• The Florida Keys offer pristine waters with a tropical feel.Key West image by Schlegel Ren?? from Fotolia.com
  
  The Florida Keys are a popular tourist destination because they offer a small-town ambiance, beautiful architecture in Key West and pristine beaches. Key West, the southernmost island, is the most popular as well as the most distant. Many visitors opt to stay in the Lower Keys, which offer a similar albeit less bustling experience. The Keys offer both exclusive, large hotels as well as many hotels situated outdoors for a more intimate experience.
  
  

The Moorings Village

• For an exclusive, intimate vacation in the Florida Keys, The Moorings Village tops the majority of lists. With its 18 cottages and homes in what was once a coconut plantation, this resort offers untouched beaches as well as excellent food located nearby or on site. The Moorings strives to offer its guests an experience from the past, "before the invasion of concrete and high-rises."
  
  The beaches and property are both private, and there are no crowds or waits of any kind. All cabins and homes have fully equipped kitchens, a sitting area, a bathroom and a living room. The Moorings' rates vary by season and are typically moderate to expensive.
  
  The Moorings Village
  123 Beach Road
  Islamorada, FL 33036
  themooringsvillage.com
  
  

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

• Another great option for outdoor hotels is Islamorada's famous Cheeca Lodge & Spa. The resort was rated one of the 500 Greatest Hotels in the World by "Travel & Leisure Magazine." Situated beachside alongside a lavish golf course, guests are offered tropical waterfalls and pools.
  
  Rooms range from moderate to expensive and guests can choose from oceanfront suites or less-expensive rooms located further from the private beach and oceanfront restaurant and bar.
  
  Cheeca Lodge offers a full-menu restaurant and brunch on weekends. A full spa is offered at an additional fee and offers much the same amenities as other resorts.
  
  The Cheeca Lodge & Spa
  81801 Overseas Highway
  Mile Marker 82, Islamorada, FL 33036
  800-327-2888
  cheeca.com
  
  

Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway

• Located in Marathon, Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway offers a beachfront location from which every room has views. The hotel offers suites, efficiencies as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments for daily or weekly rental. All rooms have fully equipped kitchens as well as much of the amenities of any hotel.
  
  While staying at the resort, guests are offered complimentary use of its 19- and 21-foot guest boats. Rooms are decorated Key West style with Cuban tile and pickled Dade County pine paneling. Rates are seasonal and are moderate to expensive.
  
  Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway
  1410 Overseas Highway
  Marathon, FL 33050
  800-707-1692
  captainpips.com