Hello From
Islamorada!
“The Sportfishing Capital of the World”
Islamorada
An Incorporated Village in Monroe County, Florida
Islamorada, a picturesque village of islands in the Florida Keys, is known for its turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back tropical lifestyle. Comprising six islands—Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, and the offshore islands of Indian Key and Lignumvitae Key—Islamorada offers a blend of tropical beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure.
Often called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”, Islamorada is a haven for anglers, divers, and boaters, offering world-class fishing, scenic kayaking routes, and unforgettable sunsets over Florida Bay.
Visitors and residents enjoy a mix of waterfront dining, boutique shops, art galleries, and nature trails, all set against a backdrop of swaying palms and ocean breezes. With its small-town island charm and endless opportunities for adventure, Islamorada captures the quintessential Florida Keys experience.
Aerial view of Islamoradas coast.
Photo by Gagliardi via Canva
Location & Size
Islamorada is located about 80 miles southwest of Miami along U.S. Highway 1 in the upper Florida Keys. The village covers approximately 7 square miles of land and about 20 square miles of surrounding waters.
Founded
The name “Islamorada,” meaning “Purple Island” in Spanish, is believed to have been inspired by the area’s vivid sunsets and purple bougainvillea. The village grew in the early 1900s with the arrival of the Florida East Coast Railway, which brought tourists, trade, and new settlers. However, the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane—one of the most powerful storms to ever strike the U.S.—devastated much of the area, destroying homes, rail lines, and taking hundreds of lives, including many World War I veterans working on the Overseas Highway project.
In the decades that followed, Islamorada rebuilt itself as a fishing and tourism hub, attracting anglers from around the world. The community officially incorporated as the Village of Islamorada in 1997, uniting several islands into one municipality while preserving its small-town Keys charm.
Population
As of 2024, Islamorada has an estimated population of about 7,000 residents.
Known For
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Legendary sportfishing and boating
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Vibrant coral reefs and diving spots
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Artistic, small-town island culture
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Seafood dining and waterfront bars
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Historic hurricane stories and museums
Pelican at Robbies of Islamorada
Cost of living
Islamorada has a higher cost of living compared to the U.S. average due to its island location.
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Median Household Income: $83,000
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Median Home Price: $1.2 million
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Average Rent (1-bedroom): $3,000/month
Things to do
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Go offshore fishing for sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tarpon.
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Dive or snorkel at Alligator Reef Lighthouse.
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Visit History of Diving Museum and Theater of the Sea.
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Explore Indian Key Historic State Park by kayak.
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Watch a sunset at Lorelei Cabana Bar.
- Take a picture with Betsy the Lobster at Rain Barrel Village and stroll through the tropical gardens browsing the different shops, galleries and eateries.
- Feed the Tarpons, grab some lunch or rent a boat at Robbie’s of Islamorada.
Betsy the Lobster at Rain Barrel Village, Islamorada, Florda
Fun Facts
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The name “Islamorada” means “Purple Island” in Spanish, inspired by the area’s beautiful violet sunsets.
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It’s one of the few places in the world where you can fish in both the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay within minutes.
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Islamorada was devastated by the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, one of the most intense storms to hit the U.S.
