Everyone’s heard of the Florida Keys. Located just off the coast of Florida, it’s a coral cay archipelago that includes around 1,700 islands boasting some of the world’s best beaches. With that many islands, you can be sure that you’ll find exactly where to stay in the Florida Keys that suits your budget and travel style.
Whether you’re looking for a laid back island feel, somewhere to drink cocktails near the ocean, or just a place to go swimming and try some famous key lime pie, you’ll find it in these islands.
With so many places to choose from, it can be difficult to find the absolute best places to stay in the Florida Keys. That’s why we’ve created this guide, to help you find islands that suit your wants and needs, and are close to places where you can really make the most of your Florida Keys vacation.
- Where to Stay in The Florida Keys
- Florida Keys Neighbourhood Guide
- Florida Keys’ 4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- 1. Key Largo – Where to Stay in the Florida Keys for First Time
- 2. Islamorada – Where to Stay in The Florida Keys on a Budget
- 3. Marathon – Best Neighbourhood in The Florida Keys for Families
- 4. Key West – Best Area to Stay in The Florida Keys for Nightlife
- Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our top recommendations for places to stay in the Florida Keys.
It’s no wonder this paradise region of the sunshine state is a must-visit for most travelers in the USA given the combination of awesome beaches, incredible restaurants and fascinating culture.
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Best Airbnb in The Florida Keys: Floating Tiki Suite
This stunning abode features an oceanfront porch, a 50-inch LED TV, a king sized bed, a fresh water tank, and even an electric mini fridge. The hut even includes everything you need to enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. A couple’s hammock is ideal when sunset comes around, and a ladder ensures easy access to the water.
It’s truly one of the coolest Airbnbs in the US, so don’t pass it up while you’re in Key West!
Best Hostel in The Florida Keys: Seashell International Hostel
Bright, colorful, and inviting – this hostel in the Florida Keys has everything you need for a comfortable, budget-friendly stay. The hostel offers lots of island charm as well as great facilities, including a kitchen area, laundry facilities, and a great location. You’ll be within walking distance of the beach and popular shopping districts.
Best Hotel in The Florida Keys: Pier House Resort & Spa
Pier House Resort and Spa has absolutely everything you could need or want from your Florida Keys vacay. Set in a secluded area of Key West’s Old Town, you’ll be able to take advantage of their full service spa, lounge by the pool, or spend your day at the resort’s own private beach. After you’ve had enough of the sun and sand, you’ll only have to walk a total of one minute to reach the famous Duval Street to get your party on.
Key Largo
Key Largo is the northern gateway to the Florida Keys, and the best choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Florida Keys for your first time.
Islamorada
If you like adventure and are trying to decide where to stay in the Florida Keys on a budget at the same time, then Islamorada might be the answer you’re looking for.
Marathon
Marathon is hands down the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Florida Keys for families. It’s a collection of small islands that are jam-packed with activities designed to keep the kids occupied.
Key West
You’ve probably heard of Key West, most people have. This island is at the southernmost tip of the Keys and was built on the back of cigar-making and the money taken from shipwrecks.
There are over 1,700 islands in the archipelago that makes up the Florida Keys, each of them unique and with its own attractions. This may make it a little hard for you to find the best Florida Keys accommodation for your vacation, but you just need to know which island best suits your travel style.
Key Largo is the best area for travelers heading to the Florida Keys for the first time. Easily accessible from the mainland and with a great mix of amenities and adventure activities including scuba diving, there’s something to suit everyone and it’s home to some of the best hotels in Florida Keys.
Islamorada: The second place to look at is Islamorada, a group of six islands that offers a more local, down to earth feel. This is our top pick for those traveling on a budget, so if you like fishing and other activities that don’t cost a lot of money, this is where you’ll find them.
Marathon is a collection of tiny islands that offers lots of family-friendly activities, suitable for even the smallest members of your family. If you want to keep them occupied for a few days, this is the best place to base your vacation.
Key West is the best place to stay in the Florida Keys for nightlife. This is probably one of the most popular islands, and for good reason – it’s full of everything from beautiful beaches to popular bars and fancy hotels with multiple swimming pools!
Florida Keys’ 4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
There are lots of great neighborhoods in the Florida Keys, but here are some of the best for travelers in the area.
