Cheeca Lodge or condo in Tavernier?

Question

Coming in June for three nights around Key Largo/Islamorada. Debating between Cheeca Lodge or a two-bedroom condo at Ocean Pointe. We have two teenagers, one who loves to fish. I’ve been eyeing Cheeca just because the beach looks so nice and it gets great reviews. However, having two teens, it’s nice to have separate spaces and having a washer/dryer is a huge plus.

Both spaces are priced about the same. Which would you choose? Thanks!

Answer

Choosing between Cheeca Lodge and a two-bedroom condo at Ocean Pointe depends on what type of experience your family values more—resort amenities and beachfront luxury or privacy and convenience for a longer family-style stay.

Cheeca Lodge is a classic luxury resort in Islamorada, well-known for its beautiful beach, upscale amenities, and a wide range of activities. It offers pools, on-site dining, watersports rentals, and sometimes organized kids/teen activities. It’s ideal if you want a “resort experience” where everything is accessible without leaving the property.

Pros:

Beautiful, walkable beach right on-site.
Resort-style amenities including pools, restaurants, and spa.
Reputable reviews for service and cleanliness.

Cons:

Less privacy for teens—rooms are typically standard hotel-style.
No in-room washer/dryer.
More structured environment; less flexibility for self-catering or extended stays.

Ocean Pointe condos in Tavernier offer a more home-like experience with private living spaces, which can be especially helpful for families with teens. A two-bedroom unit allows everyone their own space and typically includes a full kitchen and washer/dryer, which is convenient for a three-night stay if you want to cook, store snacks, or do laundry. Fishing enthusiasts will also appreciate easy access to local piers or private docks depending on the unit.

Pros:

Separate bedrooms provide privacy for teens.
Full kitchen and laundry facilities.
More flexible for self-catering and extended stays.

Cons:

Beach access may be smaller or shared; less resort-style luxury than Cheeca.
Fewer on-site amenities like restaurants, spa, or organized activities.

Decision tips:

If your family wants a classic resort vacation with everything at your fingertips and the kids are okay sharing a room, Cheeca Lodge is the better choice.
If privacy, space, and the ability to cook or do laundry are higher priorities—especially with teenagers—Ocean Pointe condo will provide more flexibility and independence.
Consider your teenager’s fishing interest: if you want easy dock or fishing access, check which property offers better options nearby.

In short, Cheeca Lodge is for luxury, beach, and resort experience; Ocean Pointe is for space, privacy, and family flexibility. Since the pricing is similar, it really comes down to whether you value resort amenities more than separate living space and convenience.

Cheeca Lodge or condo in Tavernier?

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