Islamorada, located in the heart of the Florida Keys, is known for its stunning natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor activities. One of the best ways to experience the essence of this tropical paradise is by visiting its many parks and nature preserves. From sandy beaches to lush mangrove forests, Islamorada offers a wide variety of outdoor spaces that cater to all types of nature lovers. This guide will take you through some of the best parks in Islamorada, highlighting the unique features and activities they offer.
Founders Park (Plantation Key)
Founders Park is Islamorada’s premier public park, located on Plantation Key. Founder’s Park spans over 45 acres. It features a bay-side beach with calm, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and picnicking under the palm trees. Visitors can enjoy numerous amenities, including picnic tables, BBQ grills, sand volleyball courts, and playgrounds. The park also includes a 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool, the only one of its kind in the Keys, and a children’s splash pad for family fun. Founders Park offers a variety of athletic facilities, such as soccer and baseball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, and a basketball court. There is also a dog park, walking trails, a golf driving cage, and a marina with a boat ramp for water access. With its scenic setting and numerous activities, Founders Park is a great place for both residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park hosts various community events, including the Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, the Islamorada Chamber’s Holiday Festival, and outdoor concerts.
Anne’s Beach (Lower Matecumbe Key)
For a more serene and natural beach experience, Anne’s Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key is an ideal destination. Known for its shallow waters and beautiful mangrove-fringed shoreline, Anne’s Beach offers a peaceful escape in the Florida Keys. The 1300-foot boardwalk provides visitors with scenic views of the surrounding mangroves, and six covered picnic pavilions offer shaded spots for relaxing. The calm waters are perfect for families with young children, and leashed dogs are allowed to wade in the water, making it one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the Keys. Anne’s Beach is a fantastic spot for leisurely walks, wildlife viewing, and swimming, with opportunities to explore the mangrove ecosystem along the boardwalk. While it’s not a prime snorkeling spot, visitors can occasionally see kiteboarders and paddleboarders taking advantage of the gentle winds. Anne’s Beach is a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Keys without the crowds.
Library Beach Park (Upper Matecumbe Key)
Library Beach Park, tucked behind the Islamorada library, offers a quiet and peaceful spot for relaxation on Upper Matecumbe Key. This small but charming park features a sandy beach cove along a mangrove-lined tidal creek. The park includes a playground for children, a picnic pavilion with BBQ grills, and public restrooms. While snorkeling is not a major draw here, tropical fish can often be spotted in the clear waters. With its tranquil atmosphere and less crowded setting, Library Beach Park is ideal for a relaxed family outing or a quiet afternoon by the water.
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park (Windley Key)
For those interested in both history and geology, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient coral reefs beneath the Florida Keys. This historic park, located on Windley Key, was once a quarry where fossilized coral limestone was mined for the construction of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad. Today, visitors can walk along 8-foot-high quarry walls to see cross-sections of fossilized coral formations, including brain coral and sea fans, preserved in stone. The park features a 1.3-mile four interconnecting loop trails through tropical hardwood hammock habitat, with interpretive signs that highlight the native vegetation and geology. Windley Key is a great spot for learning about the natural history of the Florida Keys, and visitors can also explore old quarry machinery and the historic dragline used for cutting coral slabs. With its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts alike.
Indian Key Historic State Park (Off Lower Matecumbe Key)
Indian Key Historic State Park is a small, secluded island located about half a mile offshore of Lower Matecumbe Key. Accessible only by boat or kayak, this 11-acre island is rich in history and offers a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of one of the Florida Keys' first settlements. Indian Key was once the county seat of Dade County and a thriving center for the wrecking trade until it was abandoned after a Seminole attack in 1840. Today, visitors can hike around the island to explore the ruins of old homes, stone foundations, and cisterns. The island also features a wooden observation tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding reefs and waters. Indian Key is a fantastic spot for history buffs and outdoor adventurers, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and snorkeling in the clear waters around the island.
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park (Off Lower Matecumbe Key)
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a hidden tropical paradise located just off Lower Matecumbe Key in Florida Bay. This preserve is home to one of the most well-preserved tropical hardwood hammock ecosystems in the Keys. The island is named after the rare Lignum Vitae tree, which is known for its dense, medicinal wood. The park’s trails offer visitors the chance to explore the lush forest and observe the diverse plant and animal life that thrives in this unique environment. Highlights include a 1919 caretakers’ home, which now serves as a visitor center and museum, as well as the island’s native vegetation, including orchids, mahogany trees, and gumbo limbo. Ranger-led tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history and ecology of the island. Lignumvitae Key offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of the Florida Keys.
Embrace the Natural Wonders of Islamorada’s Parks
Islamorada’s parks and nature preserves offer something for everyone, from tranquil beaches and family-friendly activities to historical sites and unique ecological experiences. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore ancient coral reefs, or hike through lush tropical forests, the parks of Islamorada provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. With so many beautiful and diverse spaces to explore, Islamorada is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Find Your Ideal Property in Islamorada with Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys
Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys is dedicated to helping clients find their perfect property in Islamorada, whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence. Their team of experts knows the area inside and out and can guide you through the process of finding a home that suits your lifestyle. With their deep knowledge of the Florida Keys market, they are ready to help you make your dream of living in this paradise a reality. Reach out today to start your real estate journey in Islamorada!
