Unveiling THE BEST OF Islamorada (2024)

GET OUT ON THE OCEAN: If you come to the Florida Keys and don't get on the Ocean, let's agree now & say you didn't truly experience the best part of the Florida Keys! Our top picks for getting you out on the Ocean are ⬇⬇⬇ :

         1. Reef Quest Boat Tours (click HERE to get on a BOAT tour): 

• The owner - Jill -  will personally meet you before you depart and return from your tour, ensuring you have the best time! They take you out to our favorite snorkel spot (Alligator Reef Lighthouse) and a few other very cool and unique areas around Islamorada! Did I mention this is a 'smaller' boat (6 people or less)?! We highly recommend Reef Quest, and make sure when you book with them to mention THE ADVENTURE ENCOUNTERS sent you... or fill out the request form below for a quick answer

         2.  Bluewater Adventure (click HERE to request a CRAIGCAT tour): 

• Talk about one of the MOST UNIQUE ways to get out on the water! Have you ever heard of a CraigCat? Basically, these are a two person-motorized-miniature-catamaran (see the picture above) that move pretty quickly thru the water & I guarantee you will want to book them again for your future Florida Keys vacation & adventure! If you like riding jet skis... I know you will LOVE riding one of these CraigCats! You get to drive your own 2 seater catamaran craigcat (don't worry, they have more than one & the rest of your party can join in!), essentially following a guide around the island of Islamorada with a few cool pitstops along the way! Click HERE to request your tour today!

• IF YOU HAVE A LARGE PARTY and want to get out on the water - click HERE to request a tour quote

QUICK TIP: If these guys are not available, I suggest checking Viator or hop in your car and find a nearby marina, and you will be sure to find a tour to get you out on the water!

⬇(continue below for more Top Things To Do In Islamorada, Florida)⬇

3. THEATER OF THE SEA- Believe it or not, this is one of the few places where the sea creatures are actually in their natural salty sea habitat and lagoons vs. being in a pool or an aquarium the whole time. We have yet to check out this place, but I felt it was necessary to mention if you are staying at the Pelican Cove Resort (watch a full review HERE and read our blog about the resort)  or the Postcard Inn... it's only a few minute's walk to the front doors!

4. CHARTER A FISHING BOAT- If you haven't heard already, Islamorada is known as the 'sport fishing capital of the world'! If that doesn't catch your attention, I don't know what will. Now.... what charter is the 'best' you ask?! I'll be honest, we have yet to charter a fishing boat in Islamorada but have been talking about doing it for quite some time. We have been told to get the 'best' insight from Fishing Booker. We had used Fishing Booker once when we chartered a boat in Aruba, and the website has a TON of info about multiple charters in the area. I have also been told that sometimes you can get a little better rate when you talk to the captain directly (food for thought). So do your research, and tag us in your photos on Instagram or Facebook, and tell us what you thought & your pro tips on your fishing trip! 

5. ROBBIE'S  - Robbie's of Islamorada has an incredible amount of entertainment... so much that you could pretty much hang out here all day! They have activities ranging from boat rentals, jet ski tours, fishing charters, parasailing, sunset cruises, and much more. The list is seriously long (see their website)! One of our favorites is renting kayaks, exploring the mangroves, and then going to Indian Key (another tiny key with a walking trail, a viewing tower, and lots of history). And if you're brave enough, you can hand feed the MASSIVE tarpon... but beware of the lurking pelicans because they WILL seize the second and steal your bucket of fish! 

QUICK TIP: This is a bustling spot, especially on the weekends! It's best to show up early in the day and maybe even go during the week to experience this place without feeling too crowded.   

6. ASK THE LOCALS - If you have a Facebook page, I urge you to join the 'Key West & Florida Keys- Ask The Locals' page. This is the place to go if you need ANY info in a pinch!      

7. CHECK GROUPON  OR VIATOR-If you have used Groupon or Viator in the past, you know what these is all about, and you love reaping these website's benefits. If you are a novice, you may have just hit the SAVINGS jackpot on these websites. Groupon & Viator are essentially electronic coupon books that gives you daily deals to your nearest location. I'll be honest; these are the two sites that we often frequent and ALWAYS check for things to do and get discount prices and deals on places to eat and SO. MUCH. MORE! Be sure to check Groupon or Viator before buying any tickets for excursions or anything like that... there is a high possibility that you will keep a chunk of your vacation cash!  

 ⬇(continue below to Top Things To Do In Islamorada, Florida)⬇