From private floating bungalows in Key Largo to vibrant waterfront retreats in Key West, the Florida Keys offer endless choices for effortless beach vacations. Part of what makes a Florida Keys vacation so unique is the variety of resort offerings, which create a space for every type of traveler. Whether you want something completely remote and off-the-grid or want a lively resort-style pool to sip a frozen margarita by, there’s a spot for you in the Florida Keys. You just need to know where to look. I’ve stayed at many of the Florida Keys’ nicest luxury resorts to help you find the dreamiest resorts for your luxury island escape. Here’s why these top six options deserve a further look.
Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Ocean Key Resort & Spa is undeniably one of Key West’s most vibrant and luxurious retreats. The location right on the waterfront on Duval Street (near Mallory Square) makes these balcony rooms one of the best spots in Key West to catch the famous sunsets. From the colorful, vibrant room decor to the hoppin’ sunset pier bar area, this hotel encompasses everything you want a Florida Keys vacation to be.
Not only is a stay at Ocean Key Resort & Spa ideal with small luxuries like walkability and sunset views, but it’s also home to one of the best restaurants in Key West, Hot Tin Roof. This dinner spot is iconic for waterfront views and for enjoying upscale island cuisine. I’m still thinking about the “Hot Tin Tini” I had here that paired perfectly with my petite filet mignon.
Ombi Floating Bungalows
The premium Ombi Floating Bungalows are one of those “hidden gems” that truly live up to the hype. This ultra-small, “micro” resort consists of just three luxury floating bungalows that float directly on the water in the waters of Tarpon Basin in Key Largo, Florida. To get to these rooms, you’re escorted on a luxury charter for about 10 to 15 minutes before arriving at your floating bungalow. Arriving here felt about as close as you can get to an overwater bungalow in the Maldives — while still having the luxuries of a stay in the U.S.
Unlike other Florida Keys resorts, the room at Ombi Floating Bungalows is the whole experience. There’s no hotel lobby, no on-site restaurant, and no resort-style pool packed to the brim. Instead, guests staying here get a quiet luxury vibe and a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Each premium floating bungalow includes a private deck right over the water, kayaks and water sports gear, and hammocks/loungers to watch the sunset. As the only floating bungalow experience in the U.S., you’re definitely guaranteed a unique experience here.
The Bungalows Key Largo
After staying at the Bungalows at Key Largo for a second time recently, I truly fell in love with this resort all over again. This all-inclusive, adults-only tropical escape creates an atmosphere that is both tranquil and serene, ideal for the traveler who wants a true reset. From the fitness tiki hut to the relaxing zen pool, the Bungalows at Key Largo have endless spots to park yourself for a wellness escape that feels secluded from the real world. The way each guest gets their own individual bungalow makes this resort feel truly unique — ideal for romantic getaways, couples escapes, or even solo-travel wellness getaways.
To me, the Bungalows at Key Largo also stand out as a stay that feels different than other luxury stays in the Florida Keys. The all-inclusive design of this hotel allows guests to put away their wallets for the duration of the trip and spend more time enjoying amenities like water sports and on-site activities. After my recent 2-day stay here, I felt refreshed in a way I didn’t know was possible.
Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa
If you can’t quite decide between a Key Largo and a Key West trip, why not choose somewhere in between? Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa in Marathon is an all-around solid choice for a luxury beach stay. Unlike other resorts in the Florida Keys, this massive retreat spans over 20 acres, making it feel like you’re in your own little world secluded from the rest of Marathon. This resort is on the newer side (opened in 2019), which means all of the guest rooms still have a modern, new feel.
The coolest part about staying here? Every room at Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa faces the water (so no room is a bad choice). But, if you ask me, the most luxurious rooms are those on the bottom level with the direct walk-out access to the beach. You can’t beat that. This resort also has so many pools across the huge property that it never feels overcrowded — even when it’s at capacity.
Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
You can never go wrong with a stay at a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel. After staying at a few Autograph Collection properties, like the Belgrove Resort & Spa in West Palm Beach, I was hooked on the collection and everything it encompasses. If you don’t know anything about the Marriott Autograph Collection, each hotel has a unique vibe that gives it a luxury boutique hotel feel.
Playa Largo Resort & Spa is no exception. As soon as I entered the lobby of this stunning hotel, my eyes were immediately drawn to the Caribbean-style resort pool in the center of the property. This retreat feels like a tropical escape that has you forgetting you’re even in the state of Florida. From water sports to recently upgraded poolside cabanas, everything here feels like pure luxury. The “Eventide” Sunset Celebration held here every night is also a really special touch that sets Playa Largo Resort apart from other hotels in the area and gives it a wellness-inspired feel.
Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton
Much like Marriott’s Autograph Collection, Hilton’s Curio Collection encompasses a portfolio of hotels that each has an independent luxury boutique feel and “tells a story”. Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo does exactly that. While guests still have access to Hilton amenities, the resort feels like an independent escape that does not feel overly branded.
Located in Key Largo, Baker’s Cay is one of the only Key Largo hotels with direct beach access. The property leans heavily into the natural environment with lots of natural-style beaches and hammock trails with tropical vegetation. If you love & appreciate nature, you’ll love a stay here. As I explored everything Baker’s Cay had to offer, I noticed how the space felt upscale and luxurious while still remaining warm and welcoming. I’d describe Baker’s Cay as a great choice for any type of travel –from family travel to couples getaways.
