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Islamorada Is More Than Just The Sport Fishing Capital Of The World

Stretching over 4 islands of the Upper Florida Keys, Islamorada, is called the Village of Islands.

It's sprawl encompasses Plantation, Windley, Upper Matecumbe and Lower Matecumbe Keys.

The name is Spanish, with the most common translation being Isla for isles and Morada for purple.

Yet another name it proudly holds is Sportfishing Capital of the World.

Without question Florida Keys fishing is superb here, and it doesn't matter whether you're out on the Hump or backcountry fishing, the results are usually fantastic!

Since the City is spread over 4 islands, if you arrived by any of the Florida Keys shuttle services, you'll want to either use a local taxi company or get a Florida car rental.

Islamorada Map

Islamorada Map
Source US Census Bureau and wikipedia.org


One taxi company appropriately named after the town is at 305-664-4100.

If you decide a Florida car rental will be your most convenient and economical option, then an affiliate of mine called AirportCarRentals is your best bet to help you coordinate your Florida car rental

They can get you the best rates on the most popular car rentals types through the top 17 car rental companies, located at over 18,500 locations.

They also make renting a car a snap, in fact in most cases you don't even require a credit card. They also have no hidden booking or credit card fees, and on most car rentals there is no surcharge if you have to cancel the rental.

So you know, as an affiliate of AirportCarRentals, I stand to receive a small referral fee at no extra cost to you. This is called being an "affiliate."




People come in droves, from Key West FL and Key Largo, to this beautiful village of islands. They come for many reasons, the Florida weather, the fishing and the fun things to do.

In fact, if you're wanting to check the current, hazardous, or short range local Florida weather forecast, this link will provide you detailed information on the weather in this part of the Florida Keys.


Islamorada Visitor Center


Islamorada Visitor Center




Cheap Deals And Florida Keys Discounts

Islamorada Florida has a lot of different Florida Keys things to do, restaurants to eat at and a broad selection of accommodations to choose from.

All of these great things to see and do spell 'spending money'. You can't have a Florida Keys vacation without burning through a few greenbacks.

The dilemma comes when you want to do something, but you're vacation dollars are beginning to stretch thin. If you can take advantage of great Florida Keys discounts on many of the Florida attractions you'll start to get ahead of the curve and have more money to spend on other things.

Two companies who are affiliates of mine that can save you money and give you good information are Cheap O Air and TripAdvisor. This is because Florida Keys lodging and airfare are big factors that contribute to your vacation expenses.

CheapOAir is one company that has discounts on airfare, car rentals, lodging and Florida Keys all inclusive vacation packages.

As you know, if you can bundle, you'll save even more money and they can help with a variety of bundle packages, all geared up to make your Florida Keys vacation more convenient, comfortable and affordable!

Cheap O Air also specializes in CHEAP airline deals They always run some form of discount so make sure you check them out and take advantage of the savings now!

You can also check out our main lodging page for the Upper Keys. Here you'll be able to see the different types of Florida Keys accommodation choices. If you're more interested in a resort over a motel, click on resorts and you'll see all the different resorts in the Upper Keys.

Any that interest you, simply click on their name to get TripAdvisor reviews and you can use their handy widget for price checking rates with dates. If you have the flexibility to play around with your travel dates, you can often get cheaper rates.

So you know, if you click on any of these 2 affiliate companies links and make a purchase I do stand to receive a small compensation. However there is no extra cost to you for this as this is what being an "affiliate" means.



As A Trusted Tours Affiliate I Can Earn Small
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Since it's not that far to Key West, if you're planning on including a trip to Key West during your Florida Keys vacation, Trusted Tours highlighted in the box above, has great online deals you won't want to miss. They don't provide any Florida Keys discounts elsewhere, but what they have in Key West is terrific.

Through them you can get cheap deals on Key West tours including packages, museums, cruises including package deals to save you even more vacation money on other Key West events and attractions.

Lobster Sculpture At Rain Barrel Sculpture Gallery in Islamorada, FL


Lobster Sculpture At Rain Barrel Sculpture Gallery





Islamorada Fishing

Of course one of the biggest reasons people come to the area is for Islamorada fishing. Without question this is the top contender in terms of things to do.

So why is this area such a hot button for Florida Keys fishing? Primarily, because you have such a wide range of Florida fish to catch, places to go, and different styles and techniques to implement.

You can go out with any of the fishing charters for a half day or full day of Islamorada deep sea fishing or go out to the popular, but often crowded Islamorada Hump.

Or, if you're up to the challenge and possess the necessary skills, you'll want to go flat fishing for permit. You can also cast or go Islamorada fly fishing while poling the shallow water in the renowned Downtown flats.

Islamorada Flats Fishing


Fly Fishing in the Islamorada Flats
Photo Courtesy of byways.org


You may even want to test your skill and patience sightfishing for that record size bonefish, tarpon or even shark.

