Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Surround yourself with the casual elegance and style of a more relaxed age at The Mermaid & The Alligator, an intimate adults-only bed and breakfast with nine unique rooms in a Victorian Home tucked away in the heart of Old Town Key West, Florida.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
We stayed here for three nights on a couples get away/birthday celebration. It was so peaceful and enjoyable. Our room was the perfect size, and clean. We had a little porch area where we were able to enjoy champagne and snacks at the end of the day. Breakfast is included each day, and we sat in the courtyard - which is surrounded by beautiful plants, flowers, and a fountain. It’s an oasis away from the bustle of activity of the “outside world.” It is walkable to the main area of town… it’s the perfect get away! We will be back!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Jun 20, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review on your recent stay and for the 5-bubble rating. We appreciate you choosing us for your travels to Key West and are delighted that you enjoyed our property and your stay. Please consider staying with us again should your travel plans bring you back to Key West.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Mermaid & the Alligator was a fantastic place to stay. The location was perfect - easy to walk to all the different points of interest in Key West as well as some great restaurants. At the end of the day, returning to the Key Lime room was a welcome treat as it was cozy, comfortable and clean. The rest of the property from the lovely gardens to the plunge pool to the shared spaces in the main house were an oasis. Breakfast was delicious - a hot meal with an assortment of baked goods and various beverages. The staff were all friendly and Diana especially was really helpful when I had to rebook my flight and find a place to stay last minute. One thing to note: the Key Lime room is small and WIFI didn’t come in that well so it may not work for those looking for a larger room with access to the internet.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Feb 14, 2023
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review on your recent stay. We are so glad that you had a nice visit. Our apologies for the spotty wifi, it's definitely a challenge at times on the island. Thank you for choosing our property and please come back and see us again!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Mermaid and The Alligator was the perfect place to stay during our time in Key West while attending a destination wedding. The location was centrally located to the wharf and was also close to the venue. We chose to stay in the Treetop Suite which was spacious, had natural light, and the soaking tub - all the perks we were looking for! The host was lovely. She was knowledgeable about the area, she assisted with additional accommodations we needed upon arrival, and the ambiance of the B&B made you feel at home. Soft beverages and light treats were always available. Should we visit the Keys again, we will be returning!
Read more
Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review on your recent stay. We are so glad that you chose our property for your trip to Key West and hope that you had an amazing time at the wedding! Please come back and see us again!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My family chose The Mermaid & The Alligator for our family reunion. I chose to stay in the Treetop Suite for 4 nights and it was nothing short of bliss. Cozy attic at the top of the main house with a king size bed, glass wall shower, big mirrors, beautiful furniture, with a tub room with windows that over look the tops of palm trees.
At breakfast we all met in the perfectly groomed courtyard/garden to discuss the day's activities over coffee, juice, and delicious hot breakfast provided by the very friendly and helpful staff. We parked our golf cart just outside and enjoyed relaxing in the small heated pool after our boating trip. The artwork throughout the B&B is perfectly curated to each room. There is plenty of seating indoors and outdoors for conversations and relaxing. The location is convenient to everything.
There is a private cabana in the gardens available for lounging or booking a relaxing massage from a local masseuse. There are beach cruiser bikes conveniently available for getting around the island. Happy hour in the kitchen to mix and mingle with other guests. We went in December so the holiday decorations were so inviting and we had the perfect view of the nighttime Christmas parade!
We've been fondly reminiscing about our stay at the Mermaid & Alligator for weeks since our trip. Thank you to the incredible staff for making it such a lovely paradise!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Feb 2, 2022
Thank you for the lovely review and 5-bubble rating. We are thrilled that everything met (or exceeded) your expectations during your stay. Our team is grateful for your feedback and your business and hope to see you again!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The friendliness of Diana the Innkeeper and her thoughtfulness to our needs is unparalleled in my lodging experience! We feel like we have known her for years and years! She made us feel SO welcome! She knows Key West very well and steers you to activities and dining to suit your preferences. We just loved all of her recommendations!
The property is 118 years old and very well maintained! We rented two rooms: The Royal Poinciana Suite (loved the balcony!) and TreeTop Suite (large soaking tub and beamed ceiling) for my son and his girlfriend (mid-late 20's) joined us. It was a first visit to Key West for my son and his girlfriend and actually their first visit to a B&B type property and they too loved this property.
