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You Won’t Believe The Unparalleled Ocean Views From This Historic 1896 Mansion In Key West

  • Attraction: The Mansion on the Sea (Southernmost House)
  • Location: 1400 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
  • Industry: Boutique Hotel
  • Website: https://www.southernmosthouse.com

Picture waking up in a Queen Anne Victorian mansion where millionaire wreckers once lived, casino chips clinked through prohibition nights, and ocean waves have lapped at the same shoreline for over a century.

The Southernmost House, now known as The Mansion on the Sea, stands as Key West’s most storied oceanfront property, claiming the prestigious title of the southernmost house in the continental United States.

Built by William Curry, Florida’s first millionaire who arrived penniless from the Bahamas and made his fortune as a wrecker, this magnificent 1896 mansion has served as a private residence, bustling casino, secretive speakeasy, and now an intimate 18-room boutique hotel.

You’ll discover that staying here isn’t just about accommodation—it’s about becoming part of Key West’s most captivating historical narrative while enjoying unparalleled Atlantic Ocean views from the quieter, more refined end of Duval Street.

Luxurious Accommodations With Ocean Views

The Main Mansion: Nine elegantly appointed rooms fill the original Victorian structure, each uniquely decorated with period furnishings and modern amenities.

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You’ll find high ceilings, hardwood floors, and many rooms offering direct ocean views that stretch endlessly toward the horizon. The mansion rooms capture the grandeur of the Gilded Age while providing contemporary comfort.

Private Bungalows & Cottage: Three separate bungalows and one cottage provide more secluded accommodations for those seeking extra privacy.

These individual structures maintain the property’s historic charm while offering a more intimate island experience. You’ll appreciate the additional space and the feeling of having your own private retreat within this exclusive oceanfront compound.

The Lopez House: Four additional rooms round out the property’s offerings, providing varied accommodation styles to suit different preferences.

Each space maintains the boutique hotel’s commitment to elegance and comfort, ensuring every guest experiences the same level of luxury regardless of which building they choose.

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Infinity Pool Paradise: The heated, zero-entry infinity pool creates a seamless visual connection between the pool water and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

You’ll spend hours lounging on comfortable poolside chairs under umbrellas, watching boats drift by while sipping craft cocktails. The pool operates from 8 AM to 10 PM daily, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this spectacular feature.

Seaside Dining & Island Atmosphere

Famous Lobster Pizza: The on-site Seaside Café serves what many consider Key West’s most unique culinary creation—lobster pizza that perfectly marries Caribbean flavors with Italian tradition. You’ll discover this isn’t just a gimmick but a genuinely delicious dish that has earned recognition as the #1 island eatery.

Craft Cocktails & Mansion Mojitos: The full-service bar specializes in tropical cocktails that capture the essence of island living.

Their signature Mansion Mojitos use fresh mint and premium rum, while their margaritas feature top-shelf tequila and fresh-squeezed lime juice. You’ll find the bartenders knowledgeable about both classic cocktails and innovative island creations.

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Cuban Coffee & Continental Breakfast: Each morning from 8-10 AM, you’ll enjoy locally ground and roasted Cuban coffee alongside fresh pastries, bagels, eggs, cheese, cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, and fresh fruit. The breakfast includes gluten-free options and is served in spaces with ocean views, making your morning meal feel like a special occasion.

Historic Victorian Elegance Meets Modern Comfort

Queen Anne Architecture: The mansion’s distinctive architectural style features ornate woodwork, wraparound porches, and the characteristic asymmetrical facade typical of Queen Anne Victorian homes.

You’ll notice intricate details throughout the property that speak to the craftsmanship of the 1890s era.

Oceanfront Location: Unlike many Key West accommodations, the Southernmost House sits directly on the ocean with unobstructed Atlantic views.

You’ll hear waves lapping at the shoreline and enjoy cooling ocean breezes that naturally air-condition the property. The location provides a more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling heart of Duval Street.

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Period Furnishings & Décor: Each room features carefully selected antiques and period-appropriate furnishings that transport you back to the Gilded Age.

You’ll find four-poster beds, vintage armoires, and decorative elements that reflect the mansion’s rich history while maintaining modern comfort standards.

Intimate Scale: With only 18 rooms total, the property maintains an exclusive, boutique atmosphere where you’ll receive personalized attention. The small scale ensures the property never feels crowded and preserves the feeling of staying in a private mansion rather than a large hotel.

Practical Considerations & Guest Experience

Premium Pricing: Expect to pay upscale boutique hotel rates, typically starting around $325 per night depending on season and room type.

The pricing reflects the property’s unique historical significance, prime oceanfront location, and boutique scale. Most guests find the rates justified given the exclusive experience and unparalleled setting.

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Adults-Only Policy: The property maintains an adults-only atmosphere, with bachelor and bachelorette parties specifically not welcome.

This policy preserves the refined, peaceful environment that many guests seek when visiting Key West. You’ll appreciate the mature, sophisticated clientele this policy attracts.

On-Site Parking: Guaranteed parking costs $25 daily, which many guests consider reasonable given Key West’s notoriously difficult parking situation. Having secure, on-site parking eliminates the stress of finding street parking in the busy Duval Street area.

Concierge Services: Knowledgeable staff provide personal assistance from 8 AM to 10 PM, helping you plan activities, make dinner reservations, and navigate Key West’s attractions. Their local expertise proves invaluable for discovering hidden gems and avoiding tourist traps.

Prime Location Benefits: While situated on Duval Street, the property occupies the quieter southern end, giving you easy walking access to nightlife and attractions while maintaining a more peaceful atmosphere.

You’re minutes from the Southernmost Point marker and other Key West landmarks.


The Mansion on the Sea (Southernmost House)
📍 1400 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040

Writer: Jamie Benson
Click to read bio

Jamie grew up just outside of Springfield, Illinois, and has spent most of his life exploring the state’s mix of small-town charm and big-city energy. After earning a journalism degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, he stuck around to cover local events, hidden gems, and the quirks that make Illinois unique. When not writing, Jamie can usually be found digging through vinyl at record shops in Chicago, hiking trails in Starved Rock State Park, or tracking down the best deep-dish pizza outside the city.