Islamorada

Islamorada is known as the “Fishing Capital of the World” and perhaps has the world’s highest density of professional offshore charter boats with tournament-grade captains. Islamorada may be the only place on Earth where it is possible to catch a sailfish offshore and pursue bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish in just inches of water in the backcountry, all in the same day.

Islamorada is, however, much more than the sport fishing capital of the world. Most recently made famous by Netflix’s popular series Bloodline, Islamorada is the host for much of the shows filming locations, and has become an even more popular tourist destination.

Activity, fun and relaxation for the whole family includes hand-feeding hungry tarpon at the docks of Robbie’s Marina, catching a dolphin, sea lion and parrot show at Theater of the Sea marine mammal park, or meandering along lush, tropical nature trails inside Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Parkand view an old quarry dug by the late Henry Flagler’s railroad workers. Divers flock to the region to explore the extraordinary reef line and brimming patch reefs, and are equally fascinated by theHistory of Diving Museum.Music lovers and locals enjoy warm, tropical evenings and daylong music festivals on the lawn of the outdoor, waterfront ICE Amphitheater located insideIslamorada Founders Park, a 40-acre expanse that features an Olympic-sized pool, shallow water beach, ball fields, fishing jetty, exercise opportunities, and a dog park. Boat and Kayak tours to Indian Key Historic State Park and Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park offer a glimpse into Florida’s history dating back to the early 1800’s.

HOMES FOR SALE IN ISLAMORADA

Stringing out off the south of Florida, the Florida Keys comprises a myriad of islands, each offering its own slice of paradise. For homebuyers looking for year-round fishing, sunshine, and fun on or off the water, a gem destination to consider in the Keys is Islamorada.

ISLAMORADA: AN OVERVIEW

Islamorada is an enclave of six islands that provide the perfect location for tropical living. Stretching from Mile Marker 91 to Mile Marker 74, about 90 minutes south of Miami, it covers over 4,000 acres and 18 linear miles of land. Islamorada is home to the biggest fishing fleet per square mile in the world, earning it the nickname “Sportfishing Capital of the World”.

Aside from being a veritable piece of heaven for anglers, Islamorada also offers an array of tourism-oriented activities for lone travelers, couples, and families. There are a plethora of things to do on or near the water round the clock.

Islamorada was first sighted by Spanish adventurers in 1513, and about two centuries later, a Spanish treasure fleet was wrecked on its reefs. This led to a thriving wrecking industry in the area, making neighboring Key West the wealthiest island city in the entire United States. 

In the late 1800s, settlers from the Bahamas arrived in the Keys. Over time, more families set up homes on the islands, one of which opened the very first pineapple canning factory in the world. Eventually, Islamorada’s early residents also farmed limes, vegetables, and melons.

Development soon ensued with the island’s first railroad track to Key West. In 1928, the first road in the village opened, which also opened the area to more new residents and visitors. Today, Islamorada has a population of around 7,059, according to the 2022 data of the US Census Bureau.

Islamorada is located within one of Florida’s Areas of Critical State Concern. As such, further development is limited and conservation of the environment is given paramount importance. The limited supply makes available Islamorada homes for sale highly coveted, particularly among individuals and families willing to do their share to preserve the natural environment while living amidst its vast expanse.

THE ISLAMORADA REAL ESTATE SCENE

Given the controlled number of housing combined with the sheer appeal of the village, it’s not surprising that homes for sale in Islamorada are some of the most expensive not only in Florida but the entire United States. The average home price in the village is typically above the million dollar range, at par with some of the highest priced housing markets in the US. 

Housing Types and Styles in Islamorada

Available homes for sale in Islamorada come in a wide variety of housing types, so buyers have a higher chance of finding the property that matches their needs and preferences. Options include single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and even multi-family homes.

Architectural styles mostly reflect those prevalent in the Florida Keys, particularly Key West. These include:

• Bahamian. Also known as Conch, the Bahamian style shapes most of Islamorada’s architecture. This style is typically manifested as two-story bright-colored houses with wraparound verandas, as well as windows and doors with bright-colored shutters.

• Balinese. While not as common as the Bahamian style, Balinese architecture also dots some parts of Islamorada. This style features the use of natural materials such as bamboo and stones, as well as tall walls, big yards, and several pavilions.

   

  One of Islamorada’s most prominent residents, Avatar producer Jon Landau, had a Balinese-style mansion that he put up for sale in 2022 for $13.9 million.

