Top Spots to Stay in the Florida Keys: Uncover Your Tropical Haven

The Florida Keys are a string of tropical islands stretching about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida, connected by Highway 1. They are renowned for their sparkling waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making them a popular travel destination. Whether you’re looking for luxury, tranquility, or a unique island experience, the Keys have something to offer. This guide will provide an overview of some of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys, from luxurious resorts to charming bungalows. Here, you will find highlights of each location, catering to various tastes and preferences, to help you plan the perfect getaway. —

Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton

Nestled in a secluded area of Key Largo, Baker’s Cay Resort offers a blend of serene natural beauty and modern luxury. The resort features spacious rooms with private balconies providing breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. With its own private beach, guests can indulge in water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Dining options at the resort are impeccable, with the Calusa restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced Latin-inspired cuisine. For a more casual dining experience, the Dry Rocks bar provides an ideal setting to enjoy cocktails and small bites while soaking in the sunset. The Cay-11 Kids Club and eco-tours ensure fun for the entire family, making it an excellent choice for both romantic getaways and family vacations.

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa offers unparalleled privacy and exclusivity. This adults-only resort is the epitome of a luxurious retreat. The thatched-roof bungalows are lavishly designed with a nostalgic 1940s style, each featuring outdoor showers and private verandas. The resort’s Dining Room serves gourmet meals in a serene setting, perfect for a romantic dinner. The SpaTerre offers an array of spa services, including signature massages and indigenous coconut rituals. The serene atmosphere, combined with the resort’s unique setting, makes it an ideal location for honeymooners or couples seeking a secluded escape.

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort

Situated in Marathon, Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort lives up to its name with beautiful white sand beaches and lush landscaping. The resort offers a selection of two- and three-bedroom beach houses complete with fully equipped kitchens, making it perfect for longer stays and family vacations. Each beach house features sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, spacious decks, and modern amenities. Key highlights include an adults-only pool, a family-friendly lagoon pool, and The Butterfly Café, where guests can enjoy an exquisite dining experience. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site fishing charters, snorkeling trips, and kayak rentals.

The Moorings Village

Located in Islamorada, The Moorings Village is a tropical paradise spread across 18 acres of lush gardens and white sand beaches. This former coconut plantation features charming cottages that exude a rustic yet luxurious feel. Each cottage is individually decorated, emphasizing comfort and privacy, with many offering full kitchens and private porches. Guests can enjoy a plethora of amenities, including tennis courts, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. The resort’s private beach and pool provide the ultimate relaxation experience, and visitors can easily explore nearby attractions such as the Theater of the Sea marine park.

Isla Bella Beach Resort

Isla Bella Beach Resort, located in Marathon, is a newly developed oceanfront property boasting five swimming pools, a full-service spa, and several on-site dining options. The spacious guest rooms and suites offer modern design and amenities, with private balconies or patios offering stunning ocean views. The resort prides itself on its eco-friendly initiatives and offers a range of activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and complimentary bikes. Dining options include fresh seafood and Italian cuisine, and the resort’s central location makes it easy to explore popular attractions in the Florida Keys.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

A landmark resort in Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge & Spa combines history with modern luxury. Spread out over a vast 27 acres, the resort offers a range of accommodation options from luxury rooms to private bungalows. Each room is designed with tropical elegance, providing guests with a cozy and plush environment. The resort boasts multiple dining options, including the famous Atlantic’s Edge, serving fresh seafood and sushi. An array of activities such as fishing off the resort’s private pier, golfing on a par-3 course, and a variety of water sports ensure that there’s something for everyone.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection

Playa Largo Resort & Spa, an Autograph Collection hotel, is located in Key Largo and radiates Caribbean luxury. The resort features 144 rooms, suites, and bungalows, each designed to offer comfort and style. The rooms have private balconies or terraces that overlook the stunning Florida Bay. Dining at Playa Largo is a treat, with options ranging from fresh seafood at Sol by the Sea to global cuisine at Las Olas Ceviche Bar. The Ocean Spa offers a range of treatments, and the resort provides activities such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, and educational programs for children.

Islander Resort

Islander Resort, located in Islamorada, offers a blend of classic Florida Keys charm and modern amenities. This oceanfront resort provides comfortable accommodations, from hotel rooms to spacious family suites. Each room is designed with a nod to traditional Floridian decor and features porches or balconies. The resort is family-friendly, featuring a zero-entry saltwater pool, a splash pad, and a variety of water sports. Dining options range from casual to upscale, ensuring that guests have their pick of tasty and fresh island cuisine. The central location of Islander Resort also makes it easy to explore Islamorada’s attractions.

The Islands of Islamorada

The Islands of Islamorada offers a collection of luxury villas that provide a home-away-from-home experience in a secluded, lushly landscaped environment. Each villa is meticulously designed with relaxed, coastal elegance, featuring modern kitchens, expansive living areas, and private sun decks. Amenities include waterfront pools, a marina, and access to private yacht charters, making it ideal for guests seeking a more personalized stay. The property also features on-site dining that focuses on fresh, local ingredients, providing an intimate and luxurious retreat.

Casa Marina Key West

Casa Marina Key West, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. This iconic property boasts a private beach and lush tropical gardens. The rooms and suites are elegantly designed, offering a range of modern amenities and spectacular ocean views. The resort features several dining options, including Sun Sun Beach Bar & Grill and Casa Marina’s signature Flagler’s Ballroom. A variety of on-site activities such as watersport rentals, beach yoga, and a full-service marina ensure a memorable stay. Its prime location in Old Town Key West makes famous attractions like Duval Street easily accessible.

The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West

A waterfront oasis, The Perry Hotel & Marina offers an upscale boutique experience on Stock Island, just a short drive from downtown Key West. The hotel features nautically inspired rooms with private balconies, offering stunning marina views. Guests can enjoy two on-site restaurants, the Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill and Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar, both of which focus on locally sourced ingredients. The Perry Hotel provides a range of activities, including complimentary shuttle service to downtown Key West, bicycle rentals, and an on-site watersports center.

Winslow’s Bungalows

Part of the Kimpton brand, Winslow’s Bungalows offers a charming stay in a secluded enclave, just steps from the vibrant downtown Key West. The property features beautifully restored conch-style bungalows, which blend classic Key West charm with modern conveniences. Guests can relax by the hotel’s three outdoor pools, enjoy light bites at a poolside bar, and take advantage of complimentary yoga classes. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to iconic Key West attractions, including Ernest Hemingway’s home and the sunset celebrations at Mallory Square.

Southernmost Beach Resort

Situated at the southern end of Key West’s famed Duval Street, Southernmost Beach Resort blends luxury with casual island comfort. The resort offers well-appointed rooms, many with balconies that overlook the ocean or lush gardens. With three pools, a private pier, and beach access, guests can experience the ultimate relaxation. Dining options include Southernmost Beach Café and Pineapple Bar, offering fresh and locally inspired cuisine. The resort’s location is ideal for exploring Key West’s attractions, nightlife, and cultural sites.

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina

Located on Stock Island, Oceans Edge Resort & Marina is a beautiful oceanfront property offering contemporary accommodations and a plethora of amenities. Each suite features floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning ocean views, as well as private balconies. The resort boasts six pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving locally sourced seafood. Oceans Edge also provides a range of water-based activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing charters, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. —

The Daily

Here’s a summary of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys, consolidated in a table: