friendly attractions such as the Shipwreck Museum and the Aquarium are just steps away. For a Hemingway-style stay, choose one of the hotels or villas in the heart of the Historic District. Cute little galleries and museums abound, and it’s still just a short walk to the seafront.

How to get to Key West

Key West International Airport is located just 3 miles outside the city center, and has daily flights from numerous mainland Florida airports, as well as some services from further afield. Depending on the seasonal schedules, it can be more convenient to fly to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, traveling on to Key West by road or sea. As road trips go, the drive across the Overseas Highway, which connects the Florida Keys, is up there with the best. You can self-drive, or take one of the shuttle services from the airports. The ferry service from Fort Myers takes about 3 hours.