The Best Beach Hotels to Book in the Florida Keys

Located in Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge has long been known as one of the best beach hotels in the Florida Keys. The resort’s 214 rooms and suites all have access to a 1,200ft (365m) private beach, as well as 27 acres (11ha) of gardens and several pools. The resort is a favorite of anglers, who can charter boats through the resort or fish off the 525ft (160m) pier (the longest in the Keys). Guests all enjoy unlimited use of fishing gear, bikes, kayaks and other water sports equipment.

For a sleek stay, Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo is a modern, beachfront resort with plenty of spots for tranquility. Sip tropical cocktails from a poolside tiki bar, snag a spot on one of the comfy deck swings overlooking the ocean or relax on a hammock on the private beach. In addition to on-site restaurants, the hotel offers a “dock-to-dish” program where they’ll cook your day’s catch.

This beachfront Key Largo resort is nestled amidst lush tropical foliage and has nearly 15 acres (6ha) of shoreline. In addition to airy rooms and suites, the resort also offers 10 oceanfront bungalows and a three-bedroom beach house with a private pool. Save up your appetite because the resort restaurants are some of the best on the island. Choose between a casual beach shack restaurant, a Peruvian ceviche bar, a full-service Mediterranean restaurant and light bites at the Sand Bar.

You don’t have to upgrade to a room with a view at Isla Bella resort – every room and suite at the hotel offers an ocean view and a large terrace from which to soak it all in. The light-filled rooms are decorated in a refreshing blue-and-white palette inspired by the resort’s setting. The hotel’s central position in Marathon allows you to easily explore the area, whether it’s by fishing, snorkeling or kayaking through mangrove forests. And be sure to pamper yourself at the spa – you’re on vacation, after all.

You’ll feel like you’re on your own private island at Hawks Cay, located on the secluded Duck Key. The resort itself feels like a community, with villas, hotel rooms, tennis courts, shopping, restaurants and a marina spread across the island. One of the most unique aspects of Hawks Cay is the resort’s saltwater lagoon that’s home to a group of bottlenose dolphins. Guests can participate in the Dolphin Connection experience, where they can meet, play and swim with the friendly creatures.

At Tranquility Bay, you can customize your vacation to what you want. Book a two- or three-bedroom beach house through the resort for the ultimate privacy – no shared hallways or elevators. Or, opt for a tropical garden room amidst the lush landscaping. The oasis in Marathon includes three pools, a private beach and on-site water sports. Children receive a free plush turtle toy, due to the resort’s support of the neighboring Turtle Hospital, an organization that rehabs sea turtles.

You’ll know you’ve found Faro Blanco resort by its iconic red-and-white lighthouse. The historic landmark stands at the resort’s full-service marina, which means you can check in by boat or car. More than 100 rooms and suites can be found at this waterfront hotel. When you’re ready to adventure, book a fishing charter or rent a Jeep on site from the resort.

Casa Marina has been a thriving hot spot in Key West since the 1920s. The old Hollywood elite used to hide out at Key West’s largest private beach, two pools and a spa. Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway’s house are just 1mi (1.6km) from the resort. Take advantage of dining options on the property or at sister property, the Reach Key West. At Casa Marina, you can also arrange for a private, personalized dinner on the beach.