Beaches in the Florida Keys

Location:

Anne’s Beach, Lower Matecumbe Key, Islamorada, Florida Keys, USA

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, families, swimmers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful spot to relax in the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A peaceful beach with shallow, calm waters, a scenic boardwalk, picnic tables, and a relaxing environment to unwind in.

• Visit Anne’s Beach, a beautiful destination in Islamorada, known for its calm waters and picturesque surroundings.
• Swim in the shallow, sheltered waters that are perfect for a peaceful, wave-free experience.
• Walk along the scenic boardwalk that provides easy access to the beach and amazing views.
• Relax under a covered picnic table with a family or friends while enjoying the serene beach atmosphere.
• Spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the Florida Keys, ideal for nature lovers.

Cost:

Free access to the beach; parking is available at no cost.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with warm and clear water providing a great beach experience in all seasons.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks to enjoy a full day at the beach. It’s a great spot for a quiet day of relaxation.

Distance:

Anne’s Beach is located approximately 90 minutes by car from Miami, FL.

How to Get to Anne’s Beach:

Accessible by car or bike, and well connected to other attractions in the Florida Keys.

Address: Lower Matecumbe Key, Islamorada, Florida Keys, Phone: 305-664-6475

Location:

Bahia Honda State Park, 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, snorkelers, swimmers, photographers, couples, and nature enthusiasts looking for a romantic getaway in the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

Bahia Honda State Park features award-winning beaches, including the romantic and popular Calusa Beach, offering picturesque views and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

• Visit Bahia Honda State Park, home to some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, including the famed Calusa Beach.
• Explore three separate beaches within the park, each offering its own unique appeal, including the small but popular Calusa Beach.
• Snorkel and swim in the calm waters of Calusa Beach, the park’s most popular beach for these activities.
• Discover the amenities at Calusa Beach, including a souvenir shop, picnic shelters, a nature center, and a marina.
• Capture the stunning views with photographs of the new and old bridges converging in the background, making it one of the most photographed beaches.

Cost:

Entry fee to the park is required. Additional costs may apply for parking and equipment rentals.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with the best weather in the spring and fall. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snorkeling gear. The park’s beach areas can get busy during peak seasons, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Distance:

Bahia Honda State Park is located about 30 minutes by car from Key West, FL.

How to Get to Bahia Honda State Park:

Accessible by car from U.S. Highway 1, the park is located on Big Pine Key and is well-marked for visitors.

Address: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, Phone: 305-872-3210

Romantic Beaches in the Florida Keys:

Location:

Coco Plum Beach, Marathon, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, beachgoers, families, and dog owners looking for a peaceful beach in the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A serene, natural beach with wildlife viewing opportunities, a peaceful atmosphere, and dog-friendly access.

• Visit Coco Plum Beach, a natural beach located along the Atlantic Ocean in Marathon, Florida.
• Explore the pristine, undeveloped beach area and nearby wetlands that make this beach unique.
• Observe wildlife, including turtle nesting, as this beach is a known spot for local turtle populations.
• Bring your dog! Coco Plum Beach is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the Florida Keys.
• Relax under the covered pavilion or enjoy the convenience of bathroom facilities at the beach.
• Enjoy the expansive, uncrowded space where visitors can experience a quiet, tranquil atmosphere.
• Visit during the day, as the beach is open from early morning until dusk.

Cost:

Free access to the beach.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with fewer crowds and cooler weather in the spring and fall.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for a relaxing day at the beach. The beach is dog-friendly, so bring your pet along to enjoy the natural beauty.

Distance:

Coco Plum Beach is about 2 hours by car from Key West, FL.

How to Get to Coco Plum Beach:

Accessible by car along the Overseas Highway in Marathon, Florida. Well-marked signs lead to the beach entrance.

Address: Coco Plum Beach, Marathon, Florida, Phone: 305-743-0033

Location:

Curry Hammock State Park, Marathon, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, water sports fans, hikers, campers, and anyone seeking to explore the untouched beauty of the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A vast uninhabited park with mangrove swamps, seagrass beds, and rockland hammocks, perfect for water activities, hiking, and camping.

