- Attraction: Morada Bay Beach Café
- Location: 81600 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.moradabaykeys.com/dining/beach-cafe/
Since opening in March 1997, Morada Bay Beach Café has been creating this exact magical experience for visitors at Mile Marker 81.6 on the bayside of Islamorada.
This outdoor Mediterranean bistro café is literally set in the sand, surrounded by palm-lined beaches and overlooking the crystal blue waters of Florida Bay.
The café was designed to evoke the relaxed atmosphere of a beach hangout where Hawaiian and Californian surfers and sailboarders would unwind after a day on the water.
You’ll immediately notice the authentic surf culture vibe, with walls adorned with surfboards, longboards, sail and kite boards, plus original 60’s surf posters collected over the years by the windsurfer owner.
The collection even pays tribute to legendary watermen like Duke Kahanamoku and Laird Hamilton.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights
Blackened Mahi Sandwich: This signature dish gets rave reviews from repeat visitors who describe sitting on the beach drinking fruity cocktails while enjoying this perfect Keys meal. The locally caught mahi is expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, served on fresh bread with tropical accompaniments.
Wagyu Beef Burger: This standout menu item receives fantastic reviews for its exceptional quality and flavor.
Made from a ground ribeye, brisket, and short rib blend, it’s served on a buttery Kaiser bun with crispy dill house pickle chips, hydroponic leaf lettuce, heirloom beefsteak tomato, aged white cheddar, and applewood smoked bacon.
Fresh Seafood Specialties: Fresh fish and seafood are popular choices among diners, with grilled or blackened snapper receiving particularly high praise, often served with innovative accompaniments like mango salsa and coconut sauce. The menu also features seared Atlantic yellowfin tuna with sesame wakame salad and sweet sesame ponzu.
Conch Classics: The conch fritters and conch chowder consistently hit the spot for visitors seeking authentic Keys cuisine.
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Discover MoreThese local favorites showcase the café’s commitment to showcasing regional flavors and fresh ingredients.
Truffle Fries: A decadent side dish featuring truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and parsley that perfectly complements the beachside dining experience.
Watermelon Arugula Salad: This refreshing combination includes cubed summer watermelon, young arugula, toasted macadamia nuts, crumbled goat cheese, sliced red onion, and aged balsamic, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Key Lime Pie: While some find it pricey, this classic Keys dessert provides the perfect sweet ending to your beachside meal.
Cocktails & Drinks
Signature Cocktails: The margaritas are massive and memorable – one may be enough for two people. Creative drinks like the Hibiscus Gin cocktail combine St. Germaine liqueur, lime juice, triple sec, and lemonade for a tropical twist.
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Keep Exploring →Wine Selection: The café offers an impressive wine list featuring selections like Torresella Prosecco from Italy, Mer Soleil Chardonnay from Napa Valley, and By Ott Rosé from Cotes De Provence, France.
Local Brews: You’ll find Florida Keys Brewing Company beers on tap, including their popular Iguana Bait and Sun Session IPA varieties.
Atmosphere & Setting
Beachfront Dining: You can literally dine with your toes in the sand at colorful tables dotting the beach, creating an unbeatable atmosphere that feels like a slice of Caribbean paradise. Giant Adirondack chairs are scattered across the child-friendly beach area, perfect for relaxing before or after your meal.
Sunset Views: The sunset views are consistently described as spectacular and unbeatable.
Guests rave about watching the sun set over the ocean while enjoying romantic dinners, making this one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the Keys.
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Discover MoreLive Entertainment: The café features live unique entertainment regularly, with island music and Jimmy Buffett songs creating the perfect tropical soundtrack.
Once a month, Morada Bay hosts the Full Moon Party, which is considered Islamorada’s best island party.
Indoor/Outdoor Options: You’ll find both inside and outside bars and dining areas, giving you flexibility depending on weather and your preferred vibe.
The indoor space maintains the surf culture theme while providing air-conditioned comfort when needed.
Other Considerations
Pricing: You’re paying for the prime beachfront location and sunset views, so expect prices to be slightly higher than average, though most visitors feel the location and experience justify the cost. Dishes typically start around $18 per meal.
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Keep Exploring →Reservations: The café accepts reservations for large parties of 10 guests or more by calling in advance.
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are highly recommended during peak times and holidays.
Best Times to Visit: Many visitors recommend arriving for lunch or an early dinner to secure a good spot for the sunset show.
The café serves as a perfect midway stop between Fort Lauderdale and Key West, making it an ideal lunch destination for Keys road trips.
Parking: The beachfront location offers convenient parking, though it can fill up during sunset hours and busy weekends.
Family-Friendly: The large child-friendly beach area with cozy seating makes this an excellent choice for families, while the romantic sunset views also create perfect date night ambiance.
Full Moon Parties: Once monthly, the café transforms into party central for Islamorada’s legendary Full Moon Party, featuring special entertainment and a festive island atmosphere.
Service Style: This is table service dining, though you can also order drinks at the inside/outside bar and take them to designated round tables in the drink-only section while waiting for dinner seating.
Morada Bay Beach Café
📍 81600 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036
