Islamorada is known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World", and for good reason. In the deeper waters surrounding Islamorada Florida, you can head out and enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with hooking and fighting a large sailfish, and then round out the rest of the day in the backcountry's shallower waters in hopes of snagging some bonefish, tarpon, snook and redfish. The numerous offshore and back country fishing guides readily found throughout Islamorada are there to help you maximize your Islamorada fishing adventure in the Florida Keys. Whether stationed in Key Largo, or headed to Key West, Islamorada makes a for a fun-filled visit along your Florida Keys itinerary.

While Islamorada fishing has long been a major draw, this tropical marine paradise is also making its name as one of the hottest spots for florida scuba diving. It's one thing to see tropical marine life in an aquarium, but nothing compares to diving into the water yourself to actually swim with them. Divers will relish in the variety of shallow coral reefs, mini walls, and shipwrecks hidden just beneath the surface. Divers and snorkelers will further enjoy the History of Diving Museum, which opened in Islamorada to rave reviews in 2006. Another way to stay busy on the island involves exploring the watery wilderness on an eco-tour. Heading northwest with a guide can take you into the backcountry to observe manatees, crocodiles and roseate spoonbills. Guides can even take you further to the Flamingo National Park outpost where the Everglades flow out into Florida Bay.

Islamorada Florida is made up of a chain of six islands, and families will find that Anne's Beach and Founder's Park and Beach offer playgrounds, picnic tables and exotic views along their sandy strips. Kids can further enjoy visits to area attractions, fishing and snorkeling trips, and feeding the tarpon at Robbie's Marina. Four state parks dot these chain of islands as well, and at Long Key State Park, you'll find lush, tropical nature trails for some unique Florida hiking. Head over to Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, where you can view an old quarry dug by Henry Flagler's railroad workers, or try a side trip to Indian Key Botanical State Park to learn about the state's island history dating back to the early 1800's.

Florida Keys Map

Visitors to Islamorada will find among the lodging options a healthy mix of Islamorada hotels and over 25 Islamorada resorts. With so many Islamorada resorts and overall lodging options, visitors are sure to find suitable accommodations for their vacations. At the Ocean View Sports Pub & Inn, for example, sports fanatics will find a waterview inn and sports pub mixed into one. You'll be sure to catch that big game even while on vacation at this unique getaway spot renovated by past NFL football stars Gary Dunn and Dennis Harrah. Recently, they added new rooms and a new pool as well.

For a more intimate selection among Islamorada resorts, there is the Lime Tree Bay Resort, which is AAA approved, and a recipient of the Superior Small Lodging Award. It is also recognized by Fodor's Travel to be one of the "best bets" in the Florida Keys. And, at La Jolla Resort, you can select from bayfront efficiencies, villas, cottage and resort accommodations in the heart of Islamorada. Among the amenities found at this past winner of the Islamorada beautification award are a boat ramp and dock, a freshwater pool, and a sunning beach.

No matter where you choose to stay in Islamorada, you are guaranteed to enjoy yourself with an exciting mix of things to do out and around the six islands. Come for the renowned excitement of Islamorada sportfishing and you'll find so much more. At just an hour and a half drive south of Miami, this delightful destination is an easy find along Highway 1. So if you are flying in, you can take advantage of the many airlines to Florida that stop at Miami's Intl. Airport, and grab a shuttle bus down, or rent a car. You can also book a flight with Florida Coastal Airlines, which has regular service to nearby Marathon Key and the Florida Keys Marathon Airport, just 45 minutes away from Islamorada. You'll also find rental cars and shuttle services from there.