• Visit Curry Hammock State Park, the largest uninhabited piece of land between Big Pine Key and Key Largo, offering pristine natural beauty.
• Explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, including mangrove swamps, seagrass beds, and rockland hammocks that are essential to the Florida Keys’ ecosystem.
• Enjoy water activities such as fishing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the park’s protected shallow waters.
• Hike the park’s somewhat difficult trail that takes you through bayside hammocks, offering scenic views of the natural landscape.
• Camp at the park’s campground, which offers 28 oceanfront campsites for a truly immersive outdoor experience.

Cost:

Entrance fee to the park applies; additional costs for camping and rentals.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with cooler weather in the winter months being ideal for outdoor activities.

Local tips:

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for hiking and outdoor activities. Camping is popular, so reservations are recommended during peak seasons.

Distance:

Curry Hammock State Park is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Key West, FL.

How to Get to Curry Hammock State Park:

Accessible by car along U.S. Highway 1 in Marathon, Florida. The park is clearly marked for visitors.

Address: Curry Hammock State Park, Marathon, Florida

Family Beaches in the Florida Keys:

Location:

Dry Tortugas National Park, approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, history buffs, divers, birdwatchers, and adventurers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with crystal-clear waters and rich history.

What we Love:

A remote paradise with pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, 19th-century Fort Jefferson, and a wide variety of bird species.

• Visit Dry Tortugas National Park, known for its crystal-clear waters, amazing marine life, and the historic Fort Jefferson dating back to the 19th century.
• Explore the seven small islands and the vast open waters of the park, which cover approximately 100 square miles.
• Reach the park by seaplane or boat, as it is only accessible by these modes of transportation.
• Tour Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortification that has played a significant role in the park’s history.
• Discover spectacular coral reefs and shipwrecks beneath the waters, offering fantastic diving and snorkeling opportunities.
• Spot a variety of bird life, making it a prime location for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.

Cost:

Entry to the park is free; however, additional costs apply for seaplane or boat transportation and other activities.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with spring and fall offering the best weather and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Be prepared for a remote experience with limited amenities. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if you plan on exploring the islands or the fort.

Distance:

Dry Tortugas is located about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, accessible by seaplane or boat.

How to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park:

Accessible by seaplane or boat from Key West, Florida. Both options offer scenic views of the park's islands and waters.

Address: Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West, Florida, Phone: 305-242-7700

Location:

Harry Harris Park, Key Largo, Florida Keys, USA

Recommended For:

Families, beach lovers, swimmers, and those looking for a safe and fun spot to enjoy the sun in the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A family-friendly park with a man-made beach, playground, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation and fun.

• Visit Harry Harris Park, a family-friendly destination located on Key Largo in the Florida Keys, offering a relaxing day in the sun.
• Enjoy the man-made beach, with sand shipped in every few years to maintain a tropical feel.
• Swim in the safe, small beach area protected by a stone jetty, making it perfect for children.
• Relax in the park, which offers nice restroom facilities, a playground, and plenty of picnic tables for a comfortable outing.

Cost:

Free access to the park; some activities or rentals may have additional costs.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with pleasant weather in the spring and fall offering the best beach experience.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, as the park is great for spending a few hours with the family. The small beach area can get crowded on weekends, so arrive early to claim a good spot.

Distance:

Harry Harris Park is located about 1.5 hours by car from Key West, Florida.

How to Get to Harry Harris Park:

Accessible by car along U.S. Highway 1 in Key Largo. Well-marked signs will guide you to the park entrance.

Address: Harry Harris Park, Key Largo, Florida, Phone: 305-453-8780

Unique Beaches in the Florida Keys:

Location:

Higgs Beach, Key West, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, families, volleyball enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing day in the sun with beautiful views and laidback amenities.

What we Love:

A sandy beach shaded by coconut palms, featuring a wooden pier, volleyball net, and a great atmosphere for relaxation and fun.

• Visit Higgs Beach, a beautiful sandy beach located just down the street from Smathers Beach on Key West.
• Enjoy the shaded beach with coconut palm trees and a wooden pier for scenic walks over the water.
• Relax under one of the pavilions or grab a bite at the oceanfront restaurant, offering a laidback vibe perfect for a day at the beach.
• Play a game of volleyball on the beach, where a volleyball net is set up for visitors to enjoy.
• Walk along the soft, white sand imported from the Caribbean every few years, providing a perfect spot for beach games or a stroll by the water.

Cost:

Free access to the beach. Additional costs may apply for activities or food at the restaurant.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with the best weather during the spring and fall, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks. The beach is popular, so it's a good idea to arrive early during peak times to secure a good spot.

