I 💗 Stock Island

Stock Island or "Stock Rock" is the next key northeast of Key West across Cow Key Channel. It is basically Key West North and even uses Key West's zip code, 33040, since there is no post office. It is believed the island got it's name because livestock were kept here -- horses, cows, chickens, pigs, etc. And why isn't it called Stock Key? Maybe "Island" sounds better? On one side of Overseas Highway is an 18-hole golf course, a hospital, a college, a botanical garden and nice homes. The other side of Overseas Highway is underwhelming to say the least.

Dilapidated mobile home parks abound. There are dozens of industrial park type businesses and large fenced in lots with lots of 'stuff'. People seem to use the side of the road as a dump. The whole island just seems 'run down'. But that's also part of why it's loved! It hasn't been developed yet although I'm sure that's coming soon. 

Stock Island is probably most popular with tourists for Hogfish Bar and Grill. We love Hogfish but to get there, you travel down a road that feels like you're in a third world country. But Hogfish isn't the only 'gem' on Front Street. There's The Jerk on one side of the road and Yahmon's on the other. Both are authentic Jamaican food mon! Further down the road from Hogfish is a parking lot next to Fishbusterz. In the parking lot is a red roof structure that sells fresh off-the-boat seafood cheaper than anywhere else.

Front Street - the road to Hogfish. It's narrow
and some people find it sketchy.

The Jerk

Jerk chicken and pork. Amazing!

Our favorite fresh fish stand.

This trip we discovered Roostica's Wood-Fired Pizzeria. Their happy hour is excellent! Their meatball sliders are so good! Right around the corner from Roostica's is Croissants de France! I can't even begin to tell you how good it is! My all-time favorite restaurant is El Siboney (Cuban). We have been to the original on Catherine St. in Key West numerous times. This is the new one on Stock Island -- same menu but much nicer inside. El Mocho is another Cuban restaurant and a little known hole-in-the-wall. Chico's Cantina (Mexican) is on Overseas Highway. We haven't tried it yet but looks promising. 

For waterfront dining/drinking there is Stock Rock Cafe at the end of 5th Ave. The food is good and generous but they only sell beer and wine. Another one of our favorites is Hurricane Hole. The chicken tenders are fantastic!

Besides The Jerk, there are numerous food trucks around the island and all very popular. Unfortunately we usually eat a late breakfast and early dinner so we skip lunch and didn't try them. Maybe next year!

There are numerous campgrounds -- Boyd's being the biggest and nicest and two resorts: the Perry Hotel/Stock Island Village Marina is where we spent two months (Jan/Feb). They have two heated swimming pools, two tiki bars and a nice restaurant. We tried the Sunday brunch at Matt's with bottomless mimosas and bloody Marys. It isn't cheap but well worth the splurge!! 

It's art dammit

The other resort is Ocean's Edge where we spent the month of March because Stock Island Village Marina was booked solid. We are on the waiting list to return to Ocean's Edge next season.

One of six pools at Oceans Edge Resort

What else is on Stock Island? Fishbusterz for seafood -- the fish dip is amazing! There's Dion's Quick Chik for groceries and is famous for their fried chicken. There is a CVS and even a West Marine. And they actually sell parts vs T-shirts! There are plenty of charter fishing boats and Air BnB boats to rent. We love Key West but this has been a great island to really get to discover.

This year has been especially fun. We have gotten to hang out with friends from last year, met a lot of new friends, and have had friends and family visit. We both feel so fortunate to have this chapter and experience in our lives.