Established in 1946 on 27 oceanfront acres in Islamorada, Cheeca Lodge & Spa commands one of the Florida Keys' most coveted stretches of coastline. With $50,000 initiation fees and invite-only membership, this beachfront enclave serves 500 member families across three distinct 9-hole courses designed by Jack Nicklaus.
At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Islamorada, Florida Keys |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Golf Holes | 27 (three 9-hole courses) |
| Golf Architect | Jack Nicklaus |
| Initiation Fee | $50,000 |
| Membership | Invite Only |
| Oceanfront Acreage | 27 acres |
| Primary Amenities | Golf, spa, tennis, beach access, water sports |
Dining
The resort operates four distinct dining venues, each positioned to capture different aspects of the Keys dining experience. The flagship oceanfront restaurant serves 200 covers nightly during peak season, with a wine cellar housing over 1,500 selections. The casual beachside grill processes approximately 300 lunch orders daily, specializing in locally sourced stone crab and yellowtail snapper.
Member dining privileges extend to priority reservations and a 20% discount across all outlets. The resort's executive chef sources 60% of seafood directly from local Islamorada fishing boats, with daily catches determining evening specials. Private dining rooms accommodate groups from 8 to 40 guests, with advance booking required during the December-April high season.
Spa & Wellness
The Cheeca Lodge & Spa facility spans 8,500 square feet across two floors, housing 8 treatment rooms and a dedicated couples suite. Treatment menus feature 32 services, with signature therapies incorporating local ingredients including sea salt harvested from nearby flats and coconut oil from regional groves.
The spa processes approximately 150 treatments weekly during peak season, with advance booking recommended 14 days prior for weekend appointments. Member rates reflect a 15% discount off published prices, with package deals available for multiple services. The facility operates daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, extending hours to 9:00 PM on weekends.
Wellness programming includes daily yoga sessions on the oceanfront deck, accommodating up to 20 participants. The fitness center houses 25 pieces of equipment, including 8 cardio machines with ocean views. Personal training services are available through certified instructors, with rates starting at $85 per hour for members.
Aquatics
The resort maintains three distinct aquatic environments across its 27-acre footprint. The main resort pool measures 75 feet in length, featuring a swim-up bar that serves 150 beverages daily during peak periods. Pool service operates from 10:00 AM to sunset, with attendants providing towel service and food delivery from the beachside grill.
A separate adult-only pool area encompasses 1,200 square feet, reserved exclusively for members and resort guests over 21. This facility features 12 poolside cabanas, available for daily rental at $150 per day during high season.
The resort's 525 feet of private beach provides direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, with water sports equipment available through the on-site marina. Beach service includes 40 chaise lounges and 20 umbrellas, positioned to accommodate tidal variations throughout the day.
Tennis
The tennis facility features 2 hard courts positioned to minimize wind interference, a critical consideration given the Keys' consistent 15-mph trade winds. Court surfaces receive resurfacing every 18 months, with the most recent renovation completed in late 2023.
Professional instruction is available through the resident tennis professional, who conducts private lessons at $80 per hour for members. Group clinics accommodate up to 6 players and operate twice weekly during peak season. Court reservations can be made up to 7 days in advance, with a 2-hour maximum during weekend prime time slots.
Equipment rental includes premium racquets and ball machines for practice sessions. The pro shop stocks apparel from three major tennis brands, with member discounts of 10% on all merchandise purchases.
Family
Family programming operates year-round, with expanded offerings during school holiday periods. The Kids Club serves children ages 4-12, operating from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with professional supervision. Activities include snorkeling lessons in the resort's protected lagoon, nature walks through the on-site botanical garden, and fishing instruction from the resort's pier.
The resort's game room houses 8 arcade games, 2 pool tables, and a selection of board games for indoor entertainment during inclement weather. Family movie nights occur twice weekly on the beach, weather permitting, with screenings beginning at sunset.
Children's dining menus are available across all restaurant outlets, featuring both adventurous local seafood options and traditional favorites. The resort maintains a supply of beach toys, boogie boards, and snorkeling equipment sized for young guests.
Social
The resort's event calendar includes 24 major social functions annually, ranging from holiday celebrations to themed dinner parties. The main ballroom accommodates up to 200 guests, while smaller reception areas handle intimate gatherings of 25-50 members.
Monthly wine tastings feature selections from the resort's extensive cellar, typically showcasing 6-8 varietals with expert-led tastings beginning at 6:00 PM. Participation is limited to 30 members per session, with advance registration required.
The resort coordinates seasonal fishing tournaments, including the annual billfish competition that attracts participants from across South Florida's private club network. Social golf events occur monthly, featuring different formats from scrambles to member-guest competitions.
Live entertainment performs three nights weekly during peak season, featuring jazz quartets, acoustic guitarists, and occasional larger ensembles for special celebrations. The oceanfront terrace serves as the primary entertainment venue, with backup indoor locations available during weather interruptions.
