Paradise Palms – Islamorada, Florida

How to Rent a Boat in Islamorada: Everything You Need to Know

Islamorada, located in the heart of the Florida Keys, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and exceptional boating opportunities. Whether you are a seasoned mariner or a visitor seeking a memorable day on the water, Islamorada offers a range of boat rental options to suit various preferences and needs.

Freedom Boat Club: Membership-Based Boating

For individuals interested in a more structured and convenient boating experience, Freedom Boat Club provides an attractive alternative to traditional boat ownership. Located at 85500 Overseas Highway in Islamorada, the club offers members access to a fleet of well-maintained vessels without the responsibilities of maintenance, storage, or insurance. Minutes from Paradise Palms!

Key benefits of membership include:

  • Unlimited access to boats at the Islamorada location and reciprocal privileges at hundreds of other Freedom Boat Club locations nationwide
  • Complimentary training with certified captains to ensure safe and confident boating
  • Online reservation system for ease of scheduling
  • Professional staff and consistently high standards of service

This option is particularly well-suited for frequent boaters or those who travel regularly and wish to enjoy boating in multiple regions.

Local Boat Rental Companies

For visitors seeking short-term or one-time rentals, Islamorada is home to several reputable boat rental providers. These companies offer a variety of vessels, including center consoles, pontoon boats, skiffs, and jet skis.

Robbie’s Marina

Robbie’s Marina is a well-established local business offering boats for fishing, snorkeling, and leisure cruising. The marina is known for its flexible rental durations and knowledgeable staff, making it a popular choice among tourists and locals alike.

A1A Watersports & Boat Rentals

A1A Watersports is a family-owned operation that provides a wide selection of boats and jet skis. Serving Islamorada as well as neighboring areas such as Key Largo and Marathon, A1A is recognized for its customer service and well-maintained fleet.

Peer-to-Peer Rental Platforms

Platforms such as Boatsetter and GetMyBoat allow users to rent boats directly from local owners. These services offer both captained charters and self-operated vessels, with pricing typically starting around $75 to $100 per hour depending on the type and duration of the rental.

Considerations Before Renting

Prospective renters should keep the following in mind:

  • Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons
  • Snorkeling gear may not be provided, so bringing personal equipment is advisable
  • Licensing requirements vary; verify whether a boating license or safety certification is necessary
  • Captained charters are recommended for those unfamiliar with local waterways

Book Your Next Vacation Today!

Islamorada offers a diverse array of boating experiences, from casual day rentals to comprehensive membership programs. With its unique location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the area provides unparalleled opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and exploration. Whether you choose to join a club or rent a vessel for the day, boating in Islamorada is an experience not to be missed.

Paradise Palms Guest Experiences

Let me share a little more about the incredible activities in Islamorada…

First, every detail of our home, Paradise Palms, has been meticulously crafted to create a dream destination tailored just for you. With countless recreational opportunities, including boating, snorkeling, fishing, and relaxing, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant coastal scene that makes this place truly special.

• Between the saltwater wilderness of Everglades National Park and the deep blue waters of the Florida Strait is Islamorada, made up of six islands. It is a special spot as a popular vacation destination enjoyed for its up-scale small-town atmosphere, scenic bay, ocean views, sunshine, boating, fishing, locally owned restaurants, quaint shops, and galleries.

• Islamorada is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” and hosts the largest fishing fleet per square mile in the world. Islamorada may be the only place on Earth where it is possible to catch a sailfish offshore and pursue bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish in the shallow backcountry, all in the same day.

• Snorkelers and Scuba Divers flock to the region to explore the extraordinary reef line and brimming patch reefs. On land be equally fascinated by the History of Diving Museum, which includes a 16th-century treasure chest.

• Activity, fun and relaxation for the whole family includes hand-feeding hungry tarpon at the docks of Robbie’s Marina or discovering one of Florida’s original marine mammal parks within walking distance of Paradise Palms, Theater of the Sea.

• Islamorada’s Founders Park is a rare gem within minutes encompassing a 40-acre expanse that includes several recreation options including football, baseball and soccer fields, an Olympic-sized pool with two diving boards, and a beautiful bay-side shallow-water beach. Music lovers can enjoy tropical evenings and daylong music festivals at the outdoor waterfront Amphitheater located inside the park. Founders Park is free to guests of Paradise Palms.

• Exhibits at the Keys History & Discovery Center feature the first Florida Keys inhabitants, pioneering families, sportfishing legends, Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, and reflect upon the nature, art and history of the Keys.

• For the land lover, hikers can meander along lush, tropical nature trails at one of the various State Parks, Long Key State Park, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, Indian Key Historic State Park or Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park.

• Mouthwatering dining awaits you with the incredible delicacies of the locally owned restaurants. We will be sure to let you know which ones are a must! You can even have your meal delivered and sit on your own private balcony enjoying one of the best oceanfront views in the Florida Keys.

Grateful for Our Guests — Hear What They’re Saying About Paradise Palms...

