Lighthouse Court Hotel in Key West

The buildings that make up the Lighthouse Court are in typical Key West conch style, where the roofs are metal and slope downward, attic spaces are converted into bedrooms, and windows and doors have louvered shutters. One- and two-story buildings are separated by brick pathways and surrounded by spaces filled with wicker sofas, patio tables, and sun loungers. Tropical trees surround the property and offer plenty of shade, though this may not be the preferred scene for some. The front desk is located in a two-story residential-style structure in gray and white with porches and appropriate signage. 

While The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is directly across the street, there are many other spots to enjoy that are a little farther away. For sun and sand, the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is approximately a 15- to 20-minute walk southwest, while the more popular Smathers Beach is approximately 50 minutes east by foot, or 10 minutes by car. For a day out on Duval Street, nine one five, a bistro in an 1860s Victorian house, is a suitable spot to stop for a meal and refresher. Art admirers will appreciate Gallery on Greene, which exhibits a collection of Key West art with authentic, historic importance dating back to the ‘30s; the gallery is just 15 minutes away by foot. The nighttime scene is best enjoyed at Mallory Square, which hosts an open-air market, street entertainers, and plenty of restaurants. Crowds gather here for the sunset as well. Key West International Airport is 10 minutes east of the hotel by car.

Standard rooms at the Lighthouse Court offer single king, queen, or double beds with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi with poor connectivity. Deluxe units include separate living areas and kitchenettes with microwaves and mini-fridges. At 1,000-square-feet, the Hemingway Suite is the largest room offering, and has a loft bedroom and full kitchen. The downside to these historic rooms is found in the overall conditions of the buildings. The wood and paint on several bathroom doors are chipped and lifting off the door. Rusted shower curtain rods and water trail marks are also visible in some bathrooms, which can also run small in standard rooms. However, the overall decor scheme is nice; there are subtle beach touches, but otherwise they feel bright and modern.

As a historic inn, this hotel lacks many amenities, including a gym, business center, or spacious parking lot. Guests arriving by car are required to leave their keys at the front desk so that management is able to shift vehicles as each one comes in and out. To the back of the main building is an outdoor pool flanked by loungers, chairs and tables with umbrellas, and the Mojito Bar and Café. The venue offers salads, sandwiches, and wraps in addition to margaritas, piña coladas, and -- you guessed it -- mojitos. The space also hosts the hotel’s free daily breakfast.