Courtyard KW Waterfront vs. KW Marriott Beachside?

Question

Heading to Keys end of this month - planning to stay in Key West for 3 days. I am Marriott Platinum member. Would you choose the Courtyard Key West Waterfront or Key West Marriott Beachside? Thanks.

Answer

Great question. Both are solid Marriott-brand options in Key West, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which fits you best as a Platinum member.

Courtyard Key West Waterfront

Located at 3031-41 N Roosevelt Blvd, this is a more “waterfront” hotel rather than full beach-resort-style.
No resort fees, and free parking.
Junior Olympic–sized heated pool + hot tub + a poolside Tiki bar.
Private sun-bathing boardwalk & small sunbathing beach area.
Rooms are more functional: refrigerators, safes, patios or balconies, and king or queen beds.
Location-wise, it's not in Old Town / Duval — more in “New Town” — but they run a free shuttle to downtown.
Marriott Bonvoy value is pretty good here for what you’re getting; more “value-resort” than luxury.

Key West Marriott Beachside (Beachside Resort & Residences)

Address: 3841 N Roosevelt Blvd, on ~7 lush acres with a private beach overlooking the Gulf.
On-site marina, water sports (jet skis, kayaking, paddleboarding), which is nice if you plan to do more “resort stuff.”
Large, heated waterfront pool and a “tanning beach” between buildings.
Complimentary shuttle (and water taxi) to downtown Key West (Duval area), so you don’t need to drive or walk long distances.
More upscale rooms / suites — they have 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom suites, some with kitchens, marble floors, private balconies, etc.
On-site dining: Tavern N Town (international-inspired menu) and a pool bar.
Good for relaxing, resort-style stays vs running out every moment to explore.

Bottom Line — Which One to Pick as Marriott Platinum?

Go for the Courtyard Waterfront if:
- You’re more budget conscious but still want water access, a pool, and free parking
- You plan to spend most of your time in Old Town / Duval and don’t mind using the shuttle
- You don’t need a big suite or kitchen — just a comfortable, functional room
Choose the Marriott Beachside if:
- You want a resort feel — pool, beach, water sports, and relaxing amenities
- You're traveling with family or want more space (suites are nice)
- You value having a pretty place to hang out in and enjoy the hotel itself, not just as a base

As a Platinum member, you may be able to score room upgrades (especially at Beachside) — therefore, if your budget allows, Beachside could be more rewarding. But if you want to maximize value and plan to explore Key West a lot, Courtyard Waterfront is very smart.

Happy travels and enjoy Key West!

Courtyard KW Waterfront vs. KW Marriott Beachside?

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