Islamorada Hotels | Our Holiday Isle Blog

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The IslandTimes

Make the most of your time in Islamorada with our insider's guide to navigating the neighborhood. From lively dive bars to local dive shops, we’ll let you in on our favorite places to drink, dine, shop, and explore.

Soak up the Sun on the Islamorada Sandbar

May 06

Everyone flocks to the Florida Keys for the hypnotizing water with a splash of the laid-back lifestyle. There are not many places in the world that replicate the feeling of being in Islamorada, especially on Memorial Day Weekend.

One of our favorite things to do this time of year is to take the boat, kayak, or jet ski out to meet everyone at the Islamorada Sandbar for Islamorada’s best ocean party. The sandbar is located less than a mile offshore from the Postcard Inn and once the crowds start gathering, it can be seen for miles and miles. Hundreds of boats and people become one with this unique geographical phenomenon that is right in our backyard. Lather on the sunscreen, pack up the snacks and booze, blow up the floaties, and hitch a ride to Islamorada’s most popular, yet unofficial Annual Memorial Day Weekend party on the sandbar.

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7-Miles Why You Should Visit the Keys

April 01

The Florida Keys is a sacred destination for locals and tourists alike. One of the things that make our sweet home so special is that it inhabits a true island lifestyle.

The Caribbean water makes up much of what we know to be our home, and it wouldn’t be possible to keep our keys connected without an elaborate series of bridges. One of the most iconic structures in the Keys is the 7-Mile Bridge. This particular bridge was built to connect the middle keys, but unlike a traditional overpass, it had to stretch for seven miles without any true anchor but the sea. A fun way to celebrate this incredible feat is by cheering on the runners of the 7 Mile Bridge Run. This April marks the 38th Annual Bridge Run, which began when the new bridge first opened. It's the only run that is completely surrounded by water from start to finish and it's a great way to spend your Saturday morning in the Florida Keys!

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We Aren't Lion, This Fish is Good

March 04

Did someone say lionfish? It seems like this spiky, striped fish has struck up quite the conversation among those living in the warmer waters of the Caribbean in the past few years.

This particular species has been labeled as an invasive fish that is growing quickly in numbers in our local waters. Who knew that the solution would be to eat them? The lion-fish has become the latest delicacy and apparently has a lot to offer in the taste-buds department.

One of the ways to limit their growth is by literally removing them from the sea and eating them for dinner. A fun way to get involved is by fishing or feasting at this year's Winter Lion Fish Derby. Come try your hand at lionfish farming or just try a piece for a good cause on March 29th through the 30th, at Sharkey’s Pub and Galley.

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The Florida Keys Stay Festive in February

February 04

There is nothing better than the Florida Keys in February. The weather is just right, the island is bustling with people from all over the world, and there is so much to do! We wanted to give you the inside scoop here first.

Up first on the list is the Big Kahuna Corn Hole Tournament benefitting the Good Health Clinic on February 9th beginning at 1:00 pm. Try your hand at a corn-hole-in-one while raising money for a good cause.

Next up is a little more involved. The Whale Harbor Bridge Run is a very short half-mile run, meant to bring out fun and support the local community. The proceeds that are made during this run go to scholarships for students at Coral Shore High School.

Last but not least, one of our favorite things to do is drink beer, and our second favorite is to support our local brewery. Islamorada Beer Company is celebrating their fourth anniversary this February. Join in all the birthday party fun!

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We Love Food & Wine.. So we Joined a Festival!

January 07

If you’re planning a trip to Islamorada in January, you are required to pack your taste buds in your carry-on.

January is already a great month in the Florida Keys because of the delicious weather and clear blue waters, but on top of everything that makes these islands great, it's the Key Largo & Islamorada Food & Wine Festival that makes it even better. For ten whole days of the month, the Upper Key’s will be “Uncorked” and scattered with delicious bites and booze all over the place. There are over 35 different events taking place starting January 10th and there is an option for every palate and budget throughout the festival. And the best part is that Grand Tasting will be taking place right here at The Postcard Inn. 2019 has been a greatly anticipated year for us, and we couldn’t be more proud and excited to be involved in one of the Upper Keys largest events. What a great way to start off the new year!

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Holiday Season is Here in Holiday Isle!

December 03

It’s been exactly one year since our favorite park opened its doors back up and we could not be more thrilled to be celebrating another great holiday season at Founders Park.

