Kona Kai Resort, Gallery and Botanic Gardens — Hotel in Key Largo

When it comes to finding a place that feels like paradise, the Kona Kai Resort in Key Largo holds a very special place in our hearts. My husband John and I first discovered this beautiful boutique resort 25 years ago when we honeymooned there. Since that unforgettable trip, Kona Kai has woven itself into the fabric of our lives, becoming a cherished retreat and the backdrop to many of our most meaningful moments.

A week there when I was seven months pregnant became our last hurrah before stepping into the wonderful and life-changing journey of parenthood. As the years passed and life grew busier, Kona Kai became our sanctuary—a place to reconnect as a couple and later as a family. Once our boys turned 14, the minimum age to stay at the resort, we began bringing them along, and it quickly became a Thanksgiving tradition. Those family trips, surrounded by stunning views and tranquil waters, remain some of our most treasured memories.

As our children grew older and their responsibilities prevented them from joining us, John and I began returning the week after Thanksgiving, carving out time to escape the cold and kick off the holiday season in the most peaceful and rejuvenating way imaginable.

Kona Kai is more than just a resort; it is a sanctuary for the soul. Every time we return, we are greeted by beautifully maintained grounds that are lush with tropical plants and flowers. The beachfront rooms are perfect—offering every amenity you could need to enjoy a serene beach getaway. The convenience of paddle boards and kayaks available to grab anytime means hours of fun and exploration in the gorgeous bay, where we’ve been fortunate to spot manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, birds and iguanas. Watching the wildlife has become a simple yet profound joy.

The sunsets at Kona Kai are nothing short of magical. They are an event in and of themselves, a moment to pause, sip wine, enjoy cheese, and marvel at the beauty with fellow guests. Each sunset is a reminder of how lucky we are to have found this special place.

The dining options nearby are another highlight, with divine seafood restaurants in abundance. Yet, it’s the people who truly make Kona Kai exceptional. Katherine and her team embody warmth and hospitality, making every guest feel not just welcomed but genuinely cared for. Their service-minded approach enhances every stay, and it’s always a joy to see familiar faces and catch up with the wonderful staff.

One of our most cherished memories at Kona Kai was renewing our vows there. The ceremony on the pier was nothing short of beautiful, surrounded by the serene waters and the love we have for each other and this incredible place.

As I sit and reflect on our most recent visit, the words that constantly come to mind are: “This is perfect.” Kona Kai is, quite simply, the most perfect place we have ever found. It has been the setting for our milestones, our celebrations, and our moments of quiet connection. We feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered this gem 25 years ago and to continue calling it our...

Kona Kai Resort, Gallery & Botanic Garden 97802 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, FL 33037

3 Stars

After my recent visit to the Gardens Hotel in Key West, it is going to be difficult to match them as the present BBDO Hotel/Resort Zenith. But, as previously mentioned, I had a new goal, so we drove down to Key Largo. Thankfully, it is a rather short drive from our section of the Space Coast as opposed to the mind-numbing trip to Key West, which, after a night of jactation, was for the best.

My hostess, Kathryn, was as charming, kind and wonderful as you could hope for as your first contact with Kona Kai. Kudos to whoever hired her! This is where you give her a well-earned raise. After Kathryn, I noticed the grounds upon which the Resort was constructed. They are tropical and fun, with a gorgeous pool, a serene dock protruding into the languorous Gulf, and an authentic, honest-to-Ma Bell phone booth complete with (gasp) an original phone book! However, as it was missing the actual phone, it was more a museum piece than a tool of the past.

There is also an overabundance of Iguanas scurrying about the place, which, quite frankly, I find tres cool. I found the Art Gallery to be as quaint as Kathryn was charming. It is filled with nautically themed art; we are in the Keys. So, if you like that stuff, you will enjoy lounging through their Gallery. I would surmise by now you are asking yourself, “So, why the 3 Stars, Big Boy?” In a word: accommodations. No matter how much cool ya got on the premises, if the rooms aren't top-notch, you can't be fantastic.

This room is like a tropical-themed Hampton Inn. It's flat, unflattering, and has NO A/C, except for a mini-split unit creating more humidity than cold air. The coffee cups for the in-room Keurig are so small that I had to leave the premises to get my morning cup of Joe. Short of Kathryn, the King of Cool Lizards and the fantastic piscina, this place would be lower rated.

The Big Boy says, “The room is below average and not worth two bits let alone the rate...

Once upon a time our school had a competition organized by the Fairchild Tropical Gardens. Their final judging was held at Kona Kai Resort, Gallery and Botanical Gardens. The pathways are winding. And each species is labeled along them. There are ancient ferns - very expensive and ancient species - orchids - lots of bamboo - air plants - palm trees - amazing nooks and crannies to get lost in.

The Hammocks are all in the perfect spot. The beach and dock peppered with tiki huts and lounge chairs. The butterfly chair on the point is a sculpture. And I love sitting on it. The pool is surround by a ‘sculpted’ fence. It is perfect. As one review said - Kona Kai gets everything right! It’s so true. It’s where I send all my friends and family.

Don’t miss it! It is on the bayside and is a hidden treasure. 13 lovely pastel cottages each with a different fruit name - the kayaks and paddle boards are ready to go. The beach ping pong is always waiting for you. The tennis courts in pristine condition!

Book the waterfront rooms. They are worth the extra. Don’t skimp. Go all out here. The breakfast is well thought out and done to perfection - the staff are well taken care of and they pass that along to the guests!! It’s not a gourmet breakfast but simple and YUMMY and the breakfast is included.

There is a fresh fruit and water fridge by the pool.

You’ll LOVE the room upgrades - some new bathrooms - tastefully done and appreciate the classical touches. The color and style somehow reminds me of France.

Plenty of suites to choose from and they all have TVs, microwaves and coffee makers! And these awesome little book reading lights!

Central to everything! Paddle 5 mins south to elegant...