Your Guide to the 2026 Gigantic Nautical Flea Market in the Florida Keys

Your Guide to the 2026 Gigantic Nautical Flea Market in the Florida Keys

If you’re planning a winter escape filled with waterfront culture, rare finds, and island vibes, mark your calendar for the 31st Annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market in Founders Park, Islamorada, Florida. This signature Florida Keys event blends an outdoor boat show with a nautical marketplace, food trucks, live music, and family fun — all set against the backdrop of Florida Bay.

Event Details
Dates & Times:

• Saturday, February 21, 2026: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday, February 22, 2026: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location:
Founders Park is centrally located at Mile Marker 87 on the bayside of Islamorada — a short drive from Key Largo and Marathon. The market sprawls across the park’s open space with easy walking access to boats, gear, art, clothing, marine accessories, and collectibles.

Admission & Parking:

• Suggested contribution: ~$5 per adult (cash preferred) with proceeds benefiting local scholarships. (rotarynauticalmarket.com)
• Parking is not onsite at Founders Park. Event organizers recommend parking at Coral Shores High School (Mile Marker 89.9, oceanside) and taking the free shuttle to the market. The shuttle runs continuously throughout the day both days, with last return trips typically around 5:15 p.m. on Saturday and 3:15 p.m. on Sunday.

What You’ll Find at the 2026 Nautical Flea Market

The Gigantic Nautical Flea Market is far more than a traditional flea market—it’s one of the most respected marine and waterfront lifestyle events in the Southeast. Each year, hundreds of vetted vendors transform Founders Park into a curated marketplace that reflects the real boating, fishing, and coastal living culture of the Florida Keys.

Expect a thoughtfully mixed selection of:

• Marine & Boating Equipment
  New and pre-owned marine hardware, electronics, safety gear, dock accessories, anchors, outriggers, lines, lighting, and tools—many from manufacturers or marine professionals who understand saltwater conditions unique to the Keys.
• Fishing, Diving & Watersports Gear
  High-quality rods, reels, spearfishing equipment, dive accessories, paddleboards, kayaks, and offshore essentials—often at pricing not available in traditional retail settings.
• Boats & Brokerage Displays
  A compact outdoor boat show featuring new and used vessels, tenders, skiffs, and specialty boats. Even if you’re not actively buying, it’s one of the best opportunities to compare layouts, hull styles, and marine innovations in one walkable setting.
• Nautical Art, Décor & Coastal Design Pieces
  Original artwork, maritime antiques, reclaimed wood décor, signal flags, lighting, rope accents, and coastal home accessories—many created by Florida-based artisans with authentic maritime roots.
• Resort & Island Apparel
  High-quality coastal clothing, performance wear, sun protection, hats, and accessories designed for real island living—not novelty souvenirs.
• Food, Drinks & Atmosphere
  Multiple food trucks and beverage tents offering fresh, casual fare, paired with live music and open-air waterfront views. The experience feels relaxed, social, and unmistakably “Keys.”

This is a market where locals shop seriously—and visitors get a true look at how life on the water functions here.

Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors to the Florida Keys Nautical Flea Market

If this is your first time attending—or your first visit to the Florida Keys—these insights will help you navigate the event like a local:

• Arrive Early for the Best Selection
  Saturday morning offers the widest inventory and the easiest walking conditions. Serious buyers and seasoned boaters shop early—especially for rare gear, electronics, and art pieces.
• Plan for Cash (Even If You Have Cards)
  While many vendors accept cards, cash remains king for quicker transactions, negotiated pricing, and smaller specialty vendors.
• Use the Shuttle—Don’t Try to Wing Parking
  Parking is intentionally offsite to keep traffic moving. The free shuttle from Coral Shores High School is efficient, air-conditioned, and saves significant time and frustration.
• Dress for Sun, Walking & Salt Air
  Comfortable shoes, breathable clothing, sunglasses, and sun protection are essential. The market spans a large area, and you’ll want to explore without rushing.
• Think Beyond Shopping—Observe the Lifestyle
  For many visitors, this event sparks deeper interest in boating, waterfront living, or long-term time in the Keys. Pay attention to how people use boats, the types of gear being sold, and the conversations happening—it’s an education in island living.
• Make a Full Day of Islamorada
  Pair the market with lunch, a sunset cocktail, or a drive along the Overseas Highway. Islamorada is centrally located and easy to explore before heading back to Key Largo, Marathon, or Key West.

For first-timers, this event offers one of the clearest, most authentic introductions to the Florida Keys’ maritime culture—without the tourist gloss.

Stop by & Say Hello

Before you leave, visit the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate booth to enter our raffle, talk real estate, and learn more about owning property in the Florida Keys—from waterfront homes to investment opportunities rooted in the island lifestyle you’ll see all around you at the market.