At this hotel, you'll literally have all of Key West right at your doorstep, but you also may not want to leave the property thanks to the lush grounds and little slice of white sand beach on-site. There are turtle/koi ponds interspersed with tropical vegetation and brick pathways leading guests to the different areas of the hotel. Common spaces are open and airy with skylights offering lots of natural light, giving the property a bright feel. The lobby isn't large or conducive to hanging out, but it does have island touches like illuminated sea urchins and rattan furniture to help welcome guests in a Key West way. The general feel of the hotel is professional -- the staff aims to meet your needs -- but relaxed...as it should be when on an island.

Located at one of the extreme ends of Duval Street, the Pier House gives guests the convenience of being in the historic downtown area while still offering some separation from the action. Offering a quick stroll to prime sunset viewing on the adjacent Sunset Pier and also minutes from the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, this hotel puts visitors in the perfect place for taking in classic Key West experiences. Key West Aquarium and Ernest Hemingway's hangout Sloppy Joe's are also within two blocks. There’s a CVS across the street from the hotel along with other shops, restaurants, and bars surrounding the property. The airport is less than a 15-minute drive east. 

The property’s 142 guest units vary in size depending on what guests book, ranging anywhere from a Standard Room to a Two-Floor Suite. However, one thing they all have in common is that they're minimally decorated with a penchant for citrusy colors. Four-poster beds in rich wood are the norm; accompanying bedding is comfy and plush. Bathrooms are large and, even though they have no bathtubs, rain-style showers are appealing with spa-grade toiletries as a bonus. Standard Room features include flat-screen TVs, docking stations, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also individual climate control in the form of air-conditioning and ceiling fans. Some of the suites have two floors and balconies overlooking the water. Interior noise can be a problem at times, but the hotel is generally peaceful.

The spa has been upgraded and is one of the only full-service options on the island. In addition to a steam room and hot tub, there are a variety of treatments available ranging from massages to pedicures to makeup/salon services. Attached to the spa is a fitness center with cardio equipment, free- weights, and yoga mats. The outdoor pool is not large but it's a welcome spot for cooling off, and there’s a lift in both the pool and hot tub for guests with disabilities.

2,600 square feet of event space are available for conferences, meetings, or receptions, and as such weddings are a frequent occurrence here. While there’s no free breakfast, guests can enjoy meals overlooking the water at the hotel's Harbour View Cafe, which offers casual dining on an outdoor deck for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Beach Bar also dishes up island-style cuisine and cocktails by the pool or sand. Elegant dining is available in the hotel's One Duval restaurant, offering local organic fare for dinner and a delicious Key lime Pie. The Chart Room -- the oldest bar in Key West and where Jimmy Buffet played back in the day -- is filled with marine charts and nautical charm. The drinks can be a bit pricey but the ambiance is Key West cool.