Hotels / Lodgings

Finding good places to stay in Key West is easy. There are plenty of outstanding hotels concentrated on the main island, and leading the way is the classic, restored Gardens Hotel. Once the largest privately-owned estate in Key West, and a favorite of luminaries and commonfolk alike, The Gardens consistently wins Traveler's Choice awards, and is highly rated by Zagat, Conde Nast and Travel + Leisure. Just steps away from famous Duval Street and exciting nightlife, The Gardens also made the "1,000 Places to See Before You Die" author's list. It's a 4 to 5-star affair, so book early and be prepared for that price range.

Other examples of fine yet affordable lodgings in Key West include the Double Tree Grand Key Resort, winner of the Key West Lodging Association's "Property of the Year" award, which has nightly rates for 2 adults averaging around $250. Romance packages hover around $300, average. Amenities include high-speed Internet access, valet parking at no extra cost from regular parking, and suites with whirlpool spa tubs, sleeper sofas, mini-fridges, safes, and much more.

The Palms Hotel is another gem in historic Old Town Key West, garnering 4 and 5-star ratings for its restored, colonial-style elegance. Built in 1889, its large, wraparound verandahs, Caribbean-style furnishings and floral atmosphere will be sure to please. Rooms are quite affordable in the "low season" (June-Dec. 25), averaging around $150. In mid-season (Jan-Feb. 12th, April 13th through May), rooms average around $165 per night; the high season (Feb. 13th-April 12th) can fetch $200 per night for rooms, on average.

Other outstanding lodgings include the luxurious Crowne Plaze La Concha, the seaside Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, and the elegant, tropical boutique experience of The Inn at Key West. There is also a Sheraton, Holiday Inn, Radisson and Hyatt, along with some other big name and smaller resorts and bed and breakfasts.