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22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Islamorada (Florida)

Islamorada, known as the “capital of sport fishing,” is a great vacation destination anyone would wish for.

Similarly, the largest fishing fleet per square mile is located in Islamorada.

Numerous names have been given to Islamorada From being referred to as the “capital of sport fishing” to being referred to as “paradise” by tourists.

Excellent recreational possibilities may be found in Islamorada, such as kayak trips in the Keys, Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, and beaches that offer relaxation opportunities.

The Islamorada eating scene is no slouch either, as it is known for its fresh seafood.

With plenty of water to dive into, snorkel, or even swim, you are in for a treat.

Visit a pub with a tropical motif and order a frozen umbrella drink to set the mood for your exploration. With so much to do, here’s a list of the best things you should do while In Islamorada.

Things to do in Islamorada

1.  Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada

Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada

Keys History & Discovery Center

The History & Discovery Center is the best location to go in Islamorada if you’re interested in learning about the history of the Florida Keys.

The museum is a top-notch museum with interactive displays studying the history of the Florida Keys, tanks examining the Florida Reef, Corals, and the invasive Lionfish, a 35-seat movie theater, and a library with academic resources

With displays on indigenous peoples, early settlers, the Labor Day Hurricane, the railroad, and more, this well-done museum will explain it all to you.

Additionally, there are histories of the early settlers and communities, Indian Key, Flagler’s Railroad project, the history of fishing tourism and fly-fishing, and the 1935 hurricane.

There are also three very nice (medium tank) aquariums with local sea life and a nice theater with short documentaries, one of which includes first-person accounts from hurricane survivors and another that focuses on Henry Perrine and plants.

Both well-behaved pets and kids are welcome. Continuous loops of short flicks are also quite entertaining to watch.

Address: 82100 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

2. Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar

Midway cafe & coffee bar

Midway Cafe & Coffee bar

Need a place to grab some breakfast? Midway Cafe & Coffee bar is a great place to go.

Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar is a top eatery in Islamorada.

The cafe offers wonderful cuisine and drinks as well as a small store area filled with unique goods and mementos.

Despite its small size, the inside has a very lovely design, and it’s all welcoming.

This little eatery delivers your dinner to your table indoors or outdoors after you put your order at the register

It’s a shortstop, and there are also many benches and outdoor tables where you can eat.

Furthermore, all bread and baked goods are freshly cooked in the restaurant, and the coffee served here is locally roasted.

There are also lots of gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives, and the food is created using fresh, local, organic ingredients.

In fact, you must visit Midway Café if you’re in Islamorada, Florida.

Sometimes, you might meet a large queue here, but it moves quickly. However, the wait is worth it though.

Address  80499 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

3. History of Diving Museum, Islamorada

History of Diving Museum, Islamorada

History of Diving Museum, Islamorada

This museum is a must-see if you are a diver. Even if you are not a diver, observing how diving has changed over time is intriguing.

The Museum’s primary objectives are to gather, preserve, display, and interpret objects, antiques, books, papers, photographs, and just anything about the history of diving.

The Museum’s founders are Drs. Joe and Sally Bauer and they own one of the world’s largest collections of historical diving gear and research materials.

This inconspicuous small roadside attraction in Islamorada chronicles the history of humanity’s urge to explore the sea.

It’s difficult to miss the building with its vibrant, mural-covered facade and diving relics serving as lawn decorations.

Furthermore, the museum has more than 3,000 square feet of space, which isn’t a lot, but it’s big enough to explore comfortably.

It also includes a number of activities and exhibitions that show how the past has an impact on, and occasionally even jeopardizes, the future condition of our seas.

Despite the fact that there is a lot to see at the museum, it is simple to see everything in 90 minutes or less.

Don’t forget to visit the gift shop because similar to the museum itself, the gift shop is packed with unique goods.

The gift shop is composed of unique items like a brass helmet replica and cutting boards made to look like diving suits.

