Key West Hotel Review and Comparison in Old Town

A Key West hotel review and comparison is important to help with research when choosing where to stay in Old Town so that you can get the most enjoyment for your money. Key West hotels can be expensive depending on the time of year so it’s best to research and plan your trip early to get the best deals.

Visiting Key West for vacation is amazing and staying at a comfortable hotel just enhances the experience.

We just got back from an epic trip (last month) and had the chance to stay at 4 different Key West hotels (2 nights each) so we can compare the benefits and drawbacks of each place to help you plan your next Key West vacation.

Spoiler alert: We still loved them all, but there are some things to consider when choosing where to stay. The hotels we are comparing are the Hyatt Centric, The Reach Resort, Casa Marina, and the budget-friendly Blue Marlin Motel.

A note about affiliate links on the website: We only recommend companies or products that we actually have tried and enjoy. Clicking on any links costs you nothing extra. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks so much for you support!

Key West Hotel Review and Comparison

First, let me say that we have stayed at many hotels and bed and breakfasts throughout the Old and New Town areas of Key West. We prefer the Old Town area because of the ease of walking or renting a cart, bike, etc to get around all of the areas that we love. Also, parking is sometimes hard to find so it is best to stay in the middle of all of the action.

Compared to other cities with luxury prices (and rooms), Key West’s rooms that we’ve experienced sometimes have a retro feel and the exorbitant prices can seem extreme. However, you are paying for location and being in the middle of all of the action and fun.

---

• Find the Best Resort Wear for your Key West trip on Amazon! They have curated great budget-friendly options for amazing outfits on a luxe vacation! 🌴☀️

---

Also, the Old Town Key West area is very compact so accomodation space is at a premium, especially during busy times. It just depends how important it is to you to be within walking distance from all of the main activities.

That is not to say that some of the hotel rooms aren’t luxurious, but if you read TripAdvisor reviews and see a lot of complaints on a certain property it is usually because someone feels they paid too much for what they got room-wise (sometimes rates can be upwards of 1000.00$ a night!).

*Don’t forget to check out our Key West one day Itinerary trip guide after you finish reading this one too if you have time!

Going with realistic expectations for Key West hotels is important to think about when planning your trip. We have not stayed at any hotel that was unacceptable in Key West (even budget hotels)!

• We had four rooms at each of our favorite four hotels that we are reviewing so there were several chances to see the pros and cons of rooms at each location.

1. Hyatt Centric Hotel Key West

The location of the Hyatt Centric Resort and Spa hotel is perfect for a walk on the Historic Seaport! It is in Old Town very near Mallory Square and Duval Street on the Gulf Side. There are many things to do in the area as well as boat tours from the adjacent marina and jet ski rentals from the dock on the back of the hotel.

Hyatt Centric Key West Hotel Review and Comparison:

• The Grounds –

The grounds are amazing at the Hyatt Centric. It’s a very compact hotel, but the use of space makes it feel luxurious. Although there is no real beach here, there is a small snorkel area with steps to go into the into the water where you can snorkel right off the dock.

Seating areas and sun decks with many loungers are available and were never full when we visited. The pool area also had many loungers.

There are also JetSki rentals and boat tours adjacent to the hotel. There’s plenty of chairs (and hammock chairs) to lounge in, multiple turtle santuary habitats to view, as well as resident birds to talk to.

• The Rooms–

The rooms at the Hyatt centric stand out because they were just perfect. They are spacious and well-appointed. We were upgraded on arrival to a king ocean suite on the third floor with a wraparound balcony overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico.

• There was also a second balcony that overlooks the pool area, but had great sunrise views.

The room was well equipped, and even had a seating area with a comfortable sofa and chairs. The beds were very comfortable. Complimentary bathrobes and slippers were also provided for our use during the stay. Other members of our group had 2 queen rooms with balconies overlooking the turtle ponds and their rooms also were beautiful with seating areas.

• Check-in Experience–

The check and experience was great. There was no wait at the front desk. Our rooms were ready early and one of our previously mentioned rooms was upgraded to an ocean suite with a wraparound balcony so we were super excited.

• The Staff–

The staff at the Hyatt Centric went out of their way to make sure that all of our rooms were ready and to upgrade us in one of the rooms. Everyone we encountered was professional, and went out of their way to make our stay at the hotel special.