What about Florida Keys backcountry fishing?

Backcountry fishing in Islamorada takes you out to the shallow recesses and channels of the Everglades National Park. This has to be one of the best fishing experiences ever.

Islamorada backcountry fishing is also something anyone can do. No matter what your skill level, even if you're traveling with children, everyone is guaranteed to have fun.

When Florida Keys backcountry fishing, you can fly fish, spin cast with bait or lures, troll or pole and sight fish - basically anything goes.

Backcountry Fishing is a Popular Florida Keys activity


Backcountry Fishing Is A Popular Florida Keys Activity


Plus expect to catch any species and size of Florida Keys fish. Islamorada tarpon fishing, is extremely popular no matter where you go, including the backcountry waters. Plus grouper, snook, mangrove snapper, and shark can be explosive catches.

You'll also find that there's an abundance of Florida Keys fish lurking in the shallow depths of the Everglades National Park backcountry waters.

If you've never gone Florida Keys fishing in this area, there are many fishing charters in Islamorada willing to guide you. This is a good idea for many reasons, with safety being paramount.

You'll also want to know where to go, and how to catch what you're after. Islamorada fishing guides know their water, and they'll show you how to catch the various Florida Keys fish that are in season.

Below, you'll find just some of the Islamorada fishing charters you can choose from. FishingBooker, an affiliate of mine is great at breaking down the what's and where's of the local fishing charters to help you find what you want at the price you want to spend.

You can get rates for these companies by clicking the Check Rates button. This will take you to their landing page. Once there you can also check out other Florida Keys fishing charters for the area by clicking on the large blue Search Charters button near the top of the left side of the page.

To be upfront with you, as an affiliate of FishingBooker, if you click a link to a charter, book it and go on it, I stand to earn a small commission. The charter however does not cost you any more whether you book here on direct. This is called being an "affiliate" and is an extra convenience we can provide.

The best part of this is that you can also fine tune your search as to where they fish, the type of fish they target, the type of gear they use and so forth. This makes it so much easier for you to find the best fishing charter for the style of fishing you want to do on your Florida Keys vacation.

You can also immediately access all of the Islamorada fishing charters by clicking the large link directly below.

Following Is A Sampling Of Islamorada Fishing Charters


Dog House Sportfishing Charters - Captain Jesse
53’ Hatteras offshore sport fishing smooth ride yacht, 2 610HP Cummins QSM11 engines, 6 person capacity
Islamorada Departure
Payment 20% deposit to guarantee reservation, balance day of trip via Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Checks, American Express
Numerous species of most popular offshore and reef fishing targeted (wahoo, permit, sailfish, mackerel, grouper and more), child friendly, deposit non-refundable under normal circumstances., pickup is not included in the rates
Fishing Trip Destinations
Offshore Fishing     Reef Fishing
Fishing Techniques
Light Tackle     Heavy Tackle     Bottom Fishing     Jigging
Popping     Kite Fishing     Spearfishing     Lobster Fishing
Fishing Trip Description
Dog House Sport Fishing Charters yacht is built for speed and comfort. 3 air conditioners, flybridge, kitchen, bathroom, bed, and multimedia system all make the getting out there and back comfortable and fun. Life jackets, bait, fishing gear and fishing licenses are included. The only thing you need to bring is something to eat and a burning desire to catch some of the biggest fish. Fortunately you're going out with one of the area's most skilled Captains. Captain Jesse, at the helm has been fishing the Florida Keys for nearly 30 years, and he knows the migration of the big fighting fish you want to target on your Islamorada fishing vacation




Following Are Samples Of Key Largo & Upper Keys Fishing Charters


Bamboo Charters 1 - Captain Matt Bellinger
24' Ranger Boats (2), 250 hp Mercury Marine engine, 4 person capacity
Islamorada Departure
Payment 20% deposit to guarantee reservation, balance day of trip via Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Checks
Numerous species of most popular inshore and backcountry fishing targeted, child friendly, free cancellation, pickup included in price
Fishing Trip Destinations
Nearshore Fishing     Flats Fishing     Backcountry Fishing     Everglades National Park
Fishing Techniques
Light Tackle     Heavy Tackle     Bottom Fishing     Trolling
Spinning     Jigging     Popping     Fly Fishing     Kite Fishing
Fishing Trip Description
Bamboo Charters 1 boats have a maximum cruising speed of 44 knots. Captain Bellinger is not only a highly accomplished Florida Keys fishing guide, he is also a PADI Master scuba diver and a highly trained and certified naturalist. These combinations bring an astounding level of knowledge to your fishing trip experience whether you're targeting tarpon, barracuda, shark, permit or cobia. You'll learn about the fish you're targeting, the marine and bird life you see on the water, and the importance of this water wonderland and it's connection to Everglades National Park and human lives. If you're eager to learn the best ways to catch fish, or sharpen your existing skills, plus are interested in understanding more about the natural Florida surrounding you, this is one Islamorada fishing charter trip you won't want to miss.