Whether you dive or not, this is a place you shouldn’t miss in Islamorada.

Address: 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

4. Library Beach Park

Library Beach Park

Library Beach Park

Located behind Islamorada public library, Library beach park is a place to go if you are searching for a spot to unwind, sunbathe, and enjoy a picnic.

Even though the museum is a small region, it is lovely and serene, making it a great location to unwind and temporarily let the outside world pass you by.

This beach is probably not going to meet your expectations if you’re hoping for intense water activity, but children’s play equipment, restrooms, a covered picnic area, and a BBQ area are available at Library Beach.

You can also go kayaking or snorkeling.

This place is a fantastic family neighborhood and is easily accessible, making it a favorite with residents.

Address: 84 Johnston Rd, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

5. Hurricane Monument, Islamorada

Hurricane Monument, Islamorada

Hurricane Monument, Islamorada

Here’s a place in Islamorada to pay your respects to the hundreds of victims of one of the fiercest hurricanes to strike American soil.

The monument is located on Overseas Highway.

Islamorada is home to a somber memorial to the more than 400 people who perished in the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane: a 65-foot (19.8-meter) tall stone keystone monument.

You can learn about them in the plaza behind the monument.

The story plaques within the monument can be found by exploring the area behind it. Each offers a unique take on the hurricane’s story.

You will also see the remains of a large number of unidentified victims of the natural tragedy kept in a crypt near the monument.

Additionally, you can visit one of the cafes or eateries in the plaza for a refreshing beverage and some lunch.

there are also retail establishments in the region.

Address: 81831 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

If you have a soft spot for nature, then you will enjoy Altamonte Springs and Marianna!

6. Islamorada Dive Center

Islamorada dive center

Islamorada Dive Center

If you want a first-rate dive experience, come over to Islamorada Dive Center.

The Postcard Inn Beach Resort and Marina in Islamorada, Florida, is home to the full-service dive shop known as the Islamorada Dive Center.

This diving store takes great pleasure in having hardworking and knowledgeable personnel, as well as top-notch gear and dive guides.

They provide guided diving tours twice daily on numerous reefs and wrecks.

You will get to see some beautiful sights, including sharks, turtles, and other beautiful creatures.

Perhaps you want to learn scuba diving? You can also come here as scuba diving education is one of their specializations. Two pools and a cutting-edge classroom are available on the property for training.

Address: 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

7. Florida Keys Farmers Market

Florida Keys Farmers Market

Florida Keys Farmers Market

Need some arts, delectable cuisine, and jewelry. Then the Florida keys farmers’ market is a good place.

The Florida Keys Farmers Market opened its doors in 2017 and has been a go-to place for fresh produce and unique things.

The area is covered in vibrant artwork created by Miami artist DaveL, which offers numerous fantastic photo opportunities.

Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the market is held in the Islamorada Gardens parking lot.

Live entertainment while you shop is presented just at this location.

In addition, a special occasion called Growfest is held there each October.

Address: 81001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

8. Rain Barrel Village

Rain Barrel Village

The Rain Barrel Village

Rain Barrel village is a cool area to pause, stretch your legs, and take a photo by the renowned lobster.

The village has been a popular Florida Keys vacation spot for both visitors and locals for more than four decades.

The open-air Rain Barrel complex is a lush garden haven bordered by a variety of specialty stores, galleries, and boutiques selling a range of regional artwork, handicrafts, and handcrafted jewelry.

There is something for everyone at Rain Barrel Village: wander through the tropical gardens, meet different artists, or eat something at any of the available cafes.

You can also enjoy a cool coconut rum that is actually a coconut that has been filled with rum. Relax on the hammock swings while taking in the clean air, enjoyable music, and tasty beverage.

Don’t forget to take a photograph with Betsy the Lobster.” Betsy” is the name of this enormous lobster.

Betsy is genuinely scale-built and the second most photographed landmark in the Keys, trailing only Key West’s southernmost point.

