Reservations or "wing it" in Key west?
 

We are traveling (two couples) into Ft. Lauderdale, renting a car and traveling the Keys leaving the 19th -24th of April. Our question is: should we reserve before we go or drive and find places to stay? This is a first for all of us, we don't need a fancy resort, but want comfortable, clean accommodations. We are hoping we can find reasonable prices along the way. We just thought it would be more fun to "wing It" but are concerned at the listed prices. We would probably spend at least 2 nights in Key west, and the other 2 somewhere along the way. Any recommendations would be appreciated.

You might be comfortable winging it other places, but I'd advise you to book something in Key West.

Finding the right place to stay is key in Key West. Lots of first timers book a room at the larger, chain places and then find themselves several miles from downtown. Driving (and parking) is a pain in Key West, so you want to stay as close to Duval Street as possible. Read the reviews on TripAdvisor and then make the reservation.

You might consider a property like the Chelsea Inn... excellent location, but not a name chain... decent, clean, and affordable for Key West... have a look on the web ...

Thanks for the advice, I'll pass this on to my fellow travelers!(and hope we book a room!)

Correction ... Chelsea House Inn... sorry

Key West is a big weekend destination. People drive or fly or KWExpress it down on Fridays and go back on Sunday. If you drive down during the week your chances of just waling into something are better than on a weekend. If you do this you should at least know about the 4 Southernmost Properties and that there are a number of smaller hotels and B&B's along the northern end of Simonton, from about Caroline to Southard.

Pjk

Thanks for all your advice, we have booked a place in Key west for 2 nights, maybe 3..can't wait!

Wise decision.

Curiosity has gotten the best of me. Where did you book?

2 nights maybe 3 ?? Yes, where did you book ?

Consider a night in Marathon at the Sandpiper. Still 65 a night a room and its clean with a very pleasant owner.

We booked at Parrot Key Resort, a 3 bedroom condo for 2 nights and we are considering Marathon as our stop on the way down.