The Florida Keys are a popular destination for those wanting a beach vacation with more of an “island” feel. If you are planning a trip to the Keys with relaxation in mind, Islamorada is the place for you, and the quaint village has several features that make it unique.

1. Being out on the water is the thing to do

If you ask any of the locals what you should do for fun during your stay, they’ll likely tell you to do something that gets you out on the water. Water sports and activities are incredibly popular in Islamorada, as the area is known for its coral reefs.

Snorkeling is one of the best ways to see the reefs for yourself, but even kayaking or paddle boarding are fun ways to enjoy the beautiful waters. Islander Girl is one business in Islamorada that offers an assortment of snorkeling trips, sunset boat cruises, and sandbar excursions with snacks and drinks included in each trip.

2. There are great, local breweries throughout the village

If you are looking for a place with some tasty, local brews or just a fun, laid-back ambiance, there are two breweries in Islamorada to check out. Islamorada Brewery & Distillery offers a long list of creative drinks, food on-site, and a beer garden to enjoy. You can order a flight to taste-test several different options, and if beer isn’t your favorite, they have some craft cocktails as well.

Florida Keys Brewing Co. is another popular spot in Islamorada for people to kick back and enjoy a drink. With beers on tap like “Iguana Bait” and “Spearfish Amber Ale,” Florida Keys Brewing Co. embraces the island feel. If you visit, you’ll find a beer garden, a tasting room, a food truck on-site, and more.

3. There is a free rideshare service within village limits

What better way to explore all the breweries and restaurants that Islamorada has to offer than with a free ride? Freebee is a free—yes FREE—rideshare service that runs within village limits, and all you have to do is tip the driver. Better yet, they will pick you up in a Tesla. So not only are you hitching a free ride, but you’re doing it in style.

4. Most restaurants close at 10 p.m.

One important thing to know before your stay in Islamorada is that nearly every restaurant, brewery, etc. closes by 10 p.m., which means you likely won’t find any late-night, rowdy crowds. The village aims to create a relaxing environment for its visitors, so if you are looking for a nightlife or party scene, Islamorada may not be your first choice.

There are several tasty seafood joints to try before 10 p.m. rolls around, though. Wahoo’s Bar and Grill, Islamorada Shrimp Shack, Square Grouper, and Islamorada Fish Company are just a handful of the popular restaurants that you will often hear other vacationers raving about, and don’t forget to always save room for dessert.

5. You can feed giant, prehistoric fish

You’re bound to hear about Islamorada’s most unique activity: tarpon feeding. What’s a tarpon? Well, picture a gigantic, 6-foot long, prehistoric-looking fish. The Keys are known for being home to these large ocean dwellers, and there are places where you can watch them eat or even feed them yourself.

Islamorada Fish Company is one place where you can watch the fish gather and race to catch their dinner. Robbie’s Marina of Islamorada is the go-to spot for those who are brave enough to feed the tarpon themselves. Whether you want to get up close and personal with the fish or not, it’s always entertaining, as they are not shy when it’s feeding time.

6. Manmade beaches are common

If you’re someone who likes to spend time at the beach with your toes in the sand, one important thing to know about Islamorada, and the Keys in general, is that several of the beaches are actually manmade. This is common, especially at the resorts throughout the Keys, but that doesn’t take away from the beautiful views and Instagram-worthy moments.