hotels and weather

Question

Considering going down to Key West over labor day weekend with our family of 4 (2 teens).

We often go to Miami Beach in the summer and were looking to try something new. We're big wildlife / marine life enthusiasts, and we do like the beach. I did have some questions:

1. How does the summer weather there compare to Miami Beach? We've been to Miami Beach in July and August, and I never found it to be a problem. I recall the city itself being pretty toasty, but the beach areas always seemed fine.

2. Hotel-wise, should I be shooting to stay in the "Old Town" area? I wouldn't want to have to walk very far to get to things

3. And as far as hotel choices -- I know Key West isn't really a beach place. It'd be nice to stay by the water somewhere that's family friendly, has some access to water and a pool. Any recommendations?

Answer

Key West is a fantastic destination for families, especially if you enjoy wildlife and marine life. Here are answers to your questions:

Summer Weather in Key West vs. Miami Beach: - The weather in Key West in the summer is similar to Miami Beach, with high humidity and warm temperatures, but Key West tends to have slightly breezier conditions due to its island location, which can make it feel more pleasant. - Key West has a tropical climate, so while it can get hot, the breezes from the ocean help moderate the heat. Like Miami, the summer months are the wet season, with afternoon showers common. The evenings are generally cooler. - If you’ve been comfortable in Miami Beach in July and August, you should find Key West similarly comfortable, but do be prepared for some afternoon rain showers.
Staying in the Old Town Area: - Yes, staying in the "Old Town" area is a great idea if you want to be close to attractions, dining, and activities. The Old Town area is walkable, with many of Key West's main attractions like Mallory Square, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the Southernmost Point all within walking distance. - This area also has a lively atmosphere, perfect for exploring, and you won’t need to rely much on a car once you're there. It’s a family-friendly area with a mix of activities, shops, and restaurants nearby.
Family-Friendly Hotels with Access to Water and Pools: - While Key West doesn’t have expansive beaches, there are still plenty of places to stay near the water with family-friendly amenities, including pools. Here are some great options:
- Southernmost Beach Resort: This hotel offers a pool, beach access, and is located near the quieter end of the Old Town area. It’s a family-friendly resort with direct access to the beach, although the area is more rocky than sandy. It's perfect for families who want to relax by the water.
- Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa: Located near Old Town, this hotel has a beautiful pool area, water views, and is walking distance to attractions. It also has a great family-friendly atmosphere and offers direct access to the waterfront, so it’s ideal for marine life enthusiasts.
- Ocean Key Resort & Spa: This resort is right by the water and offers a great pool area, water activities, and family-friendly amenities. It’s located on the waterfront, so you can enjoy the views while being close to many of Key West’s best activities.
- The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton: This is another good option with beachfront access, a pool, and an excellent family-friendly environment. The Reach is located on the quieter end of the island but still close to Old Town. It’s perfect for both relaxing and enjoying marine life activities.

Overall, Key West is an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy the water and marine life, and the Old Town area will keep you close to the action. These hotels should provide a great base for your stay while giving you access to beaches and pools, all with the charm of Key West’s island atmosphere.