A Place That Honors The History Of The Island

Boasting an unmatched sense of adventure and a deep appreciation of mother nature in all her glory, the inspiring heart of Captain Ben Baker lives on at Baker’s Cay—in its historic touches, unmistakable connection to the Florida Bay and the lush, fruitful grounds we call home, and our love of the bold, spirited locals past and present.

Our vibrant heritage make this secluded oasis an authentic Key Largo experience unlike anywhere else, begging guests to immerse themselves in the carefree charm of our namesake, and live each moment at Baker’s Cay authentically and without agenda.

Captain Ben Baker The “King Of The Wreckers”

Named for a legendary figure in Key Largo history, Captain Ben Baker, the resort has long been a place of discovery, intrigue, and exploration. The “King of the Wreckers,” Baker was a pioneer and one of the first to recognize the island’s inherent beauty and value, combing its coasts to salvage wrecks and turning his fertile estate into a pineapple plantation.

In the 19th century, the waters off the Florida Keys posed a menacing threat to sailors. Shipwrecks were common, giving rise to a flourishing industry of “wreckers” who salvaged anything of value left over in the wreckage.  Known as the “King of the Wreckers,” Captain Ben Baker salvaged dozens of ships all over the Keys during a decades-long career at the helm of his three-mast schooner, Rapid.

Baker, his wife, Catherine Albury, and their 11 children settled and cleared land for their homestead in the Upper Florida Keys. Never one to shrink from a challenge, he sailed for Havana and returned with over 6,000 pineapple slips to plant throughout this estate, including the 15 acres of grounds that would later become Baker’s Cay.

The first to farm pineapples on Key Largo, Baker became one of the chief producers of the fruit in the Upper Keys. His success inspired others—eager to cash in on the flourishing industry—spurring tremendous economic development in the Upper Keys.

Today, this international symbol of hospitality remains a meaningful icon at Baker’s Cay, embodying Captain Ben Baker’s tenacity and representing our unique sense of place in Florida Keys history.