Islamorada
Florida Keys

Islamorada

Destination Overview

A village of islands in the sunny paradise that is the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a gem known for its stellar beaches and sailing opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts from all around the world know it for its sensational offshore sailfishing, but romance-focused couples will find plenty more to love about the premier honeymoon spot.

Comprised of six islands — Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Indian Key, and Lignumvitae Key — the village is ideally situated between Key Largo and Marathon. From snorkeling tours and boating adventures to lush state parks and gorgeous sunsets, every day in Islamorada is a chance to experience something new. And at night, the village’s best tiki-covered bars and dock-to-table seafood restaurants will give foodies the rich tropical flavors they crave. It’s a laid-back honeymoon favorite that you’ll want to return to for every anniversary.

LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity
LGBTQIA+ couples will feel right at home in Islamorada, and the Florida Keys as a whole, thanks to its celebration of diversity and inclusion. The Florida Keys is well-regarded among the United States’ preeminent destinations for honeymooning couples, and Key West’s “One Human Family” motto attests to how everyone is welcome. From LGBTQIA+ accommodations and clubs to gay-owned cafes and restaurants, it is a paradisaical destination for those looking to rest and relax. Plus, there are plenty of nearby activities with an LGBTQIA+ focus, including outdoor sports and The Tennessee Williams Museum.

About Islamorada

Most Romantic Spot in Islamorada

Shhh…the most romantic spot in Islamorada is a hidden gem, so keep this one between us. Anne’s Beach, located at mile marker 73.5 and named after environmentalist Anne Eaton, offers possibly the most remarkable sunset views you’ll enjoy in the village. This hidden beach is an idyllic spot for a couples’ picnic, and the boardwalk through the mangroves adds to the ambiance. Oh, and it’s free!

Things to Do in Islamorada

  • Private Islamorada Sunset Cruise – There’s nothing more romantic than taking in the sunset with your loved one, and this private cruise is a dreamlike experience. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Green Flash over the water as the sun disappears over the horizon.
  • Islamorada Sandbar Tour – This unique experience allows couples to hop on a cute tiki boat and travel to a nearby sandbar, where you’ll get to decide on whether to swim, dance, or just relax with a cool cocktail.
  • Ecotour and Snorkeling Boat Tour – Experience the wonderful breadth of Florida’s wildlife on this interactive adventure tour. You might see dolphins, manatees, and even crocodiles.
  • Meet and Swim with Deep Blue Mermaid – Adventure seekers will not want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience of diving with The Deep Blye Mermaid, the Upper Keys’ only professional mermaid.
  • The Morada Way Arts and Cultural District – A stroll through this historic district features a dazzling array of galleries and studios that attract art lovers from all over the world.
  • Alligator Reef Light House – Great for snorkeling or simply as the backdrop for the perfect Instagram photo, this lighthouse’s iron pile skeleton makes it a unique sight to behold.

Islamorada Restaurants & Local Cuisine

  • With Pierre’s Lounge, Pierre’s Dining Room, and The Beach Cafe, Morada Bay Keys is a one-stop dining experience for high-end entrees and handcrafted cocktails. The restaurant features outdoor dining literally on the sandy beach with delightful tiki torch lighting, so the sunset views are truly sensational.
  • Foodies will not want to pass up on the opportunity to visit Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina’s Raw Bar. Boat-to-table ingredients are utilized to craft seafood dishes that are among the freshest you’ll ever indulge in. Plus, you’ll be seated mere inches from the ocean with unimpeded coastline views.
  • At least 20 tap beers and countless others in can form are poured daily at Florida Keys Brewing Company. This beachside brewery is a must for beer lovers and all honeymooners looking for a laid-back hang.
  • At Old Highway’s mile marker 81.7 is where you’ll find Kaiyo Grill & Sushi Bar. The sushi favorite in downtown Islamorada serves up signature Asian specialties at its prime location along Florida Bay.
  • Relish in fine dining at the cozy Chef Michael’s, which specializes in expertly-cooked steaks and dock-to-table seafood.
  • Wahoo’s Bar and Grill has been a staple of Islamorada for years thanks to its terrific dockside location and innovative seafood dishes that incorporate Central American flavors.

Traveling to Islamorada

Where is Islamorada?
Islamorada is a village spread across five islands in the Florida Keys, located off the southern coast of Florida. It is situated between Key Largo and Marathon and includes Plantation Key Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, and Windley Key. Tiny but packed with exciting honeymoon activities, Marathon covers an area of about 6.7 square miles and has a population of around 7,000 people.

Flights to Islamorada
Miami International Airport (MIA) is the most popular airport for flying to Marathon. The airport is approximately 75 miles north of the “Village of Islands” and there are several airlines that offer flights to Miami International Airport including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Once you arrive at Miami International Airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to get to Marathon. Alternatively, you can also fly into Key West International Airport (EYW), which is about 50 miles away, or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which is a 140-mile trek, but a great way to sightsee in southern Florida.

Islamorada Weather
You’ll enjoy warm temperatures throughout the year in this tropical favorite. The average temperature in Islamorada ranges from the mid-70s in the winter months to the mid-80s in the summer months. The water temperature in Islamorada is also warm, ranging from the mid-70s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer, meaning that you can swim, snorkel, boat, and fish year-round.

What is the best month to travel to Islamorada?
Late December, right after the holidays, through May marks peak tourist season in Islamorada. Travelers who don’t mind a bit of humidity may consider a visit during the summer months in order to avoid crowds and take advantage of better hotel deals.

How long should a honeymoon in Islamorada be?
A few days is the ideal amount of time for romantic rest and relaxation in Islamorada. The variety of attractions and density of restaurants throughout The Florida Key easily allow for a week of romantic adventuring if you have the time.