Key West Neighborhoods: Deciding Where to Vacation
Key West is known for many things — beautiful beaches, bustling bars, roaming roosters, and of course, lots of Key lime pie! And for such a seemingly small island in the Florida Keys (only about 4 miles long), Key West sure does pack it all in with tons of things to do and lots of unique places to stay.
From the historic Old Town to the vibrant Bahama Village, each Key West neighborhood has its own unique character, architecture, and vibe. And you can find a fabulous vacation rental in nearly all of them.
Heading to Key West for vacation and trying to decide where to stay? We’ve got you covered. Here’s your complete guide to Key West neighborhoods to help you plan your perfect trip!
Old Town Key West
One of the largest and most famous neighborhoods in Key West, Old Town is located in the historic district and is known as the “historic heart” of the island. It’s full of tree-lined streets, charming Victorian homes, conch cottages, and historic landmarks like the Key West Cemetery, Hemingway Home, and Key West Lighthouse.
Staying in the heart of Old Town also keeps you close to Duval Street and Mallory Square, making it a popular place for travelers who want to enjoy these lively spots but have a quiet cottage to retreat to at the end of the day.
Get a glimpse into Key West’s past when you book your stay in the heart of Old Town.
Downtown Key West (Lower Duval)
A bustling hub of entertainment, the Downtown Key West neighborhood encompasses lower Duval Street, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums. It’s also the epicenter of Key West’s nightlife with live music venues, bars, and nightclubs.
Staying Downtown puts you close to famous spots like Sloppy Joe’s, Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop, and Mallory Square. If you love the historic charm of Old Town but want to stay a little closer to all the action, Downtown is the place to be!
Enjoy all the best entertainment that Key West has to offer when you book your stay in Downtown.
Uptown Key West (Upper Duval)
The more laid-back, luxurious part of Duval Street, the Uptown Key West neighborhood, features upscale boutiques, art galleries, charming cafes, wine bars, and a stop-and-smell-the-roses kinda vibe. If you love the idea of staying on Duval Street, but prefer a quieter, slightly more glamorous experience, Uptown is for you!
Staying in Uptown puts you just steps away from the lush gardens of the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, the famous French Banana Cafe, sips and bites at the Gran Vin Wine Bar, the turquoise waters of South Beach, and perhaps Key West’s most famous landmark of all — the Southernmost Point. And you can still easily walk, bike, or take the trolley to explore Lower Duval.
Enjoy the quiet luxuries of Key West when you book your stay in Uptown.
New Town Key West
A quiet, residential neighborhood on the east side of the island, New Town offers a more hometown feel with access to shopping centers, parks, and restaurants, with a less touristy vibe. New Town is where a large number of full-time residents live, so you’ll feel like you’re part of this Key West neighborhood when staying here. Live like a local when you book your stay in New Town.
Mid Town Key West
If you love the idea of New Town, but want to be a little bit closer to Downtown, Mid Town is the perfect compromise. Situated between Old Town and New Town, Mid Town offers the same residential feel, but puts you a little closer to all the action of Downtown. Enjoy both sides of Key West when you book your stay in Midtown.
Bahama Village Key West
One of the oldest and most culturally significant neighborhoods on the island, Bahama Village dates back to the 1800s, originally home to Bahamian settlers. This Bahamian influence is still apparent today, signified in the area’s historic brightly colored “shotgun” homes, artisan markets, and Caribbean food and music.
Perfect for those who love food, music, and culture, Bahama Village is a great place to stroll, shop, and try new culinary delights. Locals and visitors alike love dining at Blue Heaven, known for its lush, tropical setting, Caribbean cuisine, and beloved roosters roaming around. Staying in Bahama Village also puts you in proximity to Old Town, the Hemingway Home, and the Key West Lighthouse.
Immerse yourself in Bahamian culture and history when you book your stay in Bahama Village.
Key West Historic Seaport
Full of historic nautical charm, the Key West Historic Seaport neighborhood is home to a bustling marina filled with impressive tall ships, waterfront restaurants and shops, and maritime museums.
