Long known for its free-spirited vibe, Key West welcomes you to come as you are—whether that means strolling past street-roaming roosters or joining the revelers on Duval Street. But beneath the lively energy lies a deeper charm, reflected in the island’s eclectic mix of resorts. The most sought-after stays are in Old Town, which stretches across the island’s western edge, touching both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Despite its position between two vast bodies of water, the island remains effortlessly walkable, with fabulous restaurants, historic sites, and kitschy dive bars never more than a short stroll away.
From romantic hideaways and high-energy weekend escapes with your besties to laid-back family retreats, Key West has the perfect spot to unwind. And the moment you arrive, the island’s easygoing spirit washes over you. Here’s our list of the best hotels in Key West, where relaxation meets island character.
Explore our complete Key West travel guide, which includes:
How we choose the best hotels in Key West
Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.