I am taking my parents to the Keys in mid May. I'd like to stay in the upper or middle Keys and take a day trip to Key West. I'm looking for a very nice place, upscale but not snooty, ON THE ATLANTIC BEACH. I snorkel and kayak and the folks just want to relax in style. Any suggestions? Also some favorite restaurants. Thanks! Locals welcome to reply.

Some suggestions: Hawks Cay, Cheeca Lodge in Islamorada or The Moorings in Islamorada.

Islamorada is definately the best spot. There are several nice, but inexpensive places. We stopped there because it was a good half way point. It gets you closer to Key West. Just don't realize how long that road is until you drive it!

If your looking for beaches you won't find any in the keys, just man-made gravel ones. The bay side is much better cuz you will get to see the sunsets. The Marriott in Key Largo is nice, and The Westin is nice too but they are both on the bay side. For a great cheap lunch go to Mrs. Mac's in Key Largo.

No white sand beaches in the Keys on the Atlantic? Really?
Has anyone tried using priceline in the
keys or could I get some good deals
on my own?

Is it worth the drive down to Key West?

Thanks for the responses.

sorry but the Keys doesn't have beaches. It's rocky, coral rocks on either side so people do pull over and go into the water but it's not sandy. The Keys are great for snorkeling, diving, fishing and other water sports. There are places to rent equipment or arrange trips all the way down.

The upper Keys has John Pennecamp where there is a sandy lagoon, some canoe rentals, snorkeling trips, etc... There aren't many nice hotels along the way. All the nice ones have been recommended. In between are lots of little motels, which are probably low price but unless your adventurous I wouldn't take my parents. Down towards Islamorada are the nicer resorts, as well as Holiday Isle, home of the rum runner.

Depending on how long you are staying, you could rent condominiums but that takes more research.

ONe of the hotels listed already would be good and a day trip to Key West is worth it if you're not from South Florida. It's charming and fun.

I agree with the post who mentioned how long that drive is so middle Keys would be a good point to stay.

Let us know what you find out about these hotels, rates?

We are staying in Islamorada in June at Pines and Palms. It looked nice and clean. The people are very friendly and courteous on the phone and it doesn't seem as "snooty" as one or two other places in Islamorada that I called. Check out the website. They have individual cottages, duplex cottages and ocean view suites.