Best and Fun Things to Do in Islamorada, Florida

Best and Fun Things to Do in Islamorada, Florida

Located just a few hours away from the mainland, Islamorada is a small, spectacular beach village in Florida Keys, Florida, United States. Being the “world’s sportfishing capital,” there are loads of things to do in Islamorada. Here’s the list with all the travel information.  

The largest fishing fleet, pristine beaches, colorful corals, seafood restaurants, and historical places are the most highlighted attractions in Islamorada.

If you are looking for plenty of water activities, there’s no better place than Islamorada in the Florida Keys. Whether you are looking for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, kayaking, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, or whatever Islamorada offers you all.

Plan the Islamorada tour with your family and add the following things to your bucket list. 

Things to Do in Islamorada

1. Things to Do in Islamorada: Anne’s Beach

Anne Eaton, a local environmentalist, found this beach. Now it is a famous white sand beach located on Lower Matecumbe Key. Start your Islamorada tour from Anne’s Beach.

Things to Do in Islamorada Anne's Beach
Anne’s Beach

Since it has shallow, clear, warm waters with very few waves, it is perfect for swimmers of all abilities. Also, it is famous for kiteboarding.

Anne’s Beach features a half a mile-long charming wooden boardwalk through wetlands and mangroves on the shore. So, you can get scenic views while walking along this boardwalk.

If you are planning for a fun picnic on Anne’s Beach with your family, it has several covered picnic areas too.

There is no need to worry about amenities because Anne’s Beach contains two parking lots, restrooms, and resorts.

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

Recommended Hotel Near Anne’s Beach: Lime Tree Bay Resort  

Things to Do in Islamorada

2. Theater of the Sea

Established in 1946, Theater of the Sea is one of the most famous marine mammal conservation parks in the United States.

Theater of the Sea Islamorada
Theater of the Sea

If you kids love to see and swim with California sea lions, sea turtles, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, nurse sharks, and stingrays, visit Theater of the Sea with them.

Especially, its Sea Turtle Experience program allows you to interact with sea turtles responsibly.

Also, Theater of the Sea hosts various programs like parrot shows, Dolphin shows, Fish and Reptile Tours, nature tours, lagoon-side beach tours, and bottomless boat rides.

Don’t worry; these programs are affordable for the whole family. So, surely visit this park and grab unforgettable experiences.

Address: 84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2431

Recommended Hotel Near Theater of the Sea: Pelican Cove Resort & Marina 

3. Things to Do in Islamorada: Florida Keys Brewing Company

Do you like to taste 30 beer varieties? Just visit Florida Keys Brewing Company.

Florida Keys Brewing Company
Florida Keys Brewing Company

Being the first microbrewery in the Upper Florida Keys, it is a locally owned and operated brewery.

It sells over 30 authentic and delightful beer flavors for beer lovers—for example, wheat beer, American blonde, Smelly Butt, and many other seasonal beer flavors.

You can visit its taproom and have a chat with a brewmaster while tasting your favorite flavors.

After tasting beer, you can watch local artwork, play games, and spend an entertaining evening at Florida Keys Brewing Company.

Address: 81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-9722

Recommended Hotel Near Florida Keys Brewing Company: Islander Resort Bayside

Things to Do in Islamorada

4. History of Diving Museum, Islamorada

History of Diving Museum is a history museum in Islamorada that shows the evolution of diving. Opened in 2005, it contains an excellent collection of diving equipment and diving memories that have been collected for over 40 years.

Ex: diving helmets, armored suits, books, photographs, etc.

History of Diving Museum, Islamorada
History of Diving Museum

You can learn more about the history of diving, famous local divers’ stories, behind the story of the book 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and many other interesting things related to diving.

History of Diving Museum is open between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m; every day (except New Years Day, Christmas, and Thanksgiving). Just collect a group of 15 or more people and book a guided tour.

Also, they host a free public program called Immerse Yourself for visitors on the third Wednesday of every month. It gives you more information about all aspects of the diving culture.

