Things to do

20 Amazing Things To Do In Islamorada Florida

Source : instagram

Islamorada is a small community in the Florida Keys that seats in Monroe County. The community features beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and ideal fishing possibilities.

Islamorada attracts tourists who like to take vacations and adore the sights of the Florida Keys. Several hotels, eating houses, and places of interest are present in the village, making it an ideal employment opportunity for people of several stages of life.

The beauty of this place has been captured in movies and series as well. Here are 20 amazing things to do in Islamorada:

1. Visit The History and Discovery Center

For any tourist who wishes to explore the Florida Keys's history, then there is one center that one should not miss. The Florida Keys History and Discovery Center is a bright multi-story edifice constructed right beside the Hurricane Memorial, which was constructed in 1935.

This contemporary center highlights the local history and art surrounding the place. From pirates to the native peoples of the Keys, there are thrilling interactive displays on both sides of the hall.

Coral reefs are the main attraction here. It is a breathtaking section that demonstrates our striped marine environments.

2. Feed The Tarpon at Robbie’s

Source : facebook

Feeding the tarpon at Robbie's Marina is an activity unlike any other. Here you stand at the edge of a dock, baiting a fish over calm water. A huge silver tarpon appears with all its mighty jaws wide open, almost as if to engulf you.

It's a thrill. These fish, known as the Silver Kings, can reach lengths of up to eight feet. They are incredible to observe swimming underwater. However, do not forget to dodge the obnoxious pelicans that attempt to grab your fish from you.

3. Explore Rain Barrel Village

This cluster of vibrant square and round tent houses comprises a selection of distinctive shops and galleries surrounded by beautiful green foliage. Vintage jewelry and colorful paintings, all of these is available for shopping here.

Make sure to notice the giant Betsy the Lobster, a 30-foot sculpture of a lobster that has become a popular photo opportunity for all. As you walk along the barrel village, have conversations with the locals. They happily showcase their work. After a long walk, enjoy fresh seafood at Lobster Shack Cafe.

4. Relax At The Islamorada Sandbar

Source : facebook

If you want to get a piece of paradise, this place should be at the top of the Islamorada things to do. A little off the coast, this is a lovely, sandy stretch where one can relax on miles of sunbathing beaches. It is a shallow, warm sea where one can sunbathe, swim, or have a barbecue.

Due to this, the sandbar is active during the weekend, when people go boating for purposes of socializing, fraternizing, playing games, and basking in the sun. Some of them can be taken on floats and drinks of your preference. Another recommendation is to plan your trip during the week to avoid a huge number of people.

5. Hike In Indian Key Historic State Park

It is an 11-acre island that may only be accessed by water using a boat or kayak. It presents a rather good chance to look at the remains of the dead town and get the atmosphere of the past years.

If you decide to go hiking, you will find the remains of houses, water storage tanks, and the former location of roads. Excellent weather in Islamorada and the variety of vegetation on the island make it more magical.

One can observe marine life, dolphins, and rays in the waters near Indian Key, as well as numerous species of birds that inhabit the island.

6. Dine At Chef Michael’s

Source : facebook

Situated in the middle of the Overseas Highway, this place has grown tremendously popular over the years. It is due to the finest seafood and organically sourced meals available in the vicinity. There is a great list of creatively inspired meals.

It can be categorized as Florida Keys cuisine, as well as the hogfish, served in different wonderful ways. The place is well-lit and gives a romantic look that any couple will enjoy while eating out.

It would be a great idea to become a patron of Sunday brunch since it leaves nothing more to be desired. Well-lit dining with excellent quality and professional, hospitable chefs promises a Key's experience that will be memorable at Chef Michael.

7. Snorkel At Alligator Reef

This place is situated within four miles of Islamorada and is famous for whimsical marine life and the Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Cheer up; no alligators around; only fish of various beautiful colors.

Lack of pollution as well as low light penetration gives the water a high level of clarity, often reaching up to a maximum of thirty meters. You will be able to swim with beautiful yellowtail snapper and parrotfish.

Alligator Reef is where you should come for snorkeling. You can also participate in a snorkel tour or take a boat on hire. Expect that there will be a little more of a boat ride involved.

8. Visit The Theater of The Sea

Source : facebook

It is always a good idea to check out the Theater of the Sea in Islamorada Florida as people of all ages will enjoy this activity. This is one of the oldest marine parks to provide rewards for tourists since 1946.

It can excellently entertain you by watching an incredible sea lion and dolphin show. Tricks executed by the animals will make you smile. An obvious activity for any traveler is a swim with dolphins.

There also is a beautiful beach that is situated at the edge of the lagoon. That is where you can sit down and relax after the shows. One must not leave out the fish and reptile section of the aquarium. Every visit is an opportunity to study and enjoy.

9. Have Fun At Founders Park

This park is located in an area of 40 acres, making it the largest park for fun and recreation. When there, you are welcomed by a natural beach with palm trees. There you can sunbathe or even engage in sand castle building.

There is a swimming pool in the park that is Olympic-sized for swimming and taking a nice shower. They even have yoga sessions, which are conducted on the beach. If you are active, you can jog or ride a bicycle on the exciting trails.

Children will enjoy the playground and take their turns with the water sprinkler in the splash pad. And if you like dogs, you shouldn't miss the dog park.

10. Enjoy A Sunset At Anne’s Beach

Source : facebook

Parking may be a bit challenging during the weekends here. Find a spot in either of the two lots before other people do. As you wait for the shadows of the sun to be cast, you can enjoy a delicious picnic.

