Duval Street in Key West, FL

Over the summer, I had written a post about the Sheraton Suites in Key West, Florida while doing research for my upcoming wedding. I thought I had it all figured out – until I came across the Doubletree Grand Key Resort in Key West. This place has a lot to offer, too, and they offered us an even better group rate. So, planner that I am, I had to come up with a list comparing to two to help make my decision – and hopefully it’ll help you decide between the two as well!

Doubletree Grand Key – The Good

THE SHUTTLE – it  holds about 40 people, and there is more than one, so there is no trouble getting to downtown Key West, which is about 3 miles away. The shuttle has four drop-off points, too – one at Smathers Beach, one at the Butterfly Conservatory and one at Conch Republic Seafood – and to the airport, too.

THE AQUARIUM – The hotel has an aquarium right on the premises!

THE POOL – the pool is a zero-entry pool, and the entire pool area is currently being renovated (come back in November to see how it looks!)

THE LOCATION – If you’re you’re looking for a quieter location that’s removed from crazy Duval Street, you’ve found it.

Doubletree Grand Key – The Bad

THE LOCATION – So, this is good and bad. It’s not right across the street from Smathers Beach, and it’s about three miles from downtown, so you either have to take the shuttle, cab or drive it.

RENOVATIONS – the hotel is nice, but is in need of some renovations and is not newly renovated like the Sheraton is. Rooms are on the smaller side, as well.

Sheraton Suites – THE GOOD

THE LOCATION – right across from Smathers Beach! It’s 2 miles outside of downtown, so it’s removed from all the craziness of Duval Street.

RENOVATIONS – they’re gorgeous! The hotel lobby looks very inviting and cool, and the rooms are beautifully redone.

ROOMS – they are HUGE. All are suits, and some can fit up to six people. Fridges, Starbucks coffee, couches that convert to beds, gigantic showers and granite countertops.

SHUTTLE – it drops off in one location downtown – the shuttle is small, but it’s nice to have so that you can avoid having to drive.

Sheraton Suites- THE BAD

THE SHUTTLE – yes, it’s nice to have, but it’s small and you have to reserve it really to make sure that you have space.

I couldn’t really think of anything else I didn’t care for at The Sheraton! Guess my decision is made.

Photo: Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar

Southernmost on the Beach

So, Key West, Florida isn’t exactly known for its beaches. But, what if you could stay at a hotel that had its own private beach ? I say, who cares if sand isn’t perfect or if the water isn’t crystal clear? Key West, Florida’s Southernmost Hotel on the Beach is a relaxing, luxurious retreat that has nice sand just for its guests. It’s a really beautiful hotel, with very calming surroundings. And, you’ll be within walking distance of famous Duval Street that has many of Key West’s best restaurants, bars, cafes and boutique shops.

There are many things to like about Southernmost Hotel on the Beach. There’s free parking (really surprising to me considering this hotel is a little pricey.) You don’t actually need a car at all – you can walk to everything. Free Internet. A lovely pool. A private beach. The staff is really nice and well-trained. Free chairs to sit on the beach with. A great poolside bar.

What’s not to like? Not too much! Again, the beach is nice, but you’re not in the Bahamas. The “cheapest” rooms are not as large as so might like, but I saw absolutely not problem with them, they were beautiful.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Key West, and don’t mind working out your credit card a bit, definitely check this hotel out. I think you’ll be happy as a hippo, like I was.

Photo Credit: Southernmost on the Beach website