Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, the island city of Key West offers a huge choice of accommodation options, including several resort hotels.
(Photo: DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Key Resort / Courtesy Booking.com)
While it’s fair to say there are no cheap resorts in Key West, there are nonetheless plenty that will be within reach of those lucky enough to have a decent budget. The city’s resorts are dotted all over the island, each situated moments away from an enticing stretch of sand. If you’re coming to Key West and are seeking resort-style accommodation, we’ve picked out 5 of the best where you’re likely to find rates of below $500 per night.
Double Tree by Hilton Grand Key West
Located on the eastern fringes of the city, very close to Key West International Airport, this three-star resort turned up the cheapest rates of all the options on this list. Guests can make use of the large pool, or curl up with a book beneath the towering palm trees. There’s also a fitness centre, and after you’ve worked up a thirst, head to the waterside bar for refreshments. The resort also has two on-site eateries: a charming tiki bar serving everything from frozen drinks to tasty snacks until late, or for more substantial meals the Palm Haven restaurant is all about local dishes and fresh seafood and is open for all-day dining. Beyond the resort, there’s plenty to do nearby, with Smathers Beach the largest public beach in Key West, just two miles away, while a little further on are busy tourist spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the buzzing nightlife of Duval Street
The Perry Hotel & Marina
(Photo: The Perry Hotel & Marina / Courtesy Booking,com)
A slightly more upscale option can be found at Stock Island Marina on neighbouring Stock Island, three miles east of Key West airport and reachable by bridge. The four-star Petty Hotel boasts luxurious rooms and suites, all featuring include artisanal bath products, a flat-screen TV, and a large private balcony with ocean views. Communal amenities include two waterfront pools, three dockside restaurants and an on-site boutique. There’s also direct marina access to water activities and a complimentary shuttle bus to the Old Town. Guests arriving in their own transport can enjoy the convenience of free parking at the resort. The bars and eateries of Duval Street are a five-mile drive away.
Oceans Edge
Also on Stock Island, and boasting panoramic ocean views, the high-end four-star Oceans Edge Key West combines easy access to some of Key West’s favourite attractions with a huge assortment of resort amenities. Among the most notable are a choice of six swimming pools, a waterfront bar and restaurant, a paddle shop, on-site water sports, and a 165-slip marina. The stylishly-designed guest rooms are no less impressive, with flat-screen TVs and either a balcony or patio, depending on your floor. Suites also have additional living spaces and some even feature a second bathroom. Duval Street is less than 20 minutes away by road.
Ibis Bay Resort
(Photo: Ibis Bay Resort / Coourtesy Booking.com)
Perched on Key West’s northeastern shore, this 1950s oceanfront resort exudes laidback Floridian character and charm. There’s an outdoor pool, communal hammocks, and a restaurant serving fresh-off-the-boat seafood and traditional American fare, plus a separate bar. All guest rooms are decorated in eye-catching colours and some suites boast a dash of industrial chic design aesthetic, seen in the exposed pipeworks in the gables. Bay Beach is a three-minute walk away and there’s a free transfer service that runs to the city centre. Bike, jet skis, and kayak rentals are all available directly at the resort, and fishing charters can also be booked here. Duval Street can be reached in just over five minutes by car.
Parrot Key
A mile-and-a-half east of the previous resort on this list, on the same stretch of coastline, is our final recommendation for Key West resorts that won’t render you bankrupt. Surrounded by lush landscaping and gardens, there are four outdoor pools, a poolside eatery and bar, and a café. Guest rooms contain flat-screen TVs, a small fridge, and a private terrace with stunning sea views. Other services and facilities at the resort include on-site massages, free shuttles to Key West’s Old Town, and the chance to book kayaking excursions. As with the last resort, Duval Street is just over five minutes drive away.