Key West Vacation Getaway Options

So you are planning a vacation to the Florida Keys. Just so you know the Florida Keys span over 100 miles from Florida City to Key West. The islands of the Florida Keys are connected by bridges and causeways. The ride down through the Keys is breathtaking but if you just want to get down to business in Key West, there's an airport right on our 2 by 4 mile island. Key West was categorized as a dirty little town with not much to do for many, many years. It was not until more recently that it became such a tourist destination. Today more than one million people visit Key West year round. It is one of the only frost free cities in the United States and boasts the Southernmost Point in the Continental United States, just 90 miles from Havana, Cuba. Although you cannot get to Cuba from here legally, some fisherman who swordfish in the Florida Straights say that on a clear night you can see the lights of Havana. If you are visiting Key West for any reason you probably need a place to sleep. Keeping in mind that Key West is a party town and the bars don't close until 4AM could hinder you from finding a place to crash until just before sunrise. In any event there are certainly many places to stay for those on a budget to those who want top of the line luxury accommodations. Hotels Key West hotels range from unique luxury hotel chain lodging such as Hilton, Hyatt, Crowne Plaza and Noble to more reasonable hotels like the Radission, Marriott Courtyard, Sheraton and Days Inn. The bottom line is it really all depends on what you want a view of, or if a view even matters. My suggestion is to get a map of Key West and map out your ideal accommodation based on budget and location. If you are a beach goer I can suggest a few: Sheraton Suites, Hyatt Windward, Pier House Resort, Wyndham Casa Marina, and the Wyndham Reach Resort. Inns & Guesthouses The guesthouse lodging in Key West is certainly tropical and can be anything from elegant to quirky. Many guesthouses and inns that I have seen are unique in style and location. One thing to keep in mind is that guesthouses and inns try to keep the peace for all their guests so know there are probably quiet hours and some of them do not want you to bring children. I would inquire ahead or read up on their websites for more information. Some guesthouses and inns I can suggest: The Paradise Inn, Gardens Hotel, Westwinds Inn, Fleur de Key (gay friendly), and the Eden House. Key West Vacation Rentals One of the best values on the island for a couple or a family traveling to our island is a vacation rental. Think of it as your home away from home for a week or a month, there are both types of rentals available. Many of the vacation rentals offered are close to all the activities on Duval Street in downtown Key West, some are even within walking distance. They are in a home like atmosphere with living area, a kitchen or kitchenette with all plates, utensils, and cookery. They offer a refridgerator to keep your drinks and food cold. Some even offer washer and dryer and internet access for extended stays. Best of all for a group of four or more it can be a great opportunity to spend time doing more because the room rate is split and makes it more affordable to most. Some of the vacation rentals offered in Key West are also pet friendly. Whatever you decide to do on your visit to Key West, know that all the hotels, motels, guesthouses, inns and vacation rentals offer fine service and are appreciative of your visit and patronage on our tiny island. Loren Rea lives and works in Key West, Florida in the tourism industry.