What to expect: Cheeca Lodge & Spa is a smoke-free resort located on 27 oceanfront acres on Upper Matecumbe Key in the village of Islamorada, approximately 78 miles south of Miami International Airport and 80 miles from Key West.

Amenity highlights: Property amenities include a palm-lined beach, 525-foot fishing pier, two heated swimming pools, saltwater lagoon stocked with native fish, a full line of water sports, Camp Cheeca for kids, six lighted tennis courts, and a par-3 golf course.

What to expect: With 65 rooms on 6.5 acres, Chesapeake Beach Resort is an expansive, casual resort appealing to vacationers looking for space, sunlight, water, and tranquility. Quieter than other family destinations in the Keys, the resort still provides ready access to water sports and charter-fishing boats. Lounge chairs, a few palm trees, hammocks, and thatched sun shelters add to the deserted-isle ambience.

Insider tip: Above the harbor's fishing-charter shack, a weathered-wood platform shaded by a thatched roof contains rocking and lounge chairs for enjoying panoramic Atlantic Ocean views.