Address: 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-9737

Recommended Hotel Near History of Diving Museum: Hadley House Islamorada

5. Things to Do in Islamorada: Florida Keys History and Discovery Center

Keys History & Discovery Center is a local history museum in Islamorada that shows the early culture & history of the Florida Keys.

Florida Keys History and Discovery Center
Florida Keys History and Discovery Center

It shows you the whole story about the Florida Keys from the past to the present, including its old pineapple farming, over-sea railroad, and marine life.

Spreading for 7,500-square-foot, Keys History & Discovery Center also features a research library and a movie theater along with interesting exhibits.

So, come along with your kids and discover more about the Florida Keys.

Address: 82100 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-922-2237

Recommended Hotel Near Keys History & Discovery Center: Cheeca Lodge & Spa

6. Things to Do in Islamorada: Robbie’s Marina

Let’s get an unforgettable tarpon feeding experience. Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada is famous for that.

Things to Do in Islamorada Robbie’s Marina
Robbie’s Marina

You can grab a fish bucket and feed the tarpons swimming in the waters. And it is interesting to observe the way that tarpons jump out for slimy treats.

Nestled at Mile Marker 77, Robbie’s Marina also features a local flea market, a jump-off point for fishing trips, a snorkeling area, a shopping area, a restaurant, and a unique art gallery. That means this place offers you plenty of fun things to do.

If you like to explore more, just rent a kayak and tour through mangroves and lagoons.

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-8070

Recommended Hotel Near Robbie’s Marina: Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina

Things to Do in Islamorada

7. Indian Key Historic State Park

Indian Key Historic State Park is an island located a few hundred yards southeast of U.S. 1. In the 19th century, this island was the home to the town of Indian Key. Therefore, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

Indian Key Historic State Park
Indian Key Historic State Park

Now it is an uninhabited, haunted town. But, still, no Islamorada tour is complete without visiting this serene island. Here’re the reasons.

Aside from its historical value, the Indian Key Historic State Park features interesting wildlife too. So, you can tour around this 11-acre island to observe diverse birds and animal species.

After that, you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, fish, and do many other water activities in Indian Key’s turquoise water. So, just rent a boat or a kayak to reach the Indian Key Historic State Park.

Address: Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2540

Recommended Hotel Near Indian Key Historic State Park: Pines & Palms Resort

8. Enjoy Time on a Sandbar in Islamorada

Do you like to get a Robinson Caruso experience?

Sandbar in Islamorada
Sandbar in Islamorada

Islamorada and the nearby White Harbor Channel feature sandbars and wonderful small islands. So, you can have quality time just like being on your own island.

Sandbars are awesome and allow you to do plenty of water activities until the tide returns. As it contains very shallow waters, you can sunbathe on a beach chair like the island’s owner.

Pack the picnic bag, rent a boat or kayak and discover your own sandbar in the Atlantic Ocean at low tide. (Do not forget to check the tide schedule)

Things to Do in Islamorada

Planning to visit Key West, Florida?? Here’s the list of the best things to do in Key West, FL. 

9. Rain Barrel Village 

First, you will love Betsy, a giant lobster sculpture located outside of Rain Barrel Village. Take a selfie and visit inside.

Rain Barrel Village Islamorada
Rain Barrel Village

Inside of Rain Barrel Village is full of fun. It contains sculptures, paintings, gifts, pottery, and many other impressive local crafts and arts.

This open-air art complex is old for over 40 years, and currently, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Islamorada. Especially, girls love it as it sells tons of ceramics, paintings, jewelry, collage, and sculptures.

And the village is also lovely. It has attractive tropical gardens, delicious eateries, and an artistic environment.

So, if you are looking for romantic things to do in Islamorada, consider Rain Barrel Village in the first place.

Address: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-521-2043

Recommended Hotel Near Rain Barrel Village: Drop Anchor

10. Things to Do in Islamorada: Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar

Looking for somewhere to fill your guts? Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar is one of the best restaurants in Islamorada.

Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar Islamorada
Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar

It serves you hot and cold beverages, baked goods, lunch dishes, locally roasted coffee, and many other food items.

Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar always uses fresh, local, and organic ingredients. Therefore, you can experience nutritional and authentic flavors. If you are a vegetarian, Midway serves delicious food options for you too.

