Florida’s iconic Cheeca Lodge & Spa celebrates its 70th birthday this fall, and will mark the milestone with an exciting new look and special anniversary celebrations.

The storied Florida Keys resort, located on beautiful Islamorada, unveiled a new lobby bar and refreshed beachfront pool this year, and will launch contemporary new guest rooms in 2017.

Cheeca welcomed the first stage of its multi-phase renovation in January with a newly redesigned lobby bar serving fine Italian coffee by Illy. By day, guests can enjoy espresso and a menu of fresh juices and smoothies. In the afternoon and evening, the service transitions to cocktails, providing an alternative to the fine-dining restaurant Atlantic’s Edge and the casual outdoor Tiki Bar.

Nikai Sushi Bar, previously located in the lobby, has relocated to the second floor, and now offers indoor-outdoor lounge seating complete with views of Cheeca’s trademark fishing pier and oceanfront scenery – a nod to the island’s rich fishing heritage.

The second phase, completed in March, included an upgrade of the resort’s beachfront family pool, with the addition of cabanas and food and beverage service, complementing the existing amenities at the tranquil adults-only spa pool.

The final stage is slated for completion in 2017 and will feature redesigned guestrooms curated by renowned Maryland-based interior designer RD Jones. Guests can expect a more contemporary design approach that still honors the heritage of the property.

Cheeca has also developed an enhanced programming calendar for its anniversary year to celebrate the resort’s key pillars including local history, sustainability, family and more.

Cheeca has teamed up with Florida Keys Brewing Company, located around the corner from the resort, to develop a specialty beer for its anniversary called “It’s Cheeca, Baby!” – a light German-style brew that’s perfect for lazy days spent ocean-side.

The resort also hosts weekly and complimentary Movies Under The Stars screenings, featuring classic films, current family favorites and gourmet popcorn every Wednesday evening.

Located in the one of the world’s great sport fishing capitals, the resort will host its own All-American Backcountry Tournament from November 10-12, when keen anglers can vie for the region’s best game fishing.

And on November 16, Cheeca will celebrate its 70th anniversary with a formal dinner celebration where guests will enjoy a look back at the resort’s colorful history and get a sneak peek at the new-look rooms to be unveiled in 2017.

More information: www.cheeca.com