The village of Islamorada is not a single Florida Key, but many. Only 90 minutes from Miami, it offers all the R&R you could possibly want in a Florida Keys getaway: sunny skies, quiet beaches, and fresh seafood by the boatload. However, there are other things to do in Islamorada if you're looking for an alternative experience. The village is known for sportfishing and dolphin viewing, but you can also scope out fossilized coral at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park or see live coral when snorkeling off Indian Key Historic State Park.
Early spring is the best time to visit Islamorada. March and April have plenty of sun, but unlike the busy summer months, they see fewer sunbathers. Sea turtles begin to nest this time of year as well, offering an opportunity to view these majestic creatures on crowd-free beaches. Avoid traveling during hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
As with most of the Florida Keys, Islamorada does not have a public transit system, so you'll need a set of wheels to get around. The most convenient option is to pick up a rental car at Miami International Airport and take US Route 1 to Islamorada, although shuttle services can get you to the village as well. Rideshares and taxis are available in Islamorada; you can rely on those or kayak or charter a boat to get from one key to the next.
Islamorada tends to get overlooked by visitors on their way to Marathon, but that just means fewer crowds to contend with. While sportfishing is the most popular draw, you can have a fun day on land checking out vintage diving equipment at the History of Diving Museum, tarpon feeding at Robbie’s, and shopping for local handicrafts at Rain Barrel Village.
