Historic Luxury Meets Laid-Back: The Southernmost Beach Resort Revealed

If you have ever visited Key West, are a fan of Ernest Hemingway, or have read a novel by Randy Wayne Wright (say that five times fast), then you probably know that America’s Southernmost Point is the ideal location to gather your crew close to the town’s famed attractions, well-known restaurants, and of course, stunning Atlantic ocean views. 

There’s no shortage of amusement or pleasantries in Old Town Key West – whether you're in the mood to get rowdy with the locals or simply relax and reconnect. Situated on the quieter southern limit of famed Duval Street, Southernmost Beach Resort is the ideal home base for an indulgent and tranquil stay in one of Florida’s most sought after locales. Just steps away from the property, travelers can find a range of activities, from snorkeling, eco tours, and kayaking to exploring the island’s nearby boutiques and art galleries. Bonus: For the bookish, it’s a quick jaunt to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum—where you’ll find plenty of cats, mementos for sale, and disturbing truths about one of America’s greatest literary treasures.

The elevated Southernmost Beach Resort has recently completed the final stage of its more than $25 million top-to-bottom renovation. Now, it features a modern, sleek design with classic coastal charm and luxurious touches that embraces the island’s heartbeat and personality. Spread across an expansive six acres, tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Historic Old Town, the resort offers 243 contemporary guest rooms, plus the newly renovated Guesthouses: four meticulously restored 19th-century Victorian homes for adult-only accommodations with shared community spaces. 

All guests enjoy full access to Southernmost Beach Resort’s extensive amenities, which include: three pools, multiple bars, a secluded tanning pier, spa, retail spaces, and a private beach. With live entertainment and unique programming that brings the island community together, the resort is also home to the renowned Southernmost Beach Café, serving up local flavors and boat-to-table freshness with a twist. 

To learn more about this iconic Southern charmer, and to get the inside scoop on “what’s new” we sat down with ​​Sarka Takovich, Complex General Manager for Southernmost Beach Resort. Here’s what you need to know and what to expect when you book your next Key West vacation with them.

Palomino County: Who are the new owners of the resort and why did they decide to take on the project? 

Southernmost Beach Resort: The resort is currently owned by Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, a publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”) and the largest owner of urban and resort lifestyle hotels and resorts in the United States. Highgate oversees the resort’s operations and is a leading global real estate investment and hospitality management company widely recognized as an innovator in the industry. 

Our multi-million dollar transformation hopes to provide guests with an entirely fresh and modern resort experience, while creating a harmonious blend of history and contemporary luxury.

PC: What makes the Southernmost Resort a “classic American place” to visit, and how has it been an important part of Key West’s history?

SBR: Since its opening, Southernmost Beach Resort has served as a secluded oasis for guests to enjoy a tranquil stay in Key West while still being steps away from all of the action. The resort is also home to a variety of events that celebrate island-wide festivals, from Key Lime Pie Festival and Lobster Festival, to Fantasy Fest and Songwriters. 

The Guesthouses at Southernmost Beach Resort are steeped in Key West’s history, with some of the homes dating back to as far as 1885. The houses served as one of the island's first hospitals and a boys' schoolhouse to a military stronghold during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

PC: What is your ethos regarding guest experience, food, and hospitality? What drives everything you do?

SBR: Upon arriving at the resort, Southernmost Beach Resort wants guests to step into the island vibe and live the “SoMo life.” Throughout all corners of the resort, we hope that guests become immersed in Key West’s historic charm. Since its opening, Southernmost has always been a part of the island’s community. Whether it’s hosting island events or being a place that locals visit on a regular basis for activities like trivia, or just a great oceanfront meal. 

This year, the resort is also going to begin working with local artists in the community to showcase their artwork on property for a few months, along with monthly discussions with the artist. And beginning on May 17th, 2025 Southernmost Beach Resort will be hosting a "Say Yes to the Prom Dress" swap on-site, where locals can do a dress swap or donate prom dresses to give back to the community and to young women who are in need of prom dresses, as Key West does not have places to shop for prom dresses.

PC: What are some guest favorites when it comes to the resort’s food and beverage program?

SBR: A current fan favorite is the iconic Key Lime Pie Margarita. It doesn’t get more Key West than this! Made with a silver tequila of your choice, the island’s signature Key Lime Liqueur, and splashes of orange juice and agave—this cocktail is the perfect companion for lounging by one of the resort’s three palm-fringed pools, secluded tanning pier, or private beach. 

The resort is also rolling out a brand-new menu which will feature a signature Key West Paella using fresh local catch. And not to miss: the anticipated return of the Drunken Scallops, served on Fridays and Saturdays only.

PC: What do guests regularly say about staying at your resort? What do they love the most?

SBR: The word on the street—or the online reviews—is that guests love our convenient location on the quieter side of Duval. They are close to the action, but it’s secluded enough to feel “world’s away” from the noise. Guests are equally impressed with the abundance of amenities and activities that the resort has to offer, so much so that many don’t feel the need to venture far from this Southernmost Point to experience the best of what Key West has to offer. From salsa lessons to yoga and tequila tasting to trivia, there is always something happening at Southernmost!

Guests also enjoy our live entertainment program, served up daily at the Shores Pool and at the Pineapple Pool. From solo musicians and full bands, to a live DJ and music bingo. On select nights, guests can enjoy salsa lessons and live concerts from the resort’s private beach during island-wide festivals. In short: we want to have a little something for everyone, while also ensuring they get a luxurious experience in a laid-back atmosphere. 

PC: Any parting words of advice for the best times of year to visit?

SBR: In Key West, there is always something to do, making almost any time of the year a great time to visit. If you’re looking to party it up, visit during one of the island’s many festivals, including the iconic Fantasy Fest in October. For the foodies, definitely plan your vacation over Lobsterfest or the Key Lime Festivals for a good, and tasty time. While all these festivals are quite popular, coming during Key West’s shoulder season during the slower summer and early fall seasons lends itself to fewer crowds and lower rates. 

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To learn more or book a reservation for your next luxurious yet laid back vacation, check out the Southermost Beach Resort website. Follow them on Instagram for a dose of Key West vibes any time of the year.