Which resort in Islamorada
 

We take a week at Easter (only time we can) with our daughter and son-in-law and 3 small boys,always choosing a different location in Florida. The kids love exploring and nature; this year we have selected Islamorada. We have reservations at the Hampton Inn, and are getting lots of brochures from different places. Has anyone ever stayed at La Siesta Resort? Is there anything we "must see" in the Keys for the boys? Any advice on the Hampton? Thanks in advance.

How old are the boys? That will affect your choices. I assume you are flying into Miami or Ft. Lauderdale and would suggest a stop at the Everglades (Anhingua Trail at the Royal Palm Visitor's Center). Feed the wild tarpon at MM 77, Robbie's Bayside. Check out Theatre of the Sea (you can get discount coupons at Harriet's - a great breakfast spot). Not much night time activity - but the bowling alley is always a fun stop for my kids.

<BR><BR>If the boys are young, head up to Pennekamp State Park (Key Largo) and go out on the glass bottom boat to see the reef. They also have some nature hikes at Pennekamp.<BR><BR>If they're older, so snorkeling or deep-sea fishing. Islamorada is world-famous for its fishing.<BR><BR>The Islamoroda Fish Company (restaurant) has gotten real touristy, but you can't beat it for atmosphere - sitting on a large deck on the water, eating a great fish sandwich.<BR><BR>Have fun.

I was in the Keys this weekend with my 11 year-old son. Passed the Hampton in Islamorada and it looks like a very nice place. We checked out all of the state parks in the Keys and they are great for nature. Pennekamp State Park has a few trails that are good, as does Long Key Recreation Area, both of which are a short drive from Islamorada. Bahia Honda State Park is the prettiest park and has a nice beach. My son and I enjoyed them all.

Thanks to all of you...the boys are 4, 7 and 9. They have a pond in the back of their own home, which keeps them busy all day during the summer...I'm sure they will love the Keys (and we grandparents too!)

The Hampton Inn does indeed look nice. Some other resorts that are very kid friendly in Islamorada are Pine and Palms, Chesapeake Resort and Cheeca Lodge. Pine and Palms have ocean front cottages, small beach and a play area. Chesapeake Resort has a nice pool, small beach and playground also. Another idea is to rent a condo since there are a lot of you. Go to vrbo.com and check listings.