Address: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

9. Theater of the Sea

Theater of the sea

Theater of the sea

A nice, well-maintained location to observe dolphins and sea lions in Islamorada is the Theater of the Sea.

In fact, this is a mini sea world with a much better value proposition, cozy, and more intimate experience.

In addition, the theater of the Sea has been run by a family since 1946 and is one of the first marine mammal facilities in the world.

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, sea turtles, tropical and game fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, and more can all be found in the lagoons and beautiful tropical gardens.

The attractions are all very close together and timed to allow for visiting each one in a synchronized fashion.

The dolphins are the main attraction at Theater of the Sea, but they also offer swims with sea lions, stingrays, and dolphin wade for very small children.

They will also show you how to ride a dolphin by holding onto its fin.

Address: 84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

10. Indian Key Historic State Park, Islamorada

Indian Key Historic State Park, Islamorada

Indian Key Historic State Park, Islamorada

If you want a quiet, silent, and tranquil place to enjoy your day in Islamorada, plan a visit to the Indian Key State Park.

Due to its extensive history, the Indian Key Historic State Park is permanently protected as a state park.

This park features a dock that may be used as well as trails where you can stroll and explore the ruins of the early settlement that previously called the area home.

In short, the Indian Key State Park is filled with plaques and signs that contain historical details.

Kayaking from Islamorada’s shoreline to Indian Key Historic State Park only takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Address: Indian Key State Historic Site Outstanding Florida Water, Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

11. Islamorada Beer Company Brewery and Tasting Room

Islamorada Beer Company Brewery and Tasting Room

Islamorada Beer Company Brewery and Tasting Room

Craft beer from Islamorada Brewery & Distillery is a great way to experience the flavors of the Florida Keys.

The Islamorada Brewery is located off US-1 in a peaceful, laid-back environment.

The taproom has a nice beachy atmosphere thanks to an indoor sandbar, and kids can play volleyball and other sports in a big outdoor space while their parents sip the beer and tour the brewery.

Additionally, the extensive menu here includes craft vodka sodas, house frozen drinks, and cocktails on tap.

You can bring your food over. However, they also have food trucks where you can eat.

Overall, there is always something tasty on tap, from regional specialties to their rotating and seasonal brews.

Address: 82229 Overseas Hwy Unit 3, Islamorada, FL 33036-3659, United States

Davenport and Melbourne are great places to go if you are looking for more adventures!

12. Beach Bum Paddle Sports

Beach Bum Paddle Sports

Beach Bum Paddle Sports

Need to go kayaking or paddle boarding? Beach Bum Paddle Sports can offer you everything you need for a great day on the water.

The best paddleboards are available from Beach Bum Paddle Sports so that you may enjoy the Florida Keys in comfort.

Additionally, each rental paddleboard comes with a USCG-approved vest, a whistle, a paddle, and the choice of a cargo net or dry bag.

The business also provides paddle boarding instruction and escorted eco trips that take guests through mangrove swamps and give them the chance to see animals like turtles, manta rays, and manatees.

Address: Islamorada, FL, United States

13. Key Dives, Islamorada

Key Dives, Islamorada

Key Dives, Islamorada

With the main goal of offering diving and snorkeling on Islamorada’s stunning reefs, Key Dives is a top-notch dive shop you shouldn’t miss.

The store is well-stocked with everything you might need for your journey and offers a tank filling service in addition to being well-equipped.

Additionally, the dive shop offers a complimentary valet service that makes sure you won’t have to do anything.

They assist with loading the gear back into your car after setting it up, taking it down, cleaning it, and transporting it to the boat.

Divers can also either bring their own equipment or rent it from the dive shop.

More than 60 distinct dive sites are visited by divers thanks to Key Dives, and all tours are conducted by highly trained guides.

However, if you don’t want to deal with diving gear, you should consider snorkeling.

