Visiting Islamorada, Florida is like stepping into a world of adventure and relaxation. From gorgeous ocean views to vibrant marine life, this Key offers a mix of quirkiness, laid-back experience, and local culture. As a kid, I spent every summer exploring the sandbars, snorkeling among the fish, and enjoying Key Lime Pie while wandering through popular towns and local hotspots. Whether planning a trip or just wondering what to do, Islamorada Florida has things to do for every type of traveler. My favorite places include The Islands of Islamorada, perfect for adventure, island activities, and soaking up the culture.
From sports fishing to sipping local beer, fine dining, and discovering top 20 attractions, there’s no chance of getting bored here. Every purchase you make through affiliate links supports small businesses with small commission at no extra cost. Experiencing fun things, favorite things, and the tradition of the Keys firsthand makes Islamorada feel like Earth’s hidden gem. With perfect escape, relaxation, and endless opportunities to enjoy things to do, this I-LUH-MORADA town is an unforgettable destination with activities that suit adult and kid alike, making it a truly memorable getaway.
Classic Islamorada Activities
Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s
One of the most exciting activities in Islamorada is visiting Robbie’s, a restaurant, bar, and marina known for tarpon feeding. Located at the south end of the island, it’s a must-do when visiting the Florida Keys. You can join the Florida Keys road trip, pay $2.50 per person for dock access, and grab a bucket of fish for $5.00. Family-friendly fun includes watching fish leaping from the water, but small children need extra careful attention because the open dock lets giant tarpon swim close. Make sure to hold the bait carefully, as teeth can be sharp. The photo may look outdated, but the experience is timeless.
Beyond feeding, Robbie’s offers jet ski rentals, kayak tours, sunset cruises, and paddling trips to Indian Key State Park. Don’t miss the Hungry Tarpon, one of the best restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite. You can feed the tarpon with bare hands, bucks for a bucket of bait fish, and fend off pelicans while being entertained. If you’re squeamish, just watch, but either way, Robbie’s guarantees unforgettable fun things for all ages.
Explore the Islamorada SandBar
Just a short ride from The Islands of Islamorada, the Islamorada SandBar is a must-visit destination in the Florida Keys. This natural sandbar rises from shallow waters into turquoise waters, creating a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation or lively gatherings. With stunning views of the Atlantic and a vibrant social atmosphere, it’s a local favorite for guests wanting to embrace the island lifestyle. Located near Mile Marker 84 and a mile-ish out in the ocean, the sandbar has knee-deep water in the middle of the ocean, making it ideal as a party spot, and even dogs allowed can join the fun.
You can reach the sandbar by boat, kayak, or jetski, and you can book a sandbar tour if you don’t have your own boat. The experience of floating over the calm waters and stepping onto this picturesque natural sandbar is unforgettable. Whether enjoying the vibrant social atmosphere, mingling with guests, or simply soaking up the stunning views of the Atlantic, the Islamorada SandBar is a top destination for anyone on a Florida Keys adventure.
Go Sports Fishing in Islamorada
Islamorada is known as the sports fishing capital of the world, and it’s easy to see why. You can book an off-shore fishing fishing charter to catch incredible game like marlin, sailfish, dolphin, mahi mahi, tuna, and wahoo. Some species are seasonal, but dolphin can be caught year round. If off-shore fishing isn’t your style, try low-key fishing in the backcountry or along shallow reefs. Bud N Mary’s Marina offers the best options to plan your trip and ensure an unforgettable Islamorada fishing adventure.
Fishing Charters in Islamorada
For an unforgettable angling adventure, Islamorada, known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, offers incredible fishing charters led by seasoned captains. Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Florida Keys, reeling in trophy fish while taking in stunning ocean views. Whether you are a novice or an experienced angler, the excitement is real—check details and contact the charters to plan your trip.
Boating and Snorkeling Adventures
Enjoy a perfect day in the Florida Keys with a boating excursion where you can explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, take refreshing swims at sandbars, or relax on a romantic sunset cruise. Each adventure offers beauty and lasting memories for friends and family, with stunning ocean views at every turn. The experience is truly unforgettable, and for more information, you can easily plan your trip and discover new ways to explore and enjoy the waters.
