Kayak the Keys (Just A Little Bit of The Keys)

Wednesday, February 24 -- We went down the Overseas Highway to Islamorada Mile 87 to Backcountry Cowboys and rented a couple of kayaks.  They suggested that because of the south wind (about 15 knots) we should paddle the Florida Bay side (north side).  The wind did, by the way, make it cool and comfortable in the 86 degree sunshine.

We  launched from a spot at the end of Blackwood Drive.  It was helpfully located very near a 300-foot tall radio tower, so we could easily find our way back.  The kayaks came with a "dry bag" for cameras, car keys, and cell phones.

We paddled southwest around the bay, looking in on the mangroves, the fish swimming in the clear water, and people relaxing on decks and pools along the water.  We passed marinas, townhouses, repairs places, and restaurants -- not to mention the Islamorada Fish Company (a super place to get fishing equipment, lures, rods, clothing, etc.)  It also features a replica of Hemingway's favorite fishing boat, the Pilar.

We poked around for about two hours, finding it best to paddle close to the mangroves and shore on the south side because of the wind.  In fact, a trip back across the bay required some serious paddling because of the wind.  

After a couple of hours of paddle work, it seemed like lunchtime.  We headed over to Lorelei Beach Club and Restaurant, beached the kayaks and ordered conch fritters and chicken quesadillas. A photo had to be taken to mark the spot.

At the end, we found our way back to the launch spot and called Backcountry to come pick up the kayaks. All worked very smoothly.  Maybe another day we'll go out the ocean side to Indian Key.