The island of Key West offers travelers not only pastel-hued houses but also enchanting accommodations. However, if you want a getaway that offers both island charm and unparalleled luxury, we highly recommend staying at the Marquesa Hotel in Key West. Spending a few nights there was one of the best decisions we’ve made as travelers. This hidden gem is nestled in the heart of Key West’s vibrant Old Town. From its Victorian-era architecture to jaw-dropping pools, everything about this hotel managed to catch us off guard. We felt like every detail at the hotel was meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience, and that was exactly what we got. No matter when you plan to visit Key West, know this hotel awaits.
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A quick look at the history
The Marquesa Hotel is more than just a luxury hotel. This place oozes history, and we could feel it immediately when we arrived. Built in 1884, it was like a classic boarding house filled with travelers and locals alike.
Fast forward to 1987, and Marquesa Hotel got a glamorous makeover. The new owners transformed it into a boutique haven, keeping the historic charm with West Indies furniture and warm cherrywood floors. It’s the perfect blend of old and new, and we love how they’ve embraced the past.
Speaking of the past, did you know this place has brushed shoulders with some serious A-listers? Right after opening, it became the hot spot for actors filming the James Bond movie “License to Kill.” Talk about rubbing elbows with Hollywood royalty! And get this, it’s also a favorite haunt for famous authors during Key West’s literary seminar.
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Unbeatable location
We were initially drawn to The Marquesa Hotel because of its stellar ratings and unbeatable location. Being just a block off Duval Street and in the center of Old Town Key West was perfect for immersing ourselves in the action. While in hindsight, we would have loved to explore some of the quieter areas of Key West too, the Marquesa’s location delivered.
The airport was a breeze – just a 15-minute Uber ride there, and an even quicker 10-minute trip back on the return journey. Though this luxurious hotel is missing a spa, it wasn’t a dealbreaker for us. There were plenty of spas in the surrounding area, so getting a massage or treatment was still super convenient.
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Unmatched comfort
One of The Marquesa Hotel‘s biggest perks for us (aside from the free wine at check-in) was the variety of accommodations. Key West-style cottages with history seeping from the walls sounded charming, but we also craved some modern amenities. Luckily, the Marquesa 414 (the sister hotel) across the street offered the best of both worlds.
Our decision-making was made much easier by the friendly staff who explained the differences between the buildings. We ended up in Suite #31 at Marquesa 414, and it was perfect. Just a few steps up from the pool area, we had the best of both relaxation options. But the real win was the outdoor space – not just one, but two terraces. Both came complete with comfy seating. We even had the choice of entering through a small hallway or heading straight into the living space, which felt super convenient.
If you’re looking for a room with character, ask about the charming cottages. But if you crave modern amenities and a private outdoor oasis like ours, then definitely request a suite at Marquesa 414. No matter which building you choose, make sure to ask questions during booking to ensure you get the perfect room for your Key West adventure.
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Surprisingly amazing restaurant
We were pleasantly surprised by how good the food was at The Marquesa Hotel. It has an on-site restaurant, Café Marquesa, that’s well-regarded on the island. It has a charming atmosphere, especially in the candlelit dining room. The menu leans Southern, with dishes like shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes. Of course, we didn’t miss the chance to try them for dinner, and they tasted delicious.
Breakfast was a standard self-service buffet, but everything was fresh and tasty. There was a good selection of hot drinks, fresh orange juice, and a whole table dedicated to pastries and croissants. Those croissants were incredible, light, and flaky, and the homemade granola with the local honey was a winner too. It wasn’t fancy, but it was a great way to fuel up.
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Refreshing pools & fantastic service
Want to take a dip? Perfect! The Marquesa Hotel has two swimming pools and another one at Marquesa 414. Having access to three pools across the two locations was fantastic, especially considering one was even heated. We could always find a spot to relax and soak up the Key West sunshine.
Additionally, the staff was incredibly helpful from the get-go. They provided us with a map of Key West, which was essential for navigating the charming town. Even better, they didn’t just hand it over – they took the time to point out key landmarks and recommend some great restaurants. Plus, they had a handy card listing the top things to do in Key West, which helped us plan our itinerary. They even offered to arrange bike rentals, electric car rentals, and even golf buggy rentals, making it super easy to explore the island.
“One can argue about the number of amenities at the Marquesa, but we think the pools and service make up for it.”
WOW Travel
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Pros
- The Marquesa Hotel Key West Florida is a historic property located in the heart of the Keys. It’s just two blocks from Duval Street, which is the main tourist area in Key West.
- It offers a few free amenities including free Wi-Fi, free parking, and free breakfast. They also offer free wine and coffee upon check-in.
- Including the one at the sister hotel, The Marquesa Hotel has three pools in total and an on-site restaurant.
Cons
- While the hotel does include a few free amenities, it doesn’t have a lot of amenities on-site.
Conclusion
If you crave a luxurious escape steeped in the Key’s history, the Marquesa Hotel is a perfect fit. You’ll enjoy beautifully decorated rooms in a historic building, relax by multiple pools, and savor delicious food at the on-site Cafe Marquesa. All this while being just steps away from the lively Duval Street but with the tranquility of a charming side street location.
Read Also
- 11 Best Luxury Hotels in Key West, Florida
- Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Key West
- 11 Most Romantic Hotels in Key West
- 11 Best Boutique Hotels in Key West
- 11 Best Beachfront Hotels in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many rooms does the Key West Marquesa Hotel have?
A: The hotel has 44 rooms in total.
Q: Are pets allowed at the hotel?
A: Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed.
Q: What are the check-in and check-out times?
A: Check-in starts at 3 PM and you can check out at 11 AM.
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