10 Things to Do Within 10 Minutes of Bayside Villas
Some vacations are built around a destination. Others are built around where you stay.
At Bayside Villas, you're perfectly positioned to experience both. Tucked along the peaceful waters of Florida Bay, the property offers spacious waterfront villas, a private marina with optional boat slips, and complimentary access to the amenities at nearby Islander Resort. Just beyond the property, some of Islamorada's most popular attractions, restaurants, and adventures are only minutes away.
Whether you're planning your first trip to the Florida Keys or returning for another island escape, here are ten experiences that belong on your itinerary, all within about a ten minute drive of Bayside Villas.
1. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie's of Islamorada
Approximately 5 minutes from Bayside Villas
No visit to Islamorada is complete without a stop at Robbie's. Home to the famous tarpon feeding dock, this waterfront destination has become one of the Florida Keys' most recognizable attractions.
Purchase a bucket of baitfish and hand feed the massive silver kings from the dock, browse local artisan shops, enjoy fresh seafood, or book a fishing charter or watersports excursion before continuing your day.
One of the advantages of staying at Bayside Villas is how quickly you can get here, making it an easy morning stop before heading out on the water.
Best for: Families, photographers, first time visitors
2. Enjoy a Local Pour at Florida Keys Brewing Co.
Approximately 4 minutes from Bayside Villas
Bright murals, tropical gardens, live music, and craft beer inspired by island life have made Florida Keys Brewing Co. a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Relax beneath the palms while sampling seasonal brews crafted with tropical flavors, then explore nearby galleries and boutiques throughout Islamorada.
It's an easy afternoon outing before returning to Bayside Villas to unwind by the pool or enjoy dinner.
Best for: Couples, groups, casual afternoons
3. Explore the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
Approximately 5 minutes from Bayside Villas
The Florida Keys have a remarkable story, and there's no better place to discover it than the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center.
Interactive exhibits explore everything from Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad and legendary shipwrecks to commercial fishing, hurricanes, and the unique ecosystems that define island life today.
Guests staying at Bayside Villas or Islander Resort also enjoy discounted admission to the museum, making it an even more rewarding addition to your itinerary.
Whether you're escaping a passing afternoon shower or simply looking to deepen your appreciation for the destination, it's well worth a visit.
Best for: History enthusiasts, families, rainy day adventures
4. Spend the Day at Theater of the Sea
Approximately 8 minutes from Bayside Villas
For generations, Theater of the Sea has introduced visitors to the incredible marine life that calls the Florida Keys home.
Meet dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, stingrays, parrots, and tropical fish while enjoying educational presentations and unforgettable animal encounters.
Families especially appreciate how close this iconic attraction is to Bayside Villas, making it easy to spend the morning here before heading back for an afternoon by the water.
Best for: Families, animal lovers
5. Visit Islamorada Brewery & Distillery
Approximately 6 minutes from Bayside Villas
If your perfect vacation includes handcrafted cocktails and small batch spirits, Islamorada Brewery & Distillery deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Known for locally distilled rum, vodka, gin, whiskey, and relaxed outdoor seating, it's an inviting place to gather after a day of fishing, boating, or exploring the Keys.
Pair your visit with one of the nearby restaurants for an easy evening out before returning to your villa.
Best for: Couples, groups, adults
6. Spend the Afternoon at an Islamorada Sandbar
Accessible by boat
Some of the Florida Keys' most memorable afternoons happen away from shore.
The oceanside sandbars near Islamorada are gathering places where boaters anchor in shallow turquoise water to swim, float, socialize, and enjoy the laid back lifestyle that makes the Keys so special.
Guests staying at Bayside Villas have the added convenience of optional boat slips at the property's private marina, making it easy to spend the day on the water before returning home to relax.
Best for: Boaters, families, groups
Insider Tip: Weekdays typically offer a more relaxed sandbar experience, while weekends bring a lively social atmosphere that's become a favorite part of boating in Islamorada.
7. Experience Islamorada Fishing with Bamboo Charters
Approximately 5 minutes from Bayside Villas
Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada offers unforgettable opportunities for anglers of every experience level.
For guests looking to book a local guide, we recommend Bamboo Charters. Whether you're chasing tarpon in the backcountry, reef fishing for snapper, or heading offshore in search of mahi mahi or sailfish, their experienced captains help create memorable days on the water.
After your trip, you're only minutes from Bayside Villas, where you can relax, prepare your catch, or head out to dinner to celebrate the day's adventure.
Best for: Anglers, families, bucket list fishing trips
8. Discover Islamorada's Waterfront Dining Scene
Within 5 to 10 minutes of Bayside Villas
Some of the Keys' favorite restaurants are just around the corner.
Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the water, watch the sunset with a tropical cocktail in hand, or settle into a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.
Nearby favorites include:
Each offers its own take on Florida Keys hospitality, making it easy to experience something new each evening of your stay.
9. Snorkel Alligator Reef with Morada Mermaid
Approximately 5 minutes to the marina
Looking for one of the most unforgettable adventures in Islamorada?
Join a snorkel and sandbar excursion with Morada Mermaid and experience the crystal clear waters surrounding Alligator Reef Lighthouse, one of the Florida Keys' most recognizable offshore landmarks.
Spend the morning snorkeling among tropical fish and colorful coral before relaxing at a nearby sandbar, where calm turquoise water invites you to swim, float, and simply enjoy the moment.
It's an ideal excursion for guests who want to experience both the underwater beauty and the laid back boating culture of the Florida Keys in a single outing.
Best for: Couples, families, first time snorkelers
10. Watch the Sunset at Anne's Beach
Approximately 10 minutes from Bayside Villas
While many visitors head to the Gulf Coast for sunset, Anne's Beach offers a quieter way to end the day.
Its elevated boardwalk, shallow shoreline, and panoramic views make it one of Islamorada's favorite places for an evening stroll as the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and gold.
Bring a camera, slow your pace, and take in one final island moment before returning to Bayside Villas for a peaceful evening.
Best for: Couples, photographers, sunset seekers
Make Bayside Villas Your Home Base in Islamorada
One of the greatest advantages of staying at Bayside Villas is that every day can look a little different.
Spend the morning feeding tarpon, head offshore for a snorkeling adventure, enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant, relax at an oceanside sandbar, or reel in the catch of a lifetime with a local fishing charter. At the end of the day, return to a spacious waterfront villa where you can unwind in a quieter setting while still enjoying complimentary access to the dining, pools, beach, and activities at nearby Islander Resort.
Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or your own boat, Bayside Villas offers the perfect balance of peaceful accommodations and easy access to the very best experiences Islamorada has to offer.