Unearth The Voyage
Planning a family vacation to Key West can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to find the perfect place that keeps everyone happy, from toddlers who need naps to teenagers craving adventure. The island offers an amazing mix of beachfront resorts, spacious suites, and budget-friendly options that cater specifically to families. Whether you want a quiet retreat with a kitchen or a lively resort with multiple pools, Key West has something for every family’s style and budget.
1. Parrot Key Hotel & Villas
Families who need elbow room absolutely love this resort’s multi-bedroom villas. You get separate sleeping areas, full kitchens, and enough space so nobody feels cramped after a long day of exploring. Four pools dot the tropical grounds, including one reserved just for adults and another designed specifically for families with young children.
A complimentary shuttle whisks you to both Smathers Beach and Old Town, which means you skip the parking headaches. Kids can burn energy at the playground while parents relax under swaying palms. The laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to unwind without sacrificing convenience or comfort for your crew.
2. Margaritaville Beach House Key West
Location is everything here, step out the door and you’re across from Smathers Beach in seconds. Roomy suites give everyone space to spread out, and the resort activities keep kids entertained without parents having to plan every minute. Grandparents appreciate the laid-back Margaritaville vibe that doesn’t feel too loud or overwhelming.
The beach access means spontaneous sandcastle sessions become part of your daily routine. Older kids can try paddleboarding while younger ones splash in the shallows. With multiple dining options on-site, you won’t need to wrangle hungry children into the car for every meal, making vacation life simpler and more relaxing.
3. The Capitana Key West
This boutique gem sits right on the waterfront, offering suites and private cottages that feel like your own little hideaway. Kitchenettes let you prepare quick snacks or simple breakfasts, saving money and keeping picky eaters happy. The extra space in each unit means toddlers can nap while older siblings hang out without waking anyone.
A pool overlooking the Gulf provides stunning sunset views that become a nightly family ritual. Because it’s smaller and more intimate than mega-resorts, you get personalized service and a quieter atmosphere. Parents love the balance between boutique charm and practical family-friendly features that larger properties sometimes miss.
4. Southernmost Beach Resort
Perched at the quieter end of Duval Street, this oceanfront resort offers easy beach access without the downtown crowds. Multiple pools mean your family can choose between lively or low-key depending on the day’s mood. Recent renovations have refreshed the property, making it feel modern and welcoming for multi-generational trips.
Grandparents enjoy the calmer vibe while kids love having direct beach access for morning treasure hunts. The location strikes a sweet balance—close enough to Old Town for evening strolls, yet far enough to escape the noise. With updated amenities and ocean views, everyone in your group finds something to love about this classic Key West spot.
5. Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Right at Mallory Square, this prime Old Town location puts you in the heart of Key West’s sunset celebrations. Suites are spacious enough for families, with room configurations that work whether you have one child or four. The waterfront pool becomes a favorite hangout spot, especially during those golden-hour swims when the sky turns pink and orange.
Walk to restaurants, shops, and street performers without needing a car or shuttle. Older kids and teens love the independence of exploring nearby attractions on their own. Parents appreciate being steps from everything while still having a peaceful retreat to return to after busy sightseeing days filled with island adventures.
6. Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
This classic Keys resort just completed a full property renovation in Spring 2024, bringing fresh, modern updates to rooms, pools, and dining areas. Families get to enjoy a long stretch of private beach where kids can play for hours without parents worrying about crowds. The historic charm blends beautifully with contemporary amenities, creating a timeless vacation experience.
Multiple pools cater to different ages and energy levels throughout the day. On-site dining means you can grab breakfast in pajamas or enjoy a sunset dinner without leaving the property. The combination of old-world elegance and new family-friendly features makes Casa Marina a standout choice for parents seeking both comfort and style.
7. The Reach Key West (Curio Collection by Hilton)
As Casa Marina’s sister property, The Reach offers an on-site natural sand beach that kids absolutely adore. The walkable Old Town location means you get beach time without leaving the island’s vibrant core. Families appreciate having sandy shores right outside their door while still being close to restaurants and attractions.
The resort vibe feels relaxed and unhurried, perfect for families who want to slow down and savor vacation moments. Kids can alternate between beach play and pool time while parents lounge with a good book. Evening walks into Old Town become easy family outings, and the shuttle service helps when little legs get tired from a full day of exploring.
8. Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
Steps from Old Town, this waterfront resort positions families perfectly for exploring everything Key West offers. The pool becomes home base between adventures, giving everyone a place to cool off and recharge. Older kids and teens love the proximity to shops, tours, and activities they can explore with a bit more independence.
Parents appreciate the spa when they need a break, and the resort’s modern design feels fresh and inviting. Tour operators pick up right from the property, making snorkeling trips and glass-bottom boat excursions incredibly convenient. The central location eliminates the stress of long drives, so you spend more time making memories and less time in transit.
9. Santa Maria Suites Resort
Every unit here is a full suite with complete kitchens and multiple bedrooms—a lifesaver for families with young kids who need nap schedules. Located just off the quieter end of Duval Street, you get easy access to attractions without the constant noise. Preparing simple family meals in your suite saves money and accommodates picky eaters effortlessly.
The apartment-style setup lets you maintain some home routines while on vacation, which keeps little ones happy and well-rested. Grocery stores nearby make stocking your kitchen simple. Parents love having separate sleeping areas so adults can stay up after children go to bed, enjoying quiet time without disturbing anyone’s sleep.
10. Sunset Key Cottages (Private Island near Key West)
If your budget allows a splurge, these multi-bedroom cottages on a private island create an unforgettable family escape. A quick boat shuttle connects you to Key West, but once you’re on Sunset Key, you feel worlds away. The beach is pristine, the pool is inviting, and the whole setting looks like it belongs on a postcard.
