Butterfly Garden Flat

A slice of Old Key West paradise in an important historic tree garden. Completely hidden from the street, this authentic Butterfly Garden Flat is beautifully decorated in Bohemian luxury style. The bathroom walls feature a 360 degree wall mural painted by famous Caribbean artist David Wegman. The flat provides two private entrances off a large gated property. If you've stayed here before, you'll be happy to learn that In January 2021 it was refreshed with new paint, some new furnishings, all new kitchen appliances, and amenities listed below. This is a favorite place of ours, a special authentic retreat for a couple or single who want to enjoy the peaceful side of Key West, relax and work remotely.

The Butterfly Garden Flat features a private covered bricked front porch spanning the width of the house. Step out the front door and enjoy your private porch nestled in a beautiful meditation area hidden in the trees. The porch is furnished with a teak dining table and chairs and cushioned armchairs for relaxing. Rest and rejuvenate in the freshness of the mature tropical trees and watch for the butterflies. The large historic property is filled with tall giant white birds of paradise, a variety of palm trees, a plethora of thatch palms, native hardwood trees, a starburst tree, giant mahogany trees, black bamboo, a variety of tropical understory plants. As gardens do, it changes with the tropical seasons.

A Bit of History: This property has an interesting and colorful history. It was originally created in the 1930's by Ms. Molly Parker, a practicing lawyer and progressive woman with a vision for the future. She planted this private garden as part of an effort by the City of Key West to attract tourists to the island during The Great Depression. The ethos of the island was focused on it's incredible nature, both on the land and in the surrounding sea. It has been shared by Key West locals, who grew up on the island, that Molly Parker ran with Ernest Hemingway and his crowd, and hosted poker parties in the former orchid house. Ms. Parker is also credited for planting most of the mahogany trees on the island and one of the largest ones still stands in the back yard of this house. This was Ms. Parker's home, and when she planted the trees and understory, it was 'out in the countryside of Key West,' and spanned what is now an entire City block! This was made possible by the fresh water well on this property that has never run dry.

When researching the origin of this special garden, we were thrilled to find original tourism fliers advertising it, as well as a 1939 Key West Citizen Newspaper article. It stated then what we still enjoy today "visitors find what imaginations have pictured ..." lavish growth of tropical vegetation, fragrant flowers, and slender stemmed palms cutting the skyline, velvety butterflies idling in the sunshine. (The Key West Citizen, Dec. 27, 1939). We invite you to come and relax in this secret garden that was imagined and created over 80 years ago, and now lovingly maintained.

The Property Today: There are two private homes on this historic property. They were both built and have been maintained as havens to connect with nature. The tranquility of this historic tropical forest helps to wash away the demands and stresses of life. When you are ready for the beach you are just a short stroll away from white sands, turquoise waters, and historic piers at Higgs Beach. It is an easy walk to White Street where you find Fausto's Fine Foods grocery store, walk up Cuban coffee stores, some excellent restaurants, and local art galleries.

Bedding Summary:


1 King size bed


Amenities: Large well maintained forest garden with private bricked front porch. King size bed with romantic hoop netting in the bedroom. Split system A/C in main living area, flat screen TV, cable, high speed wifi, C/D player, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, garbage disposal, refrigerator with icemaker, large Jacuzzi soaking tub, linens and towels provided, use of washer / dryer.

Activities: Within 5 minute stroll to Higgs Beach, White Street Pier, West Martello Fort, tennis and pickleball courts near the beach, Key West famous SALUTE! on the Beach Restaurant and Bar on Higgs Beach, Casa Marina Resort property, Faustos Fine Grocery Store, Sandy's Café walk up restaurant and Cuban coffee, local art galleries, and weather station. Walk or bike to most Key West Old Town attractions.

Area: This small exclusive Casa Marina residential district has grown into one of the most sought after neighborhoods in Old Town Key West. In the mid 1900's this area was considered the "country side" of the island, and the modern day result leaves a legacy of outstanding turn-of-the-century, mid-century and modern architecture with beautiful foliage and more yard space than is typically found in the other residential districts in Old Town Key West. Quiet residential area, close to the Atlantic Ocean, Higg's Beach and the White Street gallery and shopping area.

Restrictions: Smoke free house. No pets please. We do not accept guests less than 25 years of age unless accompanied by a family group or guardian.