And This Week? Islamorada and it’s a Treasure!

Most underrated for travel according to Thrillist

Islamorada
When you think of the Florida Keys, you think of Key West in all of its excesses, both natural and man-made. But farther up the island chain is the Keys’ best-kept secret. Islamorada gives you art galleries, sophisticated dining and lodging, and renowned fishing on both the ocean and gulf sides. It’s water sports by day and honky-tonk by night, with a more laid-back vibe than Key West. Plus, it’s just a 90-minute drive from Miami International.Must do: Cheeca Lodge and Spa, the island’s most chichi hotel is a one-stop respite: golf, kayaking, fishing, and spa-ing, plus a world-class restaurant where the dinner specials might include a flash-fried whole hogfish. When it comes time to drink (at 11am), Morada Bay is the open-air beach bar of your daydreams, with tables set out on the white sands, and devious Full Moon parties every… full moon, complete with live music, dancing, and bonfires. Locals also settle in at Lorelei’s for live music and sunset tiki cocktails. And then there’s Robbie’s Marina, the archetypal honky-tonk Florida Keys watering hole. If you can tear yourself away from all that relaxing, check out the galleries clustered along a stretch of the Overseas Highway, or hop into your car to explore the equally undersung appeals of the Lower Keys (keep an eye peeled for the teeny tiny Key deer). — Meaghan Agnew, Thrillist Contributor