We checked out Thursday morning and headed north to Islamorada and the final leg of our Florida Keys vacation. Along the way we stopped at the 7 Mile Bridge (which is actually 6.8 miles). We started to walk out on the southern end and were surprised to not see anyone else. The water was crystal clear, as usual, so it made the walk interesting just staring down into the water looking for fish. About halfway out we saw some needle fish, but that was about it. 
After about a half a mile the pedestrian bridge ended which disappointed us and we figured the more interesting pedestrian traffic must be on the northern end. What was interesting was we could see the overgrown, run down remains of the former bridge. It was kind of like stumbling upon an old relic.
On the way back off the bridge I looked out and saw what looked like a large black rock sort of hanging out in the sand. Then, it started to move. Intrigued, I stared at it a little longer. Then it, really started to move, elegantly, through the water. Really interested at this point I ran up ahead for a closer look and sure enough, it was a full size sting ray. Dan and Kristin soon followed and we watched it pass beneath is. It was dark and had various lighter spots on its body, and we estimate its width to be between 4 and 5 feet. Way, way cool.
The northern end of the 7 Mile Bridge was not nearly as interesting, the water deeper, and people more present. So, we packed up and headed north to Islamorada and our final stay at the Drop Anchor Inn.
Islamorada is widely known as one of the greatest places to go for fishing, and that’s really all there is to do here. We were a little nervous about our fishing plans because there has been a small craft warning due to rough seas the past few days, but were hoping for the best.
Our room at the Drop Anchor was great, including a stellar oceanfront view. 
We made reservations for a deep sea fishing trip for Friday, toured around a local state park, then relaxed oceanside with a beer, soaking up the good life.