Tag: Hotels in Islamorada

  • Islamorada

    Islamorada

    Things to do in Islamorada

    Things to do in Islamorada

    Hello Islamorada Travelers

    Nestled amidst the turquoise expanse of the Florida Keys, Islamorada, often heralded as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” is a charming village of islands that perfectly embodies the laid-back luxury and natural splendor of this unique archipelago. Spanning several distinct keys—including Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, and Tea Table Key—Islamorada boasts a singular geography where the calm, shallow waters of Florida Bay meet the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. This convergence creates a rich marine ecosystem, making it an unparalleled destination for anglers, divers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

    Beyond its world-class fishing and vibrant underwater world, Islamorada offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, with upscale resorts, quaint local shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining experiences that invite visitors to unwind and savor the authentic spirit of the Keys.

    Islamorada Lobster
    Islamorada Rain Barrel Village

    Attractions:

    • Sportfishing Charters: Countless options for both offshore and shallow-water fishing.
    • Theater of the Sea: A marine mammal park offering interactive experiences with dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life.
    • History of Diving Museum: A fascinating collection detailing the history of underwater exploration.
    • Robbie’s Marina: Famous for its tarpon feeding dock, where you can hand-feed massive tarpon.
    • Anne’s Beach: A tranquil public beach with a beautiful boardwalk.
    • Morada Way Arts & Cultural District: Features galleries, studios, and restaurants, especially lively during their monthly art walks.
    Cheeca Lodge Beach
    Cheeca Lodge Beach

    Hotels:

    • Cheeca Lodge & Spa: A historic and iconic luxury resort, known for its beautiful beachfront, excellent dining, golf course, and renowned fishing programs. It’s a top choice for those seeking an upscale and full-service experience.
    • Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina (Holiday Isle): This is a very popular, lively resort with a large marina, multiple pools, and famous tiki bars (like the Tiki Bar and Raw Bar). It’s known for its energetic atmosphere and direct access to watersports and charters.
    • Amara Cay Resort: A modern and stylish resort offering a relaxed, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. It features a zero-entry pool, private beach access, and often has live music. Many rooms offer ocean views.
    • Islander Resort, a Guy Harvey Outpost: This resort is celebrated for its spacious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and two large oceanfront pools. It also hosts the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center.
    • The Moorings Village & Spa: For a truly exclusive and tranquil experience, The Moorings offers luxurious private cottages nestled among lush palms on a private beach. It’s known for its serene beauty and high-end service, perfect for a romantic getaway.
    • Pelican Cove Resort & Marina: A charming and comfortable beachfront resort with a relaxed atmosphere, a large pool, and a small private beach. It’s popular for families and offers easy access to water activities.
    • Casa Morada: An adults-only boutique hotel offering a serene and private escape. It features a secluded pool, complimentary yoga, and a focus on tranquility and personalized service.
    • Drop Anchor Resort & Marina: A family-owned and operated resort that offers a more traditional Keys experience with comfortable rooms, a pool, and direct access to fishing charters and water activities.
    Islamorada Restaurants
    Islamorada Restaurants

    Restaurants:

    • Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar: An iconic, lively waterfront spot famous for its breathtaking sunset views, live music nightly, and classic Keys seafood dishes. It’s a very popular choice for a casual, fun atmosphere.
    • Square Grouper Islamorada: Offers an elevated dining experience with a focus on fresh, local seafood prepared with innovative flair. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and excellent craft cocktails.
    • Lazy Days Restaurant: A long-standing favorite offering exquisite oceanfront dining with stunning views of the Atlantic. They specialize in fresh seafood, steaks, and pastas, with options for indoor, patio, or even “feet-in-the-sand” beach dining. They can also cook your fresh catch!
    • Chef Michael’s: An upscale restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and prime-grade beef, prepared with a tropical twist. It’s considered one of Islamorada’s finest dining experiences, offering an intimate ambiance.
    • Marker 88: A historic waterfront restaurant serving guests since 1967, combining Keys maritime history with exciting culinary creations, handcrafted cocktails, and local beers. Great for sunset views.
    • Morada Bay Beach Café: A Mediterranean bistro offering a casual, “feet-in-the-sand” dining experience right on the beach, with intoxicating sunset views. Perfect for a relaxed meal in a picturesque setting.
    • Pierre’s Restaurant & Lounge: Part of the Morada Bay property, Pierre’s offers an elegant, fine-dining experience with French and global influences. It’s known for its romantic ambiance, especially on its second-story veranda overlooking the bay. Reservations are highly recommended.
    • Green Turtle Inn Restaurant: An Islamorada institution since 1947, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. It offers authentic Keys cooking and southern staples for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed, nostalgic setting.
    • Islamorada Fish Company: While part of a larger chain, this original location offers fresh seafood in a lively atmosphere, often with fish and shark feedings in its private lagoon.
    • Kindler: A newer addition focusing on wood-fired cooking, offering a sophisticated menu of regional bounty from land and sea, complemented by a diverse wine collection.
    • Bayside Gourmet: A more casual spot known for its delicious pizza, sandwiches (including a popular grouper Reuben), and pasta dishes. It’s a great option for a more laid-back meal.
    • M.E.A.T. Eatery & Tap Room: Stands for “Meat, Eat, And Taste,” this spot is famous for its award-winning burgers and extensive craft beer selection. It’s a popular, lively gastropub.
    Islamorada Tiki Bar
    Islamorada Tiki Bar

    Bars:

    • Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar: While also a restaurant, the “Cabana Bar” part is legendary. It’s the quintessential Keys tiki bar experience, known for its sprawling outdoor seating, nightly live music, magical sunset views over Florida Bay, and a perpetually festive atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for a casual drink.
    • Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina (Tiki Bar and Raw Bar): This resort is home to one of the most famous and lively tiki bars in the Keys. It’s typically bustling with energy, offering direct access to the beach, marina, and often features live entertainment. Great for day drinking or a vibrant evening.
    • Whistle Stop Bar: A true local dive bar, the Whistle Stop is known for its unpretentious atmosphere, strong drinks, and often a colorful cast of characters. It’s a classic Keys watering hole for those looking for an authentic, no-frills experience.
    • Pierre’s Restaurant & Lounge (Upstairs Lounge): If you’re looking for something more upscale and sophisticated, the lounge upstairs at Pierre’s offers an elegant setting. It’s perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or a refined nightcap, with stunning views of Florida Bay and a more intimate, romantic ambiance.
    • Marker 88 (Tiki Bar): Another excellent waterfront option, Marker 88 combines history with a great bar scene. Their large outdoor tiki bar is ideal for enjoying a tropical drink while watching the sunset and listening to live music.
    • Islamorada Brewery & Distillery: For craft beer and spirits enthusiasts, this is the go-to spot. They offer a diverse selection of their own brewed beers and distilled spirits (rum, gin, vodka), often with a tasting room and outdoor seating. It’s a great place to try local flavors.
    • Wahoo’s Bar & Grill: A popular spot at the famous Robbie’s Marina. It’s a casual, open-air bar and grill where you can grab a drink and a bite after feeding the tarpon or before/after a fishing charter.
    • Hog Heaven Sports Bar & Grill: A classic sports bar environment with plenty of TVs to catch a game, along with pub fare and a full bar. It’s a more traditional bar setting compared to the many tiki bars.
    • Bimini Bay Bar (at Cheeca Lodge): Part of the luxurious Cheeca Lodge & Spa, this bar offers a more refined, resort-style setting. It’s perfect for a relaxed drink in a beautiful environment, often with views of the ocean or pool.
    • Morada Bay Beach Café: While primarily a restaurant, their “feet-in-the-sand” beachside setting makes for an incredible spot to enjoy cocktails, especially during their famous Full Moon Parties.