Key Largo is the northern gateway to the Florida Keys and the best choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Florida Keys for your first time. It’s easily accessible from Miami International Airport by plane and offers a huge range of activities, beaches, and attractions for every type of traveler. It’s even a great spot in Florida to go camping too.
On this island, you’ll find everything from spots to swim, kayak and enjoy pretty much any other type of water sport, to lots of restaurants and convenient amenities. Key Largo is also home to some of the best hotels in the Florida Keys. If you’re looking for swimming pools, tennis courts, private balconies, a hot tub and a fitness center all within close range of a sandy beach, then this is the one!
So if you’re ready for the perfect beach holiday, get packing and head to Key Largo.
Best Airbnb in Key Largo: Waterfront Sunsets Cottage
This airy cottage is a great option if you’re trying to decide where to stay in the Florida Keys on a budget. Suitable for 2 guests, it has a private bathroom and a kitchen. As a bonus, it’s within walking distance of local bars and shops as well as being set right on the harbor.
Best Luxury Airbnb in Key Largo: Beach House With Heated Pool
This spacious home is the absolute best Airbnb on Key Largo, thanks in large part to its heated outdoor swimming pool! Lounge underneath the palm trees, or soak in the hot tub once the sun sets–this is Florida vacation rental that’s hard to leave! There’s also a fully equipped kitchen and other amenities like a golf cart and its own private beach just a few streets away!
Best Hotel in Key Largo: Hampton Inn
Whether you’re visiting the Florida Keys with kids or with a group of friends, this hotel is a good choice. You’ll get a choice of room sizes to suit every travel group, as well as complimentary breakfasts to start your day. The hotel also has a swimming pool, private balconies, fitness center, private beach and boat dock.
Things to See and Do in Key Largo:
- Get out on the water and learn about the plight of the ocean creatures at the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary
- Take an incredible sunset cruise
- Have a meal at local spots like Shipwrecks Bar and Grill, The Buzzard’s Roost, or Q’Hubo Café
- Try out diving with a half day scuba experience
- Explore Everglades National Park which isn’t too far from Key Largo
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Learn More Now!2. Islamorada – Where to Stay in The Florida Keys on a Budget
If you like adventure and are trying to decide where to stay in the Florida Keys on a budget at the same time, then staying in Islamorada is your best bet.
This chain of 6 islands is known more for sport fishing and outdoor activities than posh hotels and restaurants. So, if you’re looking to pay more local prices and spend your time outdoors for free, you’ll have plenty of chances to do it here.
Best Airbnb in Islamorada: Modern Houseboat
This incredible houseboat is filled with every modern amenity you can imagine, and is located near the beginning of the overseas highway that connects the keys. The home features a private balcony, and a spacious living room complete with a flat screen TV. Experience a night on the Atlantic Ocean while having all the comforts of a real house. Catch a breathtaking Keys sunset from the water after you get back from snorkeling, and know that a fully equipped kitchen makes enjoying fresh seafood easy!
Best Hotel in Islamorada: La Siesta Resort & Marina
If you want ocean views at a reasonable price, then this is one of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys. It’s just off the highway for easy access and offers complimentary breakfasts by the outdoor pool. There’s also a bar and restaurant where you can have a late-night drink and bite to eat.
Things to See and Do in Islamorada:
- Enjoy a meal at Meze Morada, Calypso’s, or Bayside Gourmet
- Go swimming or enjoy the sporting facilities at Founders Park.
- Take a boat tour to get to know the area from the ocean
- Have a picnic or BBQ at the Library Beach Park
- Explore the unique History of the Diving Museum
- Grab your best hiking boots and make your way through Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
3. Marathon – Best Neighbourhood in The Florida Keys for Families
Marathon is hands down the best choice when you’re deciding where to stay in the Florida Keys for families. It’s a collection of small islands in the middle keys that are jam-packed with activities designed to keep the kids entertained. The islands are connected by a bridge for easy access to wherever you want to explore on your Florida road trip.
Marathon also has a lot to offer for adults visiting the area. This includes amazing beaches and attractions that will teach you about the islands and all the marine life around them as well as some of the most family-friendly hotels in Florida Keys.
Best Airbnb in Marathon: Keys Hideaway With Private Pool
This incredibly cute Marathon Airbnb might just be my favorite property on this list! The hosts really went above and beyond with the design–places like this are why you choose Airbnb over a hotel! The three bedroom home has its own private pool, as well as a gas grill and beach chairs.