• On-site Dining and Bar-

We had breakfast at the restaurant overlooking the water on the patio which was amazing. The food was great. We also had appetizers and drinks at the bar next to the pool. The Key Lime Colada was perfect and we loved the nachos!

• Other things to keep in mind–

The snorkeling here was great and we saw more wildlife here than any other hotel. Every morning there were stingrays, fish, a manatee, and even a nurse shark that we saw either from our balcony or while snorkeling! We also loved that the lights from the dock stayed on all night which brought some really big tarpons and other fish that were fun to watch.

Also, there is a Spa at Hyatt Centric (Jala Spa) that looked beautiful, but we did not get to try it (next time!).

What we loved and would we stay again at Hyatt Centric Key West?

Of course! This hotel is one of our favorites. It’s hard to beat the view from that ocean suite! The grounds, the rooms, and the staff here make Hyatt centric a great place to stay if we have Hyatt points to use (or the budget). It is also near Mallory Square in right in the middle of everything! The sunsets from the Hyatt Centric Key West hotel are also amazing.

What We Didn’t Love:

The only negative for this hotel is that the price point during special events or busy times is pretty high. It is definitely a luxury option. Even with Hyatt points it is at a premium (45000points/night). The cash price of the room would be above 1000$ per night for the weekend we were there.

---

Check out our favorite Sunset Cruise from the Historic Seaport Harbor The best part (besides the sunset) was the live music, open bar and food!

---

2. Casa Marina Key West Curio Collection (Hilton)

Casa Marina Update: The renovations at Casa Marina are completed and the newly updated rooms are lovely!

We love staying at Casa Marina and really feel like we are staying in paradise while drinking a fruity pineapple cocktail at one of the two pools (adult and family pool) in the resort. It is also on the quiet side, yet still a short walk to many activities.

Casa Marina Key West Hotel Review and Comparison:

• The Grounds –

The grounds of Casa Marina are beautiful. I would say it’s the most beautiful hotel of the four as far as the grounds go. There are two pools, a family pool, and an adult pool as well as a private beach with chairs and massage tables that you can relax on with amazing views of the Atlantic.

There’s also a fire pit with chairs for seating at night. Note: The beach at Casa Marina usually a lot of seaweed in the water (at least when we’ve been there) so it is hard to snorkel from the beach, but not impossible.

There are also awesome sand sculptures near the beach (and a class!) and some similar quirky sculptures to the ones at The Reach Resort grounds in front of the Casa Marina lobby.

• The Rooms–

Some of the rooms at Casa Marina in the past were not as luxurious as some resorts, but that changed with the amazing renovation completed recently. They can still have a retro-feel, but it is luxurious. The historic buildings still have their charm. We stayed on Hilton points at 95,000 points per night for a standard King room and were upgraded to a Lanai. The grounds and service at Casa Marina are also unmatched!

• Check-in Experience and Lobby–

The check-in experience at Casa Marina was great. Patrick at the front desk took care of us and is very helpful. Our room was ready early and Patrick made sure that we were upgraded to a Lanai King room. We were more than happy.

The lobby renovations are amazing and we loved the fresh and updated luxurious feel.

• The Staff–

The staff at Casa Marina are amazing. We have had no problems with any staff. They always go out of their way to help and make sure things are perfect.

Besides Patrick at the front desk, we especially loved the pool staff, who always made sure that we had towels and our space was set up perfectly. Food delivery at the pool is quick and the pineapple drink cart attendants were amazing as well.

Like The Reach, the pool attendants also bring frozen treats around to cool things off while you are lounging at the pool on really hot days.

• On-site Dining and Bar-

The restaurants and cocktail bars at Casa Marina have also been updated and we loved the ones we tried!

We tried were the Flagler’s breakfast patio area in the morning, Canary Room for cocktails and light bites, and the Dorada cafe near the beach. The breakfast was pricey, but using the 30$ Diamond credit from Hilton it makes it a little better.

You can’t put a price on the amazing view from the patio dining area at breakfast!

The new Canary Room was charming and the perfect place to have a cocktail!

• Other things to keep in mind–

The seaweed has been not great here during all of the times we have visited so it is not easy to snorkel from the beach. However, the chairs and bar service are great if you just want to lounge on the beach and enjoy the view. They have also added luxe beach spa service with massage beds and new seating which is a huge improvement!

