Venturing from Fort Lauderdale to Islamorada offers a fantastic way to soak in the beauty of the Florida Keys without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. This guided full-day tour combines scenic boat rides, beachside walks, tasty local cuisine, and leisure time at a lively marina—all wrapped into one seamless experience. Designed for travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, this trip delivers plenty of memorable moments.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to spot dolphins and manatees from a comfortable boat, the delicious oceanfront lunch with stunning views, and the small-group atmosphere that keeps things personal and engaging. Plus, the narrated guide adds extra insights into the environment and local highlights. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers have mentioned the lack of restrooms on the van and the long duration—so packing snacks or extra water might be wise. This trip suits those eager to explore the Florida Keys in a relaxed, well-organized setting with plenty of opportunities for authentic wildlife encounters.
Good To Know
- Wildlife Viewing: The boat cruise offers chances to see dolphins, manatees, and other marine life up close.
- Scenic Nature Walk: The oceanside walk features a 1300ft boardwalk through mangroves, great for pictures and fresh air.
- Delicious Lunch: Oceanfront dining provides local dishes with spectacular views of the water and mangroves.
- Leisure at the Marina: Free time allows shopping, watching tarpon feed, and enjoying the lively marina atmosphere.
- Comfort & Convenience: Modern van transport with USB outlets and hotel pickup make the day stress-free.
- Expert Narration: An experienced naturalist guide enhances your understanding of the environment and wildlife.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
This day trip begins early, with pickup at Vacation Village in Weston at 8:00 am, before heading south in a comfortable, modern passenger van. The small group size (limited to 12 people) keeps things cozy and allows for personalized attention from your guide. The ride itself is smooth, with convenient USB outlets to keep devices charged for photos or videos.
The Boat Cruise – Wildlife and Nature from the Water
The first major highlight is the one-hour bayside backcountry mangrove cruise. You’ll step aboard a bay boat, which glides silently through winding waterways. This part of the tour offers a chance to see dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees in their natural habitat, along with a variety of birds and fish. The experience isn’t just about wildlife spotting—your guide, Jason, is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and fun facts that bring the environment to life.
Many reviewers, like the one from Switzerland, mention how much they appreciated Jason’s professionalism and the engaging narration. His insights help you understand why the mangroves are vital to the ecosystem and what makes the Florida Keys’ wildlife unique. The boat also passes by some of Islamorada’s most impressive waterfront homes, giving a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle that the area is known for.
Oceanside Nature Walk – Beach & Mangroves
Next, you’ll take a guided 45-minute nature walk along a beautiful beach on Lower Matecumbe Key. The 1300ft boardwalk winds through mangroves, providing a peaceful environment for birdwatching and photography. The shallow sand flats are perfect for dipping your toes in or just relaxing with the scenery. The walk is laid-back, making it accessible for most fitness levels, and offers plenty of opportunities for candid photos of the stunning landscape.
Lunch with a View
After working up an appetite, the group heads to an oceanside restaurant for lunch. The menu is diverse—ranging from conch fritters and fried calamari to grouper sandwiches and shrimp po’boys—to cater to different tastes. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, and the scenic views of mangroves, boats, and the open water make it a memorable meal. The restaurant’s outdoor setting ensures you’re surrounded by natural beauty, enhancing the flavor of those fresh, local dishes.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyLeisure at the Marina – Shopping and Wildlife
Following lunch, you’ll enjoy about 45 minutes of free time at a fun bayside marina. Here, you can watch tarpon feeding—a spectacle that many travelers find fascinating—and browse gift shops for souvenirs or handcrafted jewelry. You might also choose to sip a cocktail or beer, adding to the relaxed island vibe.
Final Notes & Return
The tour wraps up around 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with the return trip to Fort Lauderdale. The long day is full of sights, sounds, and flavors, leaving you with a well-rounded impression of the Florida Keys.
Is This Tour Worth the Price?
At $249 per person, this tour offers solid value considering all included activities. The price covers transportation, a guided boat cruise, a scenic walk, lunch, and marina free time. The small group size (limited to 12) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience—something that many travelers value.
Comparing the costs of arranging such a trip independently—boat rental, boat guides, meals, and transportation—this package is quite reasonable. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, along with the insightful narration, simplifies logistics and maximizes your enjoyment.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of the Keys’ maritime environment without spending days there. It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided experiences, especially if they’re not familiar with the area or don’t want the hassle of planning.
It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy small-group tours—the intimate size enhances engagement with the guide and the environment. However, those with mobility issues should note the walking involved in the nature walk and the boat cruise.
Final Thoughts
This full-day tour from Fort Lauderdale to Islamorada offers a wonderful combination of wildlife, scenery, and local flavor. The boat cruise is a highlight, providing a rare chance to see marine animals in their natural habitat. The scenic walk, delicious oceanfront lunch, and marina leisure time round out the experience, making it feel both adventurous and relaxing.
If you’re after an authentic, well-organized tour that balances education and fun, this trip is a great pick. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and genuine wildlife encounters make it a memorable way to experience the Florida Keys in a single day.
Perfect for
- Travelers seeking a guided, small-group adventure
- Nature and wildlife enthusiasts
- Food lovers wanting a scenic oceanfront meal
- Those with limited time but a desire to see the Keys
Less ideal for
- Guests with mobility issues
- People looking for a quiet, solitary retreat
In summary, this tour provides excellent value for a comprehensive day packed with adventure, relaxation, and authentic Floridian charm.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation with hotel pickups, starting at 8:00 am from Weston.
What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and light clothing are recommended. Pack some water, as there are no restroom stops on the van.
Are there any restrictions for participants?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or individuals prone to motion sickness. No pets (except assistance dogs) or smoking allowed.
How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup to return, usually ending around 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
What is included in the price?
Transportation, a naturalist-guided boat cruise, lunch with multiple options, bottled water, and free time at the marina.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour date.
What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention.
This tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Florida Keys—perfect for those wanting to maximize a single-day visit with wildlife, scenery, and local flavor all rolled into one memorable trip.
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