• Mediterranean. Another architectural style buyers will spot while looking through Islamorada homes for sale is Mediterranean. This style features a brick or stucco exterior, typically accentuated with white paint. Tile roofing and thick wooden doors are also among the staple features of the Mediterranean style. 

• Modern. Modern houses also abound in Islamorada. These structures often have floor-to-ceiling windows, open floor plans, and glass and stone combinations in the design. Most modern homes in Islamorada come with sweeping views of the island’s waters, lakes, or canals.

• Cigar/Shotgun. Finally, there are also cigar cottages. Named after the Cuban cigar makers who moved to Key West, these houses have long central halls with three rooms. Like the Bahamian style, these properties make use of bright colors for accent. They’re also called shotgun houses because it was believed that a bullet could be fired into the front door and exit cleanly out the back without hitting anything.

Who Lives in Islamorada, FL

Most people who call Islamorada home generally have more education relative to the national average. According to the U.S. Census, almost 40% of the island’s population have a bachelor’s degree or higher – about 8% higher than the national average. 

Many residents are also considered affluent. The median household income in Islamorada is a little over $77,000, which is almost $10,000 more than the average for the whole country. Additionally, it is nearly $20,000 more than the median household income in Florida. 

The island is also culturally diverse. Islamorada is a melting pot of several cultures, and after English, Spanish and Italian are also widely spoken in the village.

Amenities and Features of Islamorada, FL Homes

Islamorada houses for sale feature amazing amenities that make them a truly worthwhile investment. First off, many of these homes are gated, giving residents that coveted sense of safety and privacy.

Many properties are on the open waterfront with unrivaled views of the Atlantic Ocean or Florida Bay. You’ll also find a number of canal-front homes. Most waterfront homes will have a boat dock with davits or a boat lift. 

A good number of homes have swimming pools and some condo and townhouse complexes have clubhouses, tennis courts, and marinas.

Where to Live in Islamorada, FL

When it comes to great neighborhoods, Islamorada has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best options for buyers to consider.

• Plantation Key Colony. Located in one of the most upscale areas in Islamorada, Plantation Key Colony is a canal-front neighborhood that offers expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect enclave for those who love boating and sailing, with several marinas serving the neighborhood. Most homes also have a boat dock.

• Venetian Shores. This is an ideal neighborhood for boaters as the majority of homes are on 100-foot-wide canals. All the canals open to Snake Creek, which gives immediate bay and ocean access. 

• Angler’s Reef. Made to resemble a Caribbean village, this community features 52 Colonial-style detached villas tucked into peaceful streets that make amazing walking paths. This gated oceanfront community features a pool, private beach, and boat dockage. 

• Port Antigua. This bayfront community boasts a private homeowners’ park with a white-sand beach and boat ramp. Clean and clear canals provide direct boating access to the bay and easy ocean access through the Channel 2 or Channel 5 bridges. 

• Sunshine Estates and Kahiki Harbor. These two canal-front communities are just off Tavernier Creek which provides excellent access to the bay or ocean. 

LIVING IN ISLAMORADA

Islamorada provides a luxurious island lifestyle where the sun, sea, and sand meet the best urban indulgences. 

Dining

When it comes to dining, even the most discerning palate will be satisfied with the variety of cuisines offered in Islamorada. These are some of the must-try restaurants:

• Italian Food Company. Widely considered one of the best Italian restaurants on the island, the Italian Food Company brings age-old classics such as the Neapolitan pizza and infuses it with that special Islamorada flair. It’s fast becoming a neighborhood haunt for many residents.

• The Square Grouper and The Sunset Lounge. These two restaurants owned and managed by the Joint Hospitality Group are located along Mile Marker 80.5 Gulfside. Both offer premium seafood dishes made from only the freshest catch of the day, best paired with cocktails or fine wines.

• Lazy Days. You’ll know why this restaurant is named as such when you come and visit. Situated by the oceanfront, you can wine and dine here as you enjoy the breeze. The piece de resistance is their sumptuous seafood offerings but you can also have pasta or steaks for more variety.

Shopping

From local finds to the most luxurious brands in the world, shoppers in Islamorada can enjoy hours of retail therapy in the elegant shopping centers on the island. 

• Sea Turtle Gallery & Gifts. For anything and everything inspired by the ocean, you’ll find them in this quaint local shop along the Overseas Highway. Their merchandise ranges from throw pillows, cute trinkets, and table decor to lanterns – all of which would make great home decor or wonderful souvenirs.