Be sure to make time for the 14th Annual Islamorada Holiday Fest. There is nothing quite like a lot of snow on a very sandy beach. Bring your kids, bring your family, and bring your friends for this Florida winter celebration. The Parade kickoff and Holiday Gift Bazaar will begin at 7 pm on Friday, December 7th. Don’t miss out on Santa’s Sweet Shop, with all the delectable goodies that will be offered throughout the entire evening — and if you’re interested in a little healthy competition, be sure to check out the annual Ornament Competition by 50 local artists, all competing for the best ornament design on the island. Holiday Season is here and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate it here in our hometown!

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The Isle is Open for Business

November 05

It’s true! The best Florida weather is here and Postcard Inn has officially reopened for business! We cannot wait to see all of our familiar faces and a ton of new ones too.

This long process has been way worth it to get to celebrate the upcoming holiday season with all of our guests in our newly renovated space. If you haven’t stopped by Caio Hound or the Tiki Bar already to say “HEY,” make sure it is your very next stop on your trip to Islamorada.

We want to thank all of our friends, family, volunteers, supporters, and all of our fellow Conchs for all the love, support, and help they have offered during this difficult time. We have said it once and we will say it again, we are not just strong down here in the islands, we are #IslamoradaStrong!

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Jet Ski All Over the Florida Keys

October 01

Calling all adrenaline junkies, it's time to get your feet wet and feel the wind in your hair by hopping on one of the Florida Key’s favorite past times, jet skiing!

A jet ski is basically a motorcycle on the water — the only difference is that there are no streets — only an open blue ocean to glide across. This fun activity is a more affordable way to get your ocean fix, without breaking the bank by renting a larger boat. You are still able to skip over waves, explore intimate passageways of the mangroves, follow the tide pattern, ride from island to island and race around the Atlantic Ocean all by yourself or with a few close pals. Island-hopping tours are available for those who would like to see all parts of the Florida Keys and not just from a hammock. Pick your favorite Waverunner to try out this fun, action-packed ocean activity today.

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Sunset Skies in Islamorada

September 03

With summer coming to a close, it's essential to catch one last sunset on the bayside of the island.

There is nothing quite like watching the sun go down in the Florida Keys after a full day of playing outside and feeling the warm sun on your bare skin. Post up at one of the many restaurants that line the shore or take a sunset cruise on a boat into the bay. You’ll definitely feel like you are on island time when you catch a glimpse of the glimmering water that reflects the pink and orange hues from the colorful sky. Watching the sunset is a favorite pastime of locals and tourists alike, and it's something that you truly never grow tired of. Ask a local for the best spot on Islamorada to catch this spectacular daily show.

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Chow Down at Ciao Hound

August 06

Did you know that Caio Hound is open again? It’s true! Come on over to the Postcard Inn and get your fix of Holiday Isle before our resort doors re-open.

Our restaurant has had a slight facelift since Irma rolled through the islands last year but our food is just as incredible as ever. Chicken Marsala, Lobster Ravioli and our Fresh Catch of the Day are now available every single night. We have been eagerly anticipating seeing our local friends and family and hope you'll swing by soon!

In a few short weeks, you can expect to see Holiday Isle up and running, and we're are excited to show off our new renovations too. As always, we are extremely grateful for the amazing community and hard-working team that has been supporting our establishment since the devastation of last year, and we look forward to a hearty return this fall.

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Make Your Way to the Islamorada for Mini Season

July 02

Grab your tickle stick and make your way to the reefs — its Mini Season Y'all! If you’re not familiar with Mini Season, let us explain.

It is the most anticipated two days of the entire lobster season -- it just happens to fall a few days before the regular season opens from August to March. These two days are always on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in the month of July, just in time to get your fresh lobster fix. People from all over the country flock to the Florida Key waters to try their hand at lobster catching. Mini Season is typically the most plentiful time to grab your lobsters, as they have had a few months of R&R. All you need to participate in this two-day event is a valid recreational saltwater fishing license and lobster permit , your tickle stick, a lobster bag, a few pals and a little bit of butter for the after party!

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Cool Off at Alligator Reef

June 06

It is time to grab your snorkel and dive right into the fresh waters of Islamorada.

With the temperatures rising there is no better way to cool off than by swimming in the coastal shores of the Florida Keys. One of our favorite spots to dive at is Alligator Reef Lighthouse, as this unique diving spot is flooded with hundreds of fish. The water surrounding Alligator Reef is crystal clear and bright blue at the same exact time, and it's a guarantee that you will spot Parrot Fish, Barracudas and Sargent Majors. And, if you're one of the lucky ones, you might just get a glimpse of one of the turtles that hang around the lighthouse. You can only reach Alligator Reef by boat, so if you didn’t bring your own, simply find a rental company you trust and rent one from them! Enjoy the refreshing water of the Keys while taking in the gorgeous sites of Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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Stay Safe in the Florida Sun

May 07

Summer is coming and it is time you learn a few things about the Florida sun!

