Recently I was given the task of finding a fun, family-friendly vacation spot. Customarily we would take a flight to New York, Connecticut to visit family, or take a car ride over to Mickey’s house, but I wanted to find somewhere different. I asked around, did some Googling, and came across Hawks Cay located in Duck Key.
Destination: Hawks Cay
Since it was a new destination for us, I felt the need to call there directly. Call me old school, but sometimes I like to talk to an actual human being when making travel arrangements. The woman on the other end was extremely helpful, enough so that she informed us of the Heroes Salute special offering military personnel, veterans, police, fire rescue, sworn officers and medical personnel savings on their stay (please check the website as terms may have changed). We booked a two-bedroom townhouse villa as we liked the idea of having a full kitchen should we choose to make breakfast.
Hawks Cay Family Vacation Prep
We went food shopping beforehand, making sure to bring along the boys’ favorite breakfast foods (they are a bit picky), snacks, and of course – wine. After packing everything into the back of our truck we were off! I referred back to my handy-dandy road trip packing check list, which helped immensely when it came to making sure we had everything we needed.
We’ve Arrived!
Once arriving at Hawks Cay, we checked in and went straight to the townhome. It was so cute. We had an end unit, which allowed for more sunlight and a bit more privacy. The resort is broken down into “villages”. Our townhome was in Sunset Village, and I would recommend asking for that particular village should you choose to vacation at Hawks Cay. It is short walking distance to Coral Cay, the spa and the main resort building. If you don’t care to walk, there is a tram system.
Time to Have Some Fun!
Once we were situated, we headed over to Coral Cay, THE place to be for kids. We secured “home base” (lounge chairs) by the pool, and the boys were off. Between the basketball court, ping pong, volleyball court, pirate ship water feature, soccer field and miniature golf – we didn’t see the boys unless they were hungry, thirsty or needed to reapply sunscreen. I couldn’t believe it!
Once back at the townhome, we relaxed for a bit and enjoyed the backyard that overlooked the intercoastal and a beautiful sunset. The boys made friends with some “neighbors” and tossed the football around before we headed to dinner.
Dinner the first night was spent at Angler & Ale, a recently opened restaurant on property. It was a nice night so we opted to eat outside on the patio. I loved the two separate outdoor fire pits (as did the boys). The food was exceptional, as was the atmosphere!
Day Two!
Day two was spent once again at Coral Cay. We signed them up for Camp Hawk, but all they wanted to do was have the freedom to swim and play and do whatever they wanted. I didn’t blame them! We set up home base once again and the boys were off. I did capture G for a quick mini golf game, but other than that they were too busy making friends, playing soccer and have a great time!
Since we were there for Labor Day weekend, Hawks Cay hosted a fun BBQ and amazing fireworks show at the resort building. Before the fireworks show, we were able to enjoy the sunset over their Saltwater Lagoon – so beautiful!
There was so much more to do and see at Hawks Cay but the next day we had to pack up and head home. For my boys to say that they had a blast and want to go back is HUGE. We didn’t even try out any of the water sports and adventures that were available like snorkeling, fishing, and boating.
Our goal is to explore our home state on future family vacations before traveling further – there are so many other places to see!! Where are your favorite places to visit in Florida? Please comment below – I’d love to know!
Nicole says
That Tuna looks delicious and those fruity cocktail drinks! Looks like you guys had a great time what a neat little get away. I like this as an option for a family trip seems very laid back unlike your typically disney world adventure 🙂
Dana says
Yes, it was the polar opposite of Disney, which was a nice change :)! Thank you for stopping by Nicole 🙂
Blair Villanueva says
I believe that kids should also appreciate having this kind of vacation than going else for an ultra active rides like LEGOLAND and Disneyland. They could learn to appreciate the nature, and also quality bonding with family.
Casey says
That looks like a great vacation spot…and relaxing!
Dana says
It was soooooooo relaxing Casey!
Aish Padihari says
You do have two gorgeous boys and so do I. For some reason, I bond well with moms of boys. Lovely pics
Dana says
Thank you Aish! Moms of boys are very similar I feel! Thank you for the compliment on the photos as well 🙂
amer says
it looks like you and the boys had a wonderful time. Your drinks looks sooo good!
Dana says
The drinks were delish;) I also liked that we could bring bottles of wine and enjoy a glass outside on the patio (and not spend an arm and a leg on drinks!).
Janine Good says
What a relaxing resort! The food looks yummy and the scenery incredible! The beach looks nice an tranquil. I will consider this!
Dana says
Janine, you’ll be very happy if you decide to go 🙂 It was perfect for everyone in the family!
Sheri says
You look like you had a lot of fun there, the pics you took are great. I had never heard of this location and I am glad I can bookmark it with my places of hoping to visit.
Dana says
Thank you Sheri! Definitely add this to your list 🙂 It is a great place to go for a few days of fun and R&R!
Natalie says
I’ve looked at taking our daughter to Hawk’s Cay on several occasion, but haven’t ever been able to make the leap and book since I wasn’t sure exactly how family friendly it was. Looks like I was wrong and that we need to make a trip ASAP! Do you know what kinds of activities that are offered for the preschool/ kindergarten crowd there?
Dana says
Natalie (my favorite travel blogger!!), they have so many different activities for the little ones! The pirate ship within Coral Cay is heaven for kids your daughter’s age. The camp activities are also geared toward all age groups! My boys are a bit older than your little lady, but they loved the mini golf, ping pong and riding bikes around the property (they have bikes of all sizes). I hope you go – I think the whole family will love it!
Mayra says
Such a beautiful townhouse and place to stay for a few day! Great photos!
Dana says
Thanks Mayra, it was really like a home away from home!
Tessa says
This looks like a really fun time! I can’t say I’d heard of Hawk’s Cay before–good to know it’s a family-friendly destination though!
Dana says
Tessa, it was a lot of fun 🙂 Thank you for stopping by!
Kasey says
“…and of course wine.” ha! A woman after my own heart! Your trip looks like a blast!
Dana says
LOLOLOL 😉
Valerie says
What a fun vacation. Looks like the kids had fun. The place looks so cute.
Dana says
It was fun 🙂 I hope we get to go back next year!
CourtneyLynne says
oooo what a fun trip!!! those cocktail look pretty tasty too!