Snorkeling, Diving & Water Adventures
Snorkeling at Alligator Reef Light House
One of my favorite places on Earth is the Alligator Reef Light House in Islamorada, Florida Keys. Located about 5 nautical miles out, this lighthouse sits in shallow water with stunning turquoise blue water. The reef is full of tropical fish, wildlife, dolphins, turtles, sharks, eels, and other creatures, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in the entire Florida Keys. You’ll need a boat or a snorkel tour to reach the site, but the adventure is truly incredible.
Snorkeling here means entering the middle of the ocean and jumping in, which can be unnerving if you are afraid of the ocean or fish, but the experience is unforgettable. From the shore, you can also enjoy earlier snorkeling experiences and prepare for the snorkeling adventure ahead. Every trip provides new experiences, amazing Keys scenery, and endless memories to treasure while enjoying the beauty of Islamorada.
Scuba Diving Adventures in Islamorada
The Islamorada Dive Center offers amazing tours to explore shipwrecks and artificial reefs in the Florida Keys. You can get scuba certified or, if you already are, join a dive trip to see 9 sunken shipwrecks along the Wreck Treck, an official trail with dive spots from Key Largo to Key West, including the Eagle Wreck in the waters off Islamorada. Other top sites include Hens and Chickens, Davis Reef, and the Bluff, making scuba diving my favorite thing to do in Islamorada.
There are many dive shops where you can rent gear or book an organized scuba trip with a guide. Visiting these spots lets you enjoy the underwater world while exploring the rich marine life of Florida, creating unforgettable experiences while visiting Islamorada.
Snorkeling & Diving Adventures
In the Keys, our concierge can help you book guided scuba diving and snorkeling trips, including exhilarating shipwreck explorations and private charters tailored to your preferences. Whether you are new to diving or experienced, don’t miss the chance to visit the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada, making this adventure one of the most memorable ways to enjoy the waters.
Give Snuba a Try
If you’re curious about underwater adventures in the Florida Keys, try snuba, a mix of snorkeling and scuba diving. Using a hose connected to oxygen, you can explore further depths up to a maximum 15 ft. without no training required, making it perfect for beginners visiting Islamorada.
Rent Jet Skis from Whale Harbor
For any adventure lover, renting jet skis is one of the favorite things to do in the Keys, and Islamorada is the perfect place. Check out A1A Watersports or Islamorada Watersports for daily jet ski tours starting at $140 for one hour or $220 for two hours, with boat rentals available too. If the ocean is calm, nothing beats cruising around Mile Marker 89, past the channel with 250 toilet seats, a quirky historical Keys landmark dating back to the 1960s and the Hurricane Donna era in the Florida Keys.
Kayak to Indian Key
If you’re up for adventure, Indian Key is one of the smallest state parks and most unique state parks in Florida, accessible only by kayak. Step back in time and explore old Florida with ruins of an old town from the 1800s, open every day from 8am until sundown. I recommend renting kayaks from the Kayak Shack at Robbie’s of Islamorada and paddling across the 20-minute kayak route over seagrass beds. Keep an eye out for stingrays, sharks, and other creatures while enjoying an ocean kayak experience. Don’t miss the popular kayaking tours through mangroves or the scenic tour at nighttime light-up kayaking, where LED lights illuminate the ocean floor and local wildlife.
Wildlife & Nature Experiences
Spot Dolphins in the Keys
While exploring the Keys, keep an eye out for dolphins from your boat. They are often spotted near the bayside in warm shallow water, but you may also see them on the oceanside. Booking a dolphin watching tour in Islamorada or on a trip to Key West is a fun way to ensure you catch a glimpse. For a more interactive experience, Dolphins Plus lets you swim with dolphins for ethical reasons, while Key Largo has a research facility dedicated to the safety and conservation of these creatures. The Florida Keys offer many options for both education and entertainment on a 30-minute trip.