Aside from excellent food, Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar features a small retail section that sells souvenirs and eclectic gifts.

Address: 80499 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2622

Things to Do in Islamorada

11. Morada Way Arts and Cultural District

Morada Way Arts & Cultural District is a colorful art center in downtown Islamorada.

Actually, it considers the creative heartbeat of Islamorada because it contains shops, art studios,  galleries, and delicious restaurants.

Morada Way Arts and Cultural District
Morada Way Arts and Cultural District

Morada Way Arts & Cultural District is a six-block corridor with a festive climate because it hosts entertaining festivals and events. For example, the Seafood Fest, Art Walk.

Especially, Art Walk is more famous among art lovers. It is a fun event that features new ideas of emerging artists, chefs, musicians, local retailers, and fabric artists. If you are interested, just join with it on the 3rd Thursday every month.

Are you ready to have fun in Morada Way Arts & Cultural District?

Address: 151 Morada Way, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2471

Recommended Hotel Near Morada Way Arts & Cultural District: Fisher Inn Resort & Marina

12. Eco Touring and Kayaking in Islamorada

As mentioned throughout this list, kayaking is one of the best water activities to do in Islamorada. Also, kayaking is the best way to explore its various ecosystems, as you can reach easily by paddling through tidal channels.

Eco Touring and Kayaking in Islamorada
Eco Touring and Kayaking

Islamorada has eco-tour companies that offer kayaking tours over rivers, through mangroves, houses of wildlife, and scenic nature.

Some of the best kayak and canoe rentals/guides in Islamorada are The Kayak Shack, and I Can See Clear Kayaking.

The Kayak Shack is located in Robbie’s Marina, and it offers anything you need for water sports. Also, they guide you to three excellent kayaking locations in Islamorada. (Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, the mangrove tunnels, Indian Key State Park)

Don’t worry; you don’t need any skill level for that. They are ready to guide the families at all skill levels.

Aside from kayaking, The Kayak Shack features 2-hour jet ski tours and snorkeling tours too. Choose your favorite and book in advance.

13. Things to Do in Islamorada: Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Located at Mile Marker 85.5, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is famous as one of the few places to have a coral reef above the water’s surface. (formed over 120,000 years ago)

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Although this fossilized coral reef is not alive now, it still looks unique and interesting.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park was a quarry used by Henry Flagler in the 18th century. So, you can see some historical things about its railroad.

There’s nothing like this in Islamorada. So, surely take the park’s 1.5-mile trails and explore more. Since there is a visitor center and picnic tables, plan to visit with your family.

Address: 84900 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2540

Recommended Hotel Near Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park: Coconut Cove Resort & Marina

Things to Do in Islamorada

14. A Family Fun Boat Tour Company

A Family Fun Boat Tour Company offers unforgettable private guided boat trips to experience the unseen beauty of Florida Keys. Since they have various tour packages, you can choose your favorite one.

A Family Fun Boat Tour Company
A Family Fun Boat Tour Company

Ex: Tours to sandbars in Islamorada, snorkeling tours, sunset cruises, and many other.

If you are into snorkeling, A Family Fun Boat Tour Company guides you to see the only living coral reef in the continental United States. They always offer essential equipment and better guidance.

A Family Fun Boat Tour Company’s boat accepts up to six passengers. So, try it with your whole family.

Address: 85920 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-896-2915

15. Things to Do in Islamorada: Long Key State Park

Long Key State Park spreads for over 965 acres, and it features unique nature, beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and diverse wildlife. Located at mile marker 67.5 on U.S. 1, this state park is perfect for escaping from the busy world.

Long Key State Park Florida Keys
Long Key State Park

Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, bird-watching, camping, and hiking while observing the wildlife. Especially, Long Key State Park contains the Golden ORB nature trail, the longest nature trail in the Keys for hikers.

If you are looking for angling, there’s no better place than Long Key State Park. Also, this park is a perfect camping spot as well. So, just plan for a beachfront camping experience with your whole family.

