With its Spanish-style façade, red clay roof tiles, and original Florida Pine wood ceilings, Casa Marina is an integral part of Key West’s rich history. It also happens to sit on the largest private beach on the island.
A Curio Collection by Hilton property, Casa Marina's legacy dates back to its grand opening on New Year's Eve in 1920. Originally conceived by the railroad magnate Henry Flagler, the resort quickly became a retreat for the elite, hosting U.S. presidents, Hollywood stars like Rita Hayworth and Gregory Peck, and literary giants such as Ernest Hemingway. Following a $79 million renovation, this waterfront resort has been meticulously restored, blending its storied past with modern sophistication and capturing the essence of Key West.
“Key West is more than just the end of the Continental U.S.; it’s a gateway to an entire way of living and vacationing, and this momentous occasion signifies the hotel’s evolving legacy as we step into our next generation,” says John Trovato, Managing Director, Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton. “Casa Marina is the heartbeat of the island, and our vision has always been to showcase the best of The Conch Republic.”
The recent renovation, orchestrated by Wimberly Interiors, has breathed new life into Casa Marina while preserving its historical charm. The design is a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary, with traditional elements reimagined to reflect the luxurious and tropical character of Old Key West. The lobby, ballrooms, and guest rooms have been thoughtfully redesigned, incorporating modern furnishings, vibrant island-inspired patterns, and lush greenery. Each of the 311 guest rooms, including 63 spacious suites, has been meticulously renovated to enhance the guest experience and showcase artwork from local artists. The result is a serene and elegant environment that feels both fresh and timeless.
The culinary offerings at Casa Marina have been thoughtfully curated to showcase the flavors of the Florida Keys. Executive Chef Efrain Cruz has designed menus that celebrate fresh, local ingredients, drawing inspiration from the island's natural bounty.
The Canary Room, an intimate lobby lounge adorned with hand-painted murals, offers a unique experience with rum flights themed after Ernest Hemingway’s famous sea trilogy and cigars from the oldest cigar company in Key West.
Meanwhile, Morrison’s Market provides a more casual option with a bespoke barista program, grab-and-go fare, and a library of novels curated by Books & Books Key West, including store founder and renowned American author, Judy Blume, and featuring classic novels inspired by the island and works penned by literary legends who once called Key West home from Hemingway to Tennessee Williams and Elizabeth Bishop.
Dorada, the resort’s signature oceanside restaurant, serves an eclectic island-style menu with a Baha-Mediterranean flair. Guests can enjoy dayboat seafood and bold, flavorful dishes while taking in 180-degree ocean views. As day turns to night, Dorada transforms into a lively beachside venue with firepits and live music, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening.
With its prime location on a 1,100-foot private beach, Casa Marina offers a wealth of activities for guests seeking both adventure and relaxation. The resort’s on-site activities vendor, Barefoot Billy’s, provides everything from jet skiing and snorkeling to deep-sea fishing and dolphin-watching tours.
For those looking to simply unwind, the resort features two oceanfront pools, including an adults-only pool with private cabanas, perfect for soaking up the sun in style. Additionally, Casa Marina’s resident artist and sand sculptor, Marianne van den Broek, offers workshops that allow guests to create their own masterpieces in the island’s pristine sands.
Casa Marina is a place where the past and present coexist, and with its recent renovation, this legendary destination continues to captivate visitors to Key West.
Photography by: Casa Marina, Curio Collection by Hilton
