La Concha Key West: Old World Charm, New Island Vibes

Walking into La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection, I could immediately feel the soul of this place—a historic landmark that’s been given a stunning refresh, blending vintage elegance with a modern, airy feel. The pink-hued façade, a signature of Key West’s colorful landscape, leads into a grand lobby with deep Kelly green accents, soft pinks, crisp whites, and subtle gold touches—a design that feels both timeless and effortlessly stylish. 

Once a retreat for literary icons like Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, La Concha has long been woven into the fabric of Key West’s history. In fact, the hotel pays tribute to its famous past guests in a fun way—at check-in, I noticed a sign for a Hemingway-themed scavenger hunt. Guests who could find a hidden cat statue somewhere within the hotel would win two tickets to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. It was a clever nod to the island’s literary legacy and set the tone for a stay that felt both historic and full of personality.

Now, after an impressive renovation, La Concha seamlessly blends its storied past with a fresh, experience-driven approach, making it a place where classic charm and modern luxury go hand in hand.

The newly refreshed guest rooms and suites are a masterclass in modern island luxury. Soft wood grain flooring, textured walls, and breezy, natural tones create a calming retreat, while contemporary amenities are subtly woven into the space. One of my favorite touches? Each room is stocked with a journal and pen, a nod to the literary greats who once roamed these halls—because let’s be honest, Key West has a way of inspiring you to write something down.

I had the pleasure of touring the Grand Dame Villas on the rooftop, and let me tell you, these suites take "room with a view" to a whole new level. The Sunrise Villa lives up to its name, offering golden morning light streaming over the island—best enjoyed with a cup of Cuban coffee and pastries on the balcony. On the other side, the Sunset Villa is a front-row seat to Key West’s famous evening show, with a balcony that wraps around the building and private sunset toasts available to guests.

Beyond the view-focused suites, each of the seven villas offers something unique:

• The Havana Villa draws from Key West’s Cuban influence, offering views of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and a décor that pays tribute to old Havana.

• The Hibiscus Villa bursts with color, designed to embody the vibrant tropical flowers of Key West—and even includes a custom Hibiscus cocktail for guests.

• The Tortuga Villa is a love letter to the sea turtles of Dry Tortugas National Park, featuring rich blue hues and even tours to Dry Tortugas included in your stay.

• The Flagler Villa pays homage to Henry Flagler and the famous railroad that connected Key West to the mainland, with intricate railway models and a prime view of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

• And then there’s the Hemingway Suite, which might be the most fitting of them all. This spacious suite comes with a sunroom, a copy of "To Have and Have Not," and a fully stocked Hemingway-inspired bar.

If you’re looking for a truly immersive Key West stay, these villas are it. Personalized concierge services, in-suite rum tastings, and curated cultural experiences make these suites more than just a place to sleep—they’re an experience in themselves.

Cuban flavors are at the heart of La Concha Key West’s culinary and cocktail program, with each dining experience offering a unique take on the island’s rich food culture.

El Dom Café

We started at El Dom Café, a cozy spot that feels like an old Havana coffeehouse with its domino-inspired décor and warm, inviting atmosphere. The Media Noche and Croqueta Preparada sandwiches were as satisfying as they were nostalgic, paired perfectly with café con leche and cortaditos. It’s the kind of place where you grab a quick bite but end up lingering to enjoy a few rounds of Dominoes.

Tropicado

For cocktails, Tropicado was the undisputed favorite—a lively mojito bar that embodies the island’s laid-back energy. The drinks here are crafted by Certified Mojito Masters, and while there’s no shortage of incredible options, the Blackberry Mojito was in a league of its own. Made with Papa’s Pilar Rum, muddled blackberries, fresh mint, and just the right touch of sweetness, it was hands down the best mojito I had in Key West. But what made it even better was Gary, our mojito master, who was kind, friendly, and truly a master of his craft. He not only served up the most refreshing cocktails but also shared some fantastic local recommendations that made our stay even better.

Perla

And then came the highlight of the dining experience—dinner at Perla. We had the privilege of getting a first taste of their brand-new dinner menu, and every dish was a bold yet refined reinvention of Cuban cuisine, layered with the flavors of Key West’s local seafood and ingredients. Executive Chef Juan Cuadra and Sous Chef David Bagner have created something truly special here, taking inspiration from the island’s heritage while pushing the boundaries with innovative techniques. From tamarind-glazed pork belly and aged Serrano carpaccio to Perla’s catch of the day and Churrasco La Concha, each plate was an experience in itself, carefully crafted to tell a story of tradition and creativity. And of course, we ended on a sweet note with tres leches that was pure perfection.

This wasn’t just a great meal—it was an absolute must for anyone visiting Key West. Whether you’re staying at La Concha or just looking for a dining experience that celebrates the essence of the island, La Perla is where you need to be. And yes, we were right back the next morning for breakfast, which was just as incredible.

The pool deck at La Concha Key West is a paradise in pink, with black-and-white patterned tile, cozy chaise lounges, and cabanas that make lounging an all-day affair. The pool bar keeps things fun with tropical cocktails, and at 4:00 p.m. sharp, a conch shell signals happy hour, adding a playful Key West touch. There are hammocks for ultimate relaxation, and because the pool sits a few floors up, you even get a unique aerial view of Duval Street while you sunbathe.

For an unforgettable adventure, the hotel arranged a Dolphin Sunset Catamaran experience with Sebago Watersports. We snacked on hors d'oeuvres, sipped unlimited drinks, and enjoyed the ocean breeze as the sun dipped below the horizon. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better? Dolphins swam alongside us, surfacing just enough to give us a glimpse of their playful nature. If you’re planning a stay here, book this experience—it’s the perfect way to end a Key West trip.

Beyond the resort, there’s an entire world to explore—historic landmarks, water excursions, art galleries, and a great live music scene. Whether you're sailing at sunset, discovering the island’s rich literary history, or simply bar-hopping through iconic spots, Key West is a place that makes every moment feel like an experience worth savoring.

La Concha Key West has been a landmark since 1926, a place where presidents, literary legends, and Hollywood icons have gathered for nearly a century. Once the tallest building in Key West, it has long been the heart of Duval Street’s energy, standing as a witness to the island’s evolving history. The recent renovation has breathed new life into its storied walls, blending its rich past with modern luxury, fresh design, and Cuban-inspired flair. While the upgrades bring a new level of comfort and sophistication, the hotel remains deeply connected to Key West’s cultural and artistic roots, from its literary connections to its emphasis on local flavors and ingredients in its dining experiences.

Beyond the beautifully designed spaces and thoughtful guest experiences, the concierge team curates one-of-a-kind itineraries, offering access to private charters, historical tours, and immersive local experiences that make a trip to Key West even more special. Whether you're here to relax by the pool, sip a mojito at Tropicado, explore the charm of Old Town, or sail into a perfect sunset, La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection, delivers the perfect mix of history, style, and top-tier hospitality—with a fresh, modern take on island living.