Hotels in Key West, FL

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At the southernmost tip of the United States lies Key West, an island city known for its laid-back atmosphere and distinctive architecture. This historic locale, the final stop on the Overseas Highway, offers a rich tapestry of cultural influences, celebrated for its connection to Ernest Hemingway and its role in maritime history. Visitors often explore Mallory Square, where daily sunset celebrations draw crowds, and delve into the literary past at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, home to its famous polydactyl cats.

Beyond its literary connections, Key West is a hub for water-based pursuits, from fishing and diving to sailing around its clear waters. Duval Street forms the backbone of its social scene, lined with establishments offering live music and local seafood. The city's relaxed pace and colourful wooden houses, often adorned with gingerbread trim, contribute to an ambiance that sets it apart from mainland Florida.

When planning a trip to Key West, most visitors tend to gravitate towards Old Town for their accommodation, as it places you right at the heart of the action and close to many well-known attractions.

Old Town is the island's most popular district, teeming with guesthouses, boutique hotels, and historic bed and breakfasts housed in lovely Victorian properties. Here, you'll find Duval Street, a bustling thoroughfare known for its lively bars, shops, and eateries, including the popular Sloppy Joe's Bar. This area is also home to Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Southernmost Point Buoy, and Mallory Square, famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration. Accommodations here vary from quaint, privately-owned inns to larger, more established hotels, often with pools.

Just east of Duval Street, still within Old Town, is the Bahama Village area. This district offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with a rich cultural heritage and a distinct Caribbean feel. You can find smaller, independent guesthouses and rental cottages here, often at a slightly more affordable price point than the main Duval Street strip. It's home to the Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum and a range of local art galleries and eateries, like Blue Heaven, known for its outdoor dining and live music.

For those seeking a quieter experience away from the busiest crowds, the eastern end of the island, often referred to as New Town or the North Roosevelt Boulevard area, provides larger chain hotels and resorts. These typically offer more extensive facilities like bigger pools and private beaches. While not within walking distance of Old Town's main sights, it’s a good option for families or those prioritising resort amenities. You're closer to shopping centres and less tourist-centric restaurants here.

Considering transport, Key West is relatively compact and walkable, especially in Old Town. Local taxis, ride-sharing services, and the "Duval Loop" bus service connect different areas efficiently. For air travel, Key West International Airport (EYW) is the closest option, located on the island itself, just a short taxi ride from most hotels. Alternatively, some visitors fly into larger airports like Miami International Airport (MIA) or **Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (

Key West hotel costs can be quite high, so timing your visit is key. The high season typically runs from December to May, when the weather is at its most pleasant and many visitors are escaping colder climates. During this period, especially around major events like Fantasy Fest in October, New Year's, or Spring Break, expect prices to significantly increase. For better value, consider travelling during the low season, which spans from June to November. While this period includes the warmer, more humid summer months and hurricane season, you'll often find substantially lower rates and fewer crowds.

Additionally, due to Key West's limited island space, accommodation options can be pricey all year round. A helpful tip specific to the area is to look for hotels just off Duval Street or slightly further from the Old Town. These might offer a better nightly rate, and with Key West being so walkable, you're rarely far from the main attractions. Booking well in advance, particularly if you plan to visit during a shoulder month like early June or late November, can also help secure more favourable prices before demand drives them up.