Islamorada is a small village in the Florida Keys known for its beautiful surroundings, laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the water. Often recognized as one of Florida’s best small towns, it offers couples a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Upper Keys while still offering plenty to see and do.
Couples can spend the day on the water, explore the local arts scene, enjoy Florida Keys cuisine or simply slow down and take in the relaxed island atmosphere. With so many ways to spend time together, there are plenty of things to do in Islamorada for couples looking for a memorable, romantic beach getaway.
Book a Charter
Islamorada’s beautiful waters and scenery make getting out on a boat a memorable way for couples to spend time together. A private charter also gives couples a chance to enjoy the water at their own pace and choose an experience that fits the kind of getaway they want, whether they’re looking to relax, explore or try something new.
- Sunset cruises: Watch the sun set from the water for a romantic evening together. Couples can take in the changing colors across the sky while enjoying the scenery and a more peaceful atmosphere away from shore.
- Snorkeling charters: The waters around Islamorada are teeming with fish and other marine life, with coral reefs offering plenty to see beneath the surface. A snorkeling charter allows couples to get into the water together and see the reefs and marine life up close.
- Sandbar charters: Islamorada’s sandbars are popular places to swim, wade, float and relax in the shallow water. Since visitors need a boat to reach them, a charter is a convenient way for couples staying in Islamorada to experience a sandbar. The social atmosphere can also make it a fun place to spend a few hours together.
- Fishing charters: Islamorada is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, making a fishing charter a fun choice for adventurous couples. You do not need to be an experienced angler to enjoy charters, either. The crew provides the necessary equipment and teaches you what you need to know, so even first-time anglers can spend the day fishing together.
Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding give couples another way to experience Islamorada’s waterways while staying active and getting closer to natural surroundings. Paddling through the area’s calm waters lets couples take their time, enjoy the scenery and potentially spot wildlife along the way.
- Clear kayak tours: Clear kayaks and paddleboards let couples look into the water as they make their way through mangrove-lined waterways. Fish, stingrays and manatees may be visible beneath the vessels.
- Sunset and night paddles: Sunset paddles offer a more romantic way to explore the waterways as the sky changes color. Night paddles provide a completely different experience, with lights illuminating the water beneath the kayak or paddleboard.
- Self-guided paddling: Couples who prefer to explore at their own pace can rent kayaks or paddleboards and head out on their own where permitted.
Enjoys a Taste of the Keys
Food is another part of the Islamorada experience; local cuisine is heavily influenced by the area’s access to fresh seafood as well as Caribbean and tropical flavors. There are a few local spots well worth the visit.
- Green Turtle Inn: Dating back to 1947, the Green Turtle Inn is a longstanding part of the Islamorada dining scene. Its Keys-casual atmosphere makes it a good choice for couples who want to enjoy a relaxed meal, whether breakfast, lunch or dinner, while experiencing a bit of the area’s history.
- Kaiyo Grill & Sushi: Couples looking for a more polished dining experience can head to Kaiyo Grill & Sushi for sushi, Asian-inspired dishes, seafood and steaks. Cocktails and sake add to the date-night atmosphere, making it a natural choice for an evening meal together.
- The Nest Sports Bar: For something more casual, couples can stop by The Nest for wings, burgers and other easygoing fare along with drinks. Its sports-bar atmosphere makes it a social place to grab a meal or unwind together after a day of activities.
Visit the Local Arts District
The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District is a good place to spend some time exploring Islamorada’s local art scene. The district is home to galleries, studios and local artists, with plenty of opportunities to browse and see what artists in the area are creating.
You’ll find a mix of glass art, paintings, pottery and ceramics, jewelry, sculpture and photography. Much of the work has an island influence, with pieces inspired by the surrounding water, tropical setting and life in the Florida Keys.