Florida Weekly - Island Escape Redefined

Published on April 17, 2025

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Hawks Cay is reimagining what a Florida Keys getaway can be in the heart of the Florida Keys, Hawks Cay Resort has long been a favorite for families, couples and adventure seekers. This one-of-a-kind destination located at mile marker 61 on Duck Key now features an exciting wave of enhancements and upgrades.

The 60-acre tropical resort is setting a new standard for hospitality. From celebrity chef-led dining to a transformed marina to an expanded wellness offering, the future looks brighter than ever at Hawks Cay.

The biggest headline in Hawks Cay’s refresh is the debut of Salt + Ash, the brainchild of Top Chef winner and Michelin starred chef Jeremy Ford. This contemporary restaurant redefines American coastal cuisine, focusing on elevated farm-to-table and fresh-from-the-sea ingredients.

“Jeremy’s incredible talent is evident in the Michelin ratings his concepts earn, and his commitment to fresh, local ingredients perfectly aligns with our vision,” says Reggie Cooper, Managing Director, Hawks Cay Resort. “We’re not just offering a meal; we’re creating memorable experiences that showcase the very best of our island paradise.”

And when Chef Ford says farm to table, he means it! He grows much of his own produce on his farm in South Miami.

“Half of it comes from our farm, about an hour and 45 minutes north of here in the Redlands,” explains Ford. “I think just the love and care about what we’re eating really dawned on me.”

The resort’s culinary upgrades don’t stop there. Try the adults-only Pilar Bar, a nod to Ernest Hemingway’s adventurous spirit. Or visit a dining staple, like the marina-side “Angler & Ale” and the casual Tiki Grill, which now includes a new raw bar.

Hawks Cay’s 177 guest rooms and suites have received a sophisticated refresh, complete with upgraded furnishings and modern amenities. The resort’s accommodations offer stylish comfort and stunning views of the Keys’ aquamarine waters and lush tropical landscaping.

Hawks Cay’s villa collection stands out for larger groups or longer stays. These residential-style units come with full kitchens and two- or three-bedroom layouts, giving guests privacy, home space, and access to all the resort’s luxurious amenities. With their family-ready features, the villas are a goto choice for those seeking a true Florida Keys home base.

Boaters and anglers, take note: the Hawks Cay Marina—already the largest and deepest in the Keys—is undergoing a transformative, multi-phase renovation. Set to be completed by fall 2025, the new marina will boast 85 boat slips and a vibrant boardwalk-style atmosphere designed for both serious seafarers and casual explorers.

In the meantime, guests can get a taste of what’s to come at the new Ship Store, which offers everything from fishing gear and bait to apparel, snacks, and essentials. It’s a promising preview of the marina’s future as a lively waterfront destination.

The resort also offers a range of activities, from offshore and backcountry fishing to diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

A member of the Preferred Hotel Group Lifestyle Collection, guests can participate in tennis programs, daily dolphin encounters, and exclusive water excursions, all within a safe and serene setting.

Relaxation takes center stage with the newly enhanced Calm Waters Spa. This serene sanctuary is being upgraded with a cold plunge pool, a new sauna and steam room, and an expanded fitness center featuring the latest cardio, strength training, and group fitness capabilities.

Signature treatments like the Key Lime Scrub and ELEMIS facials remain staples, but these upgrades provide guests with even more ways to unwind, rejuvenate, and reset.

Hawks Cay has always been a family friendly haven. Coral Cay, the resort’s central hub for family activities, is home to the Camp Hawk Kid’s Club and is being reimagined with an updated welcome area, refreshed seating, and a series of new interactive spaces.

The resort already boasts many kid-approved amenities, including a game room, a golf putting course, and sports courts. And on the horizon is a new water park, sure to be a splashy hit.

In keeping with its commitment to education and sustainability, Hawks Cay is also continuing its partnership with I.CARE, a marine conservation and coral restoration group. This collaboration provides meaningful programming for Camp Hawk, allowing kids to learn about ocean ecosystems while having fun.

While the upgrades are forward-thinking, Hawks Cay hasn’t lost touch with its roots as a Florida Keys tradition for over 40 years.

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