Islamorada Things to Do Tips by goingsolo Top 5 Page for this destination

The Sandbar

There is an area located about one mile offshore which is known as the sandbar. The ocean floor here is flat and smooth and the water is not too deep. People park their boats out here on nice afternoons and the atmosphere can be pretty festive. Its a perfect spot for wading into the ocean, although not a place for fishing or diving.

Any local fishing or boating guide can tell you how to get there. Or, if you're renting a boat at Holiday Isle or elsewhere, just ask at the office.

Kokomos

Kokomos is an outdoor bar located near the pool in the Holiday Isle complex. On the weekends, a reggae band plays here in the afternoons. Its a great spot to drink, soak up the sun and dance.

Address: Holiday Isle

Reggae and rum runners at Holiday Isle

There's booze in the blender
and soon it will render
that frozen concoction
that helps me hang on

Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville

Holiday Isle is a somewhat large complex where you will find the "world famous" Tiki Bar and a strip of white sand beach, among other things. Charter fishing boats jet ski and boat rentals are available at the marina. Kokomos, the outdoor bar, has live music, usually reggae, on the weekends. In addition to fishing and drinking, you can lie on the beach or go for a swim in the pool. The Howard Johnson's is located on the Holiday Isle property as well.

Address: Mile marker 91, Islamorada

Website: http://www.holidayisle.com

Swim with the dolphins

Theatre if the Sea is a marine park located near the Holiday Isle Resort. Like most parks of this nature, Theatre of the Sea rescues injured sea lions and other marine mammals which cannot be returned to their natural environment and provides a home for them at the park. There are several exhibits and shows and a glass bottom boat ride, but the star attraction here is swimming with the dolphins. Or the sea lions. Or the sea rays.

These special programs allow visitors to snorkel in the habitat of these animals. Its a chance to see the dolphins or sea lions or rays up close and personal. I'd highly recommend this activity to anyone traveling with children. Make sure to bring bathing suits, although if you're traveling to the Keys its pretty likely that you'll have these on hand. Masks, snorkels and life jackets are available for rent.

The park is open year round. Admission is (as of 2005) $23 for adults and $15 for children. Swimming with dolphins, sea lions or rays costs extra and can be reserved in advance.

Address: 84721 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida

Phone: 305-664-2431

Website: http://www.theatreofthesea.com