Robbie's of Islamorada

Overview

Robbie’s is the classic Overseas Highway pit stop where a simple marina turned Keys icon. You come for the tarpon—huge, prehistoric fish surging up at the dock—and stay for tacos, a cold drink, and the ramshackle market vibe.

Why It’s Unique

The whole scene started in 1976 when a wounded tarpon nicknamed Scarface kept returning after being nursed back to health. That tradition grew into today’s hand‑feeding experience and a full waterfront hangout with food, shops, and boat outings. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also pure Keys fun.

What You’ll Do

• Feed the tarpon: buy a small bucket of bait and head to the dock; there’s a netted area to help keep pelicans at bay.
• Eat and sip: the on‑site Hungry Tarpon serves seafood, burgers, tacos, local drafts, and playful cocktails (Trailer Trash Bloody Mary included). They’ll also cook your catch for a fee.
• Get on the water: rent kayaks or boats, book fishing/sightseeing charters, or hop a passenger ferry to Lignumvitae Key State Park when it’s running. Paddlers can also reach Indian Key Historic State Park from here.
• Browse the market: a clutch of small shops and stalls for souvenirs and home decor.

Wildlife

Beyond the jumping tarpon, tours often spot dolphins and manatees, and nurse sharks sometimes cruise the docks. Around the feeding area, pelicans are opportunists—keep your bait low and your fingers out of the beaks.

History Flavor

Before Robbie’s, this spot was the Starck family’s 1940s fishing camp; the old bait house now anchors the Hungry Tarpon restaurant. On select days, local historian Brad Bertelli hosts a one‑hour Keys history + flavors session—listed as Mondays and Thursdays with 11:30–12:30 and 2:30–3:30 time slots; check the current schedule on site.

Best Time to Visit

Open daily roughly 7 AM–9 PM. Mornings are the sweet spot—cooler, easier parking, and lighter crowds. Midday (especially Saturdays) is peak busyness; expect a carnival atmosphere. Typical visits run up to 1.5 hours, but you can easily spend a half day if you add paddling or a charter.

Practical Tips

There’s a small fee to access the dock and a separate charge for bait. Bring sun protection, keep valuables dry for dock splashes, and wash hands after feeding. If you want time on the water, start early, eat lunch waterside, then feed the tarpon after.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re road‑tripping the Keys, this is a signature stop—crowds and kitsch included. Come for the spectacle, lean into the laid‑back vibe, and you’ll get a very Keys memory.