Are you thinking of embarking on a luxurious visit to Key West? Allow us to guide you through the crests and troughs of choosing the perfect accommodation. Set against the azure backdrop of Florida’s enchanting Keys is an array of luxury resorts, vying for your attention with their intricate architecture, top-notch service and idyllic locations. Given the myriads of options, the choice can be overwhelming, but fret not. Within the paragraphs of this article lie the names of the top 8 luxury resorts in Key West, each unique in their charm, presenting an irresistible allure for the discerning traveler in you. Let’s set foot into this tropical haven and start exploring.
1. Sunset Key Cottages
Location and setting
Let’s begin our luxurious journey with the Sunset Key Cottages. Nestled on a secluded 27-acre island, Sunset Key is a seven minute boat ride just off the coast of the famous Key West. The resort offers a tranquil retreat, surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of palm trees, tropical flowers, sparkling beaches, and the alluring turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Room categories and amenities
Accommodations at Sunset Key are designed to offer a home-away-from-home experience. There are three options — the Guest Room, One Bedroom Cottage, and Two Bedroom Cottage — all exuding an elegantly charming and relaxed beach vibe. The spacious cottages offer plush amenities such as fully-equipped kitchens, wraparound porches, outdoor garden showers, and stunning water or garden views.
Dining options
When it comes to dining, we have two exciting options. Latitudes, with its ever evolving menu of fresh and locally-sourced dishes, provides an immersive dining experience. And for a more casual setting, Flipper’s Pool Bar is perfect for refreshing drinks and light bites.
Spa and wellness services
Sunset Key won’t disappoint if you’re looking to rejuvenate. The Spa at Sunset Key offers a variety of indulgent therapies and treatments from massages to wraps, facials, and manicures/pedicures. There’s also a fitness center for those who wish to continue with workout routines.
Special occasions, events and conferences
Whether it comes to romantic weddings, business conferences, or family reunions, Sunset Key’s event venues offer a unique blend of island charm and modern sophistication making it the perfect backdrop for your event.
Gist of customer reviews
And lastly, what do guests have to say about Sunset Key? The reviews praise the resort’s world-class service, serene ambiance, delectable dining options, and comfortable cottages. A common highlight among the reviews is the resort’s remarkable location and breath-taking views.
2. The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Location and setting
Located on the southernmost tip of Key West, The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is located at 1435 Simonton Street it commands an unrivalled beachfront setting. Here, crashing waves and soft sugary sand create a tranquil, rejuvenating ambience.
Room categories and amenities
This resort offers a collection of modern rooms and suites that beautifully blend comfort and luxury. Every accommodation features plush furnishings, private balconies, and modern amenities to ensure a delightful stay. Luxury suites also offer panoramic ocean views and separate living spaces for utmost privacy.
Dining options
For dining, there’s the Four Marlins Restaurant offering oceanfront dining and a mouthwatering menu of coastal cuisines and innovative cocktails. The Caribe Terrace and Lobby Bar are also great options for a relaxing drink or light fare.
Sporting and leisure activities
Guests can engage in a variety of fun-filled activities at this resort. From lounging by the heated outdoor pool to water sports like snorkeling, and paddle boarding, there are ample ways to enjoy the lovely Florida weather. The resort also boasts Key West’s only natural sand beach and private pier.
Special occasions, fine dining and events
For special occasions, The Reach offers various stunning venues including beachfront spaces with sweeping ocean views that make the perfect backdrop for weddings, banquets, and social events.
Gist of customer reviews
Guest reviews of The Reach commonly mention the resort’s enviable location, friendly staff, excellent dining, and luxurious accommodations. Many guests also highlight the beautiful beach and leisure activities.
3. Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Location and setting
Ocean Key Resort & Spa located at 0 Duval Street embraces a prime location where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic Ocean. Right in the heart of Old Town Key West, this resort offers a blend of vibrant city life and tropical beach relaxation.
Room categories and amenities
The room categories offered here, include Junior Suites, One Bedroom Suites, and Two-Bedroom Suites. All accommodations feature private balconies, opulent baths, and tropical decor that reflects the vibrant spirit of Key West.
