We can’t imagine Key West without Old Town. It’s arguably the heart of the island. It’s vibrant, historic, and charming. We still don’t know how Old Town manages to check all the boxes. It caters to active travelers with its abundant water activities, but those who love to party can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Duval Street. Want to stay in this area all the time? Take a look at the following hotels in Old Town Key West Florida! We’ve carefully curated some of our favorite hotels in this area, and we think you’ll be thrilled with our picks. We’re sure the hotels below can make your wildest Key West dream come true. Take a look!
Table of contents
- Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages
- The Gardens Hotel
- Galleon Resort and Marina
- Santa Maria Suites Resort
- The Palms Hotel
- The Mermaid & The Alligator
- Marquesa Hotel
- H2O Suites
- Ella’s Cottages
- Truman Hotel
- Ocean Key Resort & Spa
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Key West Old Town?
- What is the difference between Old Town and New Town Key West?
- What part of Key West is considered Old Town?
- Is Duval Street in Old Town Key West?
Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages
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Kicking off this list is the Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages. This hotel manages to capture the essence of Old Florida charm perfectly. The inn’s layout is so unique, with 30 rooms spread across 10 buildings on five different properties. It gives you this intimate, secluded feel even though you’re right in the heart of bustling Old Town. We were awed by the property’s aesthetic – the red brick pathways, painted wood decking, and lush tropical gardens create such a dreamy atmosphere.
One thing we learned is to consider your room choice carefully. Each property has its character, and the rooms vary significantly in terms of location, floor level, and amenities. A little extra research goes a long way. Next: the amenities! The four pools are great, and the poolside service is a nice addition. Plus, the Friday and Saturday afternoon happy hours with discounted drinks and free snacks are another delightful bonus.
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The Gardens Hotel
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We can’t say enough about The Gardens Hotel. It’s a true testament to its name. Nestled in the heart of Old Town, this little gem is a serene escape from the bustling city. Lush greenery, the gentle sound of water, and the cheerful chirping of birds create a pure magic ambiance. On top of that, the hotel’s commitment to eco-friendliness is truly commendable – from recycling to solar-heated water, the hotel is passionate about sustainability.
While we were there, we loved to spend our time mingling by the pool and enjoying the live jazz on a Sunday night. Not to mention, the rooms here are on the spacious side. While some people don’t like the colonial-style decor, we were instantly in love. That’s not all, though. What surprised us the most was the self-serve wine gallery with over 30 options. And the fact that we weren’t charged a resort fee was a huge plus.
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Galleon Resort and Marina
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Overlooking its marina right in the heart of Old Town Key West, Galleon Resort and Marina is paradise. The resort perfectly blends a modern vibe with classic Key West charm, creating a truly unique atmosphere. Our King Studio was a cozy and comfortable space, equipped with everything we needed – microwave, coffeemaker, fridge, and reliable Wi-Fi. The attention to detail was impressive. If you don’t mind splurging, stay at the penthouse!
Another thing that made our stay great was the waterfront pool. Also, there’s a private beach for beachgoers! Also, we couldn’t get enough of the stunning 360-degree views from the observation deck. For those who prefer indoor activities, the sauna and exercise room were great additions. Finally, dining at the outdoor restaurant by the marina is a must. The food was delicious, and the vibrant setting made for a perfect evening.
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Santa Maria Suites Resort
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Up next is the Santa Maria Suites Resort. The moment we stepped into our suite, we knew we were in for a treat. Over 900 square feet of pure luxury? Wow! The contemporary apartment-style layout felt like home but with way more style. That gourmet kitchen allowed us to whip up our favorite food, and we also loved relaxing on our patio with a view of the lush gardens.
What sets Santa Maria Suites apart is the attention to detail. We can’t say enough about the little extras like those refreshing poolside treats. Between the chilled towels, icy water, and delicious frozen drinks, we felt truly pampered. Not to mention, the hotel also offers nightly happy hour. There’s no better way to end the day. Plus, having all-day muffins and ice cream available? Awesome!