Kids love the adventure of taking a boat to and from the island each day. Parents appreciate the exclusivity and tranquility that comes with a private-island retreat. With spacious cottages, you get privacy and luxury combined, making this the ultimate special-occasion destination for families who want something truly extraordinary.
11. Beachside Resort & Residences (formerly Marriott Beachside)
Large condo-style suites ranging from one to three bedrooms give families serious space and flexibility. Full kitchens, a pool, small beach area, and marina make this property feel like a home away from home. A shuttle to Old Town means you can explore without worrying about parking or tired kids walking long distances.
Rebranded in 2024 but fully operational, this resort offers excellent value for larger families or those traveling with grandparents. The marina provides easy access to fishing charters and water adventures. With laundry facilities and spacious living areas, longer stays become comfortable and stress-free, letting everyone settle in and truly relax.
12. Oceans Edge Resort & Marina (Stock Island)
Every single room here boasts ocean views, which means waking up to turquoise waters each morning. Six pools scattered across the property ensure you always find a quiet spot, even during peak season. The on-site marina makes booking fishing trips and water adventures incredibly convenient for active families who plan to spend time on the water.
Stock Island’s location provides a calmer base while keeping you close to Key West’s action. Kids love exploring the different pool areas, and parents appreciate the resort’s focus on water-based activities. If your family thrives on adventure—snorkeling, kayaking, fishing—this resort provides the perfect launching point for unforgettable aquatic experiences.
13. Perry Hotel & Marina Key West (Stock Island)
Spacious rooms and two waterfront pools create a relaxing atmosphere that feels less hectic than downtown properties. Easy access to boat charters means fishing enthusiasts and water-lovers find this location ideal. A short shuttle or drive brings you into Old Town whenever you want restaurants, shops, or nighttime entertainment.
The calmer Stock Island setting gives families breathing room while staying connected to Key West’s energy. Kids enjoy watching boats come and go from the marina, and parents love the modern, comfortable accommodations. Balancing tranquility with convenience, Perry Hotel offers families a peaceful home base without sacrificing access to island adventures and attractions.
14. Hyatt Vacation Club at Windward Pointe
Two-bedroom villas with full kitchens and in-unit laundry make this property feel like your own island apartment. Families who need apartment-style living—especially those with babies or toddlers—find the extra space and amenities invaluable. Preparing meals, doing laundry, and maintaining routines becomes easy, reducing vacation stress significantly.
The villa setup works beautifully for longer stays or larger family groups traveling together. Kids have room to play indoors on rainy days, and parents appreciate the cost savings from cooking some meals at home. Located on the island, you stay close to attractions while enjoying residential comfort that traditional hotel rooms simply cannot provide for growing families.
15. Hyatt Residence Club Key West – Beach House
Another two-bedroom, two-bath condo-style option, this property features a zero-entry pool that toddlers and young children absolutely love. A small beach area provides easy water access without the overwhelming crowds of larger public beaches. The comfortable home-base feel makes week-long stays with kids manageable and enjoyable.
Full kitchens and separate bedrooms give everyone personal space after busy sightseeing days. Parents appreciate the washer and dryer for keeping up with sandy swimsuits and beach towels. The zero-entry pool design means even the littlest swimmers can safely enjoy the water, giving parents peace of mind while everyone cools off and has fun together.
16. Hampton Inn Key West
Budget-minded families appreciate the free hot breakfast that fuels everyone for a day of exploring. The waterfront pool provides a refreshing spot to unwind, and complimentary shuttle service into town eliminates transportation worries. This solid mid-range pick delivers reliable comfort without breaking the family vacation budget.
Kids love choosing their breakfast favorites each morning, and parents love not paying for it. The shuttle means you skip rental car expenses or parking hassles. Hampton Inn’s dependable quality and family-friendly amenities make it a smart choice for families who plan to spend most of their time out exploring rather than lounging at the resort.
17. DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Grand Key – Key West
A large pool anchors this family-friendly resort, giving kids plenty of space to swim and play. Family-friendly amenities and a free shuttle make getting to Old Town with children far easier than navigating parking and walking long distances. The warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in always score points with young guests.
Spacious rooms and convenient on-site dining mean less stress for parents juggling multiple kids. The shuttle eliminates the need to pile everyone into a hot car multiple times daily. DoubleTree’s reputation for reliable service and kid-friendly features makes this resort a safe bet for families seeking comfort, convenience, and value in one package.
18. Hilton Garden Inn Key West (The Keys Collection)
A big pool and quick access to both the airport and Old Town make this Hilton Garden Inn incredibly convenient for families. Modern rooms feel fresh and comfortable after long travel days or beach adventures. The dependable Hilton quality gives parents confidence they’ll get consistent service and amenities throughout their stay.
The location works beautifully for families who want to maximize sightseeing time without long commutes. On-site dining options keep hungry kids fed without lengthy restaurant waits. For families who value reliability, modern comfort, and strategic location, this property checks all the boxes while maintaining reasonable rates that keep vacation budgets on track.
19. Fairfield Inn & Suites Key West at The Keys Collection
Complimentary breakfast gets everyone fed and ready for adventure without the morning stress of finding a restaurant. A roomy pool deck provides plenty of space for families to spread out and relax between excursions. This easy base works perfectly for families who plan to spend most days exploring rather than hanging at the hotel.
The breakfast savings add up quickly when you’re feeding multiple kids daily. Modern, clean accommodations give you a comfortable place to rest without unnecessary frills or expenses. For families focused on experiencing Key West’s attractions, tours, and beaches, Fairfield Inn delivers exactly what you need—comfort, convenience, and value—without paying for amenities you won’t use.
