If you've read the Key West forum you might have detected a difference of opinion between the people who go to Key West and stay in guesthouses and those who stay in resort hotels.  Guesthouses are sometimes referred to as "B&Bs."  While B&B is a whole lot more fun to say than guesthouse, it's not very accurate.  Most guesthouses offer more than a bed and breakfast in someone's home. They are small inns that span the whole spectrum of cost and luxury.   This inside page is designed to let a first time visitor to the island make an informed choice where to spend their hard earned money.

Why stay in a guesthouse?

Quirky guesthouses are among the things that make Key West special.  They are as comfortable as a hotel, but the service is more personal.  They offer a chance to get away from the usual.  While each guesthouse is unique, a resort hotel is essentially the same no matter where it may be in the world.  There are so many to pick from.   Most carry that Key West charm you hear so much about.  If they sound to small you can also choose from a few boutique hotels in Key West.  The Marquesa and The Gardens fit this bill.

Why stay in a resort hotel?

Key West many hotels with many different options.  To name a few here are some ideas.

There is the Doubletree Grand Resort on the south side of the island near the airport. If offers one of the largest pools on the island, a free shuttle to Old Town, and access to Smathers Beach.  

The Casa Marina is the largest resort and offers the most activities.  It also has the largest beach for any other resort or hotel on the island.

The Ocean Key Resort offers scenic views of the harbor, sunset and Sunset Key.  The rooms here are large and have balconies with many that have ocean views and sunset views.  The pool has a great view of the harbor and they just added a hot tub.  And with its location at 0 Duval Street you can stay here and walk to the sunsets at Mallory Square and any of the restaurants at the Key West Bight.

Pier House across the street from the Ocean Key Resort at 1 Duval also has a good location.