6 Best Hotels in Key Largo, The Florida Keys

Nestled within a “hardwood hammock” (localese for uplands habitat where hardwood trees such as live oak grow) near the southern border of Everglades National Park, this sprawling, 13-acre resort is not to be missed. There are plenty of reasons to stay on property including three dining outlets; a family activities center with on-site programs; state-of-the-art water sports; charter services and perks like outdoor movie nights, free use of fishing poles and complimentary bikes. Guest rooms, with a color palette that reflects the natural serenity of the grounds, are spacious, modern, and all have a balcony. The deluxe Baker's Cay suite with a kitchen and two bedrooms will make you want to quit your job and move to the Keys. Follow the trails to the white-sand beach for a nightly sunset celebration.

At this luxurious, 14-acre, bayfront retreat, you'll find one of the nicest beaches in the Keys, as well as water sports galore, bocce, tennis, basketball, and a fitness center with inspiring pool views. Step into your room and bask in the modern beachy design—muted whites, sea-foam accents, and wood flooring are elegant accebts. Perks like in-room Nespresso machines and Molton Brown toiletries add to the upscale vibe. On-site restaurants include Las Olas, a Peruvian ceviche and sushi bar; Sand Bar poolside seafood café; and Sol by the Sea, a waterfront open-air dining experience (book the "water table" for a dining experience that features seating and a table in the shallow lagoon). There are plenty of complimentary perks to keep guests engaged and happy, from the welcome mojito cocktails to the nightly live music to the complimentary fishing poles and bait and bookshelves lined with free books in the public spaces.

Some 200 feet of waterfront is the main attraction at these side-by-side sister properties that offer a choice between smaller rooms and larger freestanding cottages. Coconut palms whisper in the breeze and gumbo-limbo trees shade the 2½-acre grounds. Nice features abound, like well-placed lounge chairs for gazing out over the water and kayaks and paddleboats (for when you want to get closer). Everybody shows up on the sun deck or the 16-foot dock to watch the sun slip into Davy Jones's locker. The rooms are a bit tight but not without island character. Pale-yellow cottages are simply furnished. Ask for Units 25 and 26, a two-bedroom villa that will give you extra space and a water view.

This waterfront haven is tucked into a residential neighborhood beneath towering palms and native gumbo-limbos. No wonder it's a favorite of travel magazines. Each unit overlooks part of the 400-foot beach, where draping hammocks beckon you to nap. Prefer to paddleboard or kayak? Just slide one off the sand and go. Or take a dip in the pool. Less adventurous types can head for the Adirondack chairs along the shoreline or to those placed at the far end of the docks that jet into the bay. Units are comfortable and spacious and could be the backdrop for a Tommy Bahama ad with their upscale tropical decor and hand-carved furniture. Small patios give you your own slice of paradise. Breakfast is served beneath the bayfront chickee.

This 1950s throwback recalls the days when parents packed the kids into the station wagon and headed to no-frills seaside motels. The owners have spiffed things up with cute, artsy touches and added a small sunning beach, but basically it's just a motel—nothing fancy but comfortable. Guests don't mind skimping on space (although larger waterfront cottages are available) and a few frills in favor of homey digs, socializing under the chickee, and reasonable rates.

Set on 17 acres overlooking Blackwater Sound, this hotel has been given a much-needed refresh, including the rooms, which span traditional and two-bedroom suite-style accommodations. A private beach, marina, and dive shop provide plenty of water-based activities. Amenities include By the Bay Spa, a 24-hour fitness center, poolside Flipper's Bar, Breezer’s Tiki Bar, and Gus' Grille for all-day dining in a waterfront setting with outdoor covered patio.