Beach Front Hotel

Question

This is my first time coming to Key West and would like to stay in a beachfront hotel/condo with beach access.

Answer

Key West has several beachfront hotels and condos that provide direct access to the water, giving you that classic tropical “stay on the beach” experience. While Key West doesn’t have extensive sandy public beaches like the Gulf Coast, there are resorts and condos with private or semi-private beachfront areas.

Here are some options to consider for a first-time Key West visitor wanting beachfront access:

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa: Located near Old Town and the waterfront, it has a small beach area and a nice pool. Offers easy access to Duval Street and nearby attractions.
The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton: This is one of the few true beachfront hotels in Key West with a natural sand beach. Rooms have direct views of the ocean and the property offers water sports rentals.
Ocean Key Resort & Spa: While technically more waterfront than traditional beach, it provides beach-style lounging areas and is close to Mallory Square.
Sunset Key Cottages: Located on a private island just off Key West, these luxury cottages have private beaches and are accessed by a short ferry ride. Offers an upscale, quiet beach experience.

Additional tips:

Book early, especially for peak seasons like winter and spring, as beachfront rooms fill up quickly.
Check if the hotel provides beach chairs, umbrellas, or water sports rentals – some include them in the stay while others charge separately.
If a full sandy beach is essential, properties on Sunset Key or the Reach are your best bet. Other “beachfront” locations may have docks or small sand areas rather than wide public beaches.

In summary, for a first-time visitor wanting a beachfront experience in Key West, the Reach Key West and Sunset Key Cottages provide the most authentic beach access, while other resorts offer waterfront locations with pools and small sandy areas.