Cheeca Lodge & Spa

With the feel of a private Caribbean island and no passport required, Cheeca Lodge & Spa in the Florida Keys is an antidote for ho-hum business meetings. Located on Islamorada Key 79 miles from Miami International Airport, the resort boasts “barefoot elegance” on a 27-acre oceanfront property filled with gardens, nature trails, streams, and sparkling pools.

The 214 recently renovated guest rooms and suites feature stylish coastal décor with ocean, garden, or golf course views. Guests who must stay in touch with the outside world appreciate large-screen plasma TVs and wireless high-speed internet.

Among the 4,600 square feet of meeting rooms is the Bougainvillea Ballroom, which features capiz shell chandeliers and French doors that open to a courtyard. In addition to several beautiful outdoor venues, groups can board the resort’s 49-passenger motorized catamaran for out-of-the-box gatherings on the sea.

The island lifestyle inspires many amenities throughout Cheeca Lodge, including its signature restaurant, Atlantic’s Edge. Other dining options include sushi at Nikai and Italian classics at Mia Cucina. Guests find plenty of entertainment and relaxation as well. This spring brings the addition of a brand-new oceanfront pool — the property’s third — and a second tiki bar. Yoga classes, a full-service spa, a fishing pier with free equipment rentals, and endless water sports also help fill the leisurely days after business is done.