A short journey to The Islands of Islamorada brings you to the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, where visitors can meet marine creatures in a non-profit organization focused on care for sea lions and dolphins. Various programs allow guests to interact with intelligent animals, making it a perfect outing for families and those interested in marine life conservation. This is truly one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the Keys while learning about their wildlife.
Spot Manatees in the Mangroves
One of the most magical ways to experience Florida wildlife is by joining an eco kayaking tour through the mangrove forests of Tavernier, where you can spot manatees gliding near canals and resort docks. Paddle with Paddle the Florida Keys on a 2-hour tour leaving at 10:30am or 2:00pm with an experienced guide, and explore the backcountry while discovering unique wildlife. You can also immerse yourself in the underwater world at Aquarium Encounters, where hands-on exhibits showcase sea life in an up-close and interactive way.
Explore Theater of the Sea
Just one mile from The Islands of Islamorada, Theater of the Sea is a beloved marine park offering interactive experiences with dolphins, sea lions, and other fascinating creatures. Visitors can swim with dolphins, take a guided boat ride through lush lagoons, or simply stroll among the tropical gardens while learning about rescue efforts. This must-visit spot provides an unforgettable day for families and nature lovers, giving a hands-on marine discovery experience like no other.
Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Visiting the Turtle Hospital in Islamorada, Florida Keys is a heartwarming experience where you can see a rescue center dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting gentle creatures. This unique experience lets you learn about conservation, wildlife care, endangered species, and marine life through hands-on experience, guided tours, and eco-tour activities. Volunteers help maintain the environment and preservation efforts, while the sanctuary focuses on education, animal welfare, and caring for turtles. It’s a must-visit spot to experience the dedication behind keeping these amazing creatures safe.
Parks, Beaches & Relaxation
Relax at Founders Park
Spend an afternoon at Founders Park in Islamorada, Florida Keys, where the beach and swimming area offer a perfect spot for afternoon relaxation. Enjoy the playground, marina, baseball fields, or barbecue area, making it ideal for locals and tourists seeking a great spot for recreation and outdoor activities. The park also provides scenic views, family-friendly spaces, and community space for everyone.
Access is free with proof of stay, such as a hotel receipt or AirBnB confirmation, otherwise it’s $8. Don’t miss the dog park, though note dogs not allowed on the beach. This park blends leisure, fun, and nature, making it a standout destination for relaxing and enjoying Florida Keys charm.
Visit Anne’s Beach
For a quiet spot and a short visit in the Florida Keys, Anne’s Beach offers easy access off the Overseas Highway. Bring your pup and enjoy the boardwalk, picnic tables, and a small sliver of sand where you can get your feet wet. It’s a local attraction perfect for a casual visit, relaxation, and connecting with nature. The area is dog-friendly, outdoors, and great for a brief outing, short walk, or enjoying scenic views, tranquil setting, charming location, picturesque scenery, water access, and natural beauty while exploring Islamorada and the nearby area.
Visit the Spa at Cheeca Lodge
For a bit of rest and relaxation during your time in Islamorada, I highly recommend you check out the spa at Cheeca Lodge, one of the best hotels in the upper Keys. They offer a wide variety of treatments, including massages, sugar scrubs, and facials. In my experience, the spa truly does not disappoint, and it’s a perfect recommendation for anyone looking to enjoy luxury and unwind while staying at Cheeca Lodge.
Take a Sunset Cruise
If you want to experience the best sunsets in the Keys, a sunset cruise to Alligator Reef in Islamorada is unforgettable. Watch the sun setting over the ocean and horizon, with vibrant colors, a tropical sky, and evening scenic views that are perfect for photography. The boat trip combines relaxing, sightseeing, memorable moments, and nature observation, letting you enjoy water, marine life, and the evening sky. It’s a peaceful, romantic, and unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views, travel adventure, and a true taste of Florida Keys charm.
Arts, Culture & Museums
Explore the History of Diving Museum
If you’re curious about scuba diving or ocean exploration, the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada is a must-visit, under-the-radar gem. Admission is $15 USD for adults, with discounts for kids, seniors, and military. Inside, you’ll find one of the largest collections of diving equipment in the world, including 4,000+ artifacts from over 30 countries. The helmet collection is incredible, showing gear that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie, and the shipwrecks exhibit connects perfectly if you plan to dive or snorkel on your trip.
