8 Unique Venues in Key West Perfect for Hosting a Tropical Destination Wedding

If you're dreaming of saying "I do" surrounded by swaying palms and blue seas, Key West provides that faraway island vibe without having to leave the country. As the southernmost point of the continental US, the small island off the coast of Florida brings a change in latitudes—and attitudes—that transports you and your loved ones far from reality (while still keeping the celebration domestic). Below, check out eight unique wedding venue options in Key West that cater to a range of guest lists and wedding-day visions—all with that breezy "only in Key West" flair.

1. Best for: Old world glamour

Casa Marina Resort

Iris Moore Photography

Join a legacy of celebrities, presidents and dignitaries who have been heading to Casa Marina Resort since 1920 and throw your own Hollywood-worthy beach wedding at this historic hotel. Casa Marina has three different outdoor venues—East Beach, the Oceanfront Event Lawn and Flagler Beach, where sunset backdrops come courtesy of Mother Nature. But for couples who feel best with a Plan B in case of foul weather, there's also two elegant indoor ballrooms.

The in-house wedding planning team at Casa Marina makes it easy to coordinate anything from an intimate soirée to a grand celebration for up to 3,000 (yes, 3,000!) people. Other highlights include the Orchid Room, a getting-ready room with glamorous makeup stations, four on-site eateries and a cook-your-catch experience for guests who want to reel in their own lunch.

2. Best for: Intimate ceremonies

The Reach Key West

Courtesy of The Reach Key West

The Reach Key West makes any gathering memorable, with special wedding offerings like wedding party spa days and private sunset sails, but the hotel has a special touch for small ceremonies. They have a selection of small-group packages, ranging from four-person setups to slightly larger affairs that accommodate up to 20 guests, all of which include access to the in-house wedding coordinator. And if you have a longer guest list, that's fine too: the hotel's East Beach venue has capacity for up to 270 people.

Other highlights include lawn, terrace, gazebo and ballroom venue options; Jet Ski tours; sunrise yoga; and even a resident sand sculptor, who can craft a one-of-a-kind design to mark the occasion.

3. Best for: Literature lovers

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Carol Tedesco

Step back in time and host your wedding amongst the picturesque gardens of the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous writer lived while producing some of his most prolific works. Brimming with a history of its own, the vintage charm of the venue is unmistakable throughout its three outdoor event spaces (including a poolside option). In-house wedding planners are ready to assist with celebrations for up to 100 people, which makes it even easier for couples to host both the ceremony and the reception in one location.

But one of the most unique aspects of having a wedding at the Hemingway Home is that you can arrange for a private tour of the house for your guests during the festivities, giving them time to experience the literary magic for themselves.

4. Best for: Laid-back couples seeking a sea breeze

Southernmost Beach Resort

Iris Moore Photography

With four romantic venue options to choose from, Southernmost Beach Resort offers full-service catering menus and packages to make wedding planning a breeze. Whether you envision one special day or a full wedding week, it's easy to do here—and your guests will be delighted by the vacation opportunity.

Couples can host a beachy shindig for 25 to 200 guests at the expansive signature oceanfront venue, at the secluded beach pavilion, poolside at the Tranquility Veranda or with a background of turquoise waters at the Ocean View West Lawn. Guests will love that their rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean, the island or the pool, and you'll love the convenience and peace of mind that comes with having all your favorite people staying on site.

5. Best for: Hopeless romantics

Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

Matie Photography

Picture your guests wandering along paved brick pathways and through blooming orchid trees by the glow of antique lanterns and you'll have a vision of the romance waiting at the historic Audubon House and Tropical Gardens. The lush, whimsical space can accommodate wedding receptions for up to 130 guests and less-formal cocktail-style events for up to 250.

Conveniently located across from Mallory Square, the mid-19th-century home is available for private tours during your event, so your guests can get the full Key West experience before or after your ceremony.

6. Best for: History buffs

Fort East Martello Museum & Gardens

Courtesy of Fort East Martello Museum & Gardens via The Knot Vendor Marketplace

For a wedding venue that strikes the perfect balance between history and culture, set your sights on the Fort East Martello Museum & Gardens. Dating back to the Civil War era, the hidden gem has three event spaces, including the ample inner courtyard (with room for up to 400) and the second floor of the central citadel for more intimate seated gatherings. With its historic backdrops, lush sculpture garden and panoramic views, this is a venue your guests are sure to remember for years to come.

7. Best for: A taste of vintage Key West

Havana Cabana

Michael Stavaridis

At the adults-only Havana Cabana resort, couples can embrace the cultural flavors of Key West and plan a Cuban-inspired wedding, complete with authentic food, hand-rolled Cuban cigars and a ride in the hotel's classic 1957 Chevy. Host guests for a breezy ceremony on Smathers Beach followed by an island-style reception at the Tiki Hut. For the full experience, head to the newly opened Flama Cabana for an after-party with rum cocktails flowing into the wee hours of the night.

8. Best for: Being in the heart of it all

Pier House Resort & Spa

Pier House Resort & Spa

Located on the edge of Duval Street in historic Old Town, Pier House Resort & Spa boasts the best of Key West at its doorstep. For receptions and pre- and post-wedding events, the resort has a Sunset Terrace for up to 70 guests, a Beach Terrace for up to 80 guests and a Grand Cayman Ballroom for up to 120 guests.

Other highlights of hosting a wedding at Pier House include three onsite dining options, private-balcony suites with waterfront views, a spa and exclusive honeymoon packages. They even offer an official honeymoon registry featuring gifts and ideas from the resort that friends and family can schedule to await you upon arrival.

Ready to start planning? Find even more unique venues, places to stay and activities to do for your Key West wedding at Fla-Keys.com.