Between its tidal pools and mangrove lagoons, Tavernier is no stranger to Florida wildlife. The island, home to the Garden Club of the Upper Keys and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Sanctuary, began as a small fishing community in the early 1900s. For decades, the island’s shallow flats have supported native birds such as cormorants, pelicans, egrets and herons, while the lagoon’s grassy beds welcomed small barracuda. Now, it’s considered one of the largest upper Keys, and while it has a handful of businesses, locals say it’s the proximity to the nearby cities that make this an attractive area. “The key to that area – no pun intended – is that it’s nestled between Key Largo and Islamorada, giving you the amenities of both towns right at your fingertips,” says 23-year Keys resident Lorie Leal, a sales associate with American Caribbean Christie’s International Real Estate. Like the cities, Tavernier is well-equipped for full-time residents, with its own grocery store, commercial town center and hospital. “Being close to the hospital is nice. It has a gym there that anyone can come and use,” Leal says. But despite its growth, Tavernier is still a fishing village at heart, with plenty of waterfront homes and local marinas.
Fishing is a huge part of the culture and community in Tavernir.
Residents of Tavernir enjoying kayaking around the island.
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Swim at Harry Harris Park’s protected beach
Harry Harris Park is home to the island’s only protected beach, a tidal pool that creates a safe area for residents to swim. The park also includes a colorful playground, basketball court and baseball fields surrounded by more than a dozen picnic tables and pavilions. Local boaters appreciate the park’s deep-water boat ramp, which makes it easy to set off in search of bonefish and small tarpon. The island is also close to a string of red mangrove islands, with lagoons attracting kayakers and canoers. Old Settler’s Park, an oceanside green space, features a butterfly garden, playground and large picnic shelter. Islamorada’s Founders Park is a destination for youth sports, with a massive aquatic center surrounded by courts for tennis, basketball and pickleball and fields for soccer and baseball. The park also includes a spacious outdoor amphitheater and a fenced dog area.
Residents of Tavernir can head to the beach at Founders Park to cool off.
Fishing is a huge part of the culture and community in Tavernir.
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Historic homes and waterfront properties are common in Tavernier
Tavernier’s housing stock is a mix of old and new. “Historic Tavernier, or Old Tavernier as we call it, has a bunch of historic Key West homes, which are really cool,” Leal says. Some of these raised cottages date back to the 1930s, although most were built in the 1950s. Concrete block and stucco homes with two or three bedrooms are priced between $600,000 and $900,000, while stilt homes can cost between $800,000 and $2 million. Grand waterfront properties range from $2 million to $5 million and often come with private docks. Undeveloped quarter-acre lots are also available, ranging between $120,000 and $350,000. A few condo complexes, such as the midrise Ocean Pointe building, offer two-bedroom options for between $500,000 and $750,000.
Tavernir homes are known for their beach vibes and tropical character.
Tavernir offers large waterfront homes near Harry Harris Park.
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Bringing a taste of winter to the Keys
For 20 years, Islamorada has hosted an annual Holiday Fest at Founders Park in December. “They’ll truck in a snow machine, which is kind of hilarious,” Leal says. “It’s 80 degrees, and kids are running around in the snow.” Islamorada also organizes events such as Art Under the Oaks, a fine arts and crafts fair often held at San Pedro Catholic Church.
Groceries and games at Tavernier Towne Center
As one of the larger middle Keys, Tavernier has a much more robust commercial footprint than many surrounding islands. Tavernier Towne Center, which sits at the southern end of the Key, is home to a Winn-Dixie grocery store, the Tavernier Cinema, a post office, salons and a few casual restaurants. The shopping center also includes the Pinfish Entertainment arcade, where kids can test their skills on old-fashioned arcade games and mini-bowling. “There aren’t a ton of things like that up there for the kids, so it’s nice,” says Amy Prumo, a sales associate with Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company and a resident of nearby Marathon. “The parents go there for the axe throwing and the beer.” U.S. Highway 1, or the Overseas Highway, supports the remainder of the area’s shopping and dining scene with popular local spots like Café Moka, a relaxed coffee shop specializing in French pastries. Sunrise Cuban Market & Café is another popular breakfast stop, while Dillon’s Pub & Grill attracts a crowd on Thursday nights for its full Irish menu. The sports bar is also a local favorite for catching Florida Panthers hockey games. Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory puts a twist on the traditional dessert with creative menu items such as a chocolate-dipped Key Lime Pie slice.
