The Florida Keys are synonymous with laid-back escapes, but Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo sets a high standard. It’s not just about location; it’s about design, thoughtful service, and an environment that actively encourages disconnection. This review breaks down why it works, from the details that matter to the bigger picture of what a vacation should be.
First Impressions: Seamless Transition to Island Time
Arriving at Baker’s Cay from Miami International Airport (a roughly 90-minute drive) feels like stepping into a different world. The resort prioritizes ease from the start, with pre-filled water bottles and refill stations ensuring hydration, plus playful signage that sets a relaxed tone. The property isn’t just visually appealing; it’s designed to disarm tension before you even reach your room.
Accommodations: Space, Comfort, and Clever Touches
Rooms range from $265 to $1,277 per night (plus a $49 daily resort fee), but the investment pays off. The Premium One Bedroom Waterfront Suite is spacious, airy, and equipped with practical comforts like multiple mirrors. The new Paradise Suites, at 700 square feet, are particularly noteworthy: designed for families but equally appealing for couples seeking luxury. Even small details – like the shower bar for leg shaving (requested by a designer’s wife) – demonstrate attention to guest needs.
Beaches and Activities: Balancing Energy and Tranquility
Baker’s Cay offers two private beaches: Coconut Beach, lively and social, and Hammock Beach, secluded and serene. Guests can lounge in cabanas (through the Cay Club membership), float on oversized inflatables, or paddleboard for an hour daily. The resort also leans into playful experiences: weekly foam parties, scavenger hunts, and even a floral arrangement workshop where imperfection is encouraged.
“It does not have to be perfect,” Dawn from Key Largo Flowers advised, a sentiment that encapsulates the resort’s overall ethos.
Dining: Fresh, Local, and Unpretentious
The dining options at Baker’s Cay are a standout. Calusa offers locally sourced seafood (including catches from the daily fishing activity included in the resort fee), while Dry Rocks serves up cocktails until 10 PM. The sunset dinner on the pergola, complete with fairy lights and Champagne, is an experience worth splurging on. The menu is well-curated, and the Key Lime Pie is a must-try.
Beyond the Resort: Exploring Key Largo
Baker’s Cay is well-positioned for exploring Key Largo. Bike rentals allow easy access to local landmarks like Betsy the Lobster at Rain Barrel Village. The area also offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife viewing at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Nightlife is low-key, but the Uber rides themselves can be an adventure (as evidenced by one driver’s impromptu DJ set).
The Takeaway: Baker’s Cay is more than a luxury resort; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to maximize relaxation and minimize stress. From the thoughtful amenities to the playful activities, every detail is geared toward helping guests disconnect and recharge. It’s a blueprint for how a vacation should feel: effortless, indulgent, and restorative.