If you’ve come to Key West to get out on the water, the Historic Seaport makes a great basecamp. You’ll find tons of boat tours and watersports excursions operating out of the marina, including fishing charters, diving and snorkeling tours, sunset sails, dolphin-watching tours, and more. You’ll also find the famous Schooner Wharf Bar and the Conch Republic Seafood Company — two top spots for fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
Savor the salty air, fresh seafood, and sailing adventures when you book your stay in the Historic Seaport.
Beachside Key West
Calling all beach bums — the Beachside Key West neighborhood has the quintessential beach town feel with gorgeous shorelines, paved walking and biking paths overlooking the ocean, and beachside cafes.
Enjoy soaking up the sun on some of Key West’s most popular beaches, from Higgs Beach to Smathers Beach. You’ll also be within walking distance to some gorgeous green spaces like the Key West Nature Preserve, Key West Garden Club, and Indigenous Park.
Wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy a relaxed, seaside retreat when you book your stay in Beachside.
Casa Marina Key West
Beachside’s luxury cousin, Casa Marina, is located adjacent to Beachside and known for its sprawling estates, private beaches, and luxury living. If you want the Beachside experience, with an elevated, upscale touch, book your stay in Casa Marina.
White Street Gallery Key West
Known locally as the Tennessee Williams District or the Art District, the White Street Gallery neighborhood is where art, history, and culture collide. Enjoy strolling through galleries, boutiques, bookstores, and the famous Tennessee Williams Museum when you book your stay in White Street Gallery.
Truman Annex Key West
A private, gated community just off Old Town, Truman Annex offers all the privacy and prestige luxury travelers are looking for — with a little bit of history. It’s home to a former naval base, the Truman Little White House, and tons of historic architecture to marvel at. You can enjoy a quiet, private retreat while still being close to the Downtown area and major attractions when you book your stay in Truman Annex.
Coral Hammock
If golf is your game, Coral Hammock on Stock Island makes for the perfect stay with pristine greens and premium amenities, in a private, gated community. Enjoy teeing off at the Key West Golf Course — a Rees Jones Championship Golf Course, while just being a short drive away from the heart of Key West. A golfer’s paradise awaits when you book your stay in Coral Hammock.
Southside Resort & Northside Resort Key West
If proximity to the water and resort-style amenities are at the top of your list, Northside or Southside Resort just might be the perfect place. Both offer a luxury experience close to beaches, shopping, and dining, yet remain secluded enough to feel like an escape from the hustle and bustle of busier parts of Key West.
Find luxury and tranquility by booking your stay in Southside Resort or Northside Resort.
The Meadows Key West
Tucked away in a residential area just off of Old Town, The Meadows neighborhood offers the same tree-lined streets and historic feel, but is just a bit quieter. Perfect for those who prefer a slower pace and would rather mingle with locals than other tourists.
Enjoy a tranquil escape while still remaining close to all the major attractions by booking your stay in The Meadows.
Sunset Key
When you truly want to get away from it all, Sunset Key is the private island paradise you’ve been dreaming of. Just a short ferry boat ride from mainland Key West, Sunset Key offers a luxury, 5-star experience with private beaches, upscale restaurants, spas, watersports, and more.
You’ll also get to see the breathtakingly beautiful sunsets the island was named for. It’s perfect for couples or honeymooners looking for a romantic retreat.
Spoil yourself with a private island getaway when you book your stay on Sunset Key.
Stock Island
Just before the entrance to Key West, Stock Island is reminiscent of a quaint fishing town, with docks to stroll, fresh seafood spots on every corner, and lots of fishing charters and boat tours that can take you all over the Florida Keys. It’s also home to art galleries, breweries, the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens, and famous dive bars like Hogfish Bar & Grill and Hurricane Hole.
Enjoy days out on the water and nights in the pub sharing a pint with friendly locals when you book your stay on Stock Island.
Key West Neighborhoods Have it All!
Whether you’re a history buff, beachgoer, night owl, foodie, or part-time mermaid, you’ll find the perfect Key West neighborhood to stay in. Book your stay with VHKW and enjoy private vacation rentals with premium amenities like pools and hot tubs, in all the best Key West neighborhoods!