The Winn-Dixie at Tavernir Town Center offers groceries at a reasonable price.
A movie theater and retail shops are found in Tavernir Towne Center .
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Career preparation at Coral Shores High
Plantation Key School, which receives an A-minus on Niche, serves kindergarten through eighth grade students. Coral Shores High School, which also scores an A-minus, is home to a 740-seat performing arts center and offers industry certification courses for culinary arts, digital video production, biomedical science and cosmetology. The school also participates in Monroe County’s MOVE Program, or Monroe Occupation and Vocational Experiences, which affords students hands-on career training with local businesses.
Students attend the Coral Shores High School for their secondary studies.
Plantation Key School offers both elementary and middle school learning.
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Miami-Dade bus service extends to the upper Keys
Miami-Dade’s 301 Dade-Monroe Express bus services the upper and middle Keys, making several stops along the Overseas Highway. The closest stop is about 5 miles away at Mile Marker 87, but there’s an additional stop just over 6 miles away in Key Largo at Mile Marker 98. The closest airport, Florida Keys-Marathon International, is about 40 miles south.
Tavernir residents can catch a ride into Miami with the Miami-Dade Transit bus.
Tavernir offers crystal clear blue waters and world class fishing off its shores.
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Preparing for hurricanes and high insurance rates
Like all the Florida Keys, Tavernier is susceptible to damage from tropical storms and hurricanes. Monroe County operates a zoned evacuation plan and will notify residents promptly when evacuation is ordered. Rising flood insurance rates also affect many homebuyers.
Tavernir offers large waterfront homes near Harry Harris Park.
Homes of Tavernir are known for having private boat docks many sporting pools.
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Written By
Hannah Rainey
Photography Contributed By
Daniele Giuseppe Del Gaudio
Video By
Drew Webster
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
William Encinosa,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Tavernier, FL sell after 120 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Tavernier, FL over the last 12 months is $849,375, down 25% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
CANAL FRONT - DIRECT OCEAN ACCESS!! Welcome to 128 Dove, an experience in lifestyle. Coveted by many but enjoyed by a select few, this unique upper Keys location is surrounded by protected land preserving the natural beauty of these beautiful islands! Situated oceanside at MM94, this dream maker home offers 2 level comfort, exceptional location near sought after Islamorada plus direct ocean
Kathryn BaronLokation Real Estate - Tavernier North
Relax and Revitalize in this Stylish Island Home! Move-In Ready! Much larger inside than it appears from the outside. Live the Florida Keys lifestyle in this 3-bedroom 2-bath home in desirable Edenaire Subdivision. Nestled in a prime location on 1-1/2 lots located in the X-Zone (highest elevation in the Florida Keys), this home offers modern upgrades, a new roof 2022, open floor plan, and coastal
Susan HollerLokation Real Estate - Tavernier North
5 Bedrooms | Guest House | Nearly 15,000 Sq Ft Lot | Tavernier, Florida KeysWelcome to The Fontaine House at 155 Fontaine Dr -- a rare opportunity offering space, flexibility, and a layout designed for real life. With a total of 5 bedrooms across a main residence and a detached guest house, this property stands out in a market where additional living space is hard to find.The main home features 3
Katie RaskobBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate - Islamorada
Come see this large 4 bedroom 2 bath updated home with just over 2,000 sq. ft. of living area. The current owner just completed several updates. Freshly painted inside and out. Brand new flooring through out (never lived on) updated kitchen. There are Hurricane impact doors and windows.(two sliders down stairs are not impact, but have hurricane shutters). Down stairs has all brand new flooring
Ideally located in the heart of Tavernier, this solid CBS home offers peace of mind with a concrete roof and impact windows. The permitted lower-level enclosure provides additional flexibility, while the main living area features a large, open-concept living, dining, and kitchen space, ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Step outside to a spacious, cleared backyard offering privacy with
Lorie LaLonde
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
NEW LOWER PRICE!! This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo offers everything you need for an stress-free retreat or your full-time piece of paradise.Step inside to a light and bright interior filled with upgrades and thoughtful finishing touches. Two screened lanais provide the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and soak in the stunning views of the lush tropical landscaping, sparkling pool, BBQ
TWO Condos combined for a total of 4 bedrooms & 4 Bathrooms !! a D model with 2 ocean front balconies and a D-1 with 1 oceanfront balconies for a Triple D !! Both Owners suites have Ocean Views with the 2 guest bedrooms in the back. All Impact Windows & Sliders both condos being sold fully furnished. Direct Ocean Access Marina, Jr. Olympic Heated Pool with Pool Bar. Oceanfront Cafe over looking
Tom Rodriguez
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
End Unit !! The Largest floor plan at Ocean Pointe with Impact windows & sliders throughout. Two Bay windows , one in the living room and a Bay window in the Owners suite. Even the kitchen has a window ,lot's of closets too. Very quiet floor plan and a private location with lots of ambiance. Being sold fully furnished. Direct Ocean access marina that is naturally protected from the elements. Jr.
