"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What was your first impression?Just when you thought you crossed all of the bridges connecting the Keys, you’ll turn off the highway and onto yet another one, which serves as a grand entrance to Hawks Cay. Surrounded by water, this polished Floridian resort looks and feels like a true island getaway. What’s the backstory?Hawks Cay isn’t part of a larger chain; it is however, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Tell us all about the accommodations. What can we expect from our rooms?Rooms are fresh and sophisticated, with hardwood floors, comfortable beds, and beach cottage-style furnishings and accents. Patios can overlook the resort grounds or, better yet, the pool. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is included in the daily resort fee and generally works well. A couple of our phone calls dropped in windy weather, though. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Most of the resort’s restaurants are located in the heart of the property overlooking the pool and lagoon. There are plenty of spots to grab lunch and a cocktail—there’s even an adults-only spot—but the best of the bunch is Angler and Ale on the Hawks Cay Marina, with great views and terrific seafood. How was the service? The staff is warm and gives a little extra when they can—we got a late checkout for no apparent reason at all. Food arrives promptly at the restaurants, although there can often be a wait to be seated. Nobody’s in a rush here, but they’re nice so you don’t particularly care. What type of travelers will you find here?Families, many with young children. Besides the hotel, what else is around here?Duck Key is quieter than many of the other islands—it’s just the resort and luxury homes around the marina. It’ll take you about 15 minutes to get to Marathon to the west and 30 minutes to get to Islamorada to the east. Any other hotel features worth noting?Hawks Cay has terrific kids’ programming that ranges from pop-in arts and crafts to full-day activities. The dolphin program, which lets visitors interact with the mammals in their natural habitat, is popular among families. What's the bottom line here?Families love this place. Although there’s an adults-only pool and restaurant, there are better places in the Keys if you’re looking for romance." - Nancy DePalma
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