Love, Relaxation, and Tropical Inspiration in Key West
Key West holds a special place in my heart. Every year, my husband and I find ourselves returning to this idyllic slice of paradise—not just for the turquoise waters and swaying palms but for the memories we’ve built and the inspiration it provides. From getting engaged at the enchanting Little Palm Island to unwinding at the retro Blue Marlin Motel, Key West has become part of our story. It’s a place where the days slow down, the sunsets steal the show, and every moment feels like a reset for the soul.
Duval Street: The Soul of Key West
No trip to Key West would be complete without wandering down Duval Street, the island’s lively, mile-long stretch packed with shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. It’s the perfect place to soak up Key West’s eclectic charm.
Whether we’re stopping for a slice of Key Lime pie, picking up a quirky souvenir, or grabbing a drink at one of the street’s iconic watering holes, there’s something about the energy of Duval Street that feels unmistakably Key West. By day, it’s bustling with sun-drenched visitors exploring the shops. By night, it transforms into a vibrant scene of live music, laughter, and good vibes.
Design Takeaway: Add a touch of vibrant eclecticism to your space. Think colorful accents like patterned throw pillows, tropical artwork, or bold textiles that add energy and personality. Mix vintage or quirky finds with contemporary furniture for a playful, laid-back feel.
Seaside Café by the Mansion: Dining with a View at Key West’s Edge
When it comes to savoring the essence of Key West, the Seaside Café by the Mansion is a must-visit. Tucked away at the south end of Duval Street, this charming beachfront spot offers more than just a meal, it’s an experience. Known for its iconic lobster pizza and breathtaking ocean views, it’s where we often find ourselves lingering over fresh, flavorful dishes and tropical cocktails.
With ocean breezes, palm-fringed views, and the casual elegance of dining by the sea, the Seaside Café embodies the island’s breezy charm. Whether you’re here for a sunset dinner or a mid-afternoon bite, it’s a sensory escape that feels quintessentially Key West.
Design Takeaway: Bring the tranquility of seaside dining into your home with natural textures and breezy, beach-inspired elements. Think woven rattan accents, crisp white linens, and touches of aquamarine blue. A dining space with sea-inspired decor, soft ambient lighting, and fresh greenery can transport you straight to a sunlit coastal escape.
Sunset Sails on America 2.0: A Must-Do Experience
If there’s one thing Key West is famous for, it’s the sunsets. And while you can enjoy them from Mallory Square or the beach, nothing beats the experience of watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a classic schooner.
The America 2.0 Sunset Sail is our favorite way to end the day in Key West. This elegant sailboat offers a quiet, intimate experience that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the island. With champagne in hand, we watch the sky turn shades of gold, pink, and orange while the crew effortlessly guides the schooner through the calm waters.
Design Takeaway: Capture the soft hues of a Key West sunset in your decor. Incorporate warm tones like soft oranges, dusky pinks, and golden yellows through throw blankets, artwork, or accent pieces. Pair these colors with natural textures like weathered wood or linen for a breezy, coastal vibe.
Why We Keep Coming Back
Every trip to Key West feels like returning to a second home. Whether we’re indulging in the luxurious romance of Little Palm Island, sipping cocktails at The Seaside Cafe, or sailing into the sunset aboard America 2.0, the island never fails to remind us why we keep coming back. It’s not just the beauty of the destination—it’s the way it makes us feel: carefree, connected, and inspired.
Key West is where we’ve built some of our most cherished memories, from life-changing milestones like our engagement to the simple joy of wandering sandy streets with no agenda. It’s a place that continues to evolve with us, offering new experiences every time while still feeling like the same old haven we fell in love with.
Key West’s Best Stays - Island Elegance
Key West’s hotels do more than provide a place to sleep — they set the tone for your entire trip. From the secluded luxury of Little Palm Island to the timeless grandeur of Casa Marina, each stay offers a unique experience infused with island magic.
Little Palm Island is the ultimate romantic retreat. Thatched-roof bungalows with natural wood finishes and soft linen details create a private sanctuary where ocean breezes and rustling palm fronds are your soundtrack. Private beaches, a tranquil pool, and intimate dining under the stars make every moment feel personal. Free-roaming Key Deer add a storybook charm, underscoring the island’s connection to nature. No phones, no TVs—just you, your loved one, and the beauty of paradise. Though a short drive from Key West, it feels like a world away.
Casa Marina offers a different but equally unforgettable escape. A historic icon since 1920, this Waldorf Astoria resort blends Old Florida charm with modern sophistication. Perched on the largest private beach in Key West, Casa Marina exudes elegance with its sweeping ocean views, grand architecture, and lush tropical grounds. Lounge by the serene pools, enjoy gourmet dining by the sea, or indulge in a spa treatment that takes relaxation to the next level. The resort’s rich history and luxurious amenities make it a perfect blend of nostalgia and refinement.
Together, these two properties showcase the best of Key West: the peaceful, nature-driven elegance of Little Palm Island and the storied luxury of Casa Marina. Whether you’re seeking secluded romance or historic grandeur, Key West has a stay that’s just right for you.
Design Takeaway:
From Little Palm Island, embrace the beauty of natural luxury with organic materials like rattan, bamboo, and wood, paired with soft linens and a neutral palette. Add a touch of tropical greenery to bring the outdoors in.
From Casa Marina, channel timeless elegance with classic architectural details, rich textures, and a neutral color scheme. Consider adding touches of oceanic blue and coral to reflect the seaside location, and incorporate vintage-inspired elements as a nod to the resort’s storied past.
These two properties don’t just serve as accommodations—they’re a reflection of what makes Key West so special: a seamless blend of relaxation, sophistication, and natural beauty.
The Design Inspiration of Key West
Key West is more than a vacation destination—it’s a source of endless inspiration. The combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and laid-back luxury creates a unique design ethos that I love bringing into my own home. Here are my favorite takeaways:
Natural Textures: The thatched roofs and tropical surroundings of Little Palm Island inspire the use of natural materials like rattan, bamboo, and linen. Adding woven baskets, airy drapes, or tropical accents can instantly evoke that island vibe.
Coastal Colors: The turquoise waters, white sands, and lush greenery of Key West create a palette of soft blues, sandy neutrals, and vibrant greens. Incorporate these colors into your space through throw pillows, rugs, or art pieces.
Subtle Luxury: The understated elegance of both Little Palm Island and the Orchid Key Inn shows that luxury doesn’t have to be loud. Add small touches like linen bedding, a marble tray, or soft, warm lighting to bring a sense of refinement into your home.
Outdoor Living: Key West is all about living outside. Create an outdoor oasis with comfortable seating, string lights, and lush plants to channel the tropical charm of a Key West retreat.
Eclectic Accents: The character of Key West lies in its mix of old and new. Incorporate quirky, eclectic decor—like vintage signs, colorful prints, or tropical artwork—to give your space a playful and relaxed feel.
Bring Key West Home Through My Curated Finds on Amazon
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“Key West is a sun-soaked haven of charm, relaxation, and inspiration—a place where time slows down and memories linger. Until you can escape to its shores, may its spirit inspire you to savor life’s simple joys.”
