As an avid scuba diver, snorkeler, and surfer, Cory R. Cole, of Brielle, frequently visits the Florida Keys and the nearby Islamorada in Florida. The Islamorada or the “Village of Islands” is a tourism-oriented community located in the Florida Keys. Located about an hour south of Miami, Islamorada consists of four islands across 18 miles and 3,900 acres in which to play, rest, and recharge.
These are a few recommendations from an almost-resident who spends as much time in paradise as possible!
Visit the Parks and Beaches Advises Cory R Cole
There are several parks and miles of beaches in Islamorada, says Cory R. Cole, of Brielle. And many of them access the coral reefs that the Florida Keys are famous for. Check out the fish, marvel at the crystal clear water, and commune with nature. You can also fish or launch a fishing boat from just about anywhere on any of the islands in Islamorada. There’s a reason it’s known as the Sport-Fishing Capital of the World!
At the Indian Key Historic State Park, you can view the remains of a shipwreck from the 1830s! Or check out the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park to see an exposed coral reef that was once a quarry for the Florida East Coast Railway.
Whether you’re into history, ecology, nature, or wildlife, there’s a park for you to explore and fall in love with!
Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s Marina
Purchase buckets of bait at Robbie’s Marina and feed the tarpon straight from the dock! It’s a tradition for all visitors and residents, says Cory R. Cole, of Brielle. While you’re there, book a fishing or snorkeling excursion. Here, you can charter a trip out to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, which is accessible only by boat and is home to an early Florida Keys pioneer family home.
Meet a Dolphin!
Whether you head out on a chartered boat or check-in to the Theater of the Sea, make sure you see a dolphin before you leave the Keys, says Cory R. Cole, of Brielle! The Theater of the Sea is the second oldest marine mammal facility on the planet. After you take in a show, hop in the water and swim with the dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays!
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, says Cole.
Take In Local History
If you’re a history buff, you must check out the Florida Keys History of Diving Museum, says Cory R. Cole, of Brielle. They have a gallery of recovery tools and artifacts used by people as far back as 200 years to aid their diving. Not into diving? No problem! Check out the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center which covers the history of environmental conservation in the Keys.