Sombrero Beach (one of the best in the Keys) is nearby as are top restaurants and shops. Beach lovers will also want to check out Sunset Park, where you can simply show up and start snorkeling thanks to the public dock.
Best Luxury Airbnb in Marathon: Stunning Waterfront Mansion
This iconic Marathon mansion is no doubt one of the best places to stay in the Keys. You’ll be right on the water, which you can opt to enjoy from your own private dock.
The home also has its own heated outdoor pool, meaning you can swim comfortably year-round. A fully equipped kitchen will meet all of your culinary needs, and it’s also pet friendly!
Best Hotel in Marathon: Coconut Cay Resort
This hotel is budget-friendly and comfortable, a worthy addition to any Florida Keys neighborhood guide. A short drive from the beach, it has a sun terrace and outdoor pool, so you can enjoy those warm summer days as well as a delicious complimentary breakfast every morning.
Things to See and to Do in Marathon:
- Have a delicious seafood meal at Stout’s Restaurant, The Island Fish Company, or Irie Island Eats
- Relax on the white sand at the Coco Plum Beach
- Take a tour of the Turtle Hospital
- Take a canoeing or kayaking tour
- Have a picnic and take in the views at Sunset Park
- Go camping, fishing or hiking at the Curry Hammock State Park
- Head to Sombrero Beach for a spot of rest and relaxation
- Visit the nearby Bahia Honda State Park and Duck Key
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Buy an eSIM!4. Key West – Best Area to Stay in The Florida Keys for Nightlife
You’ve probably heard of Key West, most people have. This island is at the southernmost point of the Keys and was built on the back of cigar-making, as well as money taken from shipwrecks. As a result of this history, the island is filled with beautiful mansions and cottages in white and pastel colours, but it’s still a laidback and relaxing area to visit.
The city is welcoming to everyone, offering everything from expensive restaurants to hidden dive bars. This is what makes staying in Key West ideal when you’re deciding where to go in the Florida Keys for nightlife. It’s also home to the Key West International Airport so it’s a convenient spot.
Best Airbnb in Key West: Floating Tiki Suite
Florida Airbnbs just do NOT get more iconic than this! Experience the historic town of Key West from the ocean in this luxurious floating tiki suite.
This stunning abode features an oceanfront porch, a 50-inch LED TV, a king sized bed, a fresh water tank, and even an electric mini fridge. The hut even includes everything you need to enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. A couple’s hammock is ideal when sunset comes around, and a ladder ensures easy access to the water.
It’s truly one of the coolest Airbnbs in the US, so don’t pass it up while you’re in Key West!
Best Hostel in Key West: Not Your Average Hotel
This hostel in the Florida Keys offers the perfect combination of comfort and budget-friendly facilities. It has 3 swimming pools and 2 hot tubs and is within walking distance of local attractions like the botanical gardens and Audubon House. The rooms come in a variety of sizes to suit any travel group to rival any of the hotels in Florida Keys.
Best Hotel in Key West: Caribbean House
This boutique hotel in the Florida Keys is adult-only and pet friendly. It’s within walking distance of several popular shopping areas and local attractions as well as some of the island’s best restaurants. The Key West resort offers both on-site parking as well as a bar. In addition, it has comfortable rooms with a variety of amenities a 10 min walk from a sandy beach.
Things to See and Do in Key West:
- Go on a snorkeling trip
- Learn about historic Key West on a conch train!
- Explore the Key West Shipwreck Museum
- Have some fun at a Key West bar crawl
- Try the local food at A&B Lobster House, Two Friends Patio, and Sunset Pier
- See Key West by cycle
- Relax on the beach or enjoy some water sports at the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
- Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the island’s most famous resident
- Stand at the southernmost point on mainland USA
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
Whether you’re trying to find the best places in the Florida Keys to stay for a family holiday, on a Florida road trip with friends or enjoying a solo adventure, there’s so much to choose from.
Whether you end up in a luxury resort or choose to go camping instead, the Florida Keys offer so much in terms of great food, amazing natural experiences, a relaxed island atmosphere and stunning beaches with lots of chances to enjoy the water.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
Updated November 2022 by Samantha Shea
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