What is the best area to stay in Key West?

We are planning a trip to Key West this summer and I am at a complete loss as to what is the best area of town. Our interests are being close to the beach ( of course) plus being within walking distance of Duval St.
We are looking to soak up some of the local culture – but want to make sure the area we rent in is safe and close to the best local attractions. Any ideas?

I live about a 5 minute walk from Smather’s Beach right now, and it is absolutely fine to live in that area. I would walk alone anywhere in Key West at night. Key West, though very full of tourists at this time of the year, is a safe place to live.

If you stay at any of the large chain hotels here you will be on the bus route to get downtown, and within reasonable walking distance of the beaches. Key West is only 4 miles long and 2 miles wide, so practically anywhere is within walking distance.

Many people like to stay downtown, close to Duval. If you choose to do that, it will be noisier, but it will be closer to the action. Somewhere in Old Town will be closer to most of the attractions. If I were you, I’d choose a hotel that fits your budget – Key West can be expensive – and then use public transportation, rent a bicycle here, or walk. For one day you could take a tour on the Old Town Trolley, and then you can get on and off all day from any of the 12 stops along the route – which will take you all over the island, including by each of the beaches and along Duval.

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