What we loved and would we stay again at Casa Marina Key West?

We would absolutely stay there whenever we can! I always try to stay at Casa Marina at least two nights when we visit Key West. We do usually stay on Hilton points when staying here. We really love Casa Marina as a hotel choice! The renovations have made this historic hotel even more luxurious!

What We Didn’t Love:

The less than perfect things about this hotel have been totally changed with the amazing renovation, but the price point is still high unless you are using Hilton points. However, the positives outweigh the negatives by a mile here and it is one of our favorite hotels in Key West!

---

Get entry into 4 Key West historic museums including the Lighthouse!

---

3. Blue Marlin Motel Key West Old Town

Blue Marlin Motel Key West Hotel Review and Comparison:

The Blue Marlin Motel resort is a cute little budget-friendly hotel with a vibrant, retro feel on the southside of Old Town Key West on Simonton Street near near the Atlantic side of Duval Street. It’s just a short walk to the famous Southernmost Point buoy from here.

• The Grounds –

The grounds of Blue Marlin Motel are hot expansive, but you have a free parking lot outside of the rooms which is convenient. There’s a free breakfast served buffet-style near the pool. The pool area was charming and we enjoyed a day there. There’s also a food truck nearby outside the parking lot that had great coffee each morning.

• The Rooms–

The rooms at the Blue Marlin were much better than I thought they would be. I thought that because it was a budget hotel that they would look more like a cheap motel, but they were recently renovated and we loved them.

There was a little seating area, fridge and microwave, and nice decor. We had a room with 2 queen beds and they were comfortable.

• Check-in Experience–

The check and experience was quick and efficient. They seem really rule- oriented there and wanted the info of each person staying in the rooms.

• The Staff–

The staff that we encountered was limited to the front desk, but she was efficient and friendly

• Other things to keep in mind–

The location of this hotel is nice because it is on the more quiet end of the Duval corridor, yet it is still close to many attractions.

What we love and would we stay again at Blue Marlin Motel Key West?

Of course, we wouldn’t hesitate to stay at Blue Marlin again. The Blue Marlin Motel Key West is the most inexpensive, but it’s still in a great area close to everything which we love! Also, there’s a free parking spot included with the room so even though we didn’t have a car, we could park our electric cart there without having to look for parking so that is a bonus.

What We Didn’t Love:

The only negative for this hotel is that it is basic with no onsite dining options, but the budget-friendly price point makes up for it and it’s close proximity to so many restaurants and bars nearby.

---

---

4. The Reach Resort Key West Curio Collection (Hilton)

The Reach Resort Key West is on the Atlantic side which is a bit more quiet, but close to many activities in Key West including the Southernmost Point, the Key West Lighthouse, Hemingway House, and Bamaha Village. This hotel can get pricey both if paying with money or Hilton points, but it is a great property to use any Hilton reward nights that you may have.

The Reach Key West Hotel Review and Comparison:

• The Grounds –

The grounds at The Reach Resort are beautiful. There is a nice pool and quirky sculptures everywhere (some look so life-like) with outdoor games (giant chess) and seating areas on the Great Lawn. The sunset pier area was also a favorite spot to walk out and look at the fish swimming by. The private beach at The Reach Key West is really nice and we snorkeled right from the beach each day.

We also ordered food and drinks to be delivered to our beach chairs and it was nice to not have to get up and just relax and enjoy that amazing view.

• The Rooms–

The rooms at the Reach Resort Key West are nice and tropical. We stayed on Hilton points (95,000 points per night) and if I were paying money (sometimes they run $900.00 or more) for this hotel I would not be as happy with the rooms.

We were happy with the sofa seating area in the King room. It gave us space to relax and look out over the Great Lawn.

We paid for an upgrade to a beach view balcony, but I had to squint and look through the trees to even see the beach so I felt that it was not worth paying for the upgrade (100$). 

• Check-in Experience–

Our check-in experience was also not the greatest at The Reach Resort. Our room was not ready until after check-in time and they were just not the friendliest at the front desk. To be fair, they were really crowded and another traveler was being loud and rude in his displeasure at his room not being ready so that may have added to the experience.