Dining options
This resort is home to the award-winning Hot Tin Roof restaurant that whips up delectable Floridian and Caribbean cuisines. For a more relaxed vibe, check out LIQUID Pool-Bar-Lounge for cocktails and snacks.
Spa and wellness services
Ocean Key’s SpaTerre combines traditional and exotic rituals for therapeutic treatments. Besides massages and facials, they also offer body treatments incorporating the use of natural herbs and sea salts. A fitness center and sparkling pool are available for guests’ use as well.
Special occasions and events
From intimate to grand, the resort’s event spaces are perfect for any type of occasion. Whether it’s a beach wedding or a business meeting, Ocean Key ensures every event is a memorable one.
Gist of customer reviews
Guests compliment the resort’s exceptional location, the hospitality they received, as well as the vast range of amenities. The dining options, specifically the Hot Tin Roof restaurant, is a recurring favorite among guests.
4. Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Location and setting
Established in 1920 and listed in the National Register for Historic Places, Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is located at 1500 Reynolds Street it graces the stunning coastline of Key West. This historic resort blends grandeur of the past with the sophisticated luxuries of the present.
Room categories and amenities
The resort presents various accommodations, ranging from stylish guest rooms to luxury suites, all adorned with timeless decor and offering top-of-the-line amenities. Many rooms and suites overlook the sparkling ocean or lush courtyards.
Dining options
Casa Marina boasts several enticing dining options. Their Sun Sun Bar and Grill serves fresh seafood in an open-air setting, while RUMba offers a variety of rums in a relaxing, casual environment.
Spa and wellness services
Casa Marina offers rejuvenating spa treatments that relax your heart and soul. The resort also houses two heated outdoor pools and a fitness center to keep you active and entertained during your stay.
Sports and leisure
This resort takes active leisure to a different level. You can engage in a variety of water sports activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, and fishing, or soak up the Florida sun while lounging at the largest private beach in Key West.
Gist of customer reviews
Casa Marina’s reviewers often compliment the beautiful beach, serene surroundings, historic charm, friendly staff and delectable dining options. The resort’s active leisure activities are another popular point amongst reviewers.
5. Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa
Location and setting
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, with the lively city center just steps away, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa located at 601 Front Street is a sanctuary for relaxation and recreation in equal measure.
Room categories and amenities
All rooms and suites in this resort boast private balconies to enjoy the sweeping seaside or city views. The chic, coastal-themed rooms have all the comforts you need for a relaxed stay.
Dining options
SHOR American Seafood Grill delivers local and sustainable seafood dishes that will satiate your palate. If you’re craving tropical cocktails and raw bar classics, Blue Mojito Pool Bar and Grill is the place to be.
Spa and wellness services
Jala Spa at this resort offers an appealing menu of treatments inspired by the healing properties of the sea, promising a tranquil, rejuvenating experience. A fitness center and waterfront pool are available for a refreshing dip or workout session.
Special occasions, events and conferences
Hyatt Centric also offers a selection of indoor and outdoor venues that make for unforgettable weddings, meetings, and events, accompanied by world-class catering services.
Gist of customer reviews
Customer reviews consistently highlight the resort’s stellar location, comfortable rooms, and the amazing Gulf views from private balconies. The quality of food and spa services also frequently receive high marks.
6. The Marker Waterfront Resort
Location and setting
Positioned in the Historic Seaport district, amongst some of the best restaurants and attractions, The Marker Waterfront Resort located at 200 William Street offers a relaxing oasis in the energetic heart of Key West.
Room categories and amenities
The rooms and suites at this resort, adorned with contemporary design elements, offer the perfect haven for relaxation. Every room includes a balcony or patio, soaking tub, and modern amenities.
Dining options
The Marker features Cero Bodega, a Californian-Mexican casa, serving tapas-style dishes and tequila with a twist. The poolside bar, Starboard, is great for a casual bite and refreshing drinks.
Sports and leisure activities
When you’re not exploring the vibrant surroundings, you can relax in one of the three sparkling pools at the resort. Bike rentals are also offered to explore the charming neighborhood.
Special occasions, events and conferences
The Marker’s customizable event spaces, indoor and outdoor, are ideal for intimate affairs or larger corporate events. Their dedicated team ensures that every event is hassle-free and memorable.
