Which hotel with family?

Question

We are staying 3 nights in January over Martin Luther King weekend and participating in the 5k and half marathon. We know this will be a busy time to visit! We are bringing our 14 year old daughter with us. I’ve been looking at The Pier House and The Reach but can’t decide where to stay. I know the beach experience in Key West is very limited…but our teen daughter would still love any type of beach. Would The Reach or Pier House be worth staying at or do you recommend somewhere else? Thank you for any help!

Answer

Visiting Key West over Martin Luther King weekend will definitely be busy, especially with events like the 5K and half marathon. Choosing the right hotel for your family, including your 14-year-old daughter, depends on whether you prioritize beach access, central location, or resort amenities.

The Pier House is a historic resort located in Old Town, known for its lively atmosphere and iconic waterfront views. It has a small private beach area, pools, and a variety of on-site activities. Its location is excellent for walking to Duval Street, restaurants, and nightlife, but it may be less tranquil for families seeking a quiet beach experience.

The Reach Resort, on the other hand, is a more modern, upscale property with a private sandy beach on Key West’s only natural sand beach. It offers a quieter, resort-style experience and is well-suited for families who want a true beach feel. The property also has a pool, beachfront dining, and easy access to the southern end of Duval Street, making it a balance of relaxation and convenience.

The Pier House – Pros: central location, lively atmosphere, waterfront pool, small private beach. Cons: less natural sand, can be busy and less private, more nightlife-focused.
The Reach Resort – Pros: private natural sand beach, quiet and upscale, family-friendly amenities, beachfront pool. Cons: slightly farther from central Duval Street nightlife, higher price point.

If your daughter is excited about spending time on the sand and in the water, The Reach offers a more authentic beach experience. However, if you want to be in the heart of Key West with easy access to shops, restaurants, and post-race celebrations, The Pier House is very convenient.

Other alternatives to consider for families looking for a bit more space or different amenities include resorts and vacation rentals that cater to families with pools, kitchens, and easy beach access:

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa – Modern resort with waterfront location, pool, and spacious rooms.
Ocean Key Resort & Spa – Offers luxury accommodations with waterfront views and resort amenities, located near Mallory Square.
Private vacation rentals – Many offer private pools and more space for families, often located near beaches like Higgs Beach or Smathers Beach.

For a short 3-night stay, especially during a busy weekend with race participation, booking as early as possible is essential. The Reach is likely the best balance if your priority is a beach experience for your teen, while The Pier House works better if you want central convenience and a lively atmosphere.

Ultimately, both hotels are excellent choices, but for families with a teen who wants sand and water, The Reach may provide a more enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Which hotel with family?

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