The Mermaid & Alligator

3.5 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Mermaid & Alligator

A room with a bed, a ceiling fan, and a window with blinds.
A poolside area with lounge chairs, a covered seating area, and a small pool.
A room with a yellow armchair, a glass coffee table, and a view of a wooden deck and tropical plants.
A spacious kitchen with wooden cabinets, a granite countertop, and a ceiling fan.
A cozy outdoor seating area with a wooden bench and a table, surrounded by potted plants and a coffee and tea sign.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
729 Truman Ave, Key West, FL, 33040
  • Place, Duval Street
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Southernmost Point
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Airport, Key West, FL (EYW-Key West Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

Room options

Key Lime Room - Adult Exclusive

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • 166 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Papaya Room - Adult Exclusive

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 166 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Garden Room - Adult Exclusive

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • 175 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Sunroom - Adult Exclusive

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(17 reviews)
  • 170 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Audubon Room - Adult Exclusive

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • 212 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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About the neighborhood

Key West

Located in Old Town Key West, The Mermaid & Alligator is within a 10-minute walk of popular sights such as Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This 9-room, 3.5-star guesthouse welcomes guests with free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Duval Street - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum - 8 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum - 8 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • South Beach - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Southernmost Point - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Key West Intl. Airport (EYW) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Old Town Tavern - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Better Than Sex - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪El Siboney Restaurant - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Sushi Song - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Mermaid & Alligator

Dating back to 1904, The Mermaid & Alligator offers an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and a garden. Free parking is included with your stay. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage and concierge services.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and bathrobes. Ceiling fans, safes, and ironing boards are also standard. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the guesthouse include an outdoor pool.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 100+ Mbps (good for 1–2 people or up to 6 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Offsite parking available (USD 48 per day)
  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Things to do

  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Proposal/romance packages

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Pool loungers

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 2 buildings
  • 3 floors
  • Built in 1904
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children younger than 21 are not permitted to stay at this adults-only property (only guests 21 and older are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 1 per accommodation, per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Nearby parking fee: USD 48 per day

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 25 years old
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • The minimum check-in age for Spring Break is 25 years old.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

The Mermaid Alligator
The Mermaid & Alligator Key West
The Mermaid & Alligator Guesthouse
The Mermaid & Alligator Guesthouse Key West

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at The Mermaid & Alligator?

The Mermaid & Alligator offers free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at The Mermaid & Alligator?

As of Jul 31, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Mermaid & Alligator on Aug 2, 2026 start from $265, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see close to The Mermaid & Alligator?

This guesthouse is situated in Old Town Key West within a 10-minute walk of Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. You'll also find Florida Keys Beaches and South Beach less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at The Mermaid & Alligator?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the guesthouse. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does The Mermaid & Alligator feature a casino?

No, The Mermaid & Alligator doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Mermaid & Alligator?

No, this guesthouse doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

Is The Mermaid & Alligator good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this adults-only guesthouse include bathrobes as well as an outdoor pool and proposal/romance packages.

Are there hot tubs at The Mermaid & Alligator?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this guesthouse.

Does The Mermaid & Alligator feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

The Mermaid & Alligator offers free full breakfasts each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does The Mermaid & Alligator allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Mermaid & Alligator though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at The Mermaid & Alligator?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this guesthouse.

What is the closest airport to The Mermaid & Alligator?

The closest major airport to The Mermaid & Alligator is Key West Intl. Airport (EYW), which is 3.3 mi away (8 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Mermaid & Alligator?

No, you won't find accommodations with balconies at The Mermaid & Alligator.

The Mermaid & Alligator Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 265 out of 310 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 32 out of 310 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 11 out of 310 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 310 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 310 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rodney Layne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean rooms, wonderful gardens, friendly staff.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kat

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean great staff wonderful breakfast
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Pasquale

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very pleasant beautiful B&B. Breakfast was so enjoyable. Room was wonderful and the bed was super comfortable. My only issue was the hot tub jets didn’t work and the grounds could use maintaining. Location was also in a nice quiet area.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zack

Very quaint and nice
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura Lee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful B&B in Old Town. Choice of hot or continental breakfast — or both! Staff were friendly and helpful. Our Garden room was fantastic. If we make it back to Key West, we will stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

marie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The breakfast was delicious freshly made specials each morning. The pool is more of an oversized hot tub than a cool pool but it was relaxing anyway.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kat

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, great staff love the breakfast and pop, coffee etc
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was beautiful and an oasis. Staff were great. Food was delicious. Had everything that we needed, beach towels, beach chairs and beach umbrella. Room was clean. Pool was nice and warm. Would highly recommend this B & B for your place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol A

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Great place
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bradley

It is very quaint, clean, has a friendly atmosphere & has a great location. We love going there!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Courteous staff, excellent b’fasts
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Randy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The house and rooms are very clean. The property is awesome, and close too everything in old key west. We are going to make the mermaid and alligator a yearly trip from now on. It is a wonderful property.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikhil

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely place
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa anne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Location is perfect
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anette

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
From the very warm welcome by the reception staff we felt almost home. The room was very tastefully decorated, functional and clean. The highlight is truly the courtyard where you can have breakfast outside under the canopy of beautiful lush tropical plants or just relax at the pool. Breakfast is delicious including fresh fruit, fresh pancakes etc. when you are done with the tourist buzz in the rest of key west this is a very special retreat, quiet, shade / cooler and relaxing! Would highly recommend!!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

nancy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The overall feeling is comfy friendly and private There are shared spaces that are never crowded The property is small but beautifully planted The staff incredible!!!! I truly hope we can come again
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ellen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely grounds, beautifully appointed home and artwork, convenient to Duvall Street.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stacey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely loved staying here and are already looking at dates to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful stay!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Swatadipta

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent place for stay...would highly recommend!!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely accommodation. Staff really attentive. Love the quaintness of the gardens to sit and relax . Set Away from the hustle and bustle but only a short walk to Duval street. Love the idea of the snack station /drink station. Really lovely touch. Breakfast all cooked fresh and plentiful. Thank you would definitely recommend and study again if we were visiting the keys .
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mateo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Property had several areas to relax.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Graham

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
From the minute you arrive at this beautiful colonial style hotel you are made so welcome by the staff, we stayed in the Garden room which is small but beautifully made out and very private (don’t let the glass wall shower put you off you can’t be seen from the outside) the pool is a small dip pool set in lovely palm tree covered gardens and is like taking a bath, breakfast is served outside weather permitting and is freshly made and different each day, parking is limited but this didn’t seem an issue, the only criticism I could give is communication as we emailed the hotel twice several weeks before we traveled regarding the area and only got the standard auto reply and nothing else.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meg

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent Staff SUPER CLEAN Breakfast was AWESOME, Welcoming WOULD STAY HERE AGAIN.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Graham

Liked: Cleanliness
From the minute you arrive you are made so welcome at this beautiful colonial style property the staff and the facilities are perfect, we stayed in the Garden room which is small but beautifully made out and very private (don’t let the glass shower put you off your not visible to the outside) breakfast is good with outside dining weather permitting and the freshly cooked food is great and different each day, limited parking but we didn’t find this an issue, My only criticism would be communication prior to travel we reached to the hotel twice several weeks before to ask advice regarding the area and received no response in anyway.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026