At Paradise Palms, we don’t just offer a place to stay — we offer a place to belong. Every sunset shared, every boat ride taken, every moment of peace under the palms becomes part of a story we’re honored to host.

We’re incredibly grateful for our past guests, whose kind words and unforgettable photos continue to inspire us. Their reviews reflect the magic of the Florida Keys and the care we put into every detail of your stay.

Jon August, 2025

Best stay in the Keys and we have stayed at all of them. Lux! We always choose Islamorada, but this place blew every other stay out of the water. The third-story balcony was insane—hello ocean breeze....So much fun, but nothing beat coming back and hanging on that huge balcony. Could’ve sat there all day. Never wanted to miss the sunrise or sunset. This unit is the closest to the ocean - wife wanted luxury and I wanted a spot for my boat. Clean, brand new, literally had Tempur-Pedic beds (huge win for my terrible back), and just way nicer than most places in the Keys. Guests said photos don’t do it justice on the other sites, and they were right. Even my teenagers loved it - game room on the ground floor (and that’s saying a lot). We rebooked for winter even before we left. This is our new spot in the Keys. She said it was the crown jewel, yup. Thank you! -Direct Booking Guest

Dan August, 2025

An Immaculate home in the most amazing place! The views are stunning!! The house is literally feet away from the ocean! Every detail and amenity has been meticulously thought of. The entire process from booking through check out is seamless. The owners are a joy to work with and attentive to every need. Timely and informative communication is provided. This area has so much to do from swimming and snorkeling to boating and fishing. This is a beautiful part of the country to enjoy and explore! We look forward to coming back!! -VRBO Guest

Devin August, 2025

We have stayed at a lot of vacation rentals and this was the best stocked and thoughtfully setup for our family vacation. Boating access was easy to both Oceanside and Bayside attractions. -Airbnb Guest

Eric July, 2025

We absolutely loved our time here! The views of the ocean were absolutely breathtaking! We spent every morning and evening just soaking it all in. The place was spotless and beautifully furnished, with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The kitchen was well stocked and thoughtfully organized, making it easy to cook meals at home. We also really appreciated the clear instructions and helpful local recommendations provided. It made everything so smooth from check-in to check-out. Would absolutely stay here again! -Airbnb Guest

Rich June, 2025

This place was amazing. We were family of 5, the space was MORE than enough!!! The porch was our happy place. The Breeze and the view are indescribable in the best way . The home was extremely clean, everything was clearly marked if we needed an extra blanket, kitchen fully stocked. Honestly it was impeccably clean, great location, view was one I will dream about for days … already looking forward to our next stay! Couldn’t recommend this place more (we were ready to move in.) -Airbnb Guest

Andrea June, 2025

This house was so comfortable and accommodating! The weather was bad the first 4 days of our trip and it was so nice to have the game room to keep us entertained! Everything you need and more! -Airbnb Guest

Kevin June, 2025

We had a great week thank you for everything. We loved the place. -Airbnb Guest

Jan May, 2025

This townhouse is an amazing place. Beautifully decorated and stocked with everything you could possibly need or want. The property is private but close to all activities. Views are awesome from every porch and it is the closest unit to the water. Truly oceanfront! Josh and Rebecca are terrific communicators and the welcome guide gives every detail needed to enjoy the vacation. We will recommend this location to everyone who is heading to the Keys. -VRBO Guest

Corey May, 2025

Rebecca was great — friendly and quick to respond. Home is in a gated area, which is nice. Pictures are accurate. We enjoyed our stay! -Airbnb Guest

Jamie April, 2025

We have been visiting Islamorada for over 10 years and this condo was one of the best places we have stayed! Extremely clean, location was perfect and the views were amazing! The pictures don’t do it justice. Rebecca was more than accommodating and very easy to get a hold of. We will definitely be back! -VRBO Guest

Heidi April, 2025

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Peaceful Palms, it has the best ocean views! The home had everything we needed for a week’s stay and the teenage boys loved the gaming room. Local recommendations for food and activities were very helpful.-Airbnb Guest

Ari March, 2025

All I can say is ⭐️WOW⭐️ We travel a lot, have stayed in dozens of Airbnb’s all over the country as well as internationally. And this is the best place we’ve ever stayed in by far!We’ve been to the Florida Keys a handful of times and really like the Islamorada area so wanted a nice open house on the water within walking distance to bars, restaurants, beach, etc. and found this beautiful listing. There are many properties built to just be a vacation rental, however this location stood apart. They didn’t spare many expenses from finishing touches, quality linens, furniture, electronics and appliances- everything is high end. Our favorite parts: Bright, open windows, balconies, nothing blocking your view from every east facing room including everything on the main level. A family of manatees welcomes you every morning right in front of the docks Sunrise is the best view you’ll find anywhere in the keys You get beach access at Founder’s Park for free BEST HOSTS EVER! Truly care about you.-Airbnb Guest

Jane February, 2025

ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! The house is beautiful. Everything is brand new. The location is the best one on the property. You see the ocean from every balcony and window. The host was extremely organized, helpful and nice. Look at the pictures. The house, furniture, decor and views are exactly like the photos. -VRBO Guest