Mermaid and Alligator is a very cozy, quiet property that is impeccably clean. It was so beautifully decorated for Christmas and the week prior to our visit, it was one of 3 Inns featured in a Holiday Tour of Inns. The kitchen was stocked with various items all day long for guest's comfort: Coffees, Teas, Snacks, variety of cold drinks, and a Wine / Snack Happy Hour every afternoon and cookies later in the day. You will enjoy a wide assortment of continental breakfast items and a cook is there each morning to prepare the featured hot breakfast item should that be your desire. So many thoughtful touches throughout the property some of which included: beach towels, coolers, and on site bicycle rental. (Bike rental is an extra fee and very competitively priced not to mention convenient!!) The dining room table displayed books, brochures, coupons, etc to assist in planning your activities and dining. It even had a touchscreen computer to help book activities. The plunge pool was kept comfortably warm and had spa jets on a timer for your use. The lush gardens are so serene for breakfast or just relaxing and the gardens offer such a special atmosphere at night. Housekeeping services were performed daily and very thorough.
This Mermaid and Alligator experience has certainly set a very high bar for all four of us, and to which we will always compare. We hope to return soon and can't help but offer glowing word of mouth recommendations to our friends and family! Thank you Diana and all the Mermaid staff! You made our stay so very special!
Read more
Date of stay: December 2022
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â If budget allows, choose a room with a balcony.
Caribbean Queen Suite has L shaped balcony.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Feb 14, 2023
Thank you for the complimentary review and 5-bubble rating. We are so glad that you and your family had such a nice time staying with us. Thank you for the positive and kind feedback. Our team strives to provide an exceptional experience for all guests and it's always so nice when we hear what a great job they are doing! Please come back and see us again and thank you for choosing The Mermaid & The Alligator!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My wife and i just finished a 3 night stay at the Mermaid & The Alligator and we could not have been more pleased with the experience. We were in Key West celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary, and I must say for as great as the pictures are, M&A is so much better in person. We stayed in the Royal Poinciana room and were blown away by the decor and layout. It was decorated in a style that was aligned with what I can only describe as Hemingway chic. The private balcony made for the perfect spot to have conversation and just slow down. The The grounds of the property are immaculately kept, you really do feel like you are in the middle of the jungle. You absolutely cannot beat the location, it's less than a 5 minute walk to Duval Street and it is on the less congested end of Duval at that. The breakfast available each morning was the perfect start to the day in Key West. Lastly but most certainly not least I have to recognize Diana who runs the operations of the house. From check in all the way to check out she was amazing. We never saw her without a smile on her face and she was super helpful with restaurant and activity suggestions. She wears so many hats with all the things she does, I saw her helping guests and evening watering the plants outside in the gardens. My wife and I had an absolutely amazing stay and Diana certainly played a role in that. I would absolutely recommend staying here without hesitation and we cannot wait to go back and visit again. Thanks Diana! - Robert & Rebecca
Read more
Date of stay: June 2022
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â The Royal Poinciana & Caribbean Queen Rooms have their own private 2nd story balconies
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Jul 12, 2022
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a kind and thorough review about your recent stay. We are delighted that everything met your expectations and you both had an enjoyable and memorable experience. Diana is an amazing innkeeper and she cares deeply for the property and guests. Congratulations to you both on your milestone anniversary. We hope to see you again in the future!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I stayed here recently (early Nov 2021) for 5 nights on our honeymoon. It was my first time visiting Key West and his second. I did a lot of research prior to booking and decided that this was it. It looked intimate, beautifully decorated, and just far enough away from the commotion on Duval Street. I also read great reviews about their friendliness & service. Prior to our arrival Diana was quick to respond to my messages regarding inquiries about the Ferry to the Dry Tortugas. She also made arrangements for our Wind and Wine Sunset Sail and for my massage on site at The Mermaid and the Alligator. She also helped a friend of mine surprise us with a bottle of champagne and box of chocolates for our arrival. Our room was the Royal Poinciana. Originally advertised as a beautiful four poster canopy queen, when we arrived we were pleasantly surprised to a room that had been recently redecorated and included an incredibly comfortable King Size bed with soft, clean sheets. It was a nice size room with high ceilings, room for 2 chairs, a dresser, closet, a writers desk, and beautiful lighting. It had a private balcony with a table, 2 chairs, and two loungers. The bathroom had a large shower and had shampoo, body wash, and conditioner available. Also available was a hair dryer! Towels were soft and clean. Robes were provided as well. We had our first breakfast the following morning. The young lady who made breakfast every morning was so friendly and she really did a great job. The only day we missed breakfast was when we had to be at the Ferry early to go to the Dry Tortugas. We had French Toast, Omelets, Breakfast Sandwiches, Avocado Toast with eggs made however you would like. Also available were bagels/bread to toast, danishes, cereal, boiled eggs, coffee (including K cups), orange juice. Eating breakfast outside by the pool was really nice. We were lucky to have beautiful weather every morning (and every day for that matter).
