We were googling best beaches in florida and this place was recommended. We realize its one of the Florida Key islands. Has anyone been to this specific island? We have been to Key West. Is it similar? What hotels would you recommend? Thanks in advance.

Yes. My favorite place in the Keys. VERY laid back. Not much like Key West. There are a lot of threads discussing Islamorada on this board.

Islamorada is very peaceful and quiet compared to Key West. Check Expedia to see which hotels are right on the beach. If you don't want peace and quiet, Key West is the place with lots of bars, music, restaurants, and partying people.

Beaches in the Keys are not the primary attraction. There are very few natural beaches in the Keys. Beaches at hotels are typically man made and extend to the property line only.

Islamorada is a great destination. Good restaurants. Good fishing. Beautiful water. Great weather. It is not Daytona beach. Earlier posters are exactly correct. Islamorada is also not Key West. Smaller, laid back, much quieter.

Understand that Islamorada is 16 miles long, bisected by US 1, and has just over 6,000 people. There's not much there, there.

Personally, I prefer Marathon. It, too, is long, but I think there's more to offer. It also has Sombrero Beach, which I think is the best free beach in the middle Keys.

I just tried setting up a Marathon album--not sure if it'll work. Try http://marathonhighlights.shutterfly.com/