Snorkeling & Scuba Diving Florida Keys

Of course Florida Keys scuba diving are major pastimes as well. The density of coral reefs, underwater ledges and offshore shipwrecks such as The Eagle, are a magnet for fish. Expect to see tropical fish, queen angelfish, shark, even green moray eels darting among the crevices, and shallow coral reefs.

Pickles Reef is especially a favorite for Florida Keys snorkeling. The shallower waters provide a spectacular opportunity to view an abundance of unusual marine life, nestled in and around the Florida Keys coral reef.

There's also the San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve just offshore one mile. You can Florida Keys dive or snorkel this historic 1733 Spanish Treasure wreck, or you can view it from above, in a glass bottom boat.

History of Diving Museum


History Of Diving Museum


If you're an avid scuba diver, don't pass up the opportunity to visit the History of Diving museum. This has the largest international collection of artifacts and diving helmets. They also provide an interesting, detailed evolution of diving history.

This Florida Keys museum is at MM 83, 82990 Overseas Highway. If you have questions about hours of operation, you can call them at 305-664-9737.

For that special scuba diver in your life, or if you just want to pick up something unusual for yourself, check out the History of Diving gift shop. They've got some really cool gifts - from posters, to brass Mark V key chains and pencil sharpeners.

You can also get great scuba diving gear and snorkeling gear from Amazon. Whether you're looking to give something special as a gift, or are needing to add to your scuba diving equipment, Amazon has a huge selection available.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases such as these items.

Do remember that if you're planning on adding a snorkel or scuba diving trip to your Florida Keys vacation you'll have to bring your own gear, or rent from the charter company you're going out with.




Other Fun Florida Keys Things To Do

One of the fun annual Upper Florida Keys activities is Woofstock Music Fair. Usually held the second Saturday in March from 11 - 7, this event is held at Founder's Park, Mile Marker 87.

This popular event is designed to be a family pet-friendly affair where fun activities for people and their pets are held. K-9 search and rescue demonstration are common, along with pet adoptions. Doggie diving competitions are popular and the winner of this splash event receives a prize.

Founders Park


Woofstock Festival goers can visit the different booths featuring a variety of pet products and gifts. Live entertainment, food and beverages are available, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Dolphin encounters are hugely popular, and Theater of the Sea is a major Florida Keys attractions . This is where you have a chance to learn more about dolphins, sea lions, and sting rays. You can go on a glass bottom boat ride, even enjoy a parrot show.

Being able to swim with dolphins in Florida Keys is the real highlight. The dorsal pull, where you hold the dorsal fin and swim with dolphin is an all-time high you won't soon forget.

Theater Of the Sea


Theater Of The Sea


If you decide to participate in the swim with dolphin program, Theater of the Sea also guarantees you'll have hands-on experience. There are other programs in the area that do not make this guarantee. Before paying for the extra programs, always reconfirm nothing has changed. This is especially true when it comes to the hands-on swim with dolphin interaction program.

If you plan on taking in all the shows at Theater of the Sea, you can expect to spend upwards of 2.5 hours. You'll spend more time if you decide to poke around the gift shop. Plus, if it's in season and the beach is open, plan on relaxing by the water for awhile. Close your eyes and remember your amazing swim with dolphins in Florida Keys. Can it really get any better than this?

To make reservations or inquiries, call Theater of the Sea at 305-664-2431. They're located at MM 84.5 ocean side.

Voluntourism programs are other fun, worthwhile activities you can participate in while on your Florida Keys vacation.

There are also numerous eco tours to choose from. These ecotours focus on a variety of themes all designed to educate while providing a memorable, enjoyable vacation experience.

Bottlenose dolphin swimming in boat wake


Watching Dolphins Are A Big Part of Any Florida Keys Vacation
www.mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov


If you're a tennis enthusiast, and would like to hit a volley or two, The Islamorada Tennis Club is open to visitors and members alike.

They're at MM 77, Bayside, 76800 Overseas Highway. If you would like to make reservations or inquire about a lesson, you can call them at 305-664-5341.

Leaving Islamorada the Catch Ya Later Sign


Catch You Later!


An Islamorada vacation means something different to everyone. For some, Islamorada fishing is king, for others it's scuba diving Florida Keys. Many have said it's one of the most romantic places they've ever experienced. Some just come simply to relax and stay at one of many hotels in Islamorada FL.

So whether it's your first holiday or your twentieth to this wonderful place, you'll never grow tired of your stay in paradise.






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Local Weather Zip Codes

Key Largo - 33037
Marathon - 33050
Key West - 33040