The Hawaiian Islands draw many looking to enjoy a tropical escape, but those on the East Coast of North America might want to consider something a little closer to home, with the flight time from New York City to Honolulu at 11.5 hours, if you fly nonstop. CNN Traveler recently revealed its list of the best underrated islands in the U.S., and not one was in Hawaii. In fact, this Florida Island is one that may not even be on your radar: Islamorada.
Islamorada is a community that’s actually spread over five islands (Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, and Tea Table Key). It sits at the center of the Florida Keys between mile markers 90.0 and 72.6, easily accessed via the Overseas Highway that most travelers simply pass through.
Known by many as the world’s sportfishing capital, it’s a premier spot for saltwater fly fishing and backcountry sportfishing. Many come to embark on fishing charters, bringing the opportunity to catch your own feast, but there are lots of other things to do here beyond casting your line into clear turquoise waters.
Snorkeling and Diving
Not far behind fishing, snorkeling and diving are epic in Islamorada. You might join a charter boat trip to reach the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse, just three miles away, providing an ideal place to swim with everything from rays and sea turtles to parrotfish. Right beneath the lighthouse, its steel foundations are inhabited by a wealth of tropical fish that make it seem as if you’re swimming in an aquarium. This area also receives a continuous flow of remarkably clear blue waters, providing excellent visibility.
Cheeca Rocks is another outstanding option for snorkeling as a favorite in the Florida Keys. There is a patch reef lying about midway between the keys and the barrier reef, which is renowned for providing habitat for diverse marine life. The odds are good for encountering parrotfish, angelfish, wrasse, and schools of grunts, along with the occasional green eel and sea turtle. Watch for the magnificent sea fans where smaller reef fish often hide and admire a variety of impressive coral, including brain, star, and fire corals.
Quintessential Beach Vibes
While Jimmy Buffett may no longer be around physically, his spirit continues to endure, as CNNTravel notes. You’ll still find plenty of tiki bars for sipping margaritas while listening to classic “tropical rock” (or “yacht rock” as it’s sometimes referred to). No matter where you are here, that quintessential image of swaying palms, idyllic sands, and a drink in hand is never far away.
