Where to Stay in Key West
United States
|Pop. 26K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Key West at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Key West
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Rent a bike! Key West is relatively flat and bike-friendly, and it's the best way to explore Old Town's charming streets without the hassle of parking or the expense of taxis.
Getting Around
Parking in Old Town is extremely limited and expensive; if staying in Old Town, avoid renting a car unless necessary.
Watch Out For
Overpriced 'souvenir' shops that pressure you to buy.
Solo Female Travel
Key West is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be mindful of your surroundings in crowded areas like Duval Street.
Hidden Gems in Key West
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Beyond its historical significance as a Civil War fort, this park boasts Key West's best beach for snorkeling and swimming, with calm, clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Blue Heaven
A beloved local institution known for its delicious Key West comfort food, charmingly chaotic atmosphere, and resident roosters strutting around the outdoor seating.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Step into a magical, glass-enclosed tropical paradise filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds, offering a peaceful and enchanting escape.
The Hemingway House Gardens
While the house is a famous landmark, many visitors overlook the lush, sprawling gardens themselves, a tranquil haven filled with tropical flora and the famous six-toed cats.
Clinton Square Market
FREEThis vibrant local market offers a taste of authentic Key West life with fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food stalls, perfect for a casual lunch or souvenir hunting.
The Bottlecap Bar
A quirky and unpretentious local dive bar adorned with thousands of bottle caps, offering strong drinks and a friendly, no-frills atmosphere away from the main tourist drag.
What It Costs in Key West
Daily budget per person in USD
π‘40% cheaper than New York
USD 120/day
USD 250/day
USD 600/day
Where to Stay in Key West
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Duval Street5 min
- Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory10 min
- Mallory Square15 min
- Southernmost Point20 min
Pros
- +Most attractions are within walking distance.
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options.
- +Rich historical atmosphere.
Cons
- -Can be very crowded and noisy, especially on Duval Street.
- -Limited free public beach access.
Top stays in Old Town
The Marquesa Hotel
$$$A charming boutique hotel with lush gardens and a renowned restaurant, offering a tranquil escape from the bustle.
Southernmost Beach Resort
$$$Features multiple pools, direct beach access, and a lively atmosphere with ocean views.
The Gardens Hotel
$$$An oasis of calm with a stunning tropical garden and pool, located just steps from Duval Street.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
$$$Offers waterfront views, modern amenities, and a prime location near Mallory Square.
Best for
Walk to
- Duval Street10 min
- Fort Zachary Taylor State Park20 min
- Key West Aquarium25 min
Pros
- +Authentic local feel and diverse culinary scene.
- +More affordable dining options than central Old Town.
- +Quieter than the main Duval Street strip.
Cons
- -Fewer accommodation options compared to Old Town.
- -Can feel a bit more residential, requiring slightly longer walks to major tourist hubs.
Top stays in Bahama Village
The Saint Hotel Key West
$$$A stylish hotel with a jazz-inspired theme and a popular rooftop bar, located on the edge of Bahama Village.
The Curry Mansion Inn
$$Historic inn offering unique rooms and suites, known for its friendly atmosphere and convenient location.
Old Town Manor
$$A beautifully restored Victorian guesthouse with a serene garden and pool, offering a peaceful retreat.
Best for
Walk to
- Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden15 min
- Key West International Airport30 min
Pros
- +Typically offers more budget-friendly hotel rates.
- +More space and amenities like larger pools.
- +Easier access to grocery stores and larger retail outlets.
Cons
- -Requires transportation (car, taxi, or bus) to reach most major tourist attractions.
- -Lacks the historic charm and walkability of Old Town.
- -Limited dining and nightlife options within the immediate area.
Top stays in New Town
Courtyard by Marriott Key West Waterfront
$$Modern hotel with waterfront views and convenient access to the airport and US1.
Hampton Inn & Suites Key West
$$Reliable chain hotel offering comfortable rooms and standard amenities, good for families.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Key West
$$Offers suite-style accommodations with kitchens, ideal for longer stays or families needing more space.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial areas on the outskirts (e.g., far east/north side): These areas lack tourist appeal, offer few amenities, and are primarily commercial or residential with no significant attractions.
Insider tip: Rent a bike! Key West is relatively flat and bike-friendly, and it's the best way to explore Old Town's charming streets without the hassle of parking or the expense of taxis.
Safety in Key West
SafeSolo Female Travel
Key West is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be mindful of your surroundings in crowded areas like Duval Street.
At Night
Old Town remains lively but can get crowded and rowdy, particularly along Duval Street. Stick to well-lit main streets and be aware of intoxicated individuals. Most areas are fine, but dimly lit side streets can feel less secure.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced 'souvenir' shops that pressure you to buy.
- 2Street performers asking for exorbitant amounts for photos.
- 3Taxi drivers taking longer routes (less common due to the island's size).
Getting Around Key West
Transport, connectivity, and costs
βοΈ
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. $25-35 (10-15 min drive); Ride-share: similar pricing; Rental car pickup available.
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Day Pass
Trolley/Train tours typically cost ~$50-60 for 1-2 days.
Single: Single bus rides are ~$2.
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Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Lyft
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WiFi
Good30-60 Mbps
Public Transport
The 'Old Town Trolley' and 'Conch Tour Train' are tourist-oriented hop-on-hop-off services; Local bus routes (Lower Keys Shuttle) connect New Town to Old Town.
Ride-share
Uber and Lyft operate in Key West, with prices varying based on demand, typically $10-20 for rides within the island.
Transport Tip
Parking in Old Town is extremely limited and expensive; if staying in Old Town, avoid renting a car unless necessary.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, bars, and hotel lobbies offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Key West has limited dedicated coworking spaces; options like 'The Studios' offer day passes for around $25-35.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar
Hotels & Accommodation in Key West
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Who Is Key West Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Time Visitors
This area puts you right in the middle of all the iconic historical sites, famous streets, and vibrant atmosphere Key West is known for.
Couples Seeking Romance
Offers charming boutique hotels, romantic sunset views at Mallory Square, and a walkable, atmospheric environment.
Foodies
This neighborhood boasts a diverse range of authentic, often more affordable, local eateries and Caribbean-inspired cuisine.
Families on a Budget
Provides more affordable hotel options and larger rooms, though requires transportation to reach main attractions.
Solo Travelers on a Budget
Offers a more local experience with access to budget-friendly food and a chance to mingle in a less tourist-centric environment.
About Key West
Key West (Spanish: Cayo Hueso [kaΚo Λweso]) is an island in the Straits of Florida, at the southern end of the U.S. state of Florida. Together with all or parts of the separate islands of Dredgers Key, Fleming Key, Sunset Key, and the northern part of Stock Island, it constitutes the City of Key West.
Frequently Asked Questions About Key West
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Key West Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel