Imagine stumbling upon a gem hidden among the sun-kissed shores of Florida…
You guessed it right—it’s none other than the magnificent Florida Keys!
This captivating cluster of 1,700 islands, each adorned with pristine beaches, will leave you breathless. Whether you crave that tranquil island vibe where time stands still or simply yearn for a spot to dip your toes in crystal-clear waters and indulge in the legendary key lime pie, look no further than these wondrous 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 I’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 Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
- Florida Keys’ 4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for The Florida Keys
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in the Florida Keys
- Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my 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 freshwater 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 Airbnb in The Florida Keys: Modern Houseboat
This amazing houseboat is filled with every 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 Keys sunset from the water after you get back from snorkeling, and know that a fully equipped kitchen makes enjoying fresh seafood easy!
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 the 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 my 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 tiny island 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. You can even venture out to nearby islands like Big Pine Key!
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, Key West is the best!
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.
1. Key Largo – Where to Stay in the Florida Keys for First Time
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 in 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 a 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: Coconut Palm 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 this hotel is directly on the beach! Nothing better than a dip in the ocean to start your day. During your stay, you will enjoy easy access to fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
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 or The Buzzard’s Roost
- 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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View on Osprey View on REI2. 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, if you are up for the adventure, you can even venture to Long Key State Park. 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: Ragged Edge Resort & Marina
If you’re looking for affordable accommodations with stunning ocean views, this place in the Florida Keys is a top choice. It offers easy access and private parking, and with an outdoor swimming pool, you can relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Things to See and Do in Islamorada:
- Enjoy a Private Islamorada Sandbar Tour
- Go swimming or enjoy the sporting facilities at Founders Park.
- Take a boat tour to get to know the area from the ocean
- Take on a Private 2 Mangrove Ecotour
- Explore the beautiful Long Key State Park
- 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 the 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: Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa
This hotel is a comfortable choice for Marathon, It’s located a short drive from the beach, offering a sun terrace and outdoor pool for those warm summer days. Also offering a delicious complimentary breakfast, and a wellness area with a hot tub and fitness center, ensuring your relaxation and fitness needs are met.
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 nearby island, big pine key!
- Enjoy A fishing experience with a private boat!
- Have a picnic and take in the views at Sunset Park
- Go camping, fishing, or hiking at the Bahia honda state park
- Head to Sombrero Beach for a spot of rest and relaxation
- Explore Marathon from the sky with a Parasail Adventure!
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Grab 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 colors, 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 freshwater 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.
Best Hotel in Key West: The Grand Guesthouse
This inn provides cozy accommodations, bicycle rentals, and a delicious continental breakfast to kickstart your day of adventure. Located within walking distance of popular attractions like the botanical gardens and Audubon House, you’ll have easy access to the best of the Florida Keys.
Best Luxury Hotel in Key West: Orchid Key Inn
Here, you’ll enjoy fantastic features including a daily continental breakfast to kickstart your day of adventure. Take a dip in the heated pool and relax in the soothing hot tub, or head to the on-site bar for some well-deserved relaxation. The hotel’s convenient location puts you within walking distance of numerous popular shopping areas, local attractions, and some of the island’s finest restaurants.
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 a Sand Bar Cruise on a Tiki Bar Boat
- Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the island’s most famous resident
- Stand at the southernmost point on mainland USA
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for The Florida Keys
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FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in the Florida Keys
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of the keys and where to stay.
Which key is the best in Florida??
One of the most popular and well-known keys in Florida is Key West. Located at the southernmost point of the United States, Key West offers a unique blend of tropical beauty, vibrant nightlife, historical attractions, and a laid-back island atmosphere.
What month is best for the Florida Keys?
The months of December to May are generally considered the most popular and pleasant for visiting the Florida Keys. During this period, the weather is typically warm and dry, which makes it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and exploring the beautiful beaches and parks in the area. But keep in mind, Florida is blessed with good weather year round!
What is the best part of the Florida Keys to stay at?
Ultimately, whether you prefer a lively ambiance or a tranquil and nature-oriented setting, both Key West and Islamorada offer unique experiences. Consider your interests, the type of activities you want to engage in, and the overall vibe you’re seeking to make an informed decision about the best part of the Florida Keys to stay at for your trip.
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.
I’ve got you sorted with the ultimate lowdown on where to crash during your upcoming Florida getaway. But for now, I’ll let your imagination wander, daydreaming about laying out in the warm Floridian sunshine on a pristine beach.
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Updated July 2023
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