Many have fond memories of a particular address. It speaks to them somehow. Maybe it’s their childhood home address or the address of a best friend. Maybe it’s the address of a favorite job or of a favorite place to visit.
My favorite address is home. But my second favorite address is 0 Duval St., in Key West.
Often, I’ve wondered how a person knows that “this” is the place they want visit again and again. Have they been to all the places that have the potential to steal their dreams? Have they spent enough time in these places to know it is where they want to spend the most time away from home?
What is it that makes a person want to spend as much of their time at one place in particular, rather than traveling the world?
It’s the experience. The people, the surroundings, the level of relaxation achieved. It’s the proximity to fun things to do but the permission to do none of them, at all.
At Ocean Key Resort & Spa, you will find all those things and more.
It’s evident upon arrival. The bar in the lobby—Madda Fella—is where a friendly bartender concocts all the rum drinks a traveler can imagine, we chose rum punch.
A visit to the Madda Fella boutique is just steps away and has designs from local artists, high-end resort clothiers and fun Conch Republic memories to tuck away in your bags and remind you of stolen moments in a land not too far away. Something for everyone and so much that we almost had to ship things home.
The stroll to the room is met with glorious orchid, lattice-covered walls, thoughtful tranquility gardens, beautiful spots to steal a moment with a book or a kiss with your love. No detail is missed. No industrial necessity left uncovered in beauty. The walk is transformational from your everyday worries to your own—not so little—slice of heaven.
Reserve a room with a balcony, overlooking the iconic Mallory Square. You will see and hear performers, with some of the best people-watching around, complete with the most glorious sunsets in the world. It’s a vibe. Sunkissed travelers and relaxed locals gather daily, in celebration of another beautiful day in paradise as the sun kisses the water and the evening falls to the electric energy on Duval Street.
Mallory Square has always held a special place in my heart. My daughter was named after it. There is no warmer warmth from a sunset. It’s hard to find a better place to relax, unwind, grab a cocktail and celebrate life and the finer things in it.
We spent days by Liquid, poolside, with the staff delivering the coldest cocktails and most delectable snacks. Cabanas are available upon request, and require no payment, but only an investment of your time. This exclusive resort is loved by many. We spent evenings dining waterside on the Sunset Pier, watching sailboats glide past Mallory Square and envelope another amazing sunset.
We shopped at all the fun, funky shops on Duval and drank at the establishments that should be known by all. Irish Kevin’s for Irish Car Bombs (a type of drink) and insults from the stage, Capt. Tony’s to play the streetside fish hook game, Hog’s Breath Saloon for some great live music and a wave at the live camera that is always on. Sloppy Joe’s is a must stop for a quick beverage and Better Than Sex is a dessert experience like no other. And be sure to experience The World’s Smallest Bar, where just my husband and I and the bartender filled the place up.
All within walking distance, all met with fervor and fun, memory making moments.
A little advice. When you book your stay, book your spa services at SpaTerre and your Sunday brunch reservations at The Hot Tin Roof at the same time. Both are highly sought and difficult to get into.
Ocean Key is my favorite resort in Key West and one of my favorite places on the planet. I’ve found my “why” there and will continue to return time and again. If you’re lucky enough to stay, there then you’re lucky enough.
See you at 0 Duval. ♦
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