The covered pavilions are available along the boardwalk to allow people to have a sunset picnic. Thus, when it comes to the beauty of the sunset, the best place to go and sit is on the sand, preferably at the shoreline.

This place is extremely shallow, and that means it is easy to visit and move to the front row by walking into deeper waters. The only thing one may need to be a little careful of is the sharp edges of corals and rocks on the ocean floor.

11. Go To The Islamorada Library Beach

Located at the back of the local library, this is a petite Islamorada beach that probably has little waves and is less congested than the others. This is an ideal destination for people with families. It has picnic tables and grills, which make the place the perfect choice for any careless barbecue.

One thing that you shouldn't do here is play loud music. This is a chill zone. For the visitors who seek adventurous souls, you can adorn your kayak or paddleboard and start the journey right from the beach.

It is really interesting to go and walk around the mangroves that are located nearby.

12. Stay At Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina

Source : facebook

Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina, situated at 84001 Overseas Hwy., is one of the quaint beach hotels in Islamorada that succeeds in reflecting the Florida Key atmosphere. Featuring rooms in the nautical theme, its beach, and a colorful Tiki bar, it is ideal for true laziness and sunbathing.

The postcard inn Islamorada Florida contains two swimming pools. The aquatic lovers can engage in fishing and snorkeling, among other activities, in the on-site marina for watercraft.

13. Try Local Brews At Florida Keys Brewing Company

It is the first microbrewery in the Upper Keys, and in every single aspect, it is special. The brewery is located with its family origin in the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, where customers can also enjoy the local arts and culture while enjoying good beer.

That includes over twenty beers on the tap that come in a variety of hopped-up IPAs through light ales. The spiny hopster IPA is one of those favorite beers. It has a citrus note that is perfect after a day of fishing or any other physical activity.

Everything at the brewery is laid back clubbed with a good-colored beer garden to hang back.

14. Go Fishing

Source : facebook

Fishing is not just a sport or a hobby to the people of Florida Keys Islamorada. It is a way of living. It is called the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, and the kind of fishing that is provided here is unique.

Local captains are always the best to be hired since they are more conversant with the water bodies. Islamorada fishing charters will lead you right to the hot spots. If you are a risk-taker, then go ahead and take the bait with a bonefish.

They are quite quick and rather sneaky, but so satisfying once you get one right.

15. Explore The Morada Way Arts District

A visit to the Morada Way Arts District will give you a different feel of Islamorada. It comprises colorful galleries, little shops, and even the aroma of freshly brewed coffee running through the region. The whole feel is symbolic and can be described as entering an artist's palette.

In particular, the Art Walk is held each third Thursday of the month. Local talent is displayed through performances, and people enjoy music, especially that that comes from local artists.

It is a perfect opportunity to interact with people of the place and enjoy a meal from a food truck.

16. Memorable Vacation At Chesapeake Beach Resort

Source : facebook

Chesapeake Beach Resort presents the pleasure of a vacation with its beautiful beach. This resort is situated at 83409 overseas highways, and it has a stunning direct beachfront and is friendly. The resort can get fully booked on certain occasions, depending on the particular season.

To avoid getting a raw deal, you should book in advance. Here, you have the opportunity to rent a bike or a kayak to go further and get a scenic view of the nature around. The mangroves and the waters call for this sort of enjoyment. The best view is the sunset, which can be viewed when at the beach.

17. Swim With Dolphins

Everyone would like to swim with the dolphins, and it is one of the unforgettable experiences that must be received in Islamorada. When training for swimming with the dolphins, never think of swimming like the dolphins as seen in television or movies.

They are not meant for our entertainers, are they? Rather, let them come over to you. If they look like they want to say it, they will say it. The first rule you should adhere to is that you should not interact with the dolphins in the water.

Do you remember when you met a celebrity, you did not just go and hug him/her, right?

18. Enjoy Live Music At Lorelei Restaurant And Cabana Bar

Source : facebook

Islamorada, nicknamed the Village of Islands, is reputed for its beautiful sunsets, fishing, and artwork. Interestingly, you might not be aware that it is also a venue that hosts live music concerts. As a local or a tourist, it is not a wrong time to be in Islamorada, if only to listen to some young talents perform.

One such place to find live music is in the Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar. This restaurant as well as bar is an open-air one with nightly performances of the best musicians in the Florida Keys.

There seems to be that little something for everybody, be it rock and roll, punk, new wave, or contemporary country.

19. Take A Boat Tour

If there is one thing that one can never go wrong doing while on this island chain, it is booking a boat tour. Islamorada boat trips range from such basic forms as glass bottom boats to pontoons to private yacht charters. Something for every kind of non-sea-going person.

Sunset Tour is by far one of the most frequently opted-for tours. This is a lovely way to end your day and start your evening in a very nice manner. You can also go for mangrove viewing and interact with the dolphins or take a swim in the water.

The shores of the Islamorada area have lots of impressive fish and colorful coral reefs.

20. A Scenic Drive On The Overseas Highway

This is one of the most famous roads, officially titled U.S. Route 1. It is as long as 113 miles. This road has a strange sensation to drive as if one is driving into the water. Key Largo is your starting destination.  On the way, you can make a brief tour of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Also, see the magnificent statue of Christ of the Abyss. It is an underwater sculpture. While planning this drive, it is best to plan for traffic. It could take a lot of time, often longer than expected, especially during festive seasons and other busy times of the year.