Ninety miles north of Cuba lies Key West, the southernmost city in the United States. Part of the Florida keys archipelago, the island is known as a top-notch snorkeling, diving and watersports destination, as well as for its extravagant sunsets and vibrant art galleries. Nicknamed “Margaritaville,” visitors can tour the home of Ernest Hemingway, whoop it up in the clubs on Duval Street, or dive shipwrecks off the island’s shores.
The following luxury hotels were selected according to location, reviews and guest amenities. While you’ll find many boisterous hotels in town, these properties are more suited to those who prefer a refined atmosphere.
La Concha Hotel and Spa
From $165/ night
Situated on lively Duval Street in the heart of Key West, this historic boutique property features contemporary decor and clean lines with some splashes of fun thrown in (like the sexy red leather sofa in the wine bar). If you came to relax, you’re in the right place: there’s an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, an outdoor pool with a tiki bar, and a rooftop spa. Fitness-minded guests will love the workout facilities, which features large windows and ocean views. Inside the guest rooms, you’ll find flat screen televisions, CD players and pillowtop mattresses.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
From $259/ night
Welcome to the lap of luxury. This self-contained oasis boasts luxe amenities such as the spa, which features decadent body treatments and renewal rituals, an outdoor pool, hot tub, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Scuba diving and snorkeling can be booked on-site, as well as jet ski tours for those who would like to explore the area above water. The resort boasts two on-site dining venues: Shor American Seafood Grill serves coastal cuisine, while Blue Mojito Pool Bar and Grill serves cocktails and small plates. Guest room features include a private balcony, refrigerator and flat screen televisions.
Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina
From $202/ night
You may want to stay here all season–for good reason! This swank waterfront resort in Old Town features an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, and even its own marina. Guests can enjoy shopping and watersports without leaving the property. Two on-site restaurants keep you fueled: Bistro 245 serves American fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while Castaways offers poolside, casual dining. Guest rooms are spacious, well-designed and have work desks and flat screen televisions. Key West Aquarium is adjacent to the hotel, Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society & Museum is just across the street, and Duval Street is a six-minute walk away.
Sunset Key Cottages
From $650/ night
The living is easy at this collection of breezy cottages, and isn’t that what Key West is all about? Each day, guests have a continental breakfast and newspaper delivered to the room to start the day. Rooms are airy, light-filled and have wood ceiling fans, and each is decorated uniquely. Latitudes, the on-site restaurant, serves seafood with a Caribbean flare. Guests will enjoy upscale amenities such as illuminated tennis courts, fitness facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and a spa. This property is adjacent to Key West Aquarium and a three-minute walk from the Truman Whitehouse.
The Gates Hotel Key West
From $132/ night
This elegant hotel features design-forward guest rooms with tall ceilings, oversized windows, contemporary furniture, and rustic-chic wood floors. Guests are received with a welcome cocktail while the friendly staff gets you checked in. On-site, The Blind Pig serves Latin-inspired tapas with local, seasonal ingredients. Guests can also order rum cocktails and hand-rolled cigars. The hotel has free parking and loaner bikes, and an hourly shuttle whisks guests to Old Town during peak hours. There’s an outdoor pool and fitness facilities, and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden is a 10-minute walk away.