My husband and I knew we were due for a relaxing holiday, and we wanted to treat ourselves. This was more expensive than we had planned on, but MAN! Was it worth it...the hosts were lovely, there was always someone available to ask for advice on how to spend our time and what restaurants to try, but without hovering or making us feel weird. The home is expansive and though it was full, we would NEVER have known. There are two sweet and quiet dogs, unlimited soda (which actually saved us a lot of $$ because my husband loves diet coke) and we could come and go very conveniently. I loved it, and if planning to return to Key West, would return in a second.

The Mermaid and the Alligator is a privately owned gust house / B&B. It has been fitted out, and maintained to the very highest of standards.

It's location is a mainly residential area - close enough to walk to the major sights (most things accesable within 15 minutes walk) but far enough away to escape the crowds and excitement of Duval street. It is set amongst lush tropical gardens. (Dean - one of the hosts - has a degree in horticulture!). The gardens, although one, form their own little areas so it's always possible to find your own 'private' area if you want.

We stayed 3 nights in the Audubon room at $220 per night. OK, not the cheapest place- but you do get what you pay for. The house is a large, early 1900's property and has been furnished in keeping with the style, with no expense spared. There is interesting artwork hanging from the walls and a gorgeous polished wooden floor. The atmosphere is relaxed, but the the service is perfect.

Our room was really lovely, with french doors opening out into one of the many garden areas. the room was a good size, especially the bathroom, with large walk in shower. Fixtures and fittings are of top quality and it's super clean - looks like it has been specially finished just for your arrival. Nice touches include the CD sound system with Ipod docking and a 'sleep therapy' machine which plays sleep inducing sounds to drift you off to sleep.

Breakfast was served in the garden with a chance to chat to other guests. Freshly baked muffins, cereals, fruit & juices together with a delicious hot course served from the kitchen. In the evening, wine and fresh lemonade are served in the garden.

It's the little touches that make the diffenece - everything has been thought of; suncream is available, and if you're heading for a beach, you can take beach towels and a beach bag. Complimentary water & soft drinks are available all the time.

The pool is quite small; only really a plunge pool, but fits in perfectly with the gardens. If you need any help planning your recreation time in Key West, the hosts are very knowledgable and there's plenty of brochures and maps available, including local restaurant menus.

This is a place where it's virtually impossible to fault. The only thing to bear in mind is that with it being an older type property, soundproofing is not great. Having said that, other guests don't really make any noise as the whole ambience is so relaxed so there is only noticable noise from the main road at the front of the house.

Key West was much bigger than I had thought, we could have easily had another 2 or 3 nights - there's lots to do. A small word of warning though; there are quite a few souvenier type shops (Especially so on the main street- Duval) selling what might be described as tacky / risque material, and there is quite a bit of 'adult entertainment' around. However, the laid back, 'anything goes' attitude is really what Key West is all about - and it's not obtrusive.

I would have no hesitation in returning to the M&A when I'm next n Key West; I really wouldn't bother looking for anywhere else to stay. I can't imagine why anyone would not enjoy their stay here.

The Mermaid and Alligator is a true gem. You feel at home the minute you arrive, everything is thought of, including a sound machine in the room! Breakfasts are wonderful, the garden area is its own paradise.
Whether it's your first trip to the Keys or you've been here before, you will not be disappointed in the Mermaid. Great suggestions for meals, activities. If you're social, the people are friendly, but not intrusive.
Super clean, beautiful house. Get a massage while you're there - you can have it arranged to be done at the Mermaid.
I've been to Key West several times, this is my favorite spot and I'll return many times (I hope).
We got engaged on this trip -- I'd love to return and get married at the Mermaid!

this review is late in the writing, but it has to be said. i would not stay anywhere else in key west. the mermaid and the alligator is safely located away from the mayhem and crowds of duval street, yet it is a 5 minute walk away. the owners are terribly sweet and hospitable, the rooms are impeccable (and very tasteful - a lot of these B&Bs in key west are kind of tacky in my opinion), and the food was divine. this is a perfect place for romantic getaways or relaxation. not a good place for spring break types of getaways, and also may not be appropriate for small children. i also wouldn't recommend this place for a hot pool scene, as the pool is very small. its more of a "hang-out" pool, where you can cool off with a glass of wine and meet other guests. this was perfectly fine for us. we had one of the downstairs rooms, with jacuzzi, and it was worth it! beautiful room, beautiful garden, perfect location and lovely hosts.