Updated September 2020
Key West isn’t your average city and the residents are proud of it. The city’s motto is “Close to Perfect, Far from Normal.” So, it’s fitting for my first stay on this small island in big demand was in less-than-normal accommodations. With a name like NYAH – Not Your Average Hotel – you know you’re in for a new experience at this Key West hotel. The bonus? It may be the most affordable Key West hotel.
To see more affordable options, see the section below on Airbnbs in Key West.
You won’t find fancy room service, Jacuzzi tubs or giant closets with plush robes. But you’ll find plenty to love in this charming hotel. Here are five reasons I recommend NYAH for a stay on this quirky island destination in Florida.
1. You can customize your room to sleep from 1-6 people.
The reason NYAH is the most affordable place to stay on Key West is that you pay one price for your room, whether you have one person or six. NYAH created the BYOR system – build your own room. You can choose to have a king-sized bed, a sofa, six twins or other combination of rooms.
Each bed is super comfy with a memory foam mattress and a small nook beside it with a plug to charge up your devices. I could keep my things tucked away in my personal locker that I opened with my hotel key. And wifi is free and easy – an amenity I always appreciate. I’ve spent too much time with tech people serving hotels where I’m paying more than $25 a day for it. And it doesn’t work.
2. NYAH has several front porches and decks with great views.
Because it’s made up of what was once four properties, there are several buildings that make up NYAH. And like many other properties here, they have porches to enjoy outdoor time. My room included a front porch that I shared with one other room, and I never saw the other resident. I enjoyed chilling out on my porch, tucked a few feet back from the street behind a white picket fence and lush green bushes.
Take a few flights of stairs up in the outdoor common area and you’ll find a few lounge chairs and decks for taking in expansive views of Key West. There are no high-rises so your view of the tree-lined streets and setting sun are unobstructed.
3. NYAH has four pools, plenty of lounge chairs. And cute striped towels.
One reason visitors love Key West is the warm temperatures year-round. You won’t find blazing heat here in the summer or the chilly winter nights of some parts of Florida. Even in December and January, the average day-time temperatures are in the 70s, so guests can hop in the pool any time of year for a refreshing swim. Although the hotel had plenty of guests during my stay here, I always saw available lounge chairs, with those cute rolled-up striped towels that I love.
4. The location is perfect for walking to local attractions.
As soon as I settled in my room I set off to explore Duval Street, the main drag in Old Town, then stopped to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, all within an easy walk. Key West is flat so there aren’t even any hills to navigate and I could easily explore. We were also able to walk down to Mallory Square in less than 20 minutes. NYAH also has bicycles available to rent if you prefer to sightsee on two wheels.
5. This Key West hotel has free breakfast and fun happy hour.
With those temperate climates, dining al fresco is a delight, and the free breakfast is set up poolside under a covered porch every morning. I opted to use a tray to take mine the short walk back to my front porch where I could use the small table and enjoy a leisurely meal. NYAH hosts a happy hour every day from 4:20 to 5:20 (See? Not your normal happy hours, right?) with complimentary cheese and crackers.
It you’re looking for high-end luxury, look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for an affordable, well-located property with its own share of that quirky Key West spirit, give NYAH a chance. Because sometimes far from normal is just what you need.
For more on Key West, please visit The Florida Keys and Key West.
More Affordable Options: Airbnbs in Key West
A hotel isn’t your only option. Here are several Airbnbs for under $200. Please note rental rates may change.
Truman Annex Condo
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Rate: $175
Airbnb link
This adorable condo would be my choice for my next stay in Key West. I love the covered deck and access to a pool. Plus it’s a short walk to Mallory Square, the Truman White House, Duval Street and Hemingways home.
Guest review: “Wendy’s place is the perfect getaway! Loved the location! The outdoor deck was perfect to relax on and having a pool is a huge plus! Would absolutely recommend staying here!”
One Bedroom Cottage
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Rate: $175
Airbnb link
This cute cottage has everything you need, including a large kitchen.
Guest review: “Inkara and Geo’s Place is a quaint, quiet, and comfortable cottage located in the middle of Key West. We were able to walk to Mallory Square and to the Southernmost Point. Parking is tight so plan ahead.”
Green House and Garden
Bedrooms: 1 plus sofa bed
Bathrooms: 1
Rate: $153
Airbnb link
This cute home has a screened-in porch and outdoor eating area.
Guest review: “Staying in the Green House was an unexpected highlight of our trip to Key West. The location couldn’t be better, just one block away from scenic Duval St. and within walking distance of numerous outdoor attractions. It was nice to roll out of bed, whip up a quick breakfast and then walk right to the docks for a morning snorkeling adventure. During the heat of the day the cool apartment or the shady patio were perfect for a rest before heading out for an evening of locally crafted beer or Cuban cuisine.”
Bella Vita Condo
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Rate: $199
Airbnb link
This cute condo is in Old Town, just a block from Duval Street. It has a king-size bed and wraparound porch.
Guest review: “The apartment was very clean and exactly as advertised. It’s in a great location and has all the amenities one could need for a comfortable stay. The butterfly museum nearby is a must-see!”
Apartment on Duval Street
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Rate: $138
Airbnb link
This studio apartment is right in the heart of Key West on Duval Street. Guests can walk to stores and restaurants on the main drag of Key West.
Guest review: “What a great place to stay. 1/2 way between the Atlantic and the Gulf! Conveniently located to wonderful bars , clubs and restaurants.”
Visit here for a few more Airbnb options in Key West.
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