Did you know that Upper Matecumbe Key is home to one of the only natural sandy beaches in the entire Florida Keys archipelago, a rare treasure in an area dominated by mangrove shorelines? This hidden gem in Islamorada offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, water adventures, and cultural experiences that capture the authentic Florida Keys lifestyle without the crowds of Key West.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Upper Matecumbe Key is located in Islamorada, approximately 129 km (80 miles) south of Miami and 129 km (80 miles) north of Key West. The island is easily accessible via the Overseas Highway (US-1), which connects all the Florida Keys.
Closest Airports
- Miami International Airport (MIA) – 129 km (80 miles) north, approximately 1.5 hours by car
- Key West International Airport (EYW) – 129 km (80 miles) south, approximately 2 hours by car
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Most visitors rent a car at the airport, as having your own transportation is the most convenient way to explore the Florida Keys. The drive along the Overseas Highway offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to fully experience the beauty of the Florida Keys and Upper Matecumbe Key.
For those arriving by sea, Upper Matecumbe Key is also accessible by boat, with several marinas offering docking facilities for visitors.
Arrive in Style by Cruise
Consider a cruise that stops in the Florida Keys as part of your journey.
Best Time to Visit Upper Matecumbe Key
The climate in Upper Matecumbe Key is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. However, certain months offer better conditions for visitors.
Recommended Months to Visit
Best Time: November to April
- Pleasant temperatures averaging 21-27°C (70-80°F)
- Low humidity and minimal rainfall
- Perfect conditions for outdoor activities
- Peak fishing season for many species
- Vibrant local events and festivals
Avoid: August to October
- Hurricane season with potential for severe weather
- High humidity and temperatures above 32°C (90°F)
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
- Some businesses may have limited hours
- Higher chance of water activities being canceled
December through February tends to be slightly cooler but still comfortable for most activities except extended swimming. March and April offer an excellent balance of warm temperatures and lower humidity, making them ideal months for a visit.
Getting Around Locally
Upper Matecumbe Key is relatively small, spanning just a few miles, but having transportation is essential for exploring the area fully.
Transportation Options
- Car: The most convenient way to explore Upper Matecumbe Key and the surrounding areas. Parking is generally available at most attractions.
- Bicycle: Many resorts offer bicycle rentals, which are perfect for short trips around the key. The flat terrain makes cycling easy and enjoyable.
- Water Taxi: Some local companies offer water taxi services between keys and to offshore attractions.
- Walking: While you can walk to nearby attractions, the tropical heat makes this impractical for longer distances.
For the best experience, we recommend having a car available for your stay, as public transportation is limited in the Florida Keys.
Where to Stay
Upper Matecumbe Key offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels and vacation rentals.
Luxury Resorts
Cheeca Lodge & Spa is the premier luxury option on Upper Matecumbe Key, featuring a private beach, spa, multiple restaurants, and a 160 m (525 ft) fishing pier. The resort offers elegant rooms and suites with ocean or garden views.
Mid-Range Options
La Siesta Resort & Marina offers comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes, a private beach, and a marina. The Pelican Cove Resort features oceanfront rooms, a saltwater lagoon, and water sports rentals.
Budget-Friendly
Vacation rentals and smaller guesthouses provide more affordable options. The Coconut Cove Resort & Marina offers reasonably priced rooms with access to a private beach and marina.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Upper Matecumbe Key
Book your accommodation early, especially during peak season (December-April), to secure the best rates and availability.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Upper Matecumbe Key offers exceptional dining experiences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical flavors. Many restaurants feature waterfront views and open-air seating.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Key Lime Pie: The iconic Florida Keys dessert, featuring a tangy lime filling in a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream.
- Conch Fritters: Deep-fried conch meat mixed with vegetables and spices, served with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Fresh Catch: Locally caught fish like mahi-mahi, yellowtail snapper, and grouper, often prepared grilled, blackened, or fried.
- Stone Crab Claws: A seasonal delicacy (October to May), typically served chilled with mustard sauce.
- Key West Pink Shrimp: Sweet, tender shrimp caught in local waters, often featured in various dishes.
Top Restaurants in Upper Matecumbe Key
Waterfront Dining
- Chef Michael’s: Upscale dining featuring fresh seafood and innovative preparations.
- Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar: Casual waterfront spot famous for sunset views and live music.
- Lazy Days Restaurant: Oceanfront dining with a “you hook it, we cook it” option for fishermen.
Local Favorites
- Mangrove Mike’s Cafe: Popular breakfast and lunch spot with hearty portions.
- Midway Cafe: Great for coffee, breakfast, and sandwiches.
- Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory: The place to go for authentic Key Lime Pie and other key lime treats.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Upper Matecumbe Key offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with activities ranging from water sports to cultural experiences.
Top Attractions
Robbie’s Marina
A must-visit attraction where you can hand-feed massive tarpon fish from the dock. The marina also features local art vendors, water sports rentals, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
Rain Barrel Artisan Village
Browse unique art and crafts at this charming outdoor marketplace. Look for “Betsy,” the giant lobster sculpture at the entrance—the second most photographed landmark in the Florida Keys.
Theater of the Sea
One of the oldest marine mammal facilities in the world, offering dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows. Visitors can also swim with dolphins or snorkel with sharks and rays.
Water Activities
- Snorkeling at Alligator Reef: Explore the vibrant marine life around the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse, located about 6.4 km (4 miles) offshore.
- Fishing Charters: Islamorada is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” offering world-class fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers.
- Kayaking: Paddle through mangrove trails or to nearby Indian Key Historic State Park, a former 19th-century settlement.
