Adventurous Things to Do on a Vacation in Islamorada

Laura Rienas Travel Advisor
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Laura Rienas

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  • USA

  • Florida

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Beaches

  • Domestic Travel

  • Chillin'

  • Shopping

  • Snorkeling

Palm tree on the beach next to ocean during daytime
Curator’s statement

Islamorada is one of my favorite places to visit in the United States. When I am there I feel like I'm in the Caribbean. The water is so many different shades of blue — it's mesmerizing. I love that I can watch the sun rise over the Atlantic and watch the sun set over the Gulf within the same day. With so many things to do in Islamorada, it's the perfect destination to visit with your family, friends, significant other or alone. Every key has its own unique vibe!

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Where to stay Islamorada

Islander Resort Islamorada

This vibrant escape in the Florida Keys has 114 rooms, two pools and a fun kids’ club.

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Things to do Islamorada

White boat in water with sunny skies during daytime

Robbie’s Marina of Islamorada: This stop on the water is a must if you are looking for some souvenirs or a little bit of adventure. At Robbies, you can purchase a bucket of fish to hand-feed the large tarpon, schedule various excursions, do a little bit of shopping or sit on the deck for a bite to eat. Not only are they known for tarpon feeding, but also for their Trailer Trash Bloody Marys.

Village Square at the Trading Post: This is the perfect place to stop for unique gifts and a cup of coffee. This hidden gem includes a cute boutique, a coffee shop, an adorable shop for plant lovers and amazing burritos! The outdoor seating and koi pond provides a calming atmosphere. Be sure to check out their website as they host various events on the property.

Islander Girl Snorkel & Tours: A snorkel tour or a day at the sandbar is a must during your visit to Islamorada. This mother/daughter snorkel shop is located at the Islander Resort. Islander Girls Snorkel & Tours offer sunset cruises, snorkel tours, sandbar swims and many other excursions.

Theater of the Sea: Theater of the Sea is one of the oldest marine mammal facilities in the world. In addition to mammals, the park includes tropical gardens and lagoons. This is a great place to catch a live sea animal show, take a lagoon boat ride or go for a swim at the park's lagoon sided beach. For an additional cost, you can swim with a dolphin, interact with a seal, swim with the sharks or choose from many other animal interactions.

Founders Park: If you are looking to spend the day outdoors, this park has it all. Park amenities include an olympic sized pool, splash pad, beach with a picnic area, play grounds, tennis courts, fitness trails, basketball court, volleyball courts, pickleball courts, a dog park and so much more.

Ripple Effect EcoTours — Kayak Tour: Immerse yourself in nature as you kayak through the mangroves into Florida Bay to Shell Island and to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park.

Day Trips from Islamorada

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: 30/40 minutes North of Islamorada.

Take a Day Trip to Key West! Take a walk down Duval Street, visit the Hemingway House, experience Mallory Square during its daily Sunset Celebration and be sure to stop for a picture at the southernmost point in the US.

Big Pine Key, Captain Hook's is a great place to book a water adventure. I highly recommend a snorkel trip to Looe Key located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. A great place to view tropical fish, barracuda, an occasional shark and/or sea turtle. Certified divers can also schedule dives through Captain Hook's.

Places to eat & drink Islamorada

White sign hanging with trees in background during daytime

Morada Bay: This was my favorite dining experience on Islamorada. Not only was the food spectacular but the view during sunset was breathtaking. You can choose to sit inside or at a table right on the beach.

Lorelei: Offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bayfront open bar. A great place to go for live music and to watch the sunset. Would be perfect for a sunset dinner as they have seating right on the beach. It's also a nice place to go for breakfast.

Chef Michael's: Upscale dining establishment. Many of their ingredients come from local waters and area farms. Sunday Brunch served here.

Lazy Days: You can eat inside or on the water.

M.E.A.T.: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Green Turtle Inn: Featured on the Food Network, offers breakfast lunch and dinner.

Island Grill: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Hog Heaven: BBQ and a little bit of everything.

Blue Heaven, located in Key West: Breakfast/Lunch — if you take a day trip to Key West, this place is a must! Amazing mimosas and key lime pie.

Laura Rienas Travel Advisor

Travel Advisor

Laura Rienas

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