Founders Park is at the heart of Islamorada and a must-visit for anyone wanting to discover the laid-back approach to life adopted by the local residents. The oceanfront park’s main feature is its gently curving beach with palm trees. Sheltered from the wind and waves, it’s perfect for families with young children. Radiating out from the beach are a range of sporting facilities, marinas, parkland and restaurants.

As the center for most of the activities on Islamorada, it’s no wonder that Founders Park is a local favorite. Bring your running shoes and swimwear to get active at the myriad of sporting facilities provided by the park. Practice your pitching on the baseball diamond, join a game of soccer, basketball or volleyball or glide around the skate park. Throughout the year, the waterfront amphitheater is alive with music festivals and classical concert performances.

After you’ve stretched your legs, you can cool off with a swim. Experienced swimmers can pay a small fee to do laps in the Olympic-sized swimming pool located in the park. A roped-off area at the beach provides a great alternative for families with young children. There are plenty of nooks and crannies for snorkelers of all ages to explore just meters from the shore. See tropical fish among the coral and get close up pictures if you have an underwater camera.

Head to the Founders Park marina if you would like to join a fishing or diving tour. See a different side to the Florida Keys as you speed through the Gulf of Mexico in search of the biggest game fish. Sign up for a 1-hour sailing class to learn how to pilot your own boat, or rent kayaks, pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards to explore around the island at your own pace.

Founders Park is located on Islamorada’s northern coast just feet from the Overseas Highway. An admission fee applies for those who are not staying in Islamorada. The park is open daily and parking is available within the grounds. There are bathrooms and showers along the beach.