• The Staff–

The staff were overwhelmed in the front lobby and the pool chair attendants were also not the friendliest. The rest of the restaurant, bar, and pool staff were great though! Also, like Casa Marina they brought out free frozen pops at different times on the beach and at the pool which was a welcome treat.

• On-site Dining and Bar-

We at breakfast at the restaurant (Four Marlins) on the patio overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and it was pricey, but delicious! Staying on Hilton points and diamond status will get you a 30$ (for 2) per day credit back on food purchases charged to your room so it makes it a little more reasonable. The view is amazing though! The food we ordered on the beach was also really good and being able to enjoy the view was priceless!

• Other things to keep in mind–

The snorkeling here was nice and the pier is a great spot to watch wildlife in the shallow water. Some days there is more seaweed than others, but they try to keep it clear. Private beaches at hotels in Key West are uncommon so this is nice! There were also activities going on at the resort like exercise classes so definitely find out what the schedule is if you visit.

• Tip: There is a hidden sunset deck on the second level of The Reach that was mostly empty when we visited!

What we love and would we stay again at The Reach Resort Key West?

We would definitely stay at The Reach Resort again, but if we had to choose where to use our Hilton Points, Casa Marina would win. We did enjoy the amazing private beach and the quirky grounds as well as the onsite restaurant, Four Marlins.

What We Didn’t Love:

The negatives we experienced were the previously mentioned check-in experience and the non-points price point as well as the so not-worth-it ocean view balcony upgrade fee. However, the hotel is beautiful and we still had a great time!

---

Essential Packing List Items for Your Key West Trip:

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes – Key West walking can mean 8-10 miles a day without even realizing it. Make sure to pack comfortable, supportive shoes to prevent foot pain and blisters. Look for breathable sneakers or walking sandals with arch support that can handle a full day exploring. Our comfy shoe pics are these comfortable Sketchers go-walk ones or our favorite Birkenstock Gizeh sandals from Amazon!
2. Portable Phone Charger – Between taking pics, using the map app, and mobile ordering food, your phone battery will drain quickly. Bring a portable phone fast charger (amazon has this great inexpensive one) to ensure you stay connected and don’t miss out on capturing amazing travel moments.
3. Refillable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important. Pack a refillable water bottle that’s lightweight and will keep you hydrated by using so you can utilize refill options all day. There are usually free water refills throughout popular travel areas, so you won’t need to buy bottled water. Check out this inexpensive collapsible water bottle 2 pack on Amazon!
4. Travel-Sized Cooling Towel – Key West sun can be intense, even in cooler months. A cooling towel can help keep you refreshed during those long walking days. Just wet it, wring it out, and drape it around your neck for an instant cool-down. This budget-friendly 4-pack travel cooling towel set on Amazon can be clipped onto a bag or belt loop!
5. Lightweight Backpack – A comfortable, lightweight backpack is essential for carrying all your day essentials without feeling weighed down. Check out this budget-friendly packable lightweight backpack with pockets on Amazon!
6. Travel Laundry sink wash kit – Soap Suds are TSA approved and will help you pack lighter because you can wash clothes as your trip progresses. (on Amazon)

---

🖼️ Find us on Pinterest too for more travel inspiration!

Bottom Line on the Key West Hotel Comparison Review:

If your future vacation plans involve a trip to Key West’s Old Town area, you really can’t go wrong with any of the four hotels we reviewed. Hopefully our experiences will help you make a great choice for your next trip so you know what to expect.

Also, if you are flying into Key West check out our new guide with travel packing tips to fly with carry-on luggage only because the flight from Miami to Key West was on a small plane so we were happy that we packed light!

Find your Best Hotel option in Key West for Fun and Adventure!

Booking.com

Keep Reading for More Travel Tips and Guides:

We also have a guide with great ideas on the best Florida Keys camping spots to visit.

• The Best Key West Lighthouse Sunset Experience Review!
• Surprisingly Nice Stay: Review of Stay at Kimpton’s Hotel Fontenot in New Orleans
• 15 Epic Road Trips You Should Try!
• Best Travel Shoes: Birkenstock
• Best Spots to see in South Beach Miami
• Don’t miss our Black Friday Favorite Travel Deals shopping recommendations if you get a chance!
• Holiday Travel Tips
• The Club MSY Airport Lounge Review