Cheeca Lodge & Spa, the iconic 27-acre independent, luxury resort will officially re-open its doors on March 30th. Located in Islamorada, the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Cheeca returns following a 6-month closure due to the impact of Hurricane Irma. The tropical paradise will welcome guests back to a refreshed and reimagined aesthetic that restores its classic moniker of barefoot elegance through a modern-day lens. The legendary Islamorada property reintroduces the seamless blend of oceanside luxury and casual comfort through a $25 million renovation that touches every aspect of the resort; including the main lodge and all 214 guestrooms, suites and bungalows to meeting and event spaces, serene spa, multiple dining outlets and stunning palm-fringed grounds.
Beginning with the grand arrival experience, guests can expect to be welcomed back to the lush, verdant landscaping that is synonymous with the island escape that is Cheeca Lodge. To help with the renovation and redesign process, award winning design firm EoA Group was tasked to breathe new life into some of the property’s marquee features, including its iconic main lodge. Capturing the charm of the Florida Keys while also highlighting the property’s rich history, the newly designed lobby is inviting, approachable and understated; speaking to both the essence of the destination and the resort’s signature, warm island hospitality. Much like the ebbs and flows of the surrounding bodies of water, the space reflects a fluid design that focuses on connectivity from the moment a guest walks through the doors. The welcome desks become integrated into the social fabric of the new lobby lounge which, in turn, leads to Cheeca’s flagship restaurant, Atlantic’s Edge, inviting guests to embark on a journey of discovery throughout the resort. Upon entering the lobby, attention is immediately drawn to a stunning original work of art that majestically spans the length of the welcome desk. Created by local Islamorada artist, Elena Madden, the tri-panel painting depicts Cheeca’s signature tarpon, a magnificent silver-scaled fish engaged in a well-choreographed dance with a patient fly-fisherman. This dance foreshadows the spirit of Cheeca - unrushed, elegant, classic and memorable.
The colors and textures of the lobby and adjacent bar speak to the colors and textures of the surrounding Islamorada flats and the naturally weathered woods of a waterfront location. The pallate incorporated throughout the space span from reclaimed, ocean-worn wood to smooth dark walnut; a reference to an eclectic mix of driftwood found on a nearby beach. These sandy, natural tones are accented with outcroppings of vivid green and aqua colors that relate to the ocean hues when the sea depths vary with the changing tides. The lobby bar will invite guests to relax over an inspired, tropical craft cocktail and spirited conversation in a chic island setting that welcomes guests to sit back, relax and stay awhile.
The renovation and redesign of all 214 guestrooms was overseen by award-winning design firm, R.D. Jones. Hints of traditionalism are paired with modern touchpoints in each well-appointed guestroom, continuing the nature-inspired narrative that begins from the moment a guest arrives on property. From fresh new lighting touches and an eclectic mix of materials and furniture, the design speaks to both the nuances of the destination and the rich history of the resort.
Guests will discover a comfortable and airy aesthetic awaits them, perfectly encapsulating the relaxed yet refined nature of the resort. A warm, neutral palate of soft taupe and whites with infusions of coral, light blues and teals create a soothing environment inspired by a day aside the ocean. A carefully curated collection of textures and fabrics were sourced to help create a coastal chic, residential vibe, illustrated in dark, distressed wood finishes, creamy quartz stone and woven rattan accents.
Located in the main lodge, Cheeca’s 64 premier king and double queen bedded suites will reflect new heights of refinement in their design and décor. Each suite exudes more than 800 square feet of tropical elegance personified by chic and comfortable furnishings accented by teal window shutters, hand tufted area rugs and a curated gallery of abstract artwork representative of the destination. An expansive private lanai leads way to spectacular ocean and island facing views alongside Cheeca’s signature, open-air spa tubs.
Cheeca’s most luxurious main lodge offering exists in that of the Islamorada Suite. This oceanfront oasis spans over 1,400 square ft of coastal elegance defined by a spacious living area with elevated furnishings and rich fabrics and a separate king-bedded sleeping quarter outfitted with a custom-designed headboard, stunning upholstery and forged iron wall sconces. A sweeping, fully furnished balcony sets the stage for unparalleled views of the azure Atlantic Ocean. Additional amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, private outdoor soaking tub and ability to accommodate additional guests via an adjoining resort view king-bedded room suite.
Throughout its 27 acres, Cheeca offers 20 unique and versatile room types catering to a cross section of guests; from families to couples, golfers to corporate travelers. Additional room offerings include; adult-only, king bedded beach bungalows, one-bedroom suites and classic king and double queen bedded rooms, all of which have been renovated to reflect this exciting new chapter in Cheeca’s legendary story.
“Returning with our signature barefoot elegance and impeccable tropical ambiance, we’re thrilled to welcome back both locals and visitors to the Florida Keys,” says Bob LaCasse, General Manager of Cheeca Lodge & Spa. “Rich in history, the timeless property has been a staple in the Florida Keys since 1946 and we’re thrilled to reopen with a renovated and refreshed look and feel. We cannot wait to welcome back a new generation of guests and those who have made the hotel an Islamorada tradition over the last 72 years”.
