Underwater and coastal scenery of Islamorada — Florida Keys sportfishing village with a soft side.
All destinations

Florida & USA · United States

Islamorada

Sportfishing village with a soft side.

5.0Salty Reef rating
Islamorada, Florida Keys — Sportfishing village with a soft side.

Destination snapshot

Best time

Year-round; best Apr–Oct

Water temp

76–86°F

Visibility

40–70 ft

Skill level

All levels

Flight time (US)

Direct

Great for

Reef diving · Snorkelers

Why visit

Reefs, wrecks and the famous Alligator Reef Lighthouse — plus lemon shark encounters just offshore.

Islamorada sits between Key Largo and Marathon and is known for its shallow reef diving, lighthouse dives and easy access to the Eagle wreck.

Best dive sites

  • Alligator Reef
  • Eagle Wreck
  • Cheeca Rocks
  • Davis Ledge

Best snorkeling spots

  • Alligator Reef
  • Cheeca Rocks

What you may see underwater

Sea TurtlesLemon SharksNurse SharksCoral ReefsTarponSchools of Fish

Interesting fact

Islamorada calls itself the 'Sport Fishing Capital of the World,' but underwater the Eagle wreck and Alligator Reef Lighthouse make it a legit dive stop too.

Who this destination is best for

  • Couples
  • Families

Frequently asked questions

What's the signature dive?
The Eagle, a 287-foot freighter in 110 ft of water, broken in half by Hurricane Georges.
Beginner-friendly?
Alligator Reef, Cheeca Rocks and Hen and Chickens are shallow, easy reef dives ideal for Open Water divers.
When to go?
May–September for warmest water and best visibility.

Ready to dive Islamorada?

Tell us your dates and experience level — we'll match you with the right resort and operator, and handle the details.

Plan My Trip