After a very chilly winter, it's safe to say that everyone is looking forward to warm glowy skin and tropical cocktails by the water. Us locals know how to stay safe in the sun and we want you to be safe too. Follow these simple tips for a fun, burn-free weekend in the Caribbean heat.

1. Choose the best sunscreen for your skin, some may be safe with SPF 15 while others are better off with SPF 50+.

2. Apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before heading outside and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours.

3. For an extra layer of protection, add fun accessories to keep your skin shaded while you are playing in the sand.

4. Last but not least, stay hydrated — and no Coronas don't count! Make sure you’re drinking plenty of H2O or drinks packs with natural electrolytes like fresh coconut water.

5. And last but not least, don't forget to have some fun!

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Have You Heard of the Conch Republic

April 04

If you have ever visited the Florida Keys, you would know already that it's a place like no other.

But did you know we act under our own name as the Conch Republic? Yes, it's true — we are just a bunch of conchs! And lucky for us, our Independence Day is right around the corner. On April 23, 1982, the Conch Republic was established in response to a United States Border Patrol Blockade that had been set up on highway U.S.1 between the Florida Keys and the mainland. Local residents and officials of Key West were so astonished that they later marched to Federal court in Miami and declared on television that they would be seceding from the Union. The secession only lasted for one minute before the Mayor surrendered, however, this became the revolution of the ‘conchs’ that now extends throughout the entire Florida Keys. No matter where you are on April 23rd, please help us celebrate our independence with a cocktail in hand and a little Jimmy Buffet on the stereo!

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Historical Islamorada

March 05

Find yourself on the other side of Islamorada — The Matacumbe Historical Trust has introduced the ’29 Points of Interest’ historical trolley tour for the month of March.

This one-hour ride will take you through Key Largo and Islamorada while showing you photos of the past. This educational experience is great for adults and children who have a deep love for the Florida Keys or simply want to learn more about our islands. It will give you a new appreciation after seeing the islands as they once were — when trains chugged along the bay and before the great hurricane dredged through in 1935. Homes from that era have been renovated (and some destroyed,) but with the monitor in the guide bus, you will be able to compare the "then" to the "now" in real-time. Tours begin at 10 am and reservations are recommended, tickets are only $15 per person, and free for children ages six and under. Become one with the Keys and immerse yourself in the deep history that surrounds our islands.

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Fleeing to the Nautical Flea Market

February 06

Rig up your rods and pick up your pals to restock your outrigger collection at Islamorada's Gigantic Nautical Flea Market!

A great meeting place to scope out bargains on boats, rods, reels, and other nautical items. The market will be held on the weekend of February 24th and 25th at our beloved newly reopened Founders Park. Parking will be available at Coral Shores High School and a small $5 fee is required to enter the market, all proceeds go directly to College Scholarships for the Upper Keys Youth.

Early birds will catch the worm at the top of the morning—these lucky birds will be the first to skim through the best treasures and will have the opportunity to munch on all-you-can-eat pancakes for only $6! Get your ocean fix and bring it on home with you this February, there is no better feeling than the essence of the sea and helping a great charity!

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Fight Fish in Islamorada

January 09

Grab your rods and reels, and wade through the open waters, it's time for the Islamorada Fishing Clubs Annual Sailfish Tournament.

The kick-off for this competition is January 25th, and the competition will be fierce. Grab your best angling friend and try your hand at some good old catch and release of these giant beauties. Sailfish are the fastest fish in the ocean and mostly enjoy swimming in the colder waters that fall upon the islands in January. They are notorious for their large bills and always put up a tough fight for the person on the other end of the rod; this attribute makes them great competition and a pretty awesome trophy fish. You can put your lines in the water right at 8:00 am, but be sure to have them out by 5:30 pm. Do you think you have what it takes to fight your way to the top?

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Founders Park is Open

December 03

As we chip away at our little oasis, we are happy to announce that Founders Park is open!

As of December 3rd you can now head on over to the park with your pals and indulge in an afternoon of tennis, basketball, playgrounds and picnicking amongst other things! Check out the latest notice HERE for more details!

December in the Keys is always a cheerful and relaxing time, and we encourage everyone to make the most of this holiday season while visiting the Keys! We can’t wait to dive right into all the fun that will be happening at Founders Park — events and classes to be resumed immediately.

