Tripadvisor Islamorada Restaurants (2024)

FAQs

What is Islamorada best known for? ›

Known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is a popular vacation destination enjoyed for its up-scale small-town atmosphere, scenic bay, and ocean views, sunshine, boating, fishing, locally owned restaurants, quaint shops, and galleries.

The village is spread across six islands (or “keys”) but the walking tour is concentrated on a one-mile stretch of Upper Matecumbe Key along U.S. 1, which ties the keys together and leads to Key West, the southernmost point of the U.S.

Islamorada is home to some of the most beautiful sandbars in the Florida Keys. The sand is soft and white, the water is crystal clear, and the views are simply stunning. You'll find plenty of places to lounge and soak up the sun, including several public sandbars and a handful of beachfront resorts.

Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this village has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the spectacular food and terrific beaches. Islamorada includes six different keys and is filled with parks, nature centers, and a local flair.

Notable residents include Miguel Cabrera, Gene Hackman, Jimmy Johnson, and Ted Williams. If you think the area looks familiar, you may recognize it from the TV show Bloodline which was filmed in Islamorada.

The best time to visit

As Florida has some of the mildest winters in the US, December through May is peak season in Islamorada. Although temperatures are still reasonably high, the humidity is much lower and rainfall is rare. Accommodation in Islamorada around this time will get booked up fast!

Key Largo is one of the most famed destinations in Florida and is known far and wide as a tropical paradise. Historically speaking, it was an important site as a station along the Overseas Railroad.

Beach Hours

This beach has little to no wave action and offers a shallow swimming area great for young children and dogs. Anne's Beach also features a paved parking area, a boardwalk, covered picnic tables, and public restrooms. Swim at your own risk. Dogs permitted; must be leashed.

Both locations have outdoor and marine activities that can't be beaten, gorgeous scenery, and memorable experiences on both land and sea. For those wishing for a more laid-back, small-town vibe, Islamorada is the way to go; and for those wanting a more bustling, high-energy spot, Key Largo is where it's at.

This six-block corridor along Morada Way is essentially the Florida Keys's downtown or main street. The lively district is home to dozens of local galleries, restaurants, studios, and shops surrounded by parks and bike paths.

Which is better, Islamorada or Key West? ›

Although Islamorada and Key West are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Islamorada attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping.

Unique Geography

Islamorada is home to just over 6,000 permanent residents on its five inhabited islands —Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, and Tea Table Key. Many threatened and endangered plant and animal species can be found on these islands.

Legend has it the area was named by Spanish explorers who, upon seeing the purple sky at sunset and the purple bougainvillea, called it “isla morado” or purple island. Islamorada is known as the Sport-Fishing Capital of the World. And recently the island was named one of the 17 most romantic destinations in the U.S.

Situated between Key Largo and Marathon in the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a village of islands known as the “Sport-Fishing Capital of the World.” Islamorada has top-notch guides and charter services offering both offshore and backcountry excursions to help anglers reel in coveted species from sailfish to bonefish and ...