Ginger November, 2024

PARADISE PERFECTION! I have stayed in VRBO's & AirBNB's for decades... and this topped them all. We had an absolute blast and never wanted to leave. The panoramic ocean views were spectacular! The owners have furnished this place with incredible generosity and luxury, both style and comfort. We had 6 guests and plenty of room for everyone - especially loved the extra entertainment room. From the yummy linens, luxurious towels and spotless amenities; every detail was perfection. A private five star resort experience all to ourselves. The location couldn't be better; a perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. We slept like babies as the location is QUIET and the beds were TEMPUR-PEDIC BLISS! As foodies, we loved being within walking distance of amazing restaurants and activities. We booked again and have referred our friends - this is a rare gem as it is oceanside, spacious, and brand new! -VRBO Guest

Steve May, 2024

I want to live in this home forever! THE VIEWS… WOW! Our go-to family spot in the Keys is Islamorada. This home was the closest one to the ocean in the neighborhood. The owners made this place magical and there was a guidebook that helped us navigate our stay and the island. There is an entertainment room with a massive TV, Xbox, and ping pong table which was so fun to hang in the evenings together. Fishing off the dock was really cool too! The ocean view balcony outside of the master bedroom was my wife's happy place with dolphins playing 30 feet offshore. The beds were dreamy! I loved the paddle boarding outside our front door…and we all went fishing on a local charter boat one day. Absolutely incredible. We will be back Paradise Palms!

Katy March, 2024

We had a dream vacation at this townhouse in Islamorada. The location was perfect, close proximity to fantastic restaurants and plenty of things to do. We ended up going to the Square Grouper, Lorelei’s, Lazy Days and Robbie’s. All were fantastic Keys experiences and a short drive away. Added bonus, Publix is just a few miles away and Starbucks is within walking distance. The townhouse is brand new and tastefully decorated with everything you need for a fabulous vacation. The Temperpedic beds were a luxurious touch! We all slept like babies. Our kids loved the double bunk beds and the guest room upstairs has water views from the shower! Morning cups of coffee are a must from the primary bedroom balcony. It’s the ideal place to catch the sunrise. The kids LOVED the bonus space downstairs to play ping pong and hang out. We enjoyed taking the kayaks and paddle board out and saw a few fish but mostly enjoyed the view. Had we planned better we could have had our boat docked right in front of the house. The hosts were very helpful and very quick to respond to questions and give suggestions. I would absolutely book this again! Thank you for the memories!

Kate April, 2024

Such a perfect spot!! Owners know the area and had great recommendations, and thought of every detail to make our stay relaxing and comfortable. Islamorada is so fun—kids can’t wait to go back. Amazing value for pristine brand-new home, especially with the dock right there! We will be back for sure! -Direct Booking Guest

Jenny February, 2024

Loved it so much I just booked again! If it were any closer to the ocean you’d be in it. Spectacular views in every direction. The place exceeded my expectations; literally the house is brand new, decor is super classy, kitchen fully stocked, beds are so comfy, and the view is incredible. The first morning I saw a manatee swim right past. The patios gave us some of the best sunsets and sunrises I have ever seen. I fell in love with Islamorada. This place is central to everything… walked to Starbucks, did a fun snorkel tour, and had some of our best meals ever in the Keys. Our kids loved Founders Park only minutes away; soccer fields, sandy beach, diving boards, and outdoor exercise area. We used the kayaks and paddle boards at the place almost every day; I saw a nurse shark and 2 sea turtles. Owners had great communication and gave us a discount for our next booking. Can’t wait until we come again! -Airbnb Guest

Location

Islamorada, Florida, United States

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Watch the sunrise at Paradise Palms!

Sunsets, Stories & Five-Star Stays: Thank You from Paradise Palms

How to Rent a Boat in Islamorada: Everything You Need to Know

How to Rent a Boat in Islamorada: Everything You Need to Know

Snorkel Islamorada

Why Is the Ocean So Clear in Islamorada?

Why Paradise Palms Costs More—And Why Guests Say It’s Worth Every Penny

Why Paradise Palms Costs More—And Why Guests Say It’s Worth Every Penny

Paws Off: Paradise Palms Is Pet-Free for a Reason

Paws Off: Paradise Palms Is Pet-Free for a Reason

Customer Service Matters—And At Paradise Palms, You’re the VIP

Customer Service Matters—And At Paradise Palms, You’re the VIP

Endless activities for all at Paradise Palms.

What Will Nature Show You Today?

We brought our boat to Paradise Palms. They included electricity and water and I could see it from my oceanside patio. This was our favorite day - snorkeling at the famous Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

YouTube It

Paradise Palms – Where Every View is a Postcard!

Paradise Palms – Where Every View is a Postcard!

You have to get your picture with Betsy the famous lobster sculpture in Islamorada, at mile marker 86, minutes away from Paradise Palms.

From Dockside to Digital: Paradise Palms Joins Instagram!