Grab your holiday-inspired Starbucks Coffee from the Postcard Inn before sunset, while simultaneously delving into the festive spirit and perfect weather at one of the oldest parks in Islamorada! We thank you for your continued love and support and — Happy Holidays! #IslamoradaStrong

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Create the Keys Feeling at Home

November 07

Take the essence of the Florida Keys back home with you for the holiday season.

We know when the weather begins to turn up north, it's impossible not to dream about the turquoise waters and breezy afternoons of Islamorada, wishing with every bone in your body that you were sitting at the Postcard Inn’s tiki bar. Trust us, we know its tough — but to help you through those tough winter days, we have compiled a list (attached with recipes) of our top three favorite local cocktails that will bring you right back to springtime! Try your hand at making the Goombay Smash, Rum Runner and Hurricane — all mixed with rum, all tropical, and all extremely satisfying. These cocktails are sure to warm you up like the South Florida sun — but be sure to sip slowly because a rum punch like this will sneak up on you in all the right places!

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#IslamoradaStrong

October 02

Thank you to all who continue to stick by us as we rebuild our favorite island oasis. We can’t wait to welcome you back!

In the wake of Hurricane Irma, Islamorada is in the process of putting our beautiful island back together. People from all over the Keys and the state of Florida have come together to help clean up the island and rebuild what was lost. Our staff at the Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina have put in a lot of hard work over the last few weeks and continue to work hard to welcome guests back to our beloved resort. Piece by piece we are opening parts of the resort as soon as we can. Our on-site Starbucks is welcoming visitors and residents daily from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. To put it simply, life on an island is about unity and coming together and it has been just that. Thank you to all who continue to stick by us as we rebuild our favorite island oasis. We can’t wait to welcome you back!

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Grab a Cold One in Islamorada

September 03

Here in the Keys, we go as local as we can — we enjoy warm sunshine, beautiful water, and a crisp cold beer from time to time. Stop by one of our favorite neighbors, the Islamorada Beer Company, for a cold one made by a Florida Keys native.

Opening their doors in October of 2014, they have been a great addition to the Islamorada family. Test a few of the beers out at the brewery and pick your favorite one to bring along with you to our infamous sandbar, just a boat ride away from the Postcard Inn. One sip will have you feeling like a true Florida local — with hints of citrus and a light fizzy boldness, it's perfect for hot days on the water. As the IBC crew would say, just have one and you’ll be in ‘an island state of mind!’

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Speed Up to the Postcard Inn

August 06

Calling all adrenaline junkies — this month is all about you! Come on over to The Postcard Inn and experience the Inaugural Islamorada Grand Prix of the Sea, put on by our very own hotel and P1 Aqua X.

Let your heart thump while listening to the powerboats race up and down the crystal clear waters of the Florida Keys. This year marks the first ever P1 races, and we feel so honored to be included in this Florida & Pro Series event. P1 Aqua X is proud to bring their world-renowned racing community to our home front — this completely free event is perfect for people of all ages! If you love a good thrill and want to be part of something new to Islamorada, be sure to claim a spot early right outside your hotel door, or stop by our famous tiki bar for a rum runner and burger while you wait for P1 to START THEIR ENGINES!

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Paddle into the Blue of Islamorada

July 01

Summer is here! And the steamy Florida weather makes us extra thirsty for the sapphire blue waters of Islamorada.

Grab a board and a paddle, and cool off this summer out on the water, right here in Holiday Isle. The smooth island seas are perfect for gliding on the surface, perfecting your tan, and getting an up-close sneak peek at the sea life below. Visit us on the beach and we will get you set up with your complimentary paddle board. If you are looking for a bit more adventure we can set you up with our favorite team from Aquaholics for a full morning or afternoon expedition exploring the deep blue sea. Take your tour to the next level and try a guided evening tour on our glowing paddle boards! The coolest way to unwind and get up close and personal with our most loved island.

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Bottoms Up!

June 04

All aboard for Bottoms Up Snorkeling! There is no better way to cool off in the summer heat than by diving into the ocean and becoming one with sea life.

The Florida Keys are known for the spectacular reefs and life underneath the ocean shore. No matter the reef you choose you are bound to see a plethora of colorful fish, gorgeous coral, and the occasional sea turtle. Your two-hour adventure out on the water will either include Chicken and Hen’s reef or Cheeca Rock Reef, although any reef you end up at — even if it is just offshore of the hotel — will be completely incredible. Snack, drinks, and beer are all available for purchase too, to cool off before or after your salty excursion — the perfect compliment for a few hours on the water! Come talk to a concierge and let’s plan your briny adventure today!

