There’s not many places in the world where you can laze around on the beach all day, gaze at fascinating underwater creatures on a diving trip, or fish for tarpon, redfish, bonefish and redfish at your pleasure. Islamorada is a fantasy island for those who want to have fun in the sun. Located between the mystic wilderness of Everglades National Park and North America’s only coral barrier reef, the island boasts beautiful blue waters, fresh seafood and a wide range of entertainment to keep tourists happy.
Consisting of six islands - Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key and the offshore islands of Lignumvitae Key and Indian Key - Islamorada is home to many attractions that will wow beach loungers. Visit the interesting History of Diving Museum, while the Theater of the Sea lets you swim with dolphins. Don’t forget to stop by TIB Amphitheater, where music lovers can move and groove with all kinds of music. Theater fans can enjoy an array of shows at the Coral Shores Performing Arts Center.
Fresh seafood is not to be missed in Islamorada followed by a slice of Key Lime Pie, with plenty of seafood restaurants scattered around the seafront awaiting hungry tourists. The ladies on the trip will be delighted to find oodles of hip, stylish boutiques selling unique souvenirs. Getting to Islamorada is convenient, with the easiest way to set foot on this heavenly island being to fly to Miami International Airport and then drive or hop on a shuttle bus which will take you to Islamorada in 1 hour, 30 minutes.
Highlights
Theater of the sea: this is your chance to swim with dolphins and make friends with sea lions. Take a tour around the beautiful landscape of this famous marine adventure park, a favorite among those traveling with children.
Long Key State Park: shaped like a snake with its jaws open, this scenic park is renowned for its fascinating history, stunning beach and outdoor pursuits.
History of Diving Museum: enthusiastic divers can marvel at well-preserved artifacts, documents and photographs relating to the history of diving and man’s quest to explore the underwater world. ****
Tiny Lignumvitae Key: home to Lignumvitae State Park and Botanical Site, this is a pretty stop-point for paddlers wishing to take a stroll through the forest.
Indian Key: can be easily reached by private boat. Wander around this mysterious island to observe the area where Native Americans once roamed in the past.
Robbie’s Marina: is a children’s favorite. Young ones will scream with excitement to know that they can feed tarpon and sharks here right on the beachfront.
Anne’s Beach: has a remarkable walkway with fantastic views of Islamorada’s surroundings. Picnic tables are also available.