THINGS TO DO IN ISLAMORADA
The Florida Keys are chock full of things to do, see, and experience. Come explore the rich history of the southernmost region of the United States; from the beginning of Route 1 to the history of diving. Take a close look at how the mangrove trees protect the Keys during hurricanes, or learn about the role the Keys played in the infamous drug trades of the 80s and 90s. Kiss a dolphin or learn how to paddle board. No matter what your interests may be, Islamorada and the Florida Keys make exploration and adventure a wealth of possibility.
Visit the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
This state park is an adventure for the whole family as it is located almost entirely underwater! The first undersea park in the country, see natural and human-made reefs, underwater statues, and more below the surf. Explorers can choose to either snorkel or scuba dive, and the water-wary can comfortably enjoy the wonders below on a glass-bottom boat tour or by kayak. If it’s your first trip to the Keys, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss.
Enjoy the Theater of the Sea on our very own Islamorada
Within walking distance of our lovely hotel is the Theater of the Sea, which combines the pizzazz of a marine park with the charm of a family-owned attraction. Watch a sea lion show, hold a parrot, and enjoy a bottomless boat ride. The park’s animal interaction programs—including swimming with dolphins—are sure to make a splash with the whole family.
Visit the Keys History and Discovery Center
where visitors can learn about the ecological and historical background of our beautiful Keys, which includes photos of shipwrecks, memorabilia from the Native Americans who lived here for thousands of years, and more.
See the sea lions and dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center
here, the whole family will be enthralled by daily dolphin and sea lion shows and feedings, as well as interactive exhibits about how these large aquatic mammals have formed such beautiful relationships with humans over the course of hundreds of years. If you’re feeling really wild, book a day experience with the dolphins so you can swim with these beautiful creatures yourself.
Explore the depths at the History of Diving Museum
just down the street from the hotel explore the history of diving at this wonderful and charming museum that houses an impressive collection of deep sea diving helmets, a re-imagination of the Nautilus from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and more. Learn about humankind’s fascination with the unexplored frontier within the ocean’s depths, and learn about our attempts to go deeper still.
Snorkel with local fish and sea-life
Water babies celebrate! We are happy to offer chartered adventures through our local partner; Edelweiss Keys Snorkel and Eco Tours. They offer custom tours of the beautiful waters around Islamorada, including tours of the famous Islamorada Sandbar, or Alligator Reef Sandbar, which boasts of over 500 species of marine life and a shipwreck. Please contact the concierge for more information or for help with booking your aquatic adventure.
