Ibis Bay Beach Resort

Built in 1954, the Ibis Bay Beach Resort embodies kitschy Key West, with a funky-glam vibe and all the modern amenities one would expect -- plus some fun extras. Larger than most Key West hotels, which tend to be B&Bs or guesthouses, the Ibis Bay Beach Resort still feels intimate thanks to many thoughtful touches, such as loaner sarongs for lounging by the pool or in one of the tempting hammocks. The buildings are painted in bright colors, with white picket fences here-and-there that add charm. Meanwhile, some ceilings are painted bright blue, floors may be painted with tropical flowers, and the lobby’s tour desk resembles the prow of a small fishing boat -- Old Man and the Sea style. Guests can park their cars for the duration of their stay, and make use of the free shuttle to Duval Street, a perk that contributes to the relaxation factor. The grounds are home to several species of wildlife -- in penned habitats --including tortoises, macaws, and iguanas, while elegant white herons wander freely, perching on rocks and gazing out to sea. The breezy Stoned Crab restaurant has a more modern aesthetic, with white wood, metal chairs, and black-and-white curtains -- the perfect spot to hang out and enjoy the Key West vibe. 

The Ibis Bay Beach Resort is located on the beach, three miles from the Key West International Airport, near U.S. Route One. There can be some traffic noise from the nearby highway. Downtown Key West is a five-minute drive from the property, and there is a free shuttle that runs frequently to popular Duval Street. Sunset Pier is 10 minutes from the resort by car. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and Southernmost Point, are a few miles away -- a 15-minute bike ride. Key West Golf Club is three miles from the resort.

Rooms at the Ibis Bay Beach Resort are spacious, clean, and individually decorated with shabby chic charm, and Cuban artwork on the walls. Each room resembles a cozy beach house, with wainscoting and ocean blue walls. Some have private decks or garden patios. For those who can afford the higher rate, ocean-view rooms are worth the expense. Value rooms are tiny, but quaint. Note that rooms facing the interior parking lot may get some early morning noise from garbage collection. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, hammocks (depending on availability), free (key lime!) toiletries, and pillow-top mattresses. There are no closets. Bathrooms are simple and white, with stall showers. 

The Ibis Bay Beach Resort offers a relaxing pool right next to The Stoned Crab, a quintessential Key West joint serving local seafood, tasty cocktails, and heaps of atmosphere. The resort hosts weekly outdoor “Dive-In” movies, which can be enjoyed with popcorn and something from the bar. The private beach is a bit rocky, but there are swimming (and sunbathing) platforms offshore. A free shuttle takes guests downtown to the Duval Street scene, and bikes can be rented in the lobby for more enterprising guests. Coffee and tea are always available in the lobby, and in-room massage is offered upon request. There's a booking desk in the lobby where guests can book various watercraft, like jet-skis; the service is free, but the rentals are not. Wi-Fi is free in public areas. Extended parking is free, though self-parking comes with a fee.