Fodor's Expert Review Hawks Cay Resort

Hawks Cay is an island unto itself, a sprawling playground for adults and families alike. Swim with dolphins, charter a boat, expand your palate in a variety of restaurants, or do nothing but soak in the views.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Families love Hawks Cay, however, if you don’t have kids, you may prefer to visit when school is in session.

room

There are rooms to fit every budget and need, from good-sized hotel rooms to spacious multi-bedrooms villas with a private pool, but each is decorated in a similar Caribbean flair. Buttercream-colored walls, dark wood furnishings, upscale designer touches, some even have a fully equipped kitchen with stainless appliances. All have a balcony with seating.

YOU SHOULD KNOW While plantation-style blinds are aesthetically pleasing, they are brutal on those who wake or can’t sleep when light peeks through. And it will peek through. Bring an eye mask.

bathroom

Depends on your choice of accommodations, but overall, you'll find tumbled marble, new vanities, soothing colors, and some even provide a built-in vanity area with a stool for the ladies, and samplings of their private key lime products.

lobby

It’s a little like grand central station. Since the lobby building is your gateway to pools, restaurants, the tropical lagoon, and other venues (including Starbucks), it's usually buzzing with guests. It is lovely though, with vaulted tray ceilings, stylish rotating ceiling fans, chandeliers, large sofa seatings, and oversized displays of red ginger blooms and tropical foliage (gorgeous!).

YOU SHOULD KNOW You'll be hit with a $39 a day resort fee, so don't be shocked. It includes things like Wi-Fi, transportation, and use of the tennis courts.

pool

In total, there are five pools, so you’ll have to find your favorite, but they range from the main resort pool with a long line of chocolate brown loungers and bright umbrellas to a pirate ship pool experience for the kids. Adults, have no fear, the Tranquility Pool was designed with you mind (ages 21+) and you can indulge in poolside food and drink service. The saltwater lagoon counts as another swimming option.

If you dream of vacationing in Florida with your own private pool, you can do it here. Book your accommodations in The Sanctuary and swim in your own backyard.

spa

If you long to be pampered, make an appointment at the renovated Calm Waters Spa. It's 7,000 square feet of relaxation and indulgence with 8 treatment rooms, tranquil and modern relaxation rooms, and all the spa bells and whistles you'd expect. We recommend trying the Key Lime Mojito. No, it’s not a cocktail--it’s a decadent head-to-toe treatment that involves key lime oils. The aroma is intoxicating.

dining

What are you in the mood for? You'll find several different culinary experiences, from fine dining to casual fare--five venues in total and one adjective that they all have in common is "pricey." Play dress-up one evening at Alma and treat yourself to elegantly prepared fresh catch of the day ($35+). Or, come as you are to Angler & Ale. Burgers start at $14 but at least they’re big and tasty.

activities

Take a stroll at Marina Walk, a dockside destination where you'll find food, drinks, ice cream, local art, and entertainment. This is where you'll find Angler & Ale. If you don't want a full meal, at least pop in for a drink and their near-famous tuna nachos.

kids club

Coral Cay Activities & Adventure is where kids (ages 5-12) and teens (ages 13-17) can have a blast without their parents. Pay for a half- or full-day and they'll get to do all kinds of cool things, like make shark tooth necklaces, play sports, eat popcorn, create art, swim, snorkel, or just hang out playing Wii, Xbox, and Playstation. It's all supervised so you can relax and go have fun, too. No wonder it's been named Best Hotel Kids Program.