Tom Rodriguez
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
Situated on a corner lot just minutes from the sugar-white sands of Mexico Beach, this two-bedroom, two-bath coastal retreat offers the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and beachside charm. A long driveway provides extra parking for guests, adding to the home's everyday ease and functionality. Inside, the bright and inviting floor plan is designed for relaxed living, with an open kitchen and
Beautifully crafted waterfront home with bay views in desirable Hammer Point! Designed by well known architect David Harum, this thoughtfully updated canal front stilt home was remodeled and expanded to a 3 bedroom, 3 bath with loft, elevator and expansive covered patios for taking in the sunset views. The main floor offers a light & airy living & dining space with a soaring ceiling, ample
Lorie Leal
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
Beautifully furnished and updated condo offering stunning water and sunset views, plus a deeded boat slip in one of the best-protected marinas in the Keys. Features include impact windows and triple sliding glass doors that showcase panoramic views from the living room and primary bedroom. The kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and custom dining nook have all been tastefully renovated. High-end
Karol Marsden
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate - Islamorada
1.5 lot! 90ft canal front! Waterfront Opportunity in Coveted Indian Waterways -Rare chance to claim your slice of Keys waterfront living and make it entirely your own. Nestled in the sought-after Indian Waterways neighborhood, this solid concrete block home with a concrete roof sits on an oversized 1.5-lot property -- offering the kind of canvas that's hard to find in one of the area's most
Tom Rodriguez
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
2/2 Condo with the Owners Suite having a beautiful Ocean View. The living and kitchen room having Beautiful ocean views as well. Upgraded condo with Impact windows and sliders, great rental potential. Marina has direct Ocean Access. Jr. Olympic heated pool and 14 person Spa and a Pool bar. Oceanfront Cafe & Lounge overlooking the Marina and the sandy beach with Tiki huts. Lighted Pickle ball &
Tom Rodriguez
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
Charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath ground-level canal-front home located in a highly desirable Florida Keys neighborhood.The home features a split floor plan with a one-bedroom, one-bath layout on one side and a separate efficiency with its own bathroom and private entrance on the other--ideal for guests, extended family, or rental income.This property offers great potential to update and transform into
Top Floor 2/2 Condo with an Ocean view !! Upgraded condo with nice furniture arraignment that gives a comfortable open space feel. Updated Kitchen and both bathrooms have nice tiled floors & walls matching tiled floors throughout, Impact windows and doors too. Protected Marina with direct Ocean access, Private Oceanfront Cafe & Lounge, Heated Jr. Olympic pool w/ 14 person Spa, Pool Bar too !!
