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While the Florida Keys may be a sport fisherman’s paradise, many visitors are content to enjoy the catch of the day at Atlantic’s Edge, the premier dining spot in Islamorada at the famed Cheeca Lodge & Spa.

Rated first in the “Top Food” category by Zagat’s Guide to South Florida Restaurants, the seaside eatery not only offers an array of steaks and local fresh seafood, but will prepare your daily catch — either grilled, blackened, onion encrusted or fried — add the side dishes and even recommend the perfect bottle of wine to conclude a perfect day of fishing in the area’s pristine waters.

While dining makes up a significant part of any weekend getaway — and Cheeca offers enough culinary variety that you never need to leave the property, including the delectable Nikai Sushi — relaxation and recreation are paramount to your experience and this four-star resort delivers.

From its 525-foot wooden fishing pier to its 1,100-foot palm-lined private beach, saltwater lagoon and two heated pools, Cheeca offers amenities to fill an active day or one of sheer relaxation. The daily resort fee is inclusive of golf on their Jack Nicklaus-designed 9-hole par 3 course, tennis, kayaks, paddleboards, fitness studio, bicycles and much more. And for the ultimate in relaxation, The Spa at Cheeca Lodge offers a full range of spa treatments ranging from a signature hot lava shell massage to a skin-refresher facial to a detoxifying bath with stimulating sea algae.

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Getting There

Located at Marker 82 on U.S. Hwy 1/Overseas Highway between Key Largo and Marathon, Cheeca Lodge is just a little over a 4-hour drive from Melbourne. You can break up the trip by stopping for lunch in West Palm or Boca Raton and still make it down to Islamorada with plenty of time to walk the beach, book your massage or fishing charter, enjoy a tropical beverage poolside and catch a sunset.

Following an almost year-long $30 million renovation that resulted from a 2008 New Year’s Eve fire, Cheeca upped the luxury quotient while maintaining the grounds’ tropical garden feel including the majestic porte cochere main entrance. Its opulent 214 rooms and suites, designed in rich West Indies décor, are an oasis of relaxation and comfort, complemented by thoughtful frills such as plush robes, private lanais with romantic open-air soaking tubs, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Whether it’s a romantic escape, girls’ weekend or family vacation, Cheeca Lodge is a perfect getaway destination.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa
81801 Overseas Highway (Marker 82,) Islamorada
(305) 664-4651 | Cheeca.com