Santa Maria Suites

The rooms were well equipped and clean, with a fridge, freezer, microwave, oven, and fans whose speeds could be adjusted with switches. Ours was up one flight of stairs, and we were upgraded from queen to king beds. They restocked the ice cream bars daily, which we enjoyed. There were two pools with lounge chairs around them, and we could always find some free. Santa Maria Suites Resort is close to good restaurants, including Banana Cafe and the Seaside Cafe at the Southernmost Mansion. We found easy street parking nearby, and there's also a hotel lot, though we didn't use it because it's expensive. Bike parking is at the back of that lot. The hotel has a restaurant, Onlywood, which looked nice, but we didn't try it. Poolside, they offered free frozen drinks, strawberry-mango slush and frozen lemonade, plus chips. We could also use the beach at the hotel next door, though it was covered in seaweed during our visit. It's on the pricey side, but I'd recommend it for a fun, relaxing trip to Key West.

The location worked really well for seeing the usual Key West sights, and we could walk to Southermost beach, where chairs and towels were included. We rented bikes and used the rack in the parking lot. The property was peaceful, the pool was relaxing and well maintained, and the front desk staff were friendly and helpful. Free wine, slushies, and treats in the room were a nice extra. We enjoyed our family stay at Santa Maria Suites Resort, though we had to call each day to get the suite serviced. They came by happily, but it surprised us that we had to request it. Poolside balcony smoking was another issue. Neighbors smoked while we were outside with our children, even when they could see us. It spoiled the calm outside, and smoking on the outer balcony would be better. The bathrooms are quite small, and the eating area in the kitchen of the bi-level suite felt cramped. Even so, we had a good stay and would consider returning to Santa Maria.

For a group who wants to spend evenings together, I'd suggest a ground-floor unit rather than a bi-level. The rooms in the bi-levels were a bit separated, though they were still beautiful. The location also felt nicely balanced, close enough to the action but far enough away to enjoy other parts of Key West besides Duval Street. We rented two upstairs Suites for our group vacation. They were modern, clean, and lovely. Mornings by the pool were easy, and we could walk to the attractions we wanted to see. The front desk team was wonderful, always checking whether we needed help with excursions or a scooter and asking about our plans. Walking across to the beach for sunrise was perfect. A note for anyone deciding whether to book: the fruit smoothies at the pool bar are more like Slurpees, but they're refreshing treats for kids. Snacks are available for free if you ask. The bottled water was especially appreciated, and we could take as many as we wanted each day. The muffins delivered to our rooms each evening were delicious for the next morning, and the tiny Dove ice cream bars in the freezer made a nice sweet treat at day's end. We also loved being able to walk across the street for a Cuban sandwich or Cuban coffee. Each morning they cleaned the pools and surrounding walkways, provided big clean towels, and kept the garden setting beautiful. I'd absolutely recommend staying here.

I know some reviews are negative, but my family's stay was simply amazing. The rooms and pool were clean, and the relaxed vacation atmosphere was just what I wanted. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and I enjoyed the food and happy hour too. What more could you want on vacation? We'll be staying here again.