- Jet Ski Tours: Explore the surrounding waters on an exhilarating jet ski tour.
Experience the Best of Upper Matecumbe Key
Book your water adventures and tours in advance to secure your spot!
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Upper Matecumbe Key and the surrounding Islamorada area offer rich cultural experiences that highlight the unique history and heritage of the Florida Keys.
Museums & Historical Sites
- Florida Keys History & Discovery Center: Located at the Islander Resort, this museum features exhibits on the history of the Florida Keys, from the indigenous peoples to the present day.
- History of Diving Museum: Explore the fascinating evolution of diving technology through the ages, featuring one of the world’s largest collections of diving helmets and equipment.
- Hurricane Monument: A memorial to the victims of the devastating 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, located at mile marker 81.5.
- Indian Key Historic State Park: Accessible only by boat, this island was once a thriving community in the 1800s before being largely destroyed in an attack. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about its fascinating history.
Annual Events & Festivals
Islamorada Fine Art Festival
Held in January, this juried art show features works from local and national artists in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Islamorada Seafood Festival
Usually held in February, this event celebrates the area’s fishing heritage with fresh seafood, live music, and family activities.
Original Nautical Flea Market
A January event featuring marine and nautical items, from boats to fishing gear and art.
Florida Keys Island Fest
Held in April, this festival includes art, music, food, and a classic car show.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The natural environment around Upper Matecumbe Key offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Water Sports
- Paddleboarding: Explore the calm waters around the key, especially during sunrise or sunset for a magical experience.
- Parasailing: Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Florida Keys from high above the water.
- Scuba Diving: Discover the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life that make the Florida Keys a world-class diving destination.
- Sailing: Charter a sailboat for a day of relaxation on the water, with options for both experienced sailors and beginners.
Nature Experiences
- Dolphin Watching: Join a boat tour to spot wild dolphins playing in their natural habitat.
- Bird Watching: The Florida Keys are home to numerous bird species, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and pelicans.
- Turtle Hospital: Located in nearby Marathon, this rehabilitation center offers tours where visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation efforts.
- Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park: Accessible only by boat, this island preserves a tropical hardwood hammock ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Ready for Outdoor Adventure?
Book your nature tours and water sports activities to make the most of your Upper Matecumbe Key experience!
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Upper Matecumbe Key will enhance your experience and help preserve this beautiful destination for future visitors.
Safety Tips
- Sun Protection: The Florida sun is intense year-round. Wear sunscreen (minimum SPF 30), a hat, and sunglasses, and reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities.
- Water Safety: Always check weather and water conditions before boating or water sports. Be aware of currents and follow all safety guidelines.
- Wildlife: Observe marine life from a respectful distance. Never touch or feed wild animals unless at designated attractions like Robbie’s tarpon feeding.
- Hurricane Awareness: If visiting during hurricane season (June to November), stay informed about weather forecasts and have an evacuation plan.
Local Etiquette
- Environmental Respect: The Florida Keys ecosystem is fragile. Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs, properly dispose of trash, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Fishing Regulations: If fishing, be aware of size limits, seasons, and protected species. Obtain necessary licenses before fishing.
- Island Time: The pace of life is slower in the Keys. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and don’t expect big-city efficiency.
- Tipping: Standard tipping practices apply: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $5-10 for tour guides, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Visitor Comments About Upper Matecumbe Key
“Our family vacation to Upper Matecumbe Key was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Feeding the tarpon at Robbie’s was a highlight for the kids, while my wife and I loved the sunset views from Lorelei’s. We stayed at Cheeca Lodge, which was worth every penny for the amenities and service. Can’t wait to return!”
“As an avid fisherman, I’ve visited many destinations, but Upper Matecumbe Key tops them all. Hired a local charter and caught more mahi-mahi than I could count! The laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals made this trip special. Don’t miss Chef Michael’s for dinner—their lionfish was incredible.”
“We visited Upper Matecumbe Key during our Florida Keys road trip and wished we had allocated more time here. The History of Diving Museum was fascinating, and kayaking through the mangroves was a peaceful escape. Anne’s Beach was perfect for our toddler with its shallow, calm water. A hidden gem in the Keys!”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Multiple swimsuits
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof phone case
- Polarized sunglasses
- Broad-brimmed hat
Money Matters
- Major credit cards are widely accepted
- ATMs are available but not abundant
- Bring cash for small vendors and tips
- Prices tend to be higher than mainland Florida
- Budget extra for activities and water sports
Connectivity
- Cell service is generally good throughout Upper Matecumbe Key
- Most accommodations and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi
- Download maps and guides before arrival as backup
Local Transportation
- US-1 is the only main road and can get congested
- Plan extra travel time, especially during peak season
- Parking is generally available but may require fees at popular spots
- Consider renting bicycles for short trips
Insider Tip: The Florida Keys use a unique address system based on mile markers (MM) along the Overseas Highway. Upper Matecumbe Key spans approximately from MM 80 to MM 83. Locals give directions using these markers, so familiarize yourself with this system for easier navigation.
Your Upper Matecumbe Adventure Awaits!
Upper Matecumbe Key offers a perfect slice of Florida Keys paradise without the crowds of more famous destinations. From feeding giant tarpon and exploring vibrant reefs to savoring fresh seafood with sunset views, this island gem delivers authentic experiences that capture the essence of Keys living. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, cultural discoveries, or simply a peaceful beach retreat, Upper Matecumbe Key rewards visitors with memories that will last long after your tan fades. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to fall in love with this tropical paradise.
The above is subject to change.
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