Distance:

Higgs Beach is located just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Key West, Florida.

How to Get to Higgs Beach:

Easily accessible by car or bike from downtown Key West. The beach is well-marked and easy to find.

Address: Higgs Beach, Key West, Florida, Phone: 305-292-8176

Location:

Loggerhead Beach, Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, sunbathers, shell hunters, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a quiet, scenic spot to relax in the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A beautiful beach featuring a submerged sandbar that emerges at low tide, perfect for beachcombing, wading, and enjoying crystal-clear waters.

• Visit Loggerhead Beach, located within Bahia Honda State Park, famous for its submerged sandbar that appears during low tide.
• Relax on the sand, where sunbathers often set up chairs and coolers on top of the exposed sand hills at low tide.
• Search for sea glass and shells in the shallow, clear blue water, perfect for those looking to collect coastal treasures.
• Explore the crystal-clear waters at Loggerhead Beach, one of three pristine beaches in Bahia Honda State Park.
• Discover more than 150 different types of plants, including tropical hardwoods, in the park’s diverse ecosystem.
• Hike the park’s three hiking trails, which wind through beautiful tropical hardwood hammocks.

Cost:

Entry to the park requires a fee, with additional costs for parking and rentals.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with the best weather in the spring and fall offering warm temperatures and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for a full day of exploration and relaxation. Be sure to visit during low tide to fully enjoy the exposed sandbar.

Distance:

Loggerhead Beach is located approximately 1.5 hours by car from Key West, FL.

How to Get to Loggerhead Beach:

Accessible by car from U.S. Highway 1, within Bahia Honda State Park, well-marked for visitors.

Address: Loggerhead Beach, Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key, Florida, Phone: 305-872-3210

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Long Key State Park, Long Key, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Fishermen, campers, kayakers, nature lovers, and those seeking a scenic escape to the Florida Keys.

What we Love:

A peaceful state park offering stunning ocean views, fishing flats, and a range of activities like kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling.

• Fish the park’s famous flats, known for excellent fishing opportunities in the picturesque blue waters of Long Key.
• Camp at one of the 60 oceanfront campsites, where you can enjoy beautiful ocean views while staying in a full-service campground.
• Spend the day enjoying a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, and snorkeling.
• Picnic near the shoreline with grills and picnic tables available for a relaxing meal with a view.
• Rent or bring your own kayak to explore the park’s lagoons, offering a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty.

Cost:

Park entry requires a fee; additional fees may apply for camping, rentals, or special activities.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with the best weather in the spring and fall offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. If you're camping, book your site early, especially during peak seasons. The park's lagoons are perfect for kayaking and birdwatching!

Distance:

Long Key State Park is located about 2 hours by car from Key West, FL.

How to Get to Long Key State Park:

Accessible by car along U.S. Highway 1. The park is clearly marked and easily reachable from the Florida Keys.

Address: Long Key State Park, Long Key, Florida, Phone: 305-664-4815

Location:

Rest Beach (C.B. Harvey Rest Beach Park), Key West, Florida, USA

Recommended For:

Beach lovers, dog owners, photographers, and those looking for a quiet place to relax with scenic views of Key West.

What we Love:

A small, dog-friendly beach with a stunning White Pier offering coastal views and great photo opportunities.

• Visit Rest Beach, also known as C.B. Harvey Rest Beach Park, a popular spot for those traveling with dogs.
• Walk down the White Pier for breathtaking coastal views of the southern area of Key West.
• Enjoy the quiet, narrow beach that is perfect for a peaceful day by the water without the bustling crowds.
• Snap great photos of the shoreline, as Rest Beach offers scenic views and a perfect backdrop for photography.
• Relax in a laidback atmosphere, as this beach doesn’t offer many activities but is ideal for unwinding and taking in the surroundings.

Cost:

Free access to the beach.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, with early mornings and late afternoons offering the best photo opportunities and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Bring sunscreen, water, and a camera for scenic shots. The beach is small, so it’s great for a quick, relaxing stop rather than a full day of activities.

Distance:

Rest Beach is located just a few minutes from downtown Key West, Florida.

How to Get to Rest Beach:

Easily accessible by car or bike, located near the southern part of Key West. It’s well-marked and easy to find.

Address: Rest Beach, Key West, Florida