Address: 67400 Overseas Hwy, Layton, FL 33001, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-4815

Recommended Hotel Near Long Key State Park: Breezy Palms Resort

Things to Do in Islamorada

16. Florida Keys Farmers Market

Do you like to experience the authentic Islamorada lifestyle? Florida Keys Farmers Market is the ideal place for that. Opened in 2017, this market stretches along Overseas Highway and opens every Sunday.

Florida Keys Farmers Market
Florida Keys Farmers Market

This market attracts plenty of foodies and bargain hunters. Its rotating vendors usually sell freshly caught fish, delicious seafood, locally grown fruits and vegetables, handmade jewelry, local artworks, and many other fresh produces.

Especially, it is famous for Colorful artwork by Miami artist DaveL and provides many excellent photo opportunities.

Aside from that, Florida Keys Farmers Market hosts many special events weekly and yearly. For example, the Growfest festival in every October.

This market offers you free parking too. So, do not miss it.

Address: 81001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-432-6900

Recommended Hotel Near Florida Keys Farmers Market: Amara Cay Resort

Things to Do in Islamorada

17. Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters

Are you looking for camping in Islamorada?

Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters
Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters

Of course, Islamorada has plenty of excellent campsites with stunning surroundings. But, where can you find the best camping equipment?

Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters is one of the best rental companies in Islamorada that offers you tents, sleeping bags, kayaks, standup paddleboards, bicycles, helmets, and any other your need.

Since charges are affordable, you can contact them at any need.

Address: 82240 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States   Phone: +1 305-517-4177

Things to Do in Islamorada

18. Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Are there lighthouse fans?

Alligator Reef Lighthouse is a unique structure standing over the wreck of the USS Alligator. Built-in 1873, it is an offshore beacon that rises through crystal clear water and a thriving reef.

Alligator Reef Lighthouse
Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Since the water is home to over 500 marine life species, this place is a prime spot for underwater adventures too. You can surely spot dolphins, barracudas, parrotfish.

Address: Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: (305) 664-4173

Recommended Hotel Near Alligator Reef Lighthouse: La Siesta Resort & Marina

Things to Do in Islamorada

19. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a state park spreads for 280-acres in Islamorada.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Accessible only by boat, this untouched park contains diverse wildlife and plants. For example, protected insects, birds, a 60-foot tall gumbo tree, and many endangered plant species.

This park clearly shows you the way how the Florida Keys was before the development. That’s why plenty of nature lovers visit Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park on their Islamorada tour.

So, just take a boat ride, get there, and tour around the park via a golf cart to explore more.

Address: 77200 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-664-2540

Recommended Hotel Near Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park: Islander Resort

20. Founders Park Beach, Islamorada

Founders Park Beach, Playground, and Picnic Area is a multi-recreational area in Islamorada, Florida. Spreading for 40 acres, this park offers something for everyone in your family.

Founders Park Beach, Islamorada
Founders Park Beach

Whether you are looking for swimming, yoga, volleyball, picnicking, or anything else, Founders Park Beach has them all. Also, its wonderful amphitheater hosts fun concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Also, Founders Park Beach is like paradise for swimmers as it has pristine beaches and an Olympic-size pool.

On the other hand, you can have fun at its splash pad playground, tennis complex, and playground. Kids will love this park.

Address: 87000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States  Phone: +1 305-853-1685

Recommended Hotel Near Founders Park Beach: Chesapeake Beach Resort

21. Things to Do in Islamorada: Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

Having Florida Key’s iconic Key lime pie is undoubtedly the best way to end your Islamorada tour.

Actually, who offers the best Key lime pies?

Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory
Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory for sure. Although this pie shop is 10 miles away from Islamorada, it is totally worth visiting to eat delicious Key Lime Pies.

Once you eat, you will realize that they are surely some of the best Key lime pies in the world. Blond Giraffe always offers you fresh pies and other desserts. Therefore, no need to worry about the quality too.

Aside from classic lime pies, Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory serves you variations like frozen Key lime pie dipped in chocolate, Key lime pie cookies, and Key lime candies.

Also, you can get packaged sweets, beverages, and any other retail item too.

Address: 92220 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070, United States  Phone: +1 305-922-2400

Things to Do in Islamorada

Things to Do in Islamorada