Welcome to Islamorada, the Florida Key Locals Hope You Never Discover

theSkimm

We know, we know: Florida? For winter? Groundbreaking. But hear us out, because, no, we’re not suggesting Miami. Instead, we’re making the case for the Florida Keys — specifically, the hidden gem that is Islamorada. The colorful 20-mile stretch of tropical paradise has palm-fringed beaches, startlingly blue waters, laidback island vibes, bustling art and restaurant scenes, lost-in-time dive bars, and outdoor activities galore (kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, to name a few). Though, in all honesty, the outrageously good key lime pie is reason enough to make the trip.

🛏 Tucked just outside downtown Islamorada, Amara Cay Resort boasts spacious, coastal-chic rooms and suites — not that you’ll be spending much time inside. During your stay, you can relax at the property’s oceanfront pool or Lighthouse Beach (where you’ll be able to spot the over 150-year-old Alligator Reef Lighthouse), sip on frozen cocktails at the Tiki Bar, and take a ride on the Rum Runner water taxi. Plus, you’ll have access to all the amenities at Amara Cay’s sister resorts, which happen to be minutes away.

🎨 With notable residents like Ernest Hemingway, Key West has long been renowned as a quirky, anything-goes artists’ haven. But in recent years, Islamorada has given it a run for its money, thanks in part to a six-block arts district that’s filled with studios and galleries, including: Gyotaku by Lisa Lee (known for highly detailed, traditional Japanese fish prints); Jessica Ann Art (popular for vibrant images of marine life); and The Hale Gallery (we’re partial to the dreamy oil paintings of cotton-candy sunsets). Art enthusiasts should also stop by Rain Barrel Village, a quintessential Keys spot where you can buy handmade pieces and get a pic with 30-foot-tall Betsy the Lobster.

🚣‍♀️ Islamorada is often called the sportfishing capital of the world, but if hooks and lines aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to explore the area’s turquoise waters. At Robbie’s of Islamorada, you can join a guided kayak or paddleboard tour to Indian Key Historic State Park, an 11-acre island where you’ll find the ruins of an 1800s town, or take a boat ride to the lush Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, an undeveloped oasis with bougainvillea and hardwood hammock forests. Love lounging in the sun? Head to under-the-radar Anne’s Beach to enjoy its calm, shallow waters.

🍴 For the sweetest start to your day, grab a Banana Chai Frappe, Almond Joy Latte, or another specialty drink at Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar. When you’re ready for lunch, hit up Bad Boy Burrito for — you guessed it — burritos, stuffed with local fish and Key West pink shrimp. Later, head to Morada Bay Keys Beach Café & Bar for Caribbean-meets-American cuisine (think: conch salad, lobster fritters, coconut rice bowls) with sublime sunset views. Or, try Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, to feast on stone crab chowder, tuna nachos, and the catch of the day while listening to live music. Finally, it’d be a crime to leave the Keys without sampling the previously mentioned outrageously good key lime pie, so stop at nearby Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory for a giant slice…or two.