Hot Cheeca
A Beach Paradise Reopens in the Keys

Ah, the open-air bathtub.

Glamorized by countless erectile-dysfunction commercials, but rarely ever actually pulled off in real life, by real people.

But all that changes today…

Grab a sponge and get ready to bathe outdoors at Cheeca Lodge, the newly revamped relaxation lair in Islamorada, now outfitted with 62 outdoor tubs overlooking the Atlantic, and opening today after a year-long hiatus.

We trust you remember the paradise that is the Cheeca: 27 acres on a sliver of land two hours south of Miami, and the go-to getaway for presidents like Truman, Nixon and Bush I. The vibe hasn't really changed that much in 50 years—the rooms still feel like old-school Caribbean estates, with large mahogany beds, teak chairs and balconies.

But you'll appreciate the upgrades to the Atlantic Edge restaurant, now helmed by James Beard winner Dean James Max, who'll be cooking you up mangrove snapper and spiny lobsters sourced from charter boats that cater specially to the resort.

But the greatest new relaxation trick of all are the 62 brand-new oceanfront suites, each with its own outdoor patio and oversized tub big enough for two people.

Scrub diligently.