The massage I had in the cabana by the pool was incredible. While most of our time was spent adventuring out in Key West, we did spend some time relaxing in the comfortable pool and laying out in the sun by the fountain. The foliage all around the property was beautiful
I talked about wanting to go back the day we arrived and we will be as soon as we can plan another romantic escape!!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2021
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â Would really try any of these rooms!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Michael Dana, General Manager at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Nov 17, 2021
Thank you so much for the wonderful and detailed review! We are so happy that you had an amazing and memorable honeymoon! It's so great that you got to enjoy everything that we have to offer, from the generous home-cooked breakfast, your comfortable room and balcony, numerous amenities, to the relaxing massage in the cabana. We look forward to hosting you for your next romantic escape!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
After reading the glowing reviews I was prepared for a let down. I assure you I was not!
We arrived after dark & our keys w/ instructions to locate our room were left in the mailbox at the back door as promised.
The Bamboo Room is adorable & so spacious. It has a covered porch with 2 chairs, ottomans & end tables. The porch is secluded, surrounded by lush foliage. We heard NO street noise.
The bed was comfy, plenty of room in 2 closets to store suitcases etc. There is a sitting area w/sofa, chair, coffee & end tables. There is a desk w/ plenty of plugs for charging. Also a nice fan unit if you like white noise while sleeping. This is a really nice touch.
There is a lovely plunge pool/jacuzzi surrounded by lush foliage & lounge chairs. There are NO "pool hours", they just ask that the jets not be turned on after 10.
There is a small seating area outside the kitchen w/ice maker,& a small frig for leftovers. Plenty of beach towels, chairs and umbrellas. In the kitchen there is a small frig w/bottled water. The Keurig is always available with several different types of coffee pods, tea bags and sugar/flavored creamers. Paper cups & coffee mugs are provided, also iced tea & snacks.
Breakfast: cereal & milk, bagels & cream cheese, hard boiled eggs, yogurt, and then a hot breakfast served between 8:30-10. Eggs, avocado toast w/ sliced tomato one morning, a breakfast sandwich the next. Breakfast is served surrounding a water fountain.
We're already planning a return trip!
Read more
Date of stay: February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Mar 16, 2022
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review and for the 5-bubble rating. We are thrilled that you had such a nice time and that you are already planning on returning! Thank you for choosing to stay at The Mermaid & The Alligator!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This B&B was extremely classy and cozy with amazing staff members who were friendly, helpful, kind, and sweet. They were so fun to talk with and really made our vacation even better. The manager Diana helped us reserve bicycles, was very informative, and a delight to hang out with. The location is ideal... Walking/bike riding distance to all the fun places on Duval, Southernmost Point, and other nearby areas, but also far enough for peace and tranquillity from all the downtown activity and noise.
We loved hanging out at the house for light breakfasts freshly prepared by adorable Yuki. The rooms are very cozy and charming as well as very clean thanks to awesome Carla who was very diligent and nice. After a long fun day of eating, walking, riding, and sightseeing, the little pool is excellent for cooling off and very refreshing. The garden is lush and beautiful. One of the owners and his wife were also there almost daily to help with any questions and were very helpful as they were doing so much to make this place even better.
For our first time in Key West, and for future visits, this is a wonderful place to stay.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded Jul 27, 2021
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review on your recent stay and for the high rating. We certainly do appreciate your complimentary words and are delighted that you enjoyed yourselves while staying with us. Furthermore, we hope that you had safe travels back to California and that you plan to return and stay with us again! Thank you for choosing The Mermaid & The Alligator.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Absolutely fabulous!!! There is nothing so needed as a couples reset. This place is exactly that. The quaint, perfectly cooled room. That backyard heated, jacuzzi intimate pool and lush garden oasis is divine. The way the staff take care of every possible asks is incredible. We came here for our honeymoon and on our anniversary and we are already planning our next visit. The location could not be better for short little bike rides to phenomenal dining experiences, sunrise/sun sets and active nightlife entertainment too. What a treasure!!!!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lisa Zifer, Owner at The Mermaid & The Alligator
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review on your stay. We are so grateful for your continued support and appreciate that you enjoy reconnecting with your love at our property. That is a wonderful compliment and we are delighted to make a difference in the lives of our guests. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi there! There are a couple of beaches nearby--Higgs Beach is our neighborhood beach where you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Salute restaurant is right there with delicious lunches and dinners. Fort Zachary Taylor is in the State Park. Here you can rent chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel equipment to explore the stone jetties. Higgs is within a 20 minute walk or 5 minute bike ride from the inn. Ft. Zack is approximately 30 minutes walking and a 10 bike ride. Hope that's helpful.
Geri L.
Manager
There are more places to choose from in the Key West area.
PRICE RANGE
C$558 - C$797 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
the mermaid & the alligator hotel key west, the mermaid and the alligator
LOCATION
United StatesFloridaFlorida KeysKey West
NUMBER OF ROOMS
9
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.