The Florida Keys are a string of tropical islands stretching about 120 miles off the southern tip of the U.S. state of Florida, between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. They’re known as a destination for fishing, boating, snorkeling and scuba diving. The southernmost city of Key West is famous for Duval Street’s many bars, Mallory Square’s nightly Sunset Celebration and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Florida Keys is a chain of palm-lined islands stretching off the coast of mainland USA, into the Gulf of Mexico. Long known as a tropical escape, visitors keep coming back for the area’s powder-fine beaches, azure seas, and live entertainment.
The best beaches in the Florida Keys pretty much guarantee days filled with sunscreen, ice cream and margaritas. This group of coral islands – sprinkled with smooth-sand coasts – is nestled up against the Gulf of Mexico to its west and the Atlantic to its east. Though best known for its stunning coral displays, the archipelago hosts a string of worthy beaches where you can find some respite under the hot Floridian sun. The all-year-round beach weather is another huge draw.
The Best Beaches in Florida Keys
Sombrero Beach
In the heart of Marathon, Sombrero Beach draws in tourists for its fantastic array of activities and its charming beauty. Its fine sand is dotted with picture-perfect palm trees and its water exists in striking shades of blue.
The water at Sombrero Beach is a bit deeper than at most beaches in Florida Keys, so it’s best for confident swimmers. Fit with barbecue stations, picnic areas, volleyball nets, a pier and public showers – you could spend hours on end at this beach. For a spot of snorkeling, swim just off from the shore but beware of the rocks.
Location: Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon, FL 33050, USA
Open: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 305 743 0033
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Smathers Beach
At Smathers Beach, there’s little chance you’ll find yourself bored. As the Key West’s biggest public beach, it’s brimming with life as it offers water activities such as wind and kite-surfing, kayaking and jet-skiing. If you’d rather just stick to the beach, there are also volleyball nets and sun loungers to participate in some people watching.
Found right next to Roosevelt Boulevard, you’ll find a lively crowd of bikers, skaters and runners taking advantage of that famous Florida sunshine. If you’re feeling drained from all the activity, get your fill at one of the many food trucks lining the boulevard.
Location: 2601 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, USA
Open: Daily 7 am to 11 pm
Phone: +1 305 809 3700
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Calusa Beach
Calusa Beach is found on the gulf side of the Bahia Honda State Park, which is found between Big Pine Key and Marathon. With its sheltered nature, the beach exudes serenity with its gently lapping waves and calm, glistening waters. Because of this, Calusa Beach is ideal for families with young children. Not to mention, it also has covered picnic area and lots of parking. For those looking for a bit more excitement, the beach leads to an excellent coral reef with an abundance of sea life… so best pack your snorkel.
Location: Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA
Phone: +1 305 872 2353
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Zachary Taylