I am having a really hard time deciding - narrowed it down to these 2 hotels (just ruled out the Pier House). So, experts out there - OCean Key or Key West Hyatt on Front St.? Both are very close to Mallory Sqaure, both have ocean view rooms (which we would book if not too expensive - ok with spending $250-300 on a room), both are a bit pricey. Heard that there is construction going on at one or both? Also, will be traviling with a 1 year old if that helps.

Try looking at The Simonton instead. http://www.simontoncourt.com/

The room rates will be about the same price or better depending on the season you are going. You can walk to Duval St & Mallory Sq within minutes. The staff are very friendly. The hotel is very quaint, private and nice. You will want to make sure kids can stay there though... I don't remember seeing any kids so it could be adult only.

For the simple fact that the Hyatt has a beach I would choose it over the Ocean Key Resort.

I've stayed at both and think if you could get a Junior Suite at the Ocean Key, you'd love it. They have full kitchens, which would be handy with a child. I've heard the Hyatt is undergoing renovations but have no idea how far along they are. The Hyatt does have a beach, but it's about the size of a postage stamp and isn't condusive to swimming. Frankly, either place would be fine, especially if you have a water view.

Just realized I answered this question on another board and found out the junior suites are $500!!! Stay at the Hyatt!

The Hyatt is undergoing renovations as you know, so call the front desk and ask if you will be affected during your time period. My sister was going to stay there in April, but they said at that time they would be working on the middle part of the building, so all the rooms will be affected by it.
We stayed at the Ocean Key about 2 yrs. ago and loved it. We were upgraded to a 1 BR suite when we got there. The pool is really nice and overlooks the gulf.

thanks all - I'm now leaning towards ocean Key based on the responses, no construciton, and about a $100 price difference for an ocean view room, as compared to the Hyatt.