The museum also includes a fun scavenger hunt at the front desk, letting you engage with fun facts about marine history. Don’t miss the vibrant coral reefs and marine life displays, plus exhibits linked to John Pennekamp State Park, the U.S.’s first undersea park, making this museum an unforgettable stop for anyone interested in marine life and history.
Explore Morada Way Arts District
The Morada Way Arts and Cultural District is a vibrant corridor and hub for local artists and vendors, filled with diverse galleries, restaurants, and studio spaces. Don’t miss the Morada Art Walk on the third Thursday of every month, where creativity, community, and celebration of local talent shine. Enjoy live art demonstrations, unique crafts, and the lively atmosphere at the heart of the community. This area features cool galleries that offer an engaging experience for visitors exploring Islamorada and the Florida Keys.
Food & Drink in Islamorada
Indulge in Key Lime Pie at Blond Giraffe
If you’re in Islamorada or passing through Tavernier on the way from Key Largo, don’t miss the Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory, famous for its iconic dessert. They serve whole key lime pies, key lime cookies, key limeade, and key lime meringues, perfect for souvenirs or a sweet treat you cannot leave without trying. Every restaurant in the Florida Keys features dessert menu options, but this spot is the best key lime pie and a favorite key lime pie destination for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy it naked, with whipped cream, chocolate, or even frozen with chocolate on a stick. Whether you eat out, stop, try, or enjoy, this indulgence is a famous, must-try, classic treat and a local favorite among sweets lovers.
Sip Local Brews at Florida Keys Brewing Co.
If you’re exploring Islamorada, be sure to check out its local breweries, especially Florida Keys Brewing Company or FKBC, the upper Keys’ first microbrewery. With a super cool vibe and local vibe, this spot is perfect for craft beer lovers. Enjoy delicious beers, a flight of beer, or a tasting while relaxing in the outdoor beer garden open to all ages. The brewery also hosts local events like trivia, live music, and art festivals, making it a lively community gathering and social spot.
We even used their beers for our wedding! Don’t miss the beer bus experience or the chance to visit, check out, and experience this epic location. It’s a relaxed atmosphere that combines tourism, great brews, and a friendly vibe, perfect for meeting locals, exploring the Florida Keys, and enjoying great brews while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
Sip a Rum Runner at the Tiki Bar
If you’re visiting Islamorada, a stop at the Tiki Bar at Three Waters Resort (formerly Postcard Inn) is a must. This historic bar, operating since 1969, is the birthplace of the famous Rum Runner. The cocktail is a strong drink made with rum, banana liqueur, and grenadine, perfect for enjoying the water view while you relax. Besides frozen drinks, the food menu offers tasty options for lunch, and the bar’s local experience makes it a true must-visit.
The signature cocktail is renowned as an iconic beverage, and it’s fun to sip, taste, and enjoy this classic cocktail in the Florida Keys. Whether you’re looking for a tropical drink or just want to visit a piece of historic bar culture, the Tiki Bar delivers a local experience that’s unforgettable.
Sip Local Brews at Islamorada Brewing & Distillery
If you love craft beer, Islamorada Brewing & Distillery (formerly Islamorada Beer Company) is a must-visit spot in the Florida Keys. Since opening in 2014, this small brewery has grown into the only distillery in Islamorada, offering Keys-inspired beer, delicious cocktails, and a full tasting room where you can try, sample, and enjoy different options. Out back, the outdoor beer garden features casual seating, food trucks, and tropical plants, making it a perfect community hangout for locals and tourists alike.
Bring the family, as kids welcome and pets welcome, too! Don’t miss their signature Queen Conch, a personal favorite, or grab a flight to taste a few. Whether you want a quick stop, a snack, or to sip beers while enjoying fish dip, this local spot blends unique drinks, a relaxed atmosphere, and social experience, adding a highlight to your Florida Keys itinerary and overall tourism experience.