• Ocean Gardens. For those who are on the hunt for quirky local souvenirs, there is no better place than Ocean Gardens. This shop has a curated collection of home decors, jewelry, antiques, and shells and corals that distinctly capture the spirit of Islamorada.

• Wild Lily Boutique. One of the best stores for designer goods, Wild Lily features clothing, shoes, and accessories from a variety of brands. These include Chan Luu, Indah, Tolani, Sundry, Dolce Vita, and Bella Dahl. More than the luxury experience, however, the shop strives to be a place that helps women celebrate their individualism and find their personal style.

Attractions

Islamorada offers attractions and activities designed to help friends and families make lasting memories together. Consider these well-loved options.

• Theater of the Sea. Since 1946, Theater of the Sea has been delighting the young and old alike with its range of shows and attractions, including animal interactions that can be privately booked. Shows include:

  • Swim with the Dolphin

  • Meet the Dolphin

  • Paint with the Dolphin

  • Swim with the Sea Lion

  • Meet the Sea Lion

  • Paint with the Sea Lion

  • Swim with the Rays

  • Swim with the Sharks

  • Meet the Alligator

  • Meet the Sea Turtle

  • Meet the Parrots

Theater of the Sea also has a restaurant, a gift shop, and a private beach.

• Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Sitting about four nautical miles east of Indian Key, the Alligator Reef Lighthouse has been standing guard over its namesake vessel, the USS Alligator, since 1873. The surrounding waters descend to 20 feet deep, where 500 species of marine life thrive. The area is a favorite among snorkelers and divers who want to chance upon an array of lobsters, barracudas, corals, and the wrecks of the USS Alligator. With the launch of the Restore, Reignite, and Reimagine campaign, the priority is to save, rehabilitate, and restore this valuable historical landmark. The said project targets completion by 2026, given factors such as the need to raise $5 million and unpredictable weather conditions. To learn more about this campaign, click here. 

• Dolphins Plus. Only 17 miles away in Key Largo, this facility allows you to swim with dolphins for a fun and immersive educational experience. You can simply hold on to their dorsal fin and let them pull you through the water. You can also float on your back as they push you by your feet and give rubs, kisses, and handshakes. Sharing space with these magnificent creatures can be quite exhilarating, to say the least. 

Outdoor Recreation

For more fun under the sun, Islamorada offers a slew of activities on or off the water.

• Fishing. Islamorada is home to Atlantic Ocean sport fishing, as well as backcountry fishing for snook and the elusive bonefish, thanks to its unique location between Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Anglers of all skill levels can enjoy unmatched fishing opportunities, with seasonal visits from tuna, sailfish, kingfish, and marlin. 

• Tours and Cruises. For those who want to optimize their time and do several activities at once, the island’s boat charters and sunset cruises are the answer. Guests can take their pick of various itineraries, which include guided tours with a marine biologist, kayaking around two state parks and various mangrove ecosystems, and private custom cruises.

• Tennis and Pickleball. Founders Park on Plantation Key offers tennis and pickleball courts for residents and guests, as well as a bayfront sandy beach for swimming or lounging. 

On top of these, Islamorada also offers various family-friendly activities, one of which is Flamingle, an hour-long encounter with flamingos at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservancy. 

Events

There are plenty of events to bookmark in Islamorada and the nearby areas. The following are not to be missed: 

• Third Thursday Art Walk. Local artists, vendors, residents, and visitors congregate along Morada Way to celebrate art and culture in the stunning Florida Keys. This event allows emerging artists, musicians, chefs, and local retailers to showcase their creativity. 

• Island Fest. Another annual event, the Islamorada Arts and Crafts Show is a two-day event highlighting featured artists in various disciplines. It also features live music, vintage cars, and gourmet cuisine.

• Gigantic Nautical Flea Market. Also a yearly spectacle in Islamorada, this nautical fest offers the best bargains on nautical clothing, fishing and diving gear, and even boats and motors. Guests get a free shuttle ride to the venue and enjoy the various food trucks at the event.

LIVE THE LUXURIOUS ISLAND LIFESTYLE IN ISLAMORADA

Allow me, Alina Davis, to guide you to the perfect home in the coveted Islamorada area. As a full-time Realtor since 2008, I have years of experience helping buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals, and I look forward to doing the same for you. 

As a resident of the Florida Keys for more than 40 years, I know the area inside and out. Along with my commitment to provide you with the best real estate experience, I leverage my extensive local knowledge and expertise to guarantee a successful transaction. 

To find the best out of the available Islamorada homes for sale, call me at 305.393.0541 or email A lina(at)YourFLKeysAgent(dotted)com