alexanders gay and lesbian guesthouse

Experience the Unforgettable: Alexander's Guesthouse - Key West's Premier Adult & LGBTQ+ Friendly Retreat

Imagine a sun-drenched escape where the vibrant spirit of Key West meets a tranquil, welcoming haven. Where historic charm blends seamlessly with modern comfort, and every detail is thoughtfully curated to make you feel not just like a guest, but like cherished family. Welcome to Alexander's Guesthouse Key West, an iconic adult-exclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly guesthouse nestled in the heart of Old Town. More than just a place to sleep, Alexander's offers an experience - a unique blend of community, relaxation, and genuine hospitality that has captivated travelers for decades.

But what truly sets a vacation spot apart? Is it the pristine facilities, the ideal location, or the people who make your stay memorable? At Alexander's, you'll discover it's an exquisite alchemy of all three, promising a stay that transcends the ordinary.

Why Alexander's Guesthouse is Your Ideal Key West Sanctuary

Alexander's Guesthouse consistently earns rave reviews, not just for its amenities, but for the intangible warmth that permeates every corner. It's a place where personalized service isn't just a promise; it's a daily practice.

Unrivaled Hospitality and Personalized Touches

From the moment you step onto the property, you're greeted with open arms - often with a refreshing welcome drink that sets the tone for your stay. The dedicated team at Alexander's goes above and beyond, anticipating needs and celebrating milestones. Planning a surprise birthday for a loved one? Don't be surprised if the staff bakes custom cupcakes, turning a special occasion into an unforgettable memory. Their friendly demeanor and genuine desire to assist with recommendations for local eateries or booking activities truly make you feel right at home.

A Sanctuary of Comfort and Charm

Step inside Alexander's, and you'll immediately notice the meticulous care taken with the property. The 17 well-maintained rooms each boast a distinct character, far from the generic uniformity of chain hotels. Expect spacious, sparkling clean accommodations designed for ultimate relaxation. Each room includes a convenient mini-fridge, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi extends throughout the entire property and communal areas, ensuring you're always connected, should you choose to be.

Relaxation Redefined: Poolside Bliss

The heart of Alexander's outdoor space revolves around its inviting pool and soothing hot tub, strategically positioned amidst the charming historic buildings. This isn't just a place for a quick dip; it's a serene oasis for unwinding, soaking up the Key West sun, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. For sun worshippers, a private sundeck offers ample opportunity to catch those coveted rays any time of day. This central courtyard also hosts the lively daily happy hour, fostering a wonderful sense of community among guests.

The Perfect Old Town Key West Location

Location, location, location! Alexander's Guesthouse boasts an enviable address on Fleming Street, widely regarded as one of Old Town Key West's most picturesque thoroughfares. While situated in a quiet, residential neighborhood that promises peaceful nights, it remains remarkably accessible. You're mere steps away from the island's most popular attractions, vibrant nightlife on Duval Street, exquisite dining, and unique boutiques. Everything is within comfortable walking distance, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Key West experience without the need for a car.

Local Conveniences at Your Fingertips:

Beyond the Expected: Unique Charms of Alexander's

What makes Alexander's Guesthouse truly one-of-a-kind? It's not just the amenities or the service, but the rich tapestry of history, quirky details, and an evolving ethos that defines its enduring appeal.

A Rich History and its Feathered Namesake

The story of Alexander's Guesthouse is as fascinating as Key West itself. The main buildings, constructed in 1898 for two sisters, remained private homes until 1999. It was then that Walt Marlow and Dell Brixey transformed the property into the beloved gay and lesbian guesthouse it is today. The name "Alexander's" isn't tied to an owner, but to a cheerful parakeet belonging to Walt and Dell - a charming origin story that adds to the guesthouse's unique personality.

Ownership has since transitioned through Michael Ingram, who introduced the popular poolside happy hours, to the current proprietors, Orlando Torres and Raul Diaz. As a couple who regularly stayed at Alexander's for years, Orlando and Raul understood its magic, and upon acquiring it in 2007, Raul infused the property with his contemporary style, ensuring Alexander's continues to offer a refined yet comfortable experience.

Whispers of the Past: The Resident Spirit

Adding another layer of intrigue, Alexander's Guesthouse is home to a gentle, playful spirit - a young boy, believed to be around 10 years old, who passed from tuberculosis in the late 1800s. Guests have reported seeing him, a testament to the enduring energy of the historic property. He's often joined by his grandfather, who also passed around the same time. These friendly apparitions add a captivating, whimsical touch to the guesthouse's storied past.

An Evolving, Inclusive Community

While Alexander's has always been a proud LGBTQ+ guesthouse, creating a truly safe and welcoming space for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community, it has recently seen a natural evolution in its guest base. In a world embracing greater acceptance, Alexander's has increasingly welcomed straight guests who specifically seek out its unique charm and inclusive atmosphere. The guesthouse takes care to ensure all guests understand and are comfortable with its LGBTQ+ focus, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. This beautiful integration exemplifies the spirit of Key West itself - a place where all are truly welcome to relax, connect, and simply "be."

Daily Delights at Alexander's: More Than Just a Stay

Culinary Comforts to Start Your Day

Forget the meager continental offerings elsewhere. Alexander's provides a truly "expanded" complimentary breakfast daily, served over several hours to accommodate all schedules. Indulge in a delicious buffet featuring a variety of choices, along with daily changing specials and freshly home-baked pastries, like warm muffins. It's the perfect fuel for a day of Key West exploration.

The Social Heartbeat: Happy Hour & Bar

One of the most beloved traditions at Alexander's is the daily happy hour, held poolside every evening at 5 PM. Guests gather to enjoy complimentary beer, wine, spirits, and even cocktails. It's a fantastic opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers, share stories, and simply unwind in the convivial atmosphere. While the "free" happy hour runs for an hour, the bar remains open for a few additional hours, allowing the good times to continue.

"Alexander's is not just a place to stay; it's a feeling. A feeling of belonging, of being truly cared for, and of experiencing Key West in its most authentic, charming light."

Navigating Your Stay: Practical Information

Parking in Old Town Key West

As is typical for many charming guesthouses in historic Old Town Key West, Alexander's does not have a private parking lot. These properties are often converted residential dwellings. However, street parking is readily available on Fleming Street and the surrounding side streets. While residential spaces are clearly marked, it's always wise to double-check the paint on the tarmac, especially in the dark, to ensure you're in a general parking spot. Key West streets are generally safe for parking, offering peace of mind.

Addressing the Nuances

While Alexander's consistently delivers an exceptional experience, a couple of minor points are worth noting, often inherent to historic properties: the individual air conditioning units in each room can sometimes be a bit noisy compared to central air, and while the curtains are lovely, some guests sensitive to light might find them less effective at blocking out morning sun. However, for most guests, these are minor trade-offs for the guesthouse's unparalleled charm, service, and unique atmosphere.

Your Key West Story Starts Here

From its welcoming embrace of the LGBTQ+ community and adult-exclusive ambiance to its historic elegance, exceptional service, and prime location, Alexander's Guesthouse offers a Key West experience unlike any other. It's a place where every detail contributes to a feeling of peace, connection, and joy. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat by the pool, lively conversations during happy hour, or simply a spotless, comfortable base from which to explore the vibrant island, Alexander's delivers.

Isn't it time to write your own chapter at this remarkable Key West gem? Discover why so many guests return year after year, finding their perfect island escape at Alexander's Guesthouse.