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The Palms Hotel
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The Palms Hotel is one of Key West’s many historic hotels. However, it has so much more to offer than just tales. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better. We were right in the heart of Key West, with all the major attractions just a short distance away. We loved being able to explore the city on foot. And for those days when we wanted a little extra adventure, the hotel’s bike rentals were always there for us.
Furthermore, our stay was elevated by the absolute charm of our Ash Suite. It came with a separate living area, a well-equipped kitchenette, and a bedroom that was simply dreamy. While our room was fantastic, so was the pool. We loved lounging there, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the refreshing saltwater. We appreciated the addition of the pool bar, too.
Here’s our full review: The Palms Hotel in Key West: A Bed-And-Breakfast-Like Experience!
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The Mermaid & The Alligator
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Best B&B. If you want a unique and memorable experience, The Mermaid & The Alligator might be your answer. Compared to many other hotels in Key West Old Town, this one is a standout because of its old-world charm. This Queen Anne-style beauty, built in 1904, is an absolute treasure. Staying here was like staying in a living art gallery, with every corner filled with interesting pieces. Plus, being just an 8-minute stroll from the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum was a huge plus for culture vultures like us.
We chose the Garden Room, and it was pure indulgence. We had direct access to the garden, and though small, the room was very cozy. Some rooms even boast whirlpool tubs and private verandas! Moreover, our mornings at this B&B were a treat. We indulged in delicious breakfasts served poolside. Best of all, this place offers evening wine for its travelers!
“This B&B is so much more than just a unique name. It offers a very special experience, too.”
WOW Travel
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Marquesa Hotel
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Best Modern. We were completely smitten with The Marquesa Hotel. Its prime location, just a stone’s throw from Duval Street, was the initial draw, but it was the overall experience that truly won us over. Being in Old Town Key West meant we were immersed in the vibrant energy of the island. However, the hotel also offered a peaceful retreat. We loved the idea of staying in a historic Key West cottage, but the modern comforts of Marquesa 414 were equally enticing. The staff was incredibly helpful in guiding us to the perfect room. Our suite at Marquesa 414 was a destination itself with two private terraces.
Café Marquesa, the on-site restaurant, exceeded our expectations. We were pleasantly surprised by the delicious Southern-inspired dishes. Breakfast was simple but satisfying, with those flaky croissants being a standout. Additionally, the multiple pools were a refreshing oasis, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure our stay was unforgettable. Their helpful recommendations and willingness to assist with transportation arrangements made exploring Key West a breeze.
Check out our full review: Marquesa Hotel in Key West: Experiencing Luxury!
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H2O Suites
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Most Romantic. If you’re planning to visit Key West with your lover, consider staying at H2O Suites! Why? It’s one of the two hotels in Key West with private pools. We stayed there, and it was everything we imagined. The modern decor and private plunge pool created a private oasis that we didn’t want to leave. We spent countless hours lounging on the balcony, sipping cocktails, and simply soaking up the atmosphere. The rest of the suite was equally impressive, with comfortable furnishings and all the amenities we could ask for.
We also loved spending lazy afternoons on the rooftop deck, feeling the warmth of the sun and enjoying delicious cocktails. The rooftop pool was another place to cool off, and the panoramic views of Old Town were simply breathtaking. Want to work out? Head to the gym! While H2O Suites doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, the surrounding area is a foodie’s paradise. We loved exploring the different dining options and trying out new dishes.
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Ella’s Cottages
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Another great addition to this list of the top hotels in Old Town Key West FL is Ella’s Cottages. Nestled in a private compound with five buildings, including one with a fascinating history dating back to 1930, this place oozes old-world charm. Its hard-to-beat location, just a block from the vibrant Duval Street and a short stroll from the iconic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, made exploring Key West a breeze.
