Coming for a short stay?  Here are the Top things to do around Islamorada and Tavernier to make the best of your trip!

ART WALK | Islamorada - If you happen to be in Islamorada on the 3rd Thursday of every month, enjoy a splendid evening walking the art district encompassed around MM81.6 on the Old Hwy. on the ocean side (across the street from Bass Pro Worldwide Sportsman).  You'll find a few blocks with several areas of live entertainment, artists, vendors, & food.  The event runs from 5pm-8pm.

Taste of Islamorada - If you happen to be here early April, check out the Chamber Calendar for the annual Island Fest which includes a local food competition.  During this 2-day event, on Saturday you'll find food trucks, vendors, artists, and live music.  Sunday is the annual Taste Fest which features the best of the local area restaurants.  The event is held at Founders Park MM87.  The park also hosts several concerts, the Chamber has a full calendar.

You can come to Founders Park via boat and anchor outside the swim area.  It is very difficult to get your anchor set however.  The bottom is very hard with little sand.  Also, you need to be aware of the jellyfish at the bottom which appear to be plants.  If we can get our anchor set, I float across and avoid walking until I get to the swim area which is safe.  This is however a nice protected lagoon to float around on a raft on a windy day.  There are also a lot of rocks in the area bordering the marina which offers an outstanding array of fish to view snorkeling.

End of February and you don't want to miss the Annual Nautical Flea Market also held at Founders Park.  Vendors, food, entertainment with everything you'll need as a boater.

There are numerous shops and boutiques from T-shirts to beautiful coastal home decor.  If you are limited on time, check out our directory for some ideas on favorite must do popular shopping stops.

Need some things for the kids?  Theater of the Sea is a fun 1/2 day for all ages!  Dolphin shows and several interactive activities for children... and we liked it too!

Another fun kid thing and adult too is to stop and see some Tarpons!  A good property to walk around is Worldwide Sportsman.  There is a large basin where huge Tarpon hang out waiting for some snacks from the on lookers.  Also inside this store is a large aquarium with local fish - at the back of the tackle area.

Need to find a beach in Islamorada?  Although beaches in the Florida Keys are NOT like the large coastal beaches of Miami and Daytona, the locations here are all "natural" and not maintained.  You will find however, a beautiful spot at Anne's Beach at Mile Marker 73.

There are restrooms at the parking lot on the north side of Anne's beach.  Parking is located both ends and is connected by a wooden boardwalk for a nice short hike along the beach while keeping your feet dry.

Renting a bike for a 1/2 day!  Not really a younger children friendly event because of traffic, but adults can enjoy a leisurely ride on the back roads and bike paths.  Check out Where to Bike in Islamorada / Tavernier for some local maps of routes and see some beautiful homes and hidden away beautiful scenery.... and wildlife, like the local Peacocks, chickens, & roosters hanging out by the road.

Picnic, park, beach, playgrounds, pool, splashpad?  And Founders Park comes up again!  Located bayside, there is a fee to enter the park however it is a beautiful place to lay on the beach and have a picnic in the shade while kids play in the playground.  There is also a gigantic swimming pool & splashpad for an extra fee.

Want a FREE park to walk some short trails - or a nice clean playground?  Check out the SEE | DO section for FREE things to do!

Short Road Trips

Bahia Honda Park MM36.8 is one of the most beautiful areas, if not the best, in the Keys.  On your way back you may enjoy the Turtle Hospital in Marathon.

Part of the joy of going to Bahia Honda is crossing the 7 Mile Bridge just south of Marathon!

Beach on both sides of Bahia Honda Park.  Beautiful place to visit - bring your snorkel!  Check out the video below and many more short videos Florida Keys destinations with and without dockage for boats!

Interesting place to stop for lunch or dinner on your way in Marathon is the Keys Fisheries located on Florida Bay.  Fun outdoor dining experience with upstairs bar.  Serves large variety of fresh catch and also has a seafood market to take something home and cook yourself.

Menu for reference April 2025

If you are heading through Marathon in the morning and want a "local" breakfast place, we would recommend the Conch Cafe.  Here you can find a hearty breakfast at a reasonable cost.  My favorite breakfast here is of course the Conch Eggs Benedict!