This or That: Opal Key Resort & Marina and The Capitana Key West
Just because they share the same zip code, don’t think that that means they are carbon copies of each other. Read on to see what makes each of these gems uniquely Opal.
One is a boutique hotel paying homage to the famous shipwrecks of the Florida Keys, the other is a Mallory Square mainstay offering a marina in the heart of Old Town Key West. Here’s our guide to Opal’s two newest Key West, Florida properties: The Capitana Key West and Opal Key Resort & Marina.
Overall Property Vibe & Accommodations
Opal Key Resort & Marina
A block from famed Duval Street and next to Mallory Square, 245 Front Street is the current waterfront residence of Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina, but come January 4, 2021, will be reimagined as Opal Key Resort & Marina. With easy entry to Old Town Key West, as well as direct access to the on-site marina, watersports, and boating, the resort is a centrally located hub of activity that’s still able to remain a secret tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Key West. As for the 178 guest rooms and suites, they come filled with natural light, rich woods, a neutral color palette, and private balconies to allow that classic Key West sea breeze in.
The Capitana Key West
Opened in February of 2021, Key West’s newest boutique hotel is inspired by the famous shipwrecks that dot the shores off the Florida Keys. Not only do you see that in its name (it’s named after the famous shipwreck from Spain’s 1733 Armada known as “La Capitana” or “Capitana El Rubi Segundo”), but in the way the hotel suddenly appears like a tropical oasis and serves as the perfect anchor for exploring the colorful and storied town of Key West. A range of accommodations are available for your choosing – including two-bedroom private cottages and beautifully appointed rooms and suites in the main hotel – and come complete with furnished balconies that feature fabulous water views of Key West’s bay and breezy and casual, chic island-inspired design.
Signature On-Site Amenities
Opal Key Resort & Marina
The on-site pool is perhaps one of the most signature amenities. Not just for a refreshing dip, but for the way this paradise, located in the center of the resort, is shrouded by lush native plants and trees, creating an uncanny sense of privacy that is hard to come by in this part of Key West. Complimentary poolside treats come in the form of a frozen drink sampler and fruit popsicles served from 1 to 3 p.m. daily. Oh, and we’d be remiss if we forgot to mention the resort’s 37-slip marina, accommodating motor yachts from 25 to 200 feet with the option of daily or overnight dockage.
The Capitana Key West
Bike rentals for cruising Key West on two wheels, a state-of-the-art fitness center for working up a sweat on your own schedule, and a jewel of a pool with ample seating for slinking away to a shaded spot amid comfy furniture, a big-screen TV, and a fridge serve as some of the boutique hotel’s favorite amenities. But perhaps the most beloved is the beach. Yes, you read that right: a beach in Key West, where there are not many to come by. The resort’s private sandy bay-side oasis comes outfitted with sunny loungers and shaded hammocks and drink service from McKee’s Tiki Bar.
Dining Scene
Opal Key Resort & Marina
One of Key West’s most colorful outdoor dining destinations, the resort’s signature restaurant, Bistro 245, boasts a graphic blue and green dining area that looks out over the water and marina just a few feet away. Evenings here always include a spectacular sunset over the water, though what’s for dinner is up to you. The menu boasts light dishes like the island gazpacho (a local favorite) and heartier meals like the truffle-crusted grouper. Don’t forget to ask your server about wine pairings, as their wine list is a full-two pages long.
The Capitana Key West
In addition to a daily breakfast spread and grab-and-go essentials at the Sundry Market, the resort is also home to the poolside McKee’s Tiki Bar, serving up a menu of island favorites including sandwiches, salads, and several options for basket platters. If looking to venture for eats beyond the walls of the resort, look no further than our other Key West resort restaurant’s worth their salt: Latitudes at Sunset Key Cottages and Bistro 245 at Opal Key Resort & Marina.
Nearby Attractions & To-Do’s
Opal Key Resort & Marina
The central location right next door to Mallory Square means you are literally a stone’s throw from the Key West Aquarium, Custom House Museum, Truman Little White House, the shops of Old Town, and, of course, the daily evening sunset celebration, offering – yes, a prime viewpoint of that amazing sunset – but also jugglers, island musicians, artists, and food vendors.
The Capitana Key West
Located on Trumbo Point on the eastern side of the island, the resort’s central location means Key West’s best activities, attractions, and adventures are just steps in every direction from your door. So the hardest part won’t be finding something to do, but what to do first, from barhopping like the best of them down Duval Street to the reverential visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
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Where to Stay Opal Key Resort & Marina | The Capitana Key West