Tom Rodriguez
American Caribbean Real Estate, Christie's International Real Estate
AVAILABLE NOVEMBER - APRIL Welcome to 136 Sable Palm in Tavernier a cozy waterfront retreat offering the ultimate Florida Keys lifestyle! This charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is nestled on a finger canal with direct access to the open water. Spacious Outdoor Living - Ideal for entertaining or relaxing by the water. Whether you're a boating enthusiast or looking for a peaceful escape, this
MM88.9 Tavernier, Looking for quiet working person. 1b bedroom 1 bath 850 sf 2nd Floor 'treehouse'.Large open kitchen glasstop stove and refrigerator, AC. Extre small office/storage room. Electric and water is included with monthly rent. $2200 for 1 person $150 for 2nd adult ,2 maximim. No smoking or drugs. Must have references and pass background check.
Fully furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom elevated home located in the desirable Harry Harris Park neighborhood in Tavernier. This cute coastal-style home features a bright living space, charming porch, and a comfortable layout for everyday living.The primary bedroom offers a large walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom, and the home includes washer and dryer plus WiFi included in rent.The fully gated
Courtney JeffersBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate - Islamorada
Keep your boat right behind the house(up to 36') on a beautiful bayside canal full of life with manatees, turtles and tarpon. Seconds to open water and easy access to all the beautiful reefs, sandbars and fishing spots Islamorada has to offer.This recently built 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is spacious and being offered. furnished. Outside you have a beautiful outdoor living space made for enjoying
3 bedroom/2 bath upstairs of house. Lovely upstairs portion of house in a desirable family neighborhood in Tavernier. Complete remodel of kitchen and both bathrooms just completed. The house has a completely separate side entrance for the upstairs. Lots of space on the the side of house for boat/trailers. The downstairs is vacant except on weekends and holidays when the owner is there. The Harry
Natasha EarlyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate - Islamorada
Beautiful Bayfront Townhome with Sunset Views & Boat Slip - MM 92Immaculate 2-bedroom, 2,5-bath townhome offering stunning open bay views and spectacular sunsets in a prime location at MM 92, perfectly situated between Key Largo and Islamorada.This beautifully maintained home features high-end finishes throughout and an open, light-filled living space designed to capture the incredible waterfront
Wiebke WestedtLoKation Real Estate - Pompano Beach
Enjoy easy Florida Keys living in this 2-bedroom, 2-bath unfurnished annual rental! Featuring an open layout, bright living spaces, and a spacious primary suite with private bath. The second bedroom and bathroom is perfect for guests or a home office. This home is perfect for year-round comfort. Relax on your private patio or balcony and soak in the sunshine. Conveniently located near schools,
Super bright and freshly painted duplex located in a peaceful and private area of Key Largo, surrounded by nature. This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit offers an airy feel with plenty of natural light throughout. Enjoy a spacious backyard perfect for relaxing or entertaining, plus covered parking for added convenience. The tranquil setting makes it ideal for anyone looking to embrace the
Awesome view of the Bay from the Chickee Hut Dock to Full Roof Top Patio. 2 story Large Master Bedroom with Steam Shower. Concrete L shaped dock with 15,000 lb lift. There is also a cocktail pool to enjoy after a day out on the water. Ready for your families dream vacation in the Florida Keys. Fantastic Neighbors and Neighborhood. Great water access!! King bed in main bedroom queen beds in the
Welcome to your dream island getaway in the highly sought-after Bluewaters community. Nestled at the south end of Key Largo, this 1974 doublewide manufactured home has been transformed into a delightful oasis. Upgraded with impact windows, wood plank tile throughout, newer kitchen with stainless appliances, quartz counters, tile backsplash, and a built-in banquette; both bathrooms have been fully
6+ Month/Annual-- Rental--Beautiful Double Waterfront Lot in Prestigious Plantation Key Colony. This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath waterfront home sits on a Rare Double Lot with a Private Boat Ramp & Boat lift. Step outside to your Private Oasis complete with a Private Tiki hut - Gorgeous secluded in-ground Pool and Cabana Hut Bungalow - The open-concept kitchen features Granite countertops and
Experience luxury waterfront living in the heart of the Florida Keys! 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This stunning modern home offers sleek finishes, breathtaking canal views, and direct boating access. Enjoy the spacious outdoor entertainment area, complete with a private dock, lush synthetic turf, and a large jacuzzi—perfect for relaxing under the stars. The upper-level terrace provides an ideal
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