Tee Off for Charity at Conch Scramble On-the-Water Golf Tournament

ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — Floating greens, golf boats and biodegradable fish-food golf balls highlight the annual “par-tee” on the water during the popular Conch Scramble charity golf tournament Saturday, Sept. 30, in Islamorada. 

A full field of 50 teams has entered this one-of-a-kind golf experience to have a “hole” lot of fun honing their swings and raising money for charity one shot at a time. Boating and golf enthusiasts can still participate as spectators, however, including attending the kick-off party Friday, Sept. 29.

The 6-10 p.m. opening party at SD Marine Group, mile marker 85 bayside at the base of the Snake Creek Bridge, includes games, food and drinks. A silent auction and a 50/50 cash raffle are to highlight the evening fun. Nongolfers are encouraged to attend the festivities and can purchase tickets for a $50 donation at conchscramble.com/events. 

During the tournament, teams of four and a designated boat driver "caddy" make stops at Islamorada waterfront venues and come ashore to tee off. Each player is to take shots at the floating holes using biodegradable golf balls that dissolve into fish food after 90 hours in the water. 

Teams are to meet Saturday at SD Marine Group for an 8:30 a.m. breakfast, hole location assignments and 9 a.m. shotgun start.

Other hole locations where patrons can see and cheer on the fundraising teams include Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, the Oceanview Inn & Sports Pub — known locally as the “OV” — and Marker 88. An awards ceremony is to begin at 3:30 p.m. at a to-be-named waterfront property. 

Trophies await the top three teams with the best scores, while additional honors are to recognize the best hole location, most team spirit and best costumes. Proceeds from the popular lighthearted golfing challenge help fund Florida Keys charities.

Event information: conchscramble.com