Gilbert’s

• Lat / Lon: N 25° 10.989' / W 080° 23.528'
• Description:

  If you are coming through Jewfish Creek, keep going to Red 38 before turning to starboard. The charts are incorrect. Water depths are less than 3-4 feet starboard of the channel. Steer to the NW of the marked wreck on most charts before turning in towards Gilbert's Resort. Gilbert's has reasonably priced decent food and a large bar menu. In December 2020 they are having live music Saturdays. Usually in non COVID times, a more robust live music and entertainment schedule. You can rent jet skis and small motor boats at Gilbert's. They have Rec 90 and diesel at the fuel dock and transient boats are being accepted if you want a dock. No laundry facilities and about 5-8 miles to most stores in Key Largo. Great Kayaking through mangroves and into lake surprise. The anchorage near Gilbert's gives good wind protection from slightly NW to East winds. Holding is excellent in sand/coral with sea grass. Try to find an area with little/no sea grass if visibility permits. You'll be rewarded with frequent dolphin visits next to your boat. Fishing is good in the sound as well as in the mangroves. Watch for manatee in the mangrove channels in cooler months. Cell phone reception is excellent and you may be able to pick up free WiFi from Gilbert's Tiki Bar and Restaurant. Be sure to support the restaurant. They have excellent drinks and food is very good.

  NOTE: Per Florida Statute 327.4109

  The owner or operator of a vessel or floating structure may not anchor or moor such that the nearest approach of the anchored or moored vessel or floating structure is:

  1. Within 150 feet of any marina, boat ramp, boatyard, or other vessel launching or loading facility;
  2. Within 300 feet of a superyacht repair facility. For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "superyacht repair facility" means a facility that services or repairs a yacht with a water line of 120 feet or more in length; or
  3. Within 100 feet outward from the marked boundary of a public mooring field or a lesser distance if approved by the commission upon request of a local government within which the mooring field is located. The commission may adopt rules to implement this subparagraph.

  DISCLAIMER: The laws and regulations governing anchoring in Florida waters are complex and everchanging. If you plan to anchor, whether overnight or for an extended period, you should confirm whether you are in compliance with local and state requirements before committing to a location. Two sources of information that may be helpful are the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida State Statutes.