Address: 79851 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

14. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Windley key fossil reef geological state park

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Any lover of nature or anyone interested in geological structures and beauty will appreciate this state park.

Come examine enormous coral slabs that have been frozen in stone, both as walls cut into the ground by quarries and as blocks taken from those locations.

Henry Flagler used the park’s former quarry to extract limestone for the construction of the overseas railway.

On-site, some of the outdated machinery is present, and other exhibits show how the work was carried out.

Similarly, the 8′ walls of the quarry display fossilized coral from the upper Keys’ subsoil.

Many nature pathways wind through the shady hammock made up of numerous native trees, and the thin soil surface supports a plethora of plant life.

You can stroll around the 8-foot-high quarry walls to view cross sections of the old coral and learn more about the quarry’s activity.

At the park, there are also picnic tables here.

Five quick self-guided routes allow visitors to meander through the island’s natural splendor.

You should also explore the visitor center and have informative exhibits about the background of this place.

Address: 84900 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

15. Robbie’s of Islamorada

Robbie's of islamorada

Robbie’s of Islamorada

Want something fun and thrilling? How about feeding huge tarpons out of your hands?

In the Florida Keys, Robbie’s of Islamorada is a great place for a family’s day out. Whether you want to grab something to eat, or just feed tarpons, everything is fun here.

They have a marina where the well-known tarpon feeding occurs, along with outdoor stores, a restaurant, rental boats, and pet-friendly kayaking.

Buy buckets of fish and come feed and feed the tarpons.

On the waterfront deck, chow down on fresh, delectable seafood while sipping one of their classic cocktails or a local draft beer.

The food and drinks are really excellent. In fact, there is a lot to take in and see in the restaurant’s ecstatically varied decor.

You can also grab some handcrafted souvenirs from their local shops.

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

16. Whale Harbor Restaurant and Seafood Buffet

whale harbor restaurant and seafood buffet

Whale Harbor Restaurant and Seafood Buffet

Giving you South Florida’s most breathtaking vista, whale harbor is the only all-you-can-eat seafood in South Florida.

For more than a century, Islamorada has been home to the Whale Harbor Seafood Feast.

In fact, it has frequently been referred to as Islamorada’s most popular restaurant.

They offer different kinds of foods, including soups, paella, salmon, prime rib, tacos, rice, beans, amarillitos, fried shrimp, fish piccata, clams, mussels, and seafood-stuffed crepes.

They also have a pasta station and an incredible seafood station with blue crab, shrimp, oysters, calamari salad, shrimp salad, potato salad, desserts, and ice cream.

The food is incredible. In short, there are too many dishes to name.

In addition to the amazing food, the Atlantic is right outside the window, with passing boats and dolphins, giving you a spectacular view of Islamorada.

However, the restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so you might have to wait or queue. The wait is worth it, anyway.

The restaurant operates from noon till 9:00 p.m.

Address: 83413 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

17. Anne’s Beach

Anne’s beach

Anne’s beach

Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, Anne’s beach is a lovely spot to soak up the sun, unwind with a book, wade in the shallows, or sleep.

There are six pavilions with picnic tables scattered throughout the route. The beach is a great place to go for a picnic.

Additionally, windsurfers frequently visit Anne’s Beach, and on windy days, it’s entertaining to watch them soar and swoop.

This beach features a shallow swimming area perfect for young children and pets.

From paved parking spaces, a boardwalk, and covered picnic tables, to the public facilities at Anne’s Beach, you will love it here.

Even though Anne’s becomes somewhat crowded on weekends, you can always have your own space to have fun.

Address: Mile Marker 73.5 Lower Matecumbe Key, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

18. Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar

Lorelei restaurant & cabana bar

Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar

Whale Harbor Restaurant is not the only great seafood restaurant in Islamorada. Lorelei is also a great option if you desire seafood.

Locals from Islamorada frequent this location, because of the excellent meal and impeccable vistas.

