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Room Request! The Marker Key West Resort

A luxurious new property reinvigorates a historic old town

Old Town Key West might not be the first place that comes to mind for travelers seeking an uber-luxe destination, but The Marker Waterfront Resort is about to change that. The property’s late 2014 launch represented a somewhat momentous occasion for the historic area—it’s been 20 years since a new hotel opened in Old Town Key West.

The Marker’s 96 guest rooms have a decidedly beachy feel, courtesy of clean white linens, azure accents and minimalist décor. They’re also some of the most spacious rooms in all of Key West. A quiet, palm tree-lined pool in the center of the property lends an intimacy to the guest experience—something that’s often hard to find at larger, brand name resorts.

Just beside the pool is The Marker’s on-site restaurant, Cero Bodega. It’s a casual, open-air space that might initially lead you to believe the Cal-Mex cuisine is generic poolside fare, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Cero Bodega’s local fish ceviche is arguably the freshest in the Keys, rivaled only by the chef’s delicate Seared Crispy Red Snapper. 

To get better acquainted with the independently owned property, we spoke to Tom Whitney, The Marker’s general manager, about the room that guests adore the most. 

The lobby

The lobby

The most requested room:

The Premium Marina Rooms: 247, 248 and 249.

What makes them so special:

The Premium Marina rooms offer the most spectacular water views from sunrise to sunset…and there is truly nothing quite like a Key West sunset.  Each private balcony overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and Historic Key West Marina where boats and vessels of all sizes are docked just steps from The Marker. The 400-square-foot rooms also feature loft-like ceilings, white furnishings, touches of dark woods and luxe cream draperies juxtaposed with modern elements.  Splashes of azure and turquoise hues accent the space and call to mind the crystal clear waters of the keys and the harbor. Bathrooms are spacious enough for both a shower and soaking tub and also feature locally-sourced Key West Aloe bath products in a variety of signature scents.   

Celebrity guests:

The Marker has only been open for less than two months, but the property did recently host Floridian royalty—in the form of members of the Disney family. 

The rate:

$449 per night 

Your personal favorite:

The Captain’s Quarters 

Because… 

This room is truly one of a kind, featuring a 350-foot expansive private deck with sweeping views of the Key West waterfront.  The deck is outfitted with two chaise lounges and a patio set ideal for entertaining or kicking back with a loved one.

Fun fact:

The Marker is the first new hotel built in Old Town Key West in 20 years!  The Marker is a refreshing perspective and reinterpreted take on “Classic Key West,” located minutes from the excitement of downtown Key West without sacrificing the privacy and luxury of a true island resort. The Marker is named in honor of the mile markers that lead to the southernmost point of the United States, with Key West being mile marker zero.

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