Gist of customer reviews
Many customer reviews compliment The Marker on its ideal location, stylish accommodations, friendly staff, and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Seaport area.
7. Pier House Resort & Spa
Location and setting
On the edge of Old Town, Pier House Resort & Spa located at 1 Duval Street offers a perfect blend of Key West charm and luxury accommodations, with the pristine beach and bustling Duval Street at its doorstep.
Room categories and amenities
Guests can choose from a collection of rooms and suites that come with comfortable furnishings, tropical artwork, and modern amenities. Most accommodations also feature a private balcony or patio.
Dining options
This resort offers several dining options, including the award-winning Harbor View Café for breakfast and One Duval for waterfront dining at lunch and dinner. The Beach Bar serves tropical beverages by the seaside.
Spa and wellness services
The full-service spa at Pier House offers a blend of ancient and modern spa treatments. There’s also a fitness center and a private white-sand beach for relaxation and recreation.
Special occasions, fine dining and events
Whether it’s an intimate beachfront wedding or business conference, Pier House offers idyllic venues and professional planning services for flawless events.
Gist of customer reviews
Reviews for Pier House often highlight the prime location, beach access, excellent dining options, and the accommodating staff.
8. The Gardens Hotel
Location and setting
Housed in a historic estate, in the heart of old Key West, The Gardens Hotel located at 526 Angela Street offers a tranquil, luxurious refuge surrounded by lush, tropical gardens.
Room categories and amenities
This hotel offers a range of elegantly decorated rooms, suites and cottages, all equipped with luxury amenities. Most accommodations overlook the enchanting gardens or pool.
Dining options
The poolside bar at this hotel serves a variety of tropical cocktails and delicious light dining options amidst the splendor of the gardens.
Garden and art attractions
Apart from relaxing by the pool or exploring the city, guests can stroll through the lush, award-winning gardens, or peruse the hotel’s art gallery featuring works of local artists.
Special occasions, events and conferences
The Gardens Hotel is an ideal spot for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and social events, with its romantic gardens, perfectly-appointed rooms, and knowledgeable staff.
Gist of customer reviews
Most reviews for The Gardens mention the elegant rooms, tranquil atmosphere, helpful staff, and the beautiful garden setting. Many guests also appreciated the close proximity to Duval Street’s attractions.
Common amenities across top luxury resorts in Key West
Luxurious accommodations
With luxury as their cornerstone, these resorts offer stunningly decorated and well-appointed rooms and suites. Most accommodations have private balconies or patios, with views of the ocean, gardens, or city.
Scenic views
Whether it’s the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the charm of Old Town Key West, or the serenity of private islands, these resorts boast some of the most breathtaking views in Florida.
World-class dining
Key West’s vibrant culinary scene is reflected in the mouth-watering coastal cuisines, made from locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients, offered at these resorts.
Exceptional service
Be it the front desk, dining service, or housekeeping, these resorts are lauded for their dedication to providing exemplary service and for ensuring guests have a memorable stay.
Entertainment and activities
With a plethora of activities like water sports, garden tours, fitness centers, and pools, there’s something for each guest to indulge in.
Health and wellness amenities
Wellness takes center stage in these resorts, through their full-service spas offering various therapeutic treatments, fitness centers, and provisions for yoga and other wellness activities.
How to choose the best luxury resort in Key West for you
Consideration of resort location
Consider exactly what you want from your Key West holiday. If you want to be in the thick of things, choose a resort in Old Town. For a peaceful experience, opt for a secluded island resort.
Deciding on the necessary amenities
Each resort offers different amenities. Determine what’s essential for your comfort during your stay, such as a spa, gym, beach access, or a special type of cuisine.
Understanding the different dining options
Most of these luxury resorts offer both fine dining and casual options. If you have a preference or dietary requirement, check the resorts’ dining services.
Evaluating customer reviews and ratings
Reviews and ratings provide firsthand user experiences. Detailed reviews covering various aspects of the resorts help you understand what to expect.
Analyzing cost and value for money
Compare prices of the resorts, check their inclusions, and accordingly evaluate whether the cost is giving you good value for your money.
We hope this comprehensive guide aids you in choosing the perfect resort for you in Key West to create cherished memories of a lifetime. Happy Traveling!