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Full Moon Party in Islamorada

May 01

The moon is one of the most important elements in our earth.

It brings the tides in and out, it dances daily with the sun and it gives us a bright dewy glow every single month. Therefore we only think it is right to celebrate. When all the sun lovers go away for the evening, the moon worshippers will come out to play — we are celebrating this month's Full Moon Party at Morada Bay! After the summer sun sets on May 12th the party will begin. This evening festival will be headlined with live music, delicious food, and crafty cocktails. Take your evening slow and enjoy dinner and drinks in an Adirondack chair by the sea or party the night away with the Junkanoo band dancing in the moonlight. End the evening with a spectacular firework show and be sure to send your salutations to our beloved moon.

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Don't Forget Your Keys

April 06

Earth Day is a big deal down here in the Florida Keys. We eat, sleep and breath nature — so it is only right to respect our mother earth and celebrate her.

The Cheeca Lodge will be holding their annual Earth Day and Sand Castle Building competition this April 14th. The festivities will be held on the ocean side of the property and will have tons of activities for kids, along with $1 per minute massages, a barbecue feast, educational exhibits, and a catch and release fishing tournament.

However, the true pull for this event is the sand castle building contest that happens each year. Contestants are provided a letter that they must construct as part of a message to celebrate the holiday. This year's message “Don’t Lose Your Keys” is to help bring awareness to the importance of protecting the earth — a great reminder that nobody wants to lose their Florida Keys.

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Sunny days with a Splash of Seafood

March 06

Lobster, sunshine and live music — have you ever heard three words more important to The Florida Keys?

The second largest event held in the Keys is The Original Marathon Seafood Festival. Its fortieth year running this festival has taken on an identity of its own. This years event will be held on Saturday, March 11th and Sunday, March 12th at Mile Marker 49. The Seafood Festival started as a local event for the fishing community to spend time with their loved ones while enjoying the outcome of their hard work. Slowly it turned into an island sensation and everyone wanted an invite. The Organized Fisherman of Florida still take part in putting on this tasty event and are always sure to give back to the community by sharing part of the proceeds that are gained. Pull up a seat, shuck an oyster and grab a cold one — now this is what The Florida Keys are all about!

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Get Excited for Island Fest

March 01

Spring may not mean as much in the Florida Keys, where the weather’s always sunny and warm, but it does mean that it’s time for Islamorada’s fun-packed 26th Annual Island Fest!

Located less than ten minutes from our Islamorada beachfront resort, on April 1st and 2nd visitors can enjoy live music from a variety of genres, gourmet cuisine from local restaurants, arts and crafts booth from both local and national artists, and even fun sand castle building competitions. There’s also a classic car show planned with free entry and unique, hand-crafted coconut awards for a range fun and goofy categories like "Keys-y Rider!" Fun for the whole family, Island Fest is a not-to-be-missed event that celebrates everything that makes the Keys and Islamorada such a great place to be!

Address: 87000 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

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Uncork on Island Time

February 06

Vacation and good company go hand in hand, it isn’t ironic that wine and cheese are the same way!

After a day out in the sun, there is nothing much better than a crisp glass of wine, delicious cheese, and great friends. Corks & Curds provides two of the aforementioned items, we suggest stopping by, all you have to do is bring the third! This adorable little shop features retail wine and cheese during daylight hours and conveniently switches over to a cozy wine bar in the evening. Although the wine bar doesn’t open until five, you can sometimes catch the staff pouring a quick sip of bubbly before the turnover — we call this island time. You can head there with friends, on a date or even by yourself, it is the perfect compliment to your stay here on the island.

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Take a Break to Feed the Tarpon

January 08

Grab a Corona and a bucket of bait, right off of US1 and have yourself a good ol' time.

You can’t come down to the Florida Keys without feeding the infamous tarpons at Robbie’s Marina and Bar. These monsters will jump right out of the water to snatch the bait right out of your hands, creating the most perfect photo opportunity! Right outside the marina is a group of vendors, selling everything from hammocks to fine artwork, in the magnificent sunshine. The Robbie’s experience is a complete treat and an authentic Florida Key’s establishment. The marina itself has been around for nearly twenty years and is a staple stop for many traveling throughout the islands. Make sure you take a second to admire the gorgeous view of the bay and staple a dollar bill to the bar, to let the world know that you fed a fish named 'Scarface' in the Florida Keys!

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84001 Overseas Highway,
Islamorada, The Florida Keys 33036

Reservations: 855-314-2829
Front Desk: 305-664-2321

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