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.