Anybody been to Cheeca Lodge lately?
 

We are planning a trip to the Keys in mid-MArch with two teenagers and have made reservations at Cheeca LOdge upon the recommendation of a friend who'd been there awhile back. Lately I've been seeing that some of the more recent reviews are rather negative, with comments about a lck of upkeep and cleanliness. HAs anyone been there lately? Has anyone been to The Moorings? Which would you recommned? Thanks in advance.

It has probably been about 6 years since we were at the Cheeca Lodge, and I would be sad to think it is not being kept up. While we were there, we had friends staying at the Moorings. Their "cabin" was lovely-with top of the line everything. They were right on the beach so they had a great view from their front porch. It was very quiet there. My impression was that it was for those seeking seclusion. I do know that they were able to use all the facilities over at the Cheeca. Sorry I can't give you more up-to-date info.

It's been several years since I was at the Cheeca Lodge, too, so I can't give you any recent information. However I think your teens would be bored to death at the Moorings, which as the above poster notes, is primarily geared to adults seeking seclusion.

Have you considered going on down to Key West? There are LOTS of things there to entertain people of all ages.

My first reservation was to stay at Cheeca Lodge with my 14 and 17 year old. Then I found out that the beaches weren't great there and they really wanted a beach. The facility sounded fine but I also read the same reviews that you did. However,the fishing is suppose to be incredible if they like that. I finally decided to try Naples which has is suppose to have lovely beaches and lots to do. Who knows that may end up being bad also. I will say that if my husband wasn't so sick of going to SouthSeas Plantation in Captiva Island Florida that's where we'd go. It's great for families of all ages. If you haven't been there check it out.

My wife and I stayed at Cheeca last year and really enjoyed ourselves. We did find the resort to be slightly expensive in terms of value (you pretty much get nickel and dimed on all of the activities (e.g., using the gym, the 9-hole golf course, sea kayaks, etc.). However, it's very relaxing, the food is quite good--especially the casual dining in the bar, and the service is good. We did not find the resort to be "run down" in any way--the rooms are low key but elegant and if you have an ocean front balcony, it's probably the most relaxing spot to drink coffee and read a book while watching the sunrise in the continental US. All that being said, if we ever went back, the Moorings would absolutely be our destination of choice--the surroundings are exquisite, more remote, and less crowded. We didn't have teens though who may enjoy the activities and action at Cheeca. Either way, Morada Bay is walking distance to both hotels and by far the best dining experience in the mid-Keys. Have fun.

We enjoyed Cheeca lodge. We were there about 2 yrs ago with our then 7 yr old son. He went to the kids camp and had a great time. Yes, they were a bit overpriced for what you got but the location really can't be beat. We had a great room right on the water and enjoyed our stay. We're actually thinking of going back to the Keys again this April and would love to try a new place. If anyone has any ideas for a nice, family resort in the area, let me know. We're thinking of going back to Hawk's Cay - not sure yet. Feel free to send advice/ideas. Thanks!