Feast at the Shrimp Shack
When visiting Islamorada, make sure to stop at the Islamorada Shrimp Shack, one of the best restaurants featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives. The menu is packed with delights like shrimp fritters, shrimp chowder, bacon wrapped shrimp, shrimp and grits, and even fried shrimp. This special menu offers a culinary experience full of flavors that food lovers will enjoy. Whether you eat out for lunch or dinner, the signature dishes make this popular spot a must for anyone on a trip to the Florida Keys.
The Shrimp Shack is a local food treasure where casual dining meets iconic eats. From famous eats to tasty bites, every visit is a food adventure. Stop by, visit, and experience the vacation vibe while sampling the menu and savoring seafood. It’s a perfect place to stop, enjoy, and make your food lovers heart happy with an unforgettable culinary experience.
Savor a Fine Dining Experience at Chef Michael’s or Pierre’s
In Islamorada, food lovers seeking fine dining will adore Chef Michael’s and Pierre’s Restaurant, two top choices for a luxury, high-end, culinary experience. At Chef Michael’s, you can try exotic Lionfish, an invasive species served to save reefs, along with other seasonal dishes from a small menu full of chef specials. Pierre’s, located on the same property as Morada Bay Beach Cafe, offers a romantic restaurant setting with teak wood paneling, interior ambiance, and a back patio with a first-class view of the sunset over the bay.
Both spots are perfect for special occasions, intimate dining, or just an oceanside, romantic spot experience. Whether enjoying dining experience, casual dining, local seafood, or seasonal menu items, you’ll enjoy dinner with a view, scenery, and tropical atmosphere. These must-visit restaurants in the Florida Keys offer a gorgeous, alluring setting for your anniversary dinner, visit, or any vacation meal, making them stand out among seafood restaurants in the area. Years ago or today, your experience will feel unique, luxury, and unforgettable.
Shopping & Local Finds
Explore Rain Barrel Village for Local Art and Souvenirs
If you’re looking for a historic, artsy oasis in Islamorada, Rain Barrel Village is a must-visit spot for things to do in Islamorada. This open air garden features art vendors, galleries, boutiques, and speciality shops, perfect for shopping and picking up souvenirs in the Keys. You’ll instantly recognize the GIANT spiny lobster, named Betsy, standing proudly by the road—she’s the second most famous landmark after the Southernmost Point sign in Key West. The village is a roadside attraction, offering photo opportunities and a chance to experience local art in a creative hub.
Rain Barrel Village is also a cultural spot with an iconic landmark vibe and tourist attraction appeal throughout the Florida Keys. Visitors can visit and experience a must-see, unique, quirky, memorable, colorful, and artistic outdoor space, filled with collectible items and local crafts. Whether you’re exploring for a shopping adventure or simply soaking up the creative hub atmosphere, this historic, artsy oasis is one of the most memorable things to do in Islamorada.
Meet the Locals at a Dive Bar
One of the best ways to meet locals in Islamorada is by visiting a dive bar or a little hole in the wall. You’ll hear stories and meet colorful characters, like fishermen who embody the quirky, funny, and authentic personality of the Keys. From a bar owner who enforces shoes rules to a barefoot visitor with flip-flop straps tattooed feet, the socializing, conversation, and anecdotes make it a hidden gem. It’s a casual spot where you can enjoy local experience, culture, connect with interesting people, and soak in the offbeat, authentic, memorable vibe of the Florida Keys, a true must-visit experience.
Free Things to do in Islamorada FL
Cruise or Walk the Channel #2 Bridge at Sunset
For a fun, casual, and active way to explore Islamorada, grab a walk or bike and head over the Channel #2 Bridge. This popular fishing spot is also pet-friendly, perfect if you have a dog, and lets you soak in sunlight, fresh air, and vibrant waterfront views. Whether you want exercise, recreation, or a little leisure, this adventure spot offers nature, scenic views, and a touch of adventure. Local tourists and community members alike enjoy active lifestyle moments here, from hobby walks to sport and playful exploration. It’s ideal for travel, tourist sightseeing, or simply a relaxation escape to unwind, engagement, and outdoors experience while exploring the coastal and Florida Keys environment. Even a quick weekend outing feels easy-going, unique, and memorable—IYKYK.