One boat captain told me Islamorada was "a little drinking town with a big fishing problem." I'm not sure about the drinking, but I can tell you Islamorada is world-renowned for its fishing. The "Sportsfishing Capital of the World," so named because it holds more sportfishing world records than any other fishing destination in the world, is naturally packed with charter boats. The Atlantic side of the island is brimming with marlin, dolphin, tuna, lobster, snapper and grouper. In the shallow backcountry waters, anglers can find tarpon, bonefish and redfish.
If fishing is not your thing, Islamorada offers many other activities. Reef and wreck diving and snorkeling is popular; charter companies like Lady Cyana Divers offer all the equipment you need for a few hours or a whole day on the reef (just bring your C-Card). If you're not certified, sign up for a class and get into the water right away. For antique shopping, try Treasure Village and Rain Barrel, and for fragrant foliage head to Lignumvitae Botanical Site. Cheeca Lodge and Spa offers tennis, golf, swimming pools, beaches, and a full-service spa. Cheeca Lodge also features private beachside villas, hammocks that swing under thatched roofs, and a pier with picture-perfect views, perfect for sunset strolls.
Fine dining, tropical drinks and dancing are popular activities after dark. The Morada Beach Café, set in a charming old house on the beach, features a broad front porch where couples can dine al fresco by candlelight. The sound of the waves lapping the shore a few short yards away provides a rhythm for the soft guitar music playing live most nights. After dinner, order a drink at the bar (they'll put a glowing lightstick in your glass) and claim a beach chair for two on the sand outside the café. The setting is so romantic, many couples choose it for their wedding ceremony. Contact the café for arrangements.
For fine dining indoors, try the recently opened Kaiyo. The former chef of Cheeca Lodge conceived of this unique experience, a fusion of Keys cuisine and Asian-inspired delicacies. Think conch, key lime, and Florida lobsters alongside more traditional sushi combinations.
For a really unique experience, catch a ride on the Nautilimo. Chauffeured by its creator, Captain Joe Fox, this is the only nautical stretch limousine in the Keys (and perhaps the world). It's a boat outfitted with parts from a 1987 Cadillac limousine, and the effect is amazing. To observers, it appears to be an actual stretch limo cruising just on the surface of the water. For $75 per couple, you can sip a bottle of champagne and wave to amazed people on shore, or just settle back and enjoy the view from the "car" windows.
More About Islamorada
Visitors
Information
800.FAB.KEYS
info@islamoradachamber.com
Nautilimo
305.942.3793
Kaiyo
305.664.5556
Morada
Bay Beach Cafe
305.664.0604 (Debbie Peirog, weddings)
