Ocean House

The Ocean House is a charming waterfront property with only eight rooms and adult-only policy (16 and over). The exterior and grounds look like they were plucked from a travel brochure: Lush tropical gardens have winding pathways and tucked-aside picnic areas, a wide porch with a thatched palm roof and rocking chairs, and a fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. It all combines to form a secluded, relaxed, boutique island experience with few guests and attentive (but unobtrusive) service. Public spaces are limited to outdoor areas, and the small private beach and adjacent pool are the best of the bunch. This is undoubtedly one of the most romantic and well-maintained hotels for couples in the area, but prices reflect this. 

As the Keys continue to grow as a tourist destination, Ocean House feels ever more secluded. Set off from the Overseas Highway, the Ocean House is in a quiet setting along a private beach. It's still just a four-minute walk from highly rated restaurants such as Mexicana Moreda and Bayside Gourmet, plus dozens more can be reached in a five-minute drive. Within the Keys region, the hotel is located an hour and 45 minutes by car from Key West and its airport, and just 24 minutes from Key Largo. For guests flying in through Miami, the drive to the property is about an hour and 40 minutes. 

The eight elegant and spacious rooms are decorated in classic island decor consisting of wood and wicker furniture, crisp white linens, and floral and bird artwork and accents. They're supplied with full-size refrigerators, microwaves, free snacks, bottled water, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and fresh cream. Beautiful furnished balconies or terraces have privacy curtains between rooms and garden or distant ocean vistas. Also standard are flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, dining tables, and sitting areas. Bathrooms have either showers, shower/tub combos, or whirlpool tubs, plus they're stocked with top-tier Malin + Goetz toiletries and hairdryers. 

The Ocean House's most notable feature is undoubtedly its small but pretty private beach. It's lined with cushioned loungers, a couple of dining tables, and hammocks. There are free kayaks, snorkeling equipment, and paddleboards for those who want to do more than sunbathe. Set back from the beach is a well-maintained saltwater pool with two cabanas and several sunbeds, plus lots of towels. Adjacent to the pool is a thatched-roof pavilion with games tables, magazines, and fans for a breeze. The property continues the tranquil feeling with lush grounds, meandering paths, and fire pit with Adirondack chairs.

Although there's no restaurant on-site, the free continental breakfast can be delivered anywhere on the property -- poolside cabanas, room balconies, or tiki huts included. Meals can also be ordered in from local establishments by the staff for a nominal catering charge. There are no gym or full spa on-site, either, but free bicycles are available and in-room massages can be arranged. Wi-Fi is free throughout but can be spotty.