"Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand."

As kids get older, it becomes harder to pull them away from their electronics and get them involved in our lives.  Traveling with kids and teens is a wonderful way to get them engaged and Florida's resorts are finding creative ways to do just that. I get lots of questions to my Q & A inquiring about what to do with teens on Florida vacations.  Through my research, I found the perfect answer!

Hawks Cay, the ultimate water sports destination located on the 60-acre private island of Duck Key in the Florida Keys, has now become the ultimate teen destination. Perfectly positioned for creating memories and nurturing bonds, Hawks Cay now offers the new AquaJam Program, exclusively for teens.  The three-day water-based program keeps teens outdoors, learning and interested.

Through the end of the year, the AquaJam Program offer teenagers (ages 12 -17 years old) three days of discovery and exploration of the fascinating waters surrounding Duck Key.  Here's a sample itinerary:

Day 1 offers KayaSnork, combining a morning Eco Kayak Tour around the island, with an afternoon snorkel trip. Surrounded by the peaceful nature of Duck Key, teens will learn how to keep ocean and marine life safe. Then they will get a fish-eye-view, discovering all the marine life the island has to offer.

Day 2 allows intrepid young explorers to fully explore Duck Key’s fish and reef with scuba diving. The morning starts off with a classroom and pool session, followed by an afternoon boat trip, where teens will participate in two reef dives with an instructor.

Day 3 provides Wind and Reels. During the morning, teens will set off with sailing lessons with renowned Colgate Offshore Sailing School, one of America’s best instructional sailing academies. A professional fishing guide will then lead everyone into the deep, with a half-day fishing excursion.

Recently transformed following a $35 million renovation, Hawks Cay features world-class fishing, a full-service marina, Dolphin Connection program and Calm Waters Spa. 

In addition to redesigning all 177 guest rooms, the resort offers a new lobby area, striking veranda and sun terrace. Sophisticated dining options include The Terrace serving classic breakfast and brunch; The Bar at Alma featuring live music nightly; Beach Grill, serving fresh seafood prepared on an open-air grill; and classic Keys-style dining at Tom’s Harbor House.  The brand new signature restaurant, Alma, recently opened in August 2008 featuring Nuevo Latino cuisine.

Hawks Cay also features Camp Hawk for children ages 5 – 12 and The Cove for 12 – 17 year olds.