The 9 Best Resorts in the Florida Keys

There’s really no bad area to stay when you visit the Florida keys. You’ll have gorgeous ocean views and tons of outdoor activities to enjoy whether you're road-tripping throughout these islands, exploring a single beach, or looking for the best resort to stay at. However, having so many resort options to choose from can make this a tough part of vacation planning.

From Key Largo and Marathon in the Upper and Middle Keys to Key West in the Lower Keys, this part of Southern Florida offers a place to stay for all price ranges, ranging from budget and more affordable options to amenity-filled resorts. Some of these resorts offer a more laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for lounging around in the sun. Others focus on giving guests an exciting, fun-filled experience with snorkeling, scuba diving and other activities.

To help you decide where to stay during your trip, we’ve put together a guide going over the 9 best resorts in the Florida Keys.

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As one of the top resorts the Keys offers, Playa Largo Resort and Spa doesn’t disappoint. This Key Largo destination features live music at on-site restaurant Sol by the Sea, along with fire pits, a freshwater pool and many other amenities that create a relaxing environment. It’s close to notable local attractions, such as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. DiGiorgio’s Cafe Largo and Italian Food Company are also just minutes away for enjoyable dining experiences.

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Known for having the Keys’ longest fishing pier, Cheeca Lodge and Spa offers much more than a chance to fish. Explore the surrounding waters in a kayak and play some golf while staying here. You’re also near some of the best attractions in the Keys, including Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins. Pierre’s Restaurant and Lounge is just a couple minutes away for exquisite French cuisine.

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Tons of fun activities for all ages and high-end accommodations make Islander Resort one of the Florida Keys best resorts. From snorkeling and paddle boarding in blue waters to bocce ball and beach volleyball under the sun, this luxury resort gives you lots of ways to stay active. It’s also a few minutes from great places to eat and explore, including Lazy Days and the History of Diving Museum.

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For a quieter place to stay far from the crowds of Key West and Key Largo, there’s Hawks Cay Resort. Located on Duck Key— between Islamorada and Marathon — this luxury resort provides plenty of activities and amenities. Lounge on Tiki Beach soaking up sunshine or take a fishing trip in Florida Bay for redfish and other game fish. Stroll along Toms Harbor Cut Bridge for stunning views of Duck Key and Conch Key.

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When you want to spend lots of time in the water, one of the best resorts in the Keys is Isla Bella Beach. This Marathon resort gives you several pools to swim or lounge in, along with access to scuba diving and other water activities. Located on the western side of Marathon, you’re also just a short drive to area attractions, like Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters and Florida Keys Wildlife and Environmental Area.

Courtesy of Marriot Bonvoy

As one of the top Florida Keys resorts, Courtyard by Marriott’s Faro Blanco Resort offers something for everyone, making it a great choice for families. Kids can spend rainy days in the indoor game lounge. Sunny days are perfect for swimming in the infinity pool with views of the ocean or sunbathing on the beach. On-site dining is available, but the resort is also minutes from Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House.

Courtesy of Opal

Sea and land activities, waterfront restaurants and convenient access to Key West’s attractions make Opal Key Resort and Marina a top place to stay. Enjoy swimming in a secluded pool with a poolside bar serving refreshing drinks. Located on the western tip of Key West, this resort is also close to Key West Aquarium, Duval Street and Mallory Square. On-site dining is available at Opal Key, but you can also head over to nearby Sunset Key for a meal at Latitudes,

Courtesy of Hyatt Hotels Corporation

From jet skiing to luxurious spa treatments, Hyatt Centric Key West is among the best resorts in the Florida Keys for many reasons. Swim all year round in the heated pool or stroll through the sand on the resort’s two private beaches. La Trattoria Old Town is close by for Italian cuisine and steak. The resort’s also close to some of the main attractions in Key West, including the Hemingway House and Museum and the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum.

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As the name implies, Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West is on the southern side of the island city. That puts you close to the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. at South and Whitehead Streets for memorable photos. The resort itself features a few pools for relaxation, along with a pier for working on getting a great tan. Stroll across the lush lawn or take an afternoon nap in hammocks. Southernmost Beach Resort is just minutes from La Te Da for brunch and cabaret shows and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park for picnics and hiking.

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