Key West may not be a huge sprawling city, but this seven square mile destination in the Florida Keys archipelago punches far above its weight when it comes to things to do. While the island is a giant magnet for sun-seekers and party hoppers, it attracts many families too. So you won’t have to worry too much about finding a family hotel in Key West. While the best family hotels in Key West may not have specially designed programs for kids, there is more than enough here to keep the family busy.
Many of the best hotels in Key West boast waterfront locations that give you a front-row view of a stunning sunset. These also rank among the most romantic hotels in Key West. Almost all the best family hotels have their swimming pool and plenty of other amenities to make your stay a memorable one.
Apart from the sun and sand, you’ll also find many other historical attractions that are worth exploring. The island’s proximity to Cuba brings in a lot of Cuban influences in the food and culture. It’s no wonder the island is labeled one of the best places for U.S. Winter Vacations.
Table of contents
- Coconut Mallory Resort and Marina
- Southernmost Point Guesthouse
- Havana Cabana
- Santa Maria Suites Resort
- Hyatt Centric Resort & Spa
- Opal Key Resort & Marina
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
- Truman Hotel
- Oceans Edge
- Ambrosia Key West
- Hilton Garden Inn – The Keys Collection
- Where to Stay in Key West
- Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in Key West
- Recommended Family Activities in Key West
Coconut Mallory Resort and Marina
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For those looking for an affordable family hotel in Key West, the Coconut Mallory Resort and Marina is an excellent option. Designed like a condominium property, the resort sits directly on the marina. It’s a good option for those looking to put some distance between themselves and the crowds. That being said, it’s an easy drive from here to the airport and other attractions.
What makes this one of the best family hotels in Key West is the choice of accommodation. You can choose from studios to one or two-bedroom premium condos. All accommodations come with a good range of in-room amenities for your comfort with kitchenettes or partial kitchens. Some units have two levels plus a comfortable living area.
Apart from the comfortable accommodation, the other amenities are also big. With two outdoor pools, a barbecue terrace with a grill, a hot tub, and the rustic boathouse bar, families will find plenty to keep them busy here.
Southernmost Point Guesthouse
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The historic Southernmost Point Guesthouse is an excellent choice for those families wanting a novel experience. With just 13 charming rooms spread over four historic buildings, it offers a perfect space for families to unwind. Built in 1894, this Victorian-era home puts you in proximity to all the fun. South Beach and the Southernmost Point monument are just steps away.
The advantage of staying at this guest house is the freebies on offer. From free off-street parking to a complimentary hot breakfast, complimentary happy hour, and complimentary beach towels, what more could you want! And no, you won’t have to pay a daily resort fee if you stay here.
Surrounded by tropical foliage and relaxing hammocks in the gardens, it is the perfect place for a relaxed holiday. You can use either lounge poolside or head off to the beach, just half a block away. When you’re done for the day, you’ll enjoy the cozy comforts of the guest rooms. Rooms here are roomy and elegantly styled with a subtle tropical theme. Rates vary according to room size. Families can also request a complimentary crib or a rollaway bed for an extra fee.
Havana Cabana
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Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, this upper-middle-range hotel is another top-notch family hotel in Key West. While the hotel exudes class and charm, be warned that it is a little away from the main tourist attractions, none of which are within walking distance. If that doesn’t bother you, you will love Havana Cabana with classic cars out front and great poolside music.
It boasts of having the largest pool in Key West. The pool has the vibe of a tropical escape surrounded by palm trees, hammocks, lounge chairs, and poolside cabanas. While it is a tranquil oasis, plenty of fun things is happening poolside for the entire family. Giant Jenga, foosball, dominos, or ping pong are some of the activities you can look forward to.
Complimentary perks include poolside smoothies at 12 pm and poolside popsicles at 2 pm. Besides the poolside fun, the resort also offers outside activities for an extra fee throughout the week. The Floridita Food Truck in the courtyard is a good option for those wanting to grab a bite.
The guest rooms offer just that when you are done for the day and need your space to unwind. You can choose from Pool View, Havana, or Gulf View Rooms. There are Accessible Rooms too. Rooms feature cool tones and tropical views. The Pilar Studio King is perfect for families as it also features a bunk bed and a sitting area with a double sleeper sofa. Apart from being one of the best family hotels in Key West, Havana Cabana is also one of the best pet-friendly hotels.
