I’m not a Keys hater—I’m just not a Keys lover. Given the chance to travel anywhere in Florida, I’ll always choose the west coast with its miles of sandy beaches and sprawling resorts. Key West is, well, the opposite. Accommodations are usually boutique-y, and going for a swim in the ocean means getting on a boat. Thanks, but no thanks—unless you’re taking me to Lunara Bay.
I quickly changed my tune about Keys life after a weekend in this new oceanfront development near Stock Island, just minutes from Key West proper. Bookable on Airbnb, the luxury homes are massive—upscale, newly built conch houses with state-of-the-art appliances, modern furnishings, and space for you and your closest friends. The spate of homes can host anywhere from eight to 20 guests—if you can believe it—ranging from four to eight bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. Plus, each home has its own private dock, saltwater pool and outdoor sitting area complete with a grill, sound system, wet bar and fire pit. Truly, a dream rental.
We stayed in the Joyrise House, a three-story, 6-bedroom/6-bath beauty that looked straight out of a Crate & Barrel catalog. I can say this confidently after flipping over every vase and checking under every chair, rug, dresser and cushion for the maker—yes, I wanted inspo for my own home. I was that impressed. The chef in our group was equally dazzled by the Viking gas range, matching Viking fridge, and icemaker. Let’s just say both of us considered extending our stay… permanently.
More than an Airbnb
Guests of Lunara Bay are assigned a Guest Experience Manager (GEM), basically a personal concierge to see to your every need before, during and after your stay. Our GEM checked in pre-arrival for a grocery list to stock our fridge, sent restaurant and sightseeing recs, and curated a thoughtful Key West itinerary. We texted throughout our stay, and our GEM always responded quickly. When we scrambled to meet our 10am checkout (honestly, the only downside), we left behind valuables, which housekeeping secured and our GEM safely shipped back.
Brightwild operates Lunara Bay (and several other properties) plus an excursion arm with sandbar trips, snorkeling and blissfully chill booze cruises—which we took and loved. I half-expected a rowdy Duval Street crowd on the water, but our mid-afternoon ride was smooth and laid-back. After cruising for about an hour, we found our sandbar and spent another 90 minutes wading in shallow waters before heading back. The pontoon boat was pristine (yes, even the bathroom!) and beer, wine and a sandwich lunch were included. A definite upgrade from my past Keys experiences.
Embrace Key West at Lunara Bay
Key West is only as fun as your company, and Lunara Bay gives you the space to bring all your favorite people. As a home base, it’s close enough for sightseeing, meals or a big night out on Duval Street—without racking up ridiculous Uber fares. Ensuite bathrooms make every room feel like a mini hotel, complete with Salt & Stone and Grown Alchemist body products. The spacious living room and outdoor space give everyone a place to hang out and daydream about life in a mansion this size. For now, we’ll plan our next getaway.
Time Out visited Lunara Bay on a hosted stay. For information on our policies around editorial independence, reviews and recommendations, see our editorial guidelines.