Boating in Islamorada, Florida
The Village of Islands
Islamorada's, reputation as The Sport Fishing Capital of the World is well earned. Comprised of six islands, it is situated between the saltwater wilderness of Everglades National Park in one direction and North America's only coral barrier reef and the deep blue waters of the Florida Straits in the other. Fishing enthusiasts will love the diversity of fishing in this area where you can catch a sailfish in the open ocean and then head into the backcountry for bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish in just inches of water.
In addition to fishing, there are many things to do in Islamorada. Of course, eating and drinking is another popular activity in the Keys and with all of the great fishing in this area, fresh seafood is plentiful.
Click here for more information about the Florida Keys.
Things To See and Do
Islamorada has plenty to see and do for all ages, from scenic views to feeding tarpon. A well-rounded schedule of eco-tours, fishing trips, dive-snorkel outings and visits to any of the many state parks will keep your crew busy. Stop and take in the radiantly landscaped scenic roadway of The Village of Islamorada (US 1) or check out the Theater of the Sea, with the Marine Mammal Adventure Park.
THEATER OF THE SEA
Phone: 305-664-2431
Email: info@theaterofthesea.com
84.5 Oceanside
WINDLEY KEY FOSSIL REEF GEOLOGICAL STATE PARK
Phone: (305) 664-2540
Mile Marker: 85.5, Bayside
Off US 1 (Overseas Hwy), several marinas, resorts and parks are situated for easy access to the sea-grass waters. Ecotours by boat with a tour guide are available, along with accessibility to kayaks and canoes for rent. Visit such places as Flamingo, where the Everglades spill into Florida Bay in Everglades National Park, and Lignumvitae Key, a tropical forest thriving atop the remains of an ancient coral reef and home to Lignumvitae State Park and Botanical Site. The island lies on the bay side, is the highest point in the keys and is reachable only by boat, kayak or canoe. Today, you can still visit the Matheson House, built in 1919.
Accessible only by private boat or tour, Indian Keys (on the Atlantic Ocean side of Islamorada) holds much history; Native Americans walked here for years and is now home to Indian Key State Historic Site.
LIGNUMVITAE KEY BOTANICAL STATE PARK
Phone: (305) 664-2540
Mile Marker: 78.5
Overseas Highway
ISLAMORADA WATERSPORTS COMPANY/SEVEN SPORTS
Phone: 877-937-2359
Plaza 88 MM88, Oceanside
88005 Overseas Highway, Suite 16
FEBRUARY IN ISLAMORADA
Upper Keys Gigantic Nautical Flea Market
This year (2009) marks the "Fourteenth Annual" Upper Keys Rotary Nautical Flea Market, with marine-and water sports-related vendors offering deals on new and used boats, marine equipment, electronics, fishing tackle, dive gear, nautical arts and crafts and more. Free Admission.
Contact: (305) 453-3802
All funds go into the Upper Keys Rotary Foundation Scholarship fund to help kids go to college.
APRIL IN ISLAMORADA
Island Fest
Music, Art, Food & Fun at Founder's Park in Islamorada - Free Admission
Contact: Chamber of Commerce 305-664-4503
Where to Eat
Bentley’s offers seafood, steaks and chops. (MM82.7 Oceanside, 305-664-9094)
Morada Bay Beach Cafe known for their famous full moon party and great waterviews. (MM81.6 Oceanside, 305-664-0604)
The Hungry Tarpon features beef, chops, seafood and their award-winning fresh mango key lime pie. (MM77 at Robbie’s Marina Bayside, 305-664-0535)
Lorelei offers a beautiful sunset view while dining. (MM81.9 Bayside, 305-664-2692)
Ziggie’s & Mad Dog Restaurant feature bayside dining with excellent menu options. (MM83 Bayside, 305-664-3391)