Santa Maria Suites Resort
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One of the best options for families looking for a quieter space is the Santa Maria Suites Resort. You’ll find this resort in a quiet, landscaped neighborhood very close to the ocean. Despite being quiet, the resort is at a convenient distance from the popular sights. Kids will enjoy visiting the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, a block away. South Beach is also a short walk from the hotel.
What makes this one of the best family hotels in Key West is the spacious accommodation. Guests can choose from one and two-floor suites. These come with full kitchens and two bedrooms. You’ll find plenty of mod cons inside the suites, which also include washers and dryers. Private patios or terraces are also part of all suites. Another special feature of the hotel is the nightly turndown service with a range of goodies.
You’ll find an excellent Japanese restaurant on the side, but if that is not your preferred cuisine, there are plenty of dining options nearby. Two side-by-side outdoor pools are popular with guests. Here, you can enjoy fresh fruit, smoothies, ice cream, and a free happy hour.
Hyatt Centric Resort & Spa
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The Hyatt Centric Resort & Spa is considered a top-class family hotel in Key West because of its location. At a convenient distance from many attractions, the hotel enjoys a prime location on the island’s western edge. Located between the Historic Seaport and Duval Street, this harbor front location is excellent for catching a stunning sunset.
After a massive renovation in 2007, this Key West icon has been transformed into a more modern, tropical space. However, the classic Key West architectural elements have been maintained. Families can look forward to spacious guest rooms that come with a balcony. The décor in the rooms is not much to write home about, though, with bare walls and drab furniture.
Outside the rooms, you will have plenty to do. To start with, you have an outdoor pool with a whirlpool and pool deck. There’s also a turtle sanctuary and a full-service spa. The more adventurous can rent a jet ski or boat and head out from the hotel’s private dock. Dining is at the Blue Mojito Pool Bar & Grill or the Shor Grill. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that the Hyatt Centric stands out as one of the best hotels in Key West.
Opal Key Resort & Marina
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Just steps away from the renowned Mallory Square, you’ll find another family hotel in Key West, the Opal Key Resort & Marina. The hotel’s proximity to Duval Street and its spacious accommodation make it a popular choice for families. Whether you choose a traditional room or a larger suite, you can look forward to good amenities. Rooms are bright and tastefully decorated.
The resort also features a 37 slip marina that can accommodate motor yachts from 25 – 200 feet and a beautiful pool. Surrounded by native plants and lush trees, the pool is ideal for unwinding. Whether you prefer to soak in the whirlpool or relax on a comfortable chaise lounge, the pool is an excellent place to enjoy yourself. There are complimentary pool treats, too, served between 1-3 pm. The kids will love the complimentary popsicles.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Bistro 245 to enjoy fresh pasta or delectable shrimps. Alternatively, you could spend some time at Castaways, the casual poolside bar. Sunset Deck is also another place to enjoy lighter fare and tropical cocktails.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
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You won’t be close to the action of Duval Street if you stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, but you will enjoy airy, spacious accommodation as well as a good number of amenities. Unlike most of the other Fairfield Inns, this one has a lovely outdoor pool which is quite popular with families.
It has a resort-like vibe to it, with the outside of the hotel being especially welcoming with palm trees, a pool area, and a tiki bar. You can enjoy poolside drinks and snacks from the tiki bar. This family hotel in Key West stands out because of the complimentary buffet breakfast, served daily. Served in an open-air area, it consists of typical hot continental fare.
Another hotel feature that draws families is the large suites with a separate living area. Regular rooms may feel small for families but come with comfortable beds and a few mod cons. However, one thing to note is that road-facing rooms can get quite noisy. It is better to book one of the rooms facing the courtyard.
Truman Hotel
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Located one block off Duval Street, the newly renovated Truman Hotel is another popular family hotel in Key West. Modern decor and bright pops of color make it an inviting space. The curtained balconies and a spacious courtyard give it an upscale appearance.
Families love the courtyard pool with its soothing sounds of fountains and underwater jets. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas with sunbeds, armchairs, and couches sheltered by palms. Although this isn’t a sprawling property, it has an exclusive, private feel.
Newly renovated rooms feel clean and modern with large platform beds with comfortable bedding. Tile floors with zebra rugs complement the interior, making the rooms bright and inviting. Many rooms come with private balconies or patios. Another perk that families love is the complimentary continental breakfast served poolside.
