Time Out says
One of Key West’s most historic hotels, Casa Marina is fresh off a $79 million renovation with refreshed guestrooms, a new lobby bar, and a range of new dining options. Spanning 6.5 oceanfront acres, this grand dame resort on the National Register of Historic Places makes for an impressive arrival with its Mediterranean revival opulence. Originally conceived by oil tycoon Henry Flagler in 1920, the resort’s stucco arcades, mimic a stretch of the original Overseas Railroad, which he also developed. Inside, the high-ceilinged, high-gloss lobby is decked out with exposed Cypress wood beams, ionic columns, and hardwood floors.
This historic opulence extends to the grand poolscape with two pools in perfect symmetry and a private beach dotted with hammocks and lounge chairs, plus two newly restored piers, making for one of the most idyllic beachfront retreats in the Keys. The resort is home to a handful of casual dining destinations with a new “Baja-Med” poolside concept forthcoming. Meanwhile, Flagler’s serves breakfast on an oceanfront patio and there’s also a grab-and-go market. The new lobby bar, The Canary Room, inspired by a short story by local legend Ernest Hemingway, is a great place to tuck into for a nightcap.
Neighborhood
Casa Marina is a destination unto itself situated on the island’s southern edge in a mostly quiet, residential neighborhood named for the resort.
Nearby
- Louie’s Backyard: Arguably Key West’s most iconic restaurant with its history intersecting with Jimmy Buffett’s in the 1970s, Louie’s Backyard is an elegant destination for fresh seafood and one of the prettiest waterfront patios in town.
- Salute! On the Beach: A casual al fresco beachfront restaurant that’s serious about quality food by the team behind legendary Blue Heaven.
- El Siboney: Where locals go for their fix of authentic Cuban cuisine inside a casual, family-owned restaurant.
Time Out tip
Somewhat off-the-beaten-path from the restaurants, bars and attractions of Old Town, a bike rental is the best way to get around town from Casa Marina.