It's that time of year when the kids are out of school and the parents are looking for activities to keep them occupied. If the number of campers and boats being towed are any indication, many families are taking advantage of the mid-week Fourth of July holiday and heading to our little chain of islands for a summer vacation. While the obvious attraction is the blue, green and clear water that surrounds us, there are some other area attractions that can provide for a good distraction from days of fishing and snorkeling. At Robbie's Marina on the bayside located at approximately mile marker 77.5, you can feed Tarpon. Locals and visitors have been going to the marina for over twenty years to buy a bucket of fish to hand feed the tarpon that surround the docks there. Just be careful, the fish have been known to "jump" up out of the water to take a free meal from the hand of an unsuspecting patron. Just northeast of Robbie's in the bayside waters off of Tea Table Key, is Lignumvitae Key State Botantical Site. The park is accessible only by boat, but hosts tours of the Matheson House and grounds, call 305-664-4815 for more information. Another attraction in the Islamorada area is the Theater of the Sea, located at MM84.5. They have daily dolphin shows, you can even sign up to swim with the dolphins, a nature walk highlighting sea life found in local waters, and even a sea lion performance. For more information go to thier website at theaterofthesea.com.
After a day of fun in the sun and out on the water, relax at some of the local restaurants. One restaurant, my family and I recently discovered is Picchi's 88 Ristorantino located on Plantation Key in the 88 Plaza. The service was excellent and the food absolutely wonderful! They had something for everyone and thier steaks truly are some of the best in the Keys. Thier prices are reasonable as well. Another, good place to grab a bite to eat is the Whistle Stop located on Upper Matecumbe in the strip mallacross from the "little red caboose". Looks can be deceiving, so don't let the exterior keep you from stepping inside. They have some of the best pizza in town and daily specials; the Thursday night meatloaf is a local's favorite.
I hope everyone has a safe summer and Fourth of July celebration. Will try to have pictures of our parade entry with my next posting.
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