Since we wanted to spoil ourselves, we ended up booking the suite, which was two-level accommodation. The highlight, though, was the private patio. We made sure to always start our morning by sipping coffee there. Don’t worry, as Ella’s Cottages also offers complimentary continental breakfast by the heated outdoor pool.
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Truman Hotel
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Best Boutique. We’ve stayed in our fair share of hotels in Old Town Key West Florida, but the Truman Hotel easily stands out. Let’s start with the location. Nestled in the heart of Old Town Key West, the vibrant energy of Duval Street is just a block away, but the hotel itself offers a serene escape. Speaking of escape, our room deserved all the love! The bold colors and funky furniture gave it a playful vibe. We loved the cozy platform bed, and the bathroom was equally stylish. Also, can we talk about the balcony? It’s “the” spot to unwind with a drink.
Moreover, the hotel’s pool area is an oasis. The lush greenery and comfortable loungers create a relaxing ambiance. It was our go-to spot for some quality downtime. We also loved the complimentary wine hour – what a way to end each day! And while the Truman Hotel doesn’t have a full-fledged restaurant, the breakfast offerings are worth it. The fresh pastries, fruit, and coffee tasted so good.
Want to know more about this place? Read our full review: Truman Hotel in Key West: A Gorgeous Boutique Hotel!
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Ocean Key Resort & Spa
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Best Overall. What’s the best place to stay in Old Town Key West? We think the Ocean Key Resort & Spa deserves the title. We were utterly enchanted from the moment we stepped foot into this luxurious haven. Its prime location at the start of the lively Duval Street, overlooking the stunning harbor, is simply unbeatable. Besides, the pool is an absolute showstopper. We spent God knows how long dipping in the pool. We also loved relaxing at the Sunset Pier bar. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we indulged in expertly crafted cocktails while taking in the breathtaking panorama.
SpaTerre, the resort’s serene sanctuary, is an absolute must. We treated ourselves to a Balinese massage that was nothing short of heavenly. Our accommodation? It was almost too good. Gleaming limestone floors, rustic wooden ceilings, and soothing colors created such a relaxing vibe. We even had a balcony that offered unparalleled harbor views.
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Our Verdict!
Thanks to its amenities, service, and location, we think the Ocean Key Resort & Spa deserves the title of “Best Overall”. However, we understand if you don’t think the same. After all, everyone has different needs and preferences, which is why we’ve prepared another more curated list.
- Best Boutique: Truman Hotel
- Most Romantic: H2O Suites
- Best Modern: Marquesa Hotel
- Best B&B: The Mermaid & The Alligator
Where to Stay in Key West Old Town?
Old Town Key West is a vibrant and historic area with several distinct neighborhoods. Based on our experience, we love staying in the heart of Old Town the most. Staying here means you’ll be surrounded by vibrant, colorful buildings. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, too. It’s the place to be for those who want to be in the thick of things.
Then, there’s Duval Street. It’s the main artery of Old Town, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. This neighborhood is ideal for nightlife enthusiasts and those who love people-watching. You don’t have to worry about accommodations, too, as the best hotels near Duval Street won’t disappoint.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, you’ll probably like the Historic Seaport. Things are lively here, and you’ll find a nice mix of shops, restaurants, and boat tours. The waterfront views are stunning.
Want to have a taste of the local culture? Consider staying at Bahama Village! It’s a diverse and vibrant neighborhood with a strong Caribbean influence.
What is the difference between Old Town and New Town Key West?
Old Town Key West is the historic heart of the island, known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful architecture, and proximity to attractions. On the other hand, New Town offers a more modern feel with residential areas, shopping centers, and a quieter pace.
What part of Key West is considered Old Town?
Old Town, also known as the Key West Historic District, is roughly the western half of the island. It’s where you’ll find the majority of tourist attractions and the heart of the island’s vibrant atmosphere.
Is Duval Street in Old Town Key West?
Yes, Duval Street is in Old Town Key West.