Although lunch and dinner are when the restaurant is busiest, they are also available for breakfast.

The open-air bar Lorelei has no enduring barriers. So there will be lots of spots to relax by the water.

Hurricane Wilma once destroyed the Lorelei, but it has since been rebuilt and is now lovely.

Additionally, they have a beautiful bar area, where you can get a tall, refreshing drink, and allow yourself to be mesmerized.

There is a little beach around with chairs, where you may sit with your toes in the sand, enjoy your favorite cuisine or drink, and catch the sunset. Even its own tiki bar is located on this tiny beach.

Between the beach and the main bar area is yet another tiny tiki where the band performs.

With beachfront eating, kid’s meals, great food, and evening specials, Lorelei is a great place to have a wedding or special occasion.

Address: 96 Madeira Rd, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

19. Tiki Bar, Islamorada

Tiki Bar, Islamorada

Tiki Bar, Islamorada

There are a lot of places in Islamorada that offer an amazing view of Florida and Tiki bar is definitely one of those places.

Anyone staying at a hotel, traveling by, or arriving by boat will find this to be a really pleasant tiki bar on the water.

Formerly named “The Hapi Hula Hut.” Tiki bar has been a go-to place and has been serving drinks for more than five decades now in Islamorada.

This is also where the now-famous Rum Runner cocktail was created.

According to legend, more than 40 years ago, John Elber, the manager of the Tiki Bar, had to get rid of an excess of rum before the new inventory arrived. Tiki John was asked to come up with a drink.

He created the Rum Runner cocktail by combining Meyers rum, brandy, grenadine, and banana liqueur.

Today, you can enjoy your beverage while staring out at the Atlantic Ocean from a high top or tiki hut.

Enjoy a calm evening by one of the fire pits along the Bimini Row dock or sing along to the sounds of the greatest local musicians playing weekly.

Address: 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

20. Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

Blond giraffe key lime pie factory

Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

Home to some of the best Key Lime Pie in the world, blond giraffe key lime is a nice place for anyone interested in learning more about Key Lime pie or wants to wow someone with the ideal Key Lime pie.

Every pie is freshly baked every day, and guests can choose from specialty treats like Key lime pie cookies, and even Key lime candies.

You can also buy coffee, packaged treats, and retail goods. The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and there is outdoor seating.

So if you need a great place to pause as you travel through the keys, Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory is a good one.

Address: 92220 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070, United States

21. A FamIly Fun Boat Tour Company, Islamorada

A Family Fun Boat Tour Company, Islamorada

A Family Fun Boat Tour Company, Islamorada

Are you in Islamorada with your family? Then a boat would be a great activity. You will not only get a unique experience catered to your needs but also great customer service.

While there are various Islamorada boat tours, A Family Fun Boat Tour Co. allows you to relax with loved ones.

The coolest places for eco-tours, sightseeing, snorkeling, and sunset cruises will be demonstrated to you.

You will get to explore a coral reef, take in the turquoise seas of Florida Bay, or go to the Sandbar.

Address: 85920 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

Want more places like Islamorada? You should consider Key Largo and Stuart!

22. Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters

Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters

The Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters

Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters has everything you might possibly need for cycling in the Keys as well as for outdoor recreation.

They provide delivery and pick-up as part of their service when you rent bicycles from them.

From rentals of bicycles, kayaks, or paddleboards excellent for family or individual outings or paddling at dusk or day outings, you should come here.

Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters was established in September 2004 and has been serving Islamorada since then.

Before renting, they check that every rental is in good functioning order. Additionally, Backcountry has a bicycle mechanic on staff who works in a real cycling shop.

This company also hires kayaks and sells pretty stylish clothing and shoes.

Address: 82240 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

Final Remark

With plenty of water to dive into, snorkeling opportunities, and excellent recreational available in Islamorada, you should definitely include this city in your list of places to go.

Don’t forget to grab some delicious seafood to have an all-rounded vacation.