8 Best Beaches in Key West

Our Key West beaches are just like the people who live here: exotic, sometimes quirky, and always fun. They're playgrounds for celebrating the sun and for being awed by the sunsets. They're all along the southernmost reaches of the United States and they're always on the edge of something spectacular. Key West beaches are mostly man made. Our island is the site for America's only living coral reef, and it just happens to be the third-largest coral reef in the world. Here are our most favorite places to greet the seas. Be sure to bike around and to stroll down to each one. The sights never get old, and there's always something new and beautiful to see.

Smathers Beach

At almost a mile long, Smathers Beach is Key West's largest public beach. It's on the south side of our island, and it takes you right by the Atlantic Ocean along State Road A1A, starting at mile zero. Its mainly sandy shoreline makes it a favorite for families. The seas are calm and you can walk pretty far out into the water. It's a great place for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, sunbathing and beach volleyball. Convenient vendors have food, drinks, chairs and rafts available. There are also public restrooms, lounge chairs and rentals for watersports rentals.

Fort Zachary Taylor

Forth Zachary Taylor is a Florida State Park and a National Historic Landmark near the southern tip of Key West. It's centered on a Civil War-era fort with tours led by park rangers. This is a natural beach area, as it's made of mainly ground coral. Guests love Fort Zachary Taylor for snorkeling and scuba to see turtles, dolphins, barracuda, goliath groupers, and tarpons. In addition to the fort tours, there are two nature trails for hiking and biking: the Sand Hog Trail and the Fort View Trail.

Higgs Beach

A small beach with a pier, you'll find monuments that document the site of an 1800s African slave cemetery. There's also a dog park at Higgs Beach, making it very popular with pet owners. Guests also love the convenience of Higgs Beach, since parking here is free. It's lined with palms, has nice sand and the beautiful water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Check with our Concierge Cindy for assistance in reserving beach chairs, kayaks, paddle-boards, and any additional beach gear you'd like. Higgs Beach is also right across the street from the beautiful gardens of West Martello Tower. Outdoor showers and public restrooms are available, as well. 

South Beach

As you can guess, South Beach is the southernmost of our Key West beaches. The calm, shallow waters also make it a safe place for families and swimming and relaxing at the water's edge. There are no public restrooms, but there is a cafe and a bar to patronize. 

Dog Beach

Yes, it's a tiny beach, but it's the only beach where your dog can splash around unleashed. We recommend it for our pet guests since our friends at Louie's Backyard welcome your dogs to dine with you!

Rest Beach

This is a small beach with big views! If you love sunrises, you'll see some spectacular ones from Rest Beach. You'll also enjoy the yoga deck on the beach with night yoga classes.

If you're visiting with us for a week or longer, be sure to ask Concierge Cindy to assist you in planning a few days trips for even more beach fun.

Bahia Honda

Head further south about 30 miles into the lower keys for Bahia Honda, an almost uninhabited park. Guests love the spectacular views from beaches The Travel Channel says are among the best in the world. Bahia Honda is a snorkelers' paradise, where you'll spot rays., small reef fish, barracuda, and small nurse sharks.

The Dry Torgugas

Ask Concierge Cindy to give you the details for the ferry or an exciting seaplane adventure because that's the only way you can get to this marvel. The Dry Tortugas is about 90 miles from Key West within the Fort Jefferson National Park and one of the best things to do in Key West. This gorgeous beach is where you'll want to sunbathe, swim and snorkel around the third largest reef system in the world! 

Start Planning Your Next Getaway!

Discover the perfect Key West Florida rental from our curated collection and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Start your journey with a stunning island home, cozy cottage, or inviting condo from our selection, conveniently reserved through our website. Our friendly and knowledgeable Vacation Planners are also just a phone call away to assist you.

As you step outside into the glorious sunshine, our tropical oasis will accompany you every step of the way, ensuring an experience that will leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Key West's pristine beaches, indulge in the vibrant atmosphere, and create memories that will stay with you forever.

Let us be your gateway to an extraordinary Key West vacation. Browse our collection of rentals today and get ready to embark on a journey filled with sun, sand, and unforgettable moments.