BLUE MARLIN MOTEL, Key West

This motel sits at the quieter southern end of Key West, one block off Duval Street, offering easy access to the action while being less affected by its late-night crowds. The Southernmost Point marker is a 4-minute walk, and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is next door. Southernmost Beach is a 5-minute walk, and Higgs Beach is about 10 minutes on foot. A trolley stop is around the corner, and the Duval Street loop is fully walkable. The live music bar across the street plays outdoor sets until around midnight, so rooms fronting the road can be lively until late.

Rooms at the Blue Marlin are spacious and have been renovated in a clean, modern style. Each room offers a private bathroom (some with a walk-in shower, others with a tub), air conditioning, cable TV, a work desk, a microwave, mini-fridge, and a coffee-and-tea maker. Upper-floor rooms are accessed by narrow, steep stairs with no elevator. Road-facing rooms experience noise from a bar with live outdoor music until late, while upper-level rooms may hear footsteps from above. Humidity and a musty smell are sometimes noted in lower-floor or poolside rooms; keeping the air conditioning on continuously can help. The carpeted floors in some rooms have shown soiling. The layout around the pool provides a comfortable, private feel.

A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily at the poolside terrace, featuring bread for toasting, bagels, pre-packaged muffins, Danish pastries, yogurt, mini fruit bowls, and a choice of coffee, tea, and juice. The breakfast is self-service and included in the room rate, though it is light and packaged rather than hot. The poolside setting makes for a pleasant start to the day, especially when the weather is fine. A food truck and a Cuban deli are within a few steps, and dozens of restaurants and bars on Duval Street are a short walk away for lunch or dinner. The 24-hour reception also offers free coffee and tea throughout the day.

The motel's heated outdoor swimming pool is a large, well-maintained facility surrounded by lush greenery, a privacy fence, and plenty of lounge chairs and tables. It is open until midnight, making it convenient for a late dip. The pool area is also where breakfast is served and is a quiet, relaxing spot for sunbathing or reading. A bicycle rental service is available for an additional charge, perfect for exploring the island. The beach is within a 10-minute walk.

Free WiFi is available in public areas and in rooms (with some noting variable speed). The 24-hour front desk offers concierge service, tour desk, and safety deposit boxes. Luggage storage is free of charge, allowing you to explore before check-in or after check-out. The on-site private parking costs US$15 per night, first-come, first-served, with accessible spaces. Laundry facilities are available for an additional fee, but the machines are located near some ground-floor rooms and can be noisy when in use. Accessible rooms are available with features such as grab rails and lowered sinks. The property has a lift, a designated smoking area, and vending machines for drinks and snacks.