Oceans Edge
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If you’re looking for a breathtaking getaway with the family, Oceans Edge on Stock Island is as good as it gets. With a choice of six pools on the property, the expansive 20-acre resort stands out as one of the best family hotels in Key West.
It’s all about the water at this resort with a full-service marina just waiting to be explored. Guests can also enjoy fishing trips, snorkeling, or scuba diving. And when those hunger pangs kick in, head to the Yellowfin Bar& Kitchen for delectable seafood, straight from the marina.
The views from the resort are also pretty stunning. You can look forward to town-house-style accommodation with spacious balconies that look out onto the marina or the ocean. Stylish, inviting guest rooms to feature bright, crisp decor and furnishings. They come well equipped with a wide range of amenities.
While everything about the resort is top class, the one drawback to staying at such a great location is you’ll need a vehicle to get around.
Ambrosia Key West
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Two and a half blocks from Duval Street, you’ll find another popular family hotel in Key West, the Ambrosia. This charming bed and breakfast in the heart of the Old Town Historic District puts you at a convenient distance from all the action. While it has a quieter location, it is still within walking distance from the hotspots of Key West.
The resort is a tranquil escape with three refreshing pools and a courtyard surrounded by palm trees. Poolside, you’ll find several chair lounges where you can unwind. The family-friendly hotel also allows your four-legged companions to stay with you. Children under 10 also stay free in the adult’s room. In addition to this, a complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning.
Families can also look forward to spacious rooms here. Depending on your preference, tropical-themed rooms, two-room suites, two-story townhouses, and a two-bedroom, two-bath cottage are yours for the picking. The rooms here are beautifully maintained with plush bedding and modern amenities.
Hilton Garden Inn – The Keys Collection
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Many of the best family hotels in Key West have a lovely tropical vibe, like the Hilton Garden Inn. You’ll find this tranquil oasis that is also a big hit with families just off the Florida State Road. The hotel offers several attractive packages to make your trip even more memorable.
You will be expected to pay a daily resort fee which includes a shuttle service to Old Town with beach access. Two bottles of water in the room and two alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks at the Garden Grille are also included in the fee. Beside the pool, you’ll find the Salty Lime Cabana bar that is open all day. However, the Garden Grille & Bar is only open from the evening onwards.
The rooms here are also bright and spacious, with ultra-modern decor and sharp design elements. You can also look forward to brand new bathrooms with backlit vanity and a walk-in shower or tub. Families can also book connecting rooms if they are available.
Where to Stay in Key West
If you’re visiting Key West for the first time, you’ll probably want to be where all the action is. Duval Street is undoubtedly the most happening spot in town with its array of restaurants, pubs, and shopping. Attractions worth exploring this side of town are the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, as well as the Key West Cemetry with its exciting gravestones.
The hub of Key West’s social and commercial activities is Mallory Square, with its restaurants and hotels. Mallory Dock is where you can catch one of the most stunning sunsets in the world.
Families also enjoy the vibe of the historic Old Town where most of the tourist sites are. The Key West Aquarium and Sloppy Joe’s bar are in the area too. New Town features Florida-style CBS homes and a shopping center, unlike its historical counterpart. At the same time, it is a bit removed from the main attractions, so it’s perfect for families looking for a quieter holiday. You’ll also find budget-friendly properties here.
Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in Key West
- Bad Boy Burrito – Adjacent to the Bottle Cap in Key West you’ll find this easy, casual meal n the go stop. Families can enjoy tacos, salads and smoothies or build your own organic burritto.
- El Meson De Pepe – This family owned restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy some great food along with the stunning sunset. The restaurant even has kids’ menu with burgers, chicken fingers and fries.
- Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe – When you’ve indulged in the delicacies Key West has to offer, take time out for dessert. It’s not just dessert that is served at this Elizabeth Street location but breakfast and lunch also.
Recommended Family Activities in Key West
- Key West Aquarium – Not surprisingly, one of the most popular family destinations in Key West is the aquarium. The entire family will enjoy their day out interacting as well feeding animals.
- Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Eco Tour – Get up close to bottlenose dolphins as they frolick in their natural habitat. Later, cruise to the backcountry waters for some snorkeling fun.
- Mallory Square – No trip to Key West is complete without a visit to the famous Mallory Square. With shopping, restaurants and a stunning sunset to wow you, it is the place to be when you are in Key West.
