Things to Do in Islamorada

If fishing is at the top of your vacation list, you must go to Islamorada. April is the month for the Islamorada All-Tackle Spring Bonefish Tournament. The month of May is the time for the Holiday Isle Dolphin Tournament. Numerous tour boats and charters are available throughout the area. Take a half day cruise on the Robbie and feed the pet tarpons. The bountiful fish life is also a haven for divers.

Islamorada Boat Tours of the Florida Keys

A relaxing three hour boat ride will take you to Indian Key State Historic Islamorada Jet Ski Rental

Site. It is a ten- acre island surrounded by the most treacherous Florida reefs. John James Audubon was once a guest at the famous hotel on the island. The hotel had a large ballroom, fancy bar and a bowling alley. The profitable business of salvaging turned the island into a bustling business town with wild parties. In 1840, the town was destroyed. The village has been reconstructed and Park Rangers give tours.

Historic Islamorada

Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site is on a larger scale. It encompasses 280 acres of tropical virgin forest. Guided tours travel past gumbo-limbo and poisonwood Islamorada Heron

trees. The Matheson House was built in 1919, and has withstood many hurricanes and tropical storms. The house has been restored to its original decor. The San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve is located 18 feet below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. An underwater nature trail takes you by coral, crustaceans, anchors and the ship�s galley.

The Layton Nature Trail is for landlubbers with its winding paths through a dense forest of pigeon plum, wild coffee and tropical plants. The walk takes less than half an hour and is a wonderful excursion for younger children.

Enjoy Islamorada Cuisine

The restaurants are superb and offer treats such as Cajun-style dolphin and Key lime pie. Eateries offer fresh "catches of the day," with oven baked breads and a spectacular view. Hog Heaven Sports Bar and Food Emporium offers the famous 20-ounce steak. Islamorada Watering Hole

Rawbars are popular and some include live entertainment along with house specialties.

The Atlantic�s Edge Restaurant was host to George Bush in 1989. He feasted in the main dining room at Checca Lodge after a day of bonefishing. The menu includes stone-crab pie, sea scallops, lobster fritters and a sensational assortment of fine wines.

Islamorada Shopping

Trendy art shops, galleries and gift boutiques can be found on plantation Key. Treasure Village and Rain Barrel have a terrific collection of arts and crafts. Watch as glass blowers create fine wares right before your eyes. Potters spin their wheels and create a masterpiece. Jewelers craft intricate pieces while leather workers stitch a bit of history.

H. T. Chittum & Company has an assortment of clothing and fishing tackle. Islamorada Shops Handmade flies, trolling lures, gaffs and rods are crafted on the premises. This unique store is located at MM 82.7.

Islamorada Nightlife

Nightlife consists of raw bars, rock and roll and live entertainment. The best nightlife can be seen along the shore. Admission is free; dress is formal to casual and no cover charge.