Overall The location is terrific for exploring the Keys and sampling the restaurants and attractions offered there. If you want a fishing, water oriented vacation in the Keys outside of Key West, the Cheeca Lodge offers a good alternative, though I thought the prices were a bit high for the value. Perhaps the renovation work will spruce up the old grand dame.
Class Of Accommodation Four diamonds; member Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Length Of Stay One night, two days
Location: Approximately an hour south of Miami in the Florida Keys
Opened 1946 as the Olney Inn
Ownership-Management Purchased by Cheeca Holdings, LLC, a venture comprised of Johnson Resort Properties, The Falor Companies. Management by Rock Resorts
Restaurants Food was standard hotel fare, slightly better at times.
Size 203 rooms, suites
Lobby And Common Areas Air conditioned, island décor. There was a mild humid odor.
Bathrooms Comfortable, with a large shower
Rooms Comfortable, and by Keys standards, luxurious. My room had an excellent view of the ocean and adjacent porch.
Amenities Pleasant soaps and bathroom amenties.
Facilities A large (by Keys standards) 1,100 foot stretch of white sand beach; 525-foot fishing pier; Avanyu spa and fitness center; four Jacuzzis; restaurant; lounge; poolside grill; six lighted tennis courts and pro available for lessons; two heated swimming pools and a wading pool; salt water lagoon; water sports and dive center; fishing charters; recreation center for children (6-12); Jack Nicklaus designed par-3, 9-hole golf course and lessons; large (42,000 square foot) conference center; 27 acres of landscaped gardens; sports and sundry shop; video center.
Conference Facilities Good
Other The property is lovely and offers a wealth of choices. When I was there it seemed a bit run down for the prices. There was a strong smell of garbage on my way from my room to the main building. To avoid it I had to walk on the beach side and get sand in my shoes.
Check-In-Check-Out Process Ease Excellent
Cleanliness Good
Date Of Review November 2001
Ease Of Reserving A Room Arranged by third party without difficulty
Overall Service Service in the hotel and its facilities was good. I found the staff helpful and pleasant.
Would You Stay There Again Yes
