Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Key West

As one of the cheapest digs in town, the Caribbean House is no-frills accommodations, but that doesn't mean it isn't a welcoming place to stay. It's pet-friendly, the brightly-colored rooms are tiny but very clean (each opens to a balcony), the staff is warm and helpful, and the location can't be beat. With the Hemingway House, Mallory Square, and Duval Street just a short walk away (and free guest parking to boot), it's easy to leave the car and forget about it for a while. Wireless internet, mini-refrigerators, air conditioning, and cable television are available in all the rooms. Their pet policy is among the most lenient in town: two pets of any size can stay for free!

As one of the historic inns of Key West, the Chelsea House provides a charming, B&B stay for both humans and canines. Pet-friendly rooms are available with advance notice, but are subject to a $20 fee (a reasonable rate considering other hotels' fees). Amenities include a heated pool, free parking, continental breakfast, and WiFi. Set on Truman Street two blocks from Duval, the Chelsea House is just steps away from all the action but still quiet enough for a romantic stay. The property consists of two Victorian mansions dating from 1888 and 1906, and rooms are equipped with modern conveniences such as private baths, phones, television, and air conditioning.

As one of the few lower-priced resort options on the island, Banana Bay is a popular choice among budget travelers seeking an upscale, tropical experience. It is one of the few, adults-only lodgings in Key West. All 34 guestrooms and one-bedroom suites feature their own patio-style verandas, gorgeous canopy beds, refrigerators, and private baths. A small sand beach, water sports, a freshwater pool, and WiFi are just a few of the amenities awaiting guests. If you plan on frequenting the downtown area from this hotel, it would be wise to have your own vehicle. Two small and medium well-behaved dogs are welcome at no extra charge.

This recently revitalized, all-suite hotel is located across the street from Smather's Beach, a popular place for water sports and recreation and a complimentary shuttle whisks guests away to Duval Street. Each suite is now furnished with Sheraton signature beds for added comfort, plus a new 32" flat-screen TV, high-end bath amenities, and WiFi. Pets up to 80 pounds are welcome at no extra charge but guests must sign a waiver and are responsible for any damage. There is a pool front bar at the Sheraton Suites Key West as well as a restaurant, several outdoor garden terraces, concierge services, and private beach access.

This luxurious, yet affordable B&B offers both themed guestrooms and suites with private entrances to gardens and verandahs. Several room options are available including two-bedroom suites, cottages, and town homes with private patios and garden access. The honeymoon suites are romantically decorated and fitted with four-poster canopy beds and in-room Jacuzzis. Amenities include lush gardens, a pool, WiFi and computer access and full breakfast. Pets are welcome at the inn Be sure to check out the different combo packages including diving, dining, adventure, and arts. Pets are welcome for a $35 one-time fee and the number of pets allowed depends on room availability (not all rooms are pet-friendly) and size of the animals.

The Palms Hotel is a landmark in the historic old town district of Key West, Florida and is surrounded by Conch architecture. The main house - built in 1889 - features lace-like gingerbread trim and large wraparound verandahs with Caribbean-style wicker chairs. Guest may enjoy complimentary parking, use of the gas grill, WiFi, computer and printer, and picnic areas, but an additional charge applies for bike rentals. Complimentary tropical buffet breakfast of fresh fruit, pastries, and juices is offered every morning poolside. Two dogs and/or cats up to 35 pounds are welcome for a charge of $25 per night, and additional charges may apply.

At the Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa, all 118 rooms sport private balconies, flat screen televisions, and mini fridges, plus several hypo-allergenic rooms are available so allergy sufferers can get a good night's rest. Dine at the award-winning SHOR American Seafood Grill with jaw-dropping views of the Gulf of Mexico, or relieve some tension at the Jala spa, which contributes part of the proceeds to Reef Relief, a local organization that works to protect marine ecosystems. Be sure to visit the resorts specials page online, as many spa and activity packages are bundled together with multiple night stay at reduced rates. Up to three small dogs are permitted to stay for a one-time fee of $250.

If Fido enjoys the lap of luxury, he will feel right at home at the four-diamond Westin Key West Resort & Marina. The resort welcomes dogs up to 40 pounds, so inform the staff in advance and they will provide a dog bed, food bowl and mat, and a "dog in room" sign. No pet deposit is required, but a cleaning fee may be added and guests will be asked to sign a waiver. Pets aren't permitted in dining or pool areas and must be on a leash outside the room. Each guestroom offers high speed internet, a mini bar, room service, satellite television with other amenities such as a massage studio, fitness center, and outdoor pool.

This casual, yet upscale property boasts one of the larger stretches of sand in Key West, and a picturesque pier extending over the Atlantic. In-room amenities at The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort include wireless Internet access, satellite television, air conditioning, room service, and some whirlpool suites. Private dining is offered at the resort's steak and seafood house, but there is also a pool bar and room service. While The Reach has the advantage of being on the quiet side of the island, it is a rather long walk to Mallory Square and the historic seaport. Two pets are permitted (if less than 25 pounds) for a $75 per night fee, but must remain in the front of the hotel. There is a dog beach just five minutes away if pets need to stretch their legs.

Although a short ways from the action, the Green Lodging-certified Double Tree Grand (a Hilton Resort) caters to guests by providing free transportation to and from the beach, Duval Street and the airport. There are 216 rooms at this resort with free WiFi access, many are poolside with balconies and Jacuzzis. The resort's centerpiece is a 2,500-gallon, 10-foot tall saltwater aquarium teeming with local marine life. Other highlights include poolside cabanas with massage therapy, shaded reading areas, and – for animal lovers – they are pet friendly. A $75 deposit is required, but large pets (up to 75 pounds) are allowed.