Islamorada

Islamorada, part of the chain of Florida Key islands, is actually comprised of several very small islands including Lignumvitae, Upper and Lower Matecumbe, Windley Key and Indian Key. This quaint village of island is located on US Highway 1, beginning at US Mile Marker 73 and extending to Key Largo.

No matter what your taste, you can find suitable accommodations on Islamorada, including hotels, motels, resorts and inns. Many people come to the island for the fishing and prefer to pitch a tent in some of the state’s most tropical campgrounds while others prefer to relax in cozy inns, vacation rentals and even houseboats.

Getting around Islamorada can be accomplished in a variety of unique manners. It’s small enough to get from place to place either on foot or bicycle. Boating is one of the most popular activities here and there are a number of marinas which offer complete boat rental and charter services. Some of the most interesting and unique activities can only be accessed by boat, kayak or canoe.

This laid back island proclaims itself to the ‘sport fishing capital of the world.’ Fishing is such a serious business here that the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce website even provides a chart listing the best seasons to fish for some seventeen different kinds of fish. Snorkeling and diving are also very popular as are windsurfing, waterskiing, wake boarding and a number of other exciting water activities.

For those days when visitors feel like engaging in activities that are little more relaxing, there are several beaches and state parks that offer opportunities to unwind and enjoy the unique beauty this village of islands has to offer. Islamorada County Park features a beach where visitors and tourists can relax on the sandy shoreline. Founders Park and Beach includes also offers a beautiful sandy beach, playground, fishing pier and skating park.

Long Key State Recreational Area is the perfect location for a hiking activity or canoeing through natural lagoons. San Pedro is a state preserve site that is actually located underwater, 18 feet down. The site can by accessed by boat or kayak and is well worth the trip. Once there visitors can dive into the cool waters to view the remains of a sunken Spanish treasure ship. In addition to examining the wreckage of this 270+ year old sailing vessel, divers will enjoy the beautiful and exotic sealife that swim around the area.

Wildlife lovers and bird-watchers will enjoy visiting Lignumvitae State Historical Site, which has become a natural sanctuary for a variety of rare birds. Access is available by taking by boat from the gulf side of Islamorada. Several of the nearby marinas offer charter boat services.

Theater of the Sea marine park is a popular attraction located on Islamorada. It includes the lovely Sea Lagoon Beach with quaint thatch roofed beach umbrellas. When you’re done dozing in the sun you can catch a live sea lion and dolphin show and even wade in to play with these gentle mammals.

Robbie’s is a long standing tradition on Islamorada. Many visitors gather here to feed and watch the tarpon fish, some of which grow to be six feet long. After you’ve had a full day of fishing, swimming and romping with the dolphins you can take a stroll through many of the art and craft galleries located on Islamorada.

Visitors to Islamorada have the opportunity to travel through the remainder of the Florida Keys, traveling on US Highway 1. From Islamorada is just a little over an hour and a half drive to Key West, the southern most point of the United States.