Called the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada offers unrivalled opportunities for reeling in giant Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and Marlin from deep offshore waters. Fishermen who prefer the backcountry flats will find an excellent challenge in the permit, bonefish, and tarpon that frequent the shallows. The waters surrounding Islamorada host more fishing tournaments than anywhere else in the U.S., and anglers can test their skills against Sailfish, snook, and more nearly every month of the year.

Famous diving sites include Alligator Reef and Little Conch Reef, both of which are known for their shipwrecks, their barracuda, and the beauty and diversity of their coral formations. Davis Reef is the place to see green moray eels, and the coral spurs at Pickles Reef rest beneath only 15 to 25 feet of water, making it an ideal site for snorkelers. Seasoned divers & snorkelers will find many full-service dive charter companies, several of which also offer training and certification for newbies. Eco tours and fishing charters are also available. The Ocean Quest Dive Center (800-356-8798) will even arrange for your wedding—underwater!
Islamorada is also just a short jaunt from Key Largo, the Dive Capital of the World and home to the expansive and vibrant John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Christ of the Deep statue. The swim-through coral arches at Sombrero Reef, off Marathon to the south, are another must-see dive site and a good place to spot nurse sharks.

Naturalists are drawn to the area’s preserves and parks, among them the Long Key State Recreation Area at MM 67.5, which encompasses both hardwood hammocks and mangrove estuaries. Spot wildlife from a boardwalk traverses the lagoon, or drift down the canoe trail through the tidal lakes of Long Key. Two nature trails, an observatory tower, and camping spaces round out the island. Long Key is also known as Rattlesnake Key after its original Spanish name, Cayo Vivora. Call 305-664-4815 for space reservations or information.

Windley Key Quarry Fossil Reef State Geologic Site features a nature center and specimens of fossilized coral. Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site offers nature trails through 275 acres of rare virgin hardwood stands and ranger-guided tours Thursday – Monday, depending upon the weather. It’s accessible only by charter or private boat if the state ferry isn’t running from the MM 78.5 boat launch area; call 305-664-4815.

Seasonal events and celebrations liven up Islamorada’s naturally laid-back atmosphere, adding culture and heritage to the island. Art shows and musical concerts are held frequently and their themes and styles change annually. February brings the Giant Nautical Flea Market to Founder’s Park at MM 87, which hosts the Bay Jam concert series in April. In May, the Island Festival featuring the Taste of Islamorada culinary fair is the event of the season. Naturally, the area celebrates the Fourth of July and Independence Day with fervor and flair.

Islamorada is the main island in the chain stretching from MM 90 to MM 63. Smaller, adjacent islands include Plantation Key & Windley Key to the north; Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys, the Indian Keys, Fiesta Key, and Long Key to the south. In relation to other major islands, Islamorada is located south of Key Largo and north of Marathon.

The Chamber of Commerce, located at MM 82.5, can be reached at 800-322-5397.

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