You probably already know about the keys but just in case, A LITTLE INTRODUCTION. There are over 700 keys in the ocean just south of Florida, but we generally only know about seven of them. Key West is the most southern tip of the United States. Condé Nast in 2019 gave the award for the best resort in ALL the keys to Ocean Key Resort & Spa in Key West. After being there for just two and a half days, I can certainly understand why. Think Luxury yet not ostentatious! Gourmet meals in a casual natural ambiance, and outstanding accommodations! Relaxation and fun for everyone no matter the age.
From the moment I arrived, I was treated royally. The staff could not have been nicer, while following all the safety rules for COVID-19. Everyone was masked but even without being able to see smiling lips, the friendliness and willingness to make one feel comfortable and relaxed was beyond compare. Since I arrived late in the day, I was escorted to my room to unload my luggage, then headed out to see the magnificent sunset pictured below.
Being one who loves to eat, my next stop was the restaurant on the premises called Hot Tin Roof. The choices were numerous and everything beautifully presented. As a vegetarian, I opted for basically ever vegetable dish on the menu, and they did not disappoint. I highly recommend the mushroom bruschetta!!! If you are a fish eater, my friend had the scallops and basically licked her plate. Next visit I want to meet the chef! I sat at an outdoor table, surrounded by magnificent palm trees and casual comfortable dining chairs. Nothing was rushed, but also nothing was too slow either. All was perfection.
My room, a suite, with two huge bedrooms as well as living area, and dining area. The furniture included an exquisitely painted armoire so colorful and unique from other hotels where I have stayed. A lanai wrapped around my entire suite so even my delightful room service breakfast was served outdoors. There is nothing better in my mind, to enjoying your first meal of the day listening to birds with a view of the ocean. Watching the sun ascend in the sky was breathtaking, while having a gourmet breakfast fit for a queen.
I do love to eat, but there is so much else to do besides eating. The swimming pool is spacious and beautiful, overlooking a magnificent view of the ocean. You will often catch a sailboat going by for many photographic moments. If tanning is not your main priority, there are darling curtained cabanas to relax outdoors but not get sunburned. Waitresses circle by very frequently so enjoy a drink or lunch poolside.
If you want to relax indoors, there is an exceptional spa with great services as well as products. I had a massage which after driving down from west palm was a great way to get rid of any aches, pains or stiffness. They had rooms with beautiful private outdoor showers and baths, for you to relax after your massage with a view of the ocean.
Wanting more exercise? I wish I was you!!! The hotel has a gym on the property. One day I hope to be one of those people that visits the gym on vacation, but currently that is not me! You can also rent a bike and ride around Key West. It is a great way to explore the many iconic sites of Key West. Visit Hemingway’s house, and the little White House which Truman used back in the day. After reward yourself from that exercise, with a slice of key lime pie from blue heaven. If you are more inclined to water sports everything from sailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding and more is offered on the premises of the Ocean Key resort & Spa.
In the evening. I loved to just relax and listen to the outdoor music from Bob Marley to country music so peaceful. There is live music every night at Sunset Pier. No one dresses up, it’s just a chill atmosphere, and a great place to unwind from life’s stresses. Even the roosters walk around or strut right outside where tourists and locals alike are out and about.
I definitely agree that Ocean Key Resort & Spa is a top place to stay and enjoy. Add it to your bucket list now. For Florida locals it is the perfect weekend road trip. An easy four-hour drive from West Palm Beach, to get transported to a totally new relaxing vibe. A two-hour drive from Miami, into a totally relaxing atmosphere that awakens all your senses of pleasure. Not to mention the drive is beautiful!!!!
As always, I am eager to share my traveling tips, so any questions shoot them my way…you will get answers from me !
Erin aka cohlab_nyc
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