Fairfield Inn & Suites Key West

The hotel's most notable features are its inviting pool area, often described as a beautiful oasis, and its highly convenient shuttle service to downtown. While many guests appreciate these amenities, the property frequently receives feedback regarding its dated appearance and the need for significant renovations. Cleanliness in rooms is a recurring concern for some, contrasting with others who found their accommodations spotless. The staff elicits mixed reactions, with instances of exceptional helpfulness alongside reports of unfriendliness. This hotel is particularly well-suited for sightseers and couples looking for a relaxing base away from the city's bustle, and for families seeking a central pool area. To enhance your stay, guests recommend utilizing the reliable shuttle to navigate the area and managing expectations regarding the overall condition of the rooms, especially concerning potential noise from the surrounding environment.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's pool is consistently highlighted as a major draw, praised for its beauty, size, and the presence of cabanas and a lively pool bar. Guests enjoy the convenience of the bar for drinks and snacks, though some note its early closing times. While the fitness center is available, several reviews describe it as unkempt, with rusty and broken equipment. The elevators have been a source of frustration for some, reported as dirty, rickety, or even breaking down. In-room amenities generally include a microwave and mini-fridge, which are appreciated for convenience. However, the ice machines are sometimes found to be out of order, and the guest laundry facilities are described as needing significant improvement, with reports of broken machines and uncleanliness. The availability of on-site bike and scooter rentals adds to the recreational options.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. Many guests found their rooms to be clean, with comfortable beds ensuring a restful sleep. However, a significant number of reviews mention issues such as dirty floors, stained sheets and pull-out couches, and visible dust. Concerns about mold and mildew in the bathrooms, particularly in showers, are frequently raised, along with reports of rusty fixtures and clogged drains. The rooms are often described as dated and in need of renovation, with some noting small sizes and worn furnishings. Noise is a common complaint, stemming from thin walls, street noise, loud air conditioning units, and persistent rooster crowing throughout the night, which can disrupt sleep. Some bathrooms are noted for their low water pressure and issues with shower doors.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives mixed reviews. Many guests appreciate its inclusion and the variety of options, describing it as good or bountiful, with both hot and cold selections served in an open-air setting. However, a substantial number of reviews express disappointment, citing the food quality as poor, basic, or tasteless. Specific complaints include watery eggs, undercooked bacon, soggy waffles, and a lack of fresh fruit or other popular items like white bread or English muffins. Some guests noted that items frequently ran out or were not replenished adequately. The use of paper plates and plastic utensils is also a common point of contention. While the hotel features a pool bar offering drinks and snacks, there is no full-service restaurant on the property for other meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, situated a short distance from downtown and the Key West airport. Its primary advantage is the readily available shuttle service, which provides hourly transportation to downtown areas and the beach, making it easy for guests to explore without needing their own vehicle. The hotel is also a designated trolley stop, offering another convenient transit option. While some guests found the area around the hotel to be walkable for local stores and quick dining, it is not within easy walking distance of major attractions. Parking is available on-site, with some guests reporting it as free, while others mention it comes with additional daily fees, sometimes perceived as expensive.

Staff & Service
Guest feedback on staff and service is notably varied. Many reviews commend the staff as friendly, helpful, accommodating, and attentive, particularly highlighting positive interactions at the front desk and with pool bar attendants. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient. However, a significant number of guests report negative experiences, citing staff as rude, dismissive, or difficult to communicate with due to perceived language barriers. Issues with housekeeping are frequently mentioned, with many guests reporting a lack of daily service, having to request towels, or finding rooms not properly cleaned. While some praise the concierge for helpful recommendations, the demeanor of some shuttle drivers has also been a point of dissatisfaction for guests.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a daily destination fee, typically ranging from $25 to $28, which is often added to the bill and can be a source of confusion or frustration for some who feel its value is unclear or that included amenities like bottled water are not consistently provided. The hotel has faced criticism from Marriott Bonvoy members who feel the property does not meet the brand's usual standards, citing outdated facilities and a perceived lack of recognition for loyalty status. There are frequent mentions of ongoing construction causing noise disturbances during the day, and guests have reported issues with roosters crowing loudly throughout the night, impacting sleep. Additionally, the presence of large iguanas around the pool area is a unique, though sometimes surprising, feature of the property.