Food & Beverage:
The highly anticipated re-opening will include the introduction of a new dining concept, and new menus at Nikai Sushi Bar & Restaurant as well as Cheeca’s flagship restaurant, Atlantic’s Edge. Opening with a new look of modern, island charm and elegance, the 110-seat Atlantic’s Edge will reinvent its tropically inspired cuisine under the direction of Executive Chef, Philip Lowd. The restaurant’s refreshed take on island inspired cuisine celebrates flavors, cultural influences and native cooking styles of islands from Islamorada to Cuba, Bahamas to Turks & Caicos. Menu highlights include a Roasted Red Snapper with Dragon Fruit, Hibiscus Swordfish and Iberico Pork Roulade, all of which pair perfectly with an international selection of wines and unique craft cocktails. Overlooking panoramic views of the warm Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic's Edge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed yet elegant approach to resort-style dining.
Transporting Naples, Italy into the heart of Islamorada, the property will also debut a new family-friendly Italian concept on March 30, Mia Cucina. The restaurant will open as a warm, Neapolitan pizzeria serving made to order, artisanal pizzas, pastas and salads in a lively, family-friendly setting. Fresh and flavorful menu highlights include Bambini, Margherita and Funghi with Truffle Pizza, Shrimp Scampi Capellini, Heirloom Grape Tomato Caprese, Italian soft drinks, beer and wine, among other reimagined and classic Italian favorites. Available for lunch and dinner, guests can enjoy the interactive Mia Cucina experience in an eclectic, colorful space and high energy ambiance that perfectly pairs with the laidback luxury of Cheeca Lodge.
Additional new menu offerings will be featured at the Japanese-inspired Nikai Sushi Bar and Restaurant, which will now serve up fresh poke bowls, creative ramen dishes, tableside Robata grills, as well as tantalizing nigiri, sashimi, and specialty rolls. A creative, Asian-inspired bar program featuring Sake and craft cocktails further elevates the vegetable and seafood-fusion dining experience to new heights. Offering locally sourced fish, spices and vegetables Nikai will continue to create a dining experience that melds the art of sushi and Japanese cooking with the flavors of the Florida Keys.
The Spa at Cheeca Lodge:
The Spa at Cheeca Lodge and Spa Island, which houses the tranquil, adults-only heated lap pool and poolside cabanas complete with butler service, will open with a new treatment menu inspired by the sea that surrounds it. Featuring a combination of Cheeca’s signature treatments like the Ocean Cocoon Body Wrap and Sea Breeze Massage, Cheeca will also offer a variety of reimagined treatments upon reopening. The completely revitalized 5,700 square foot space will boast seven treatment rooms, including two facial rooms, a wet room with Vichy shower, Hydrotherapy facilities including a steam room and showers and fully-equipped fitness center. To complement the beautiful Florida Keys surroundings, The Spa at Cheeca Lodge also offers tailored spa treatments for any guest’s desires, including oceanside massages and in-room treatments with custom bath set-ups and rose petals.
Meetings, Weddings & Event Capabilities:
Returning as a favorite in South Florida for meetings, groups and destination weddings, the oceanside resort reopens with 4,600 square feet of renovated, versatile indoor event space complemented by countless nontraditional, outdoor venues for intimate affairs and elaborate galas, accommodating 10 to 200 guests. Whether it be a beachside, brainstorming session on the 525-foot fishing pier or a morning meeting on a motorized catamaran, the resort’s dedicated, on-site team of event managers can customize needs and create memorable experiences for any style of meeting, wedding or event.
Additional Amenities:
Diverse and comprehensive offerings, amenities and programming further enhance the guest experience at Cheeca Lodge and exemplify its reputation as the premier destination resort in the Florida Keys. From onsite water sports, to fishing excursions, eco-tours to sunset cruises, an adventure awaits whether on land or at sea. Available for children 5 to12, the environmentally-focused Camp Cheeca is designed to entertain and educate the resort’s youngest guests about Florida Keys wildlife and its surroundings. Additional amenities include; daily tours, six lighted tennis courts, versatile Sports Courts, a Guest Adventures facility, 9-hole par 3 golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, bicycles, exercise classes and a 3,000 square foot signature store.
Debuting in May 2018:
Working in harmony with the existing family pool, replacing what was once the saltwater lagoon, the resort will also unveil a brand-new oceanfront pool in May 2018. Offering poolside lounges and new cabanas, accessible to all guests, this oceanfront pool will expand Cheeca’s aquatic offerings to three on-property pools. Also being introduced in May is a second Tiki Bar, fittingly named South 25. The ocean view bar will feature all-day casual dining options including mouthwatering Lobster Grilled Cheese and fresh Fish Tacos, in addition to creative and refreshing island-inspired cocktails. Designed to connect Cheeca to the water’s edge, both concepts will give guests the opportunity to be even closer to the beautiful and serene, Atlantic Ocean which surrounds the property.
Cheeca Lodge is located on 27 lush acres in Islamorada, FL, just 90 minutes from both Miami and Key West. With more than 500 species of fish inhabiting its waters, Islamorada is considered the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” Combining chic, coastal luxury and rich history with the comfortable and casual island atmosphere of The Florida Keys, new and returning guests will discover new, unique and unforgettable experiences, when the legend returns on March 30th 2018. Welcome back rates will begin at $159 and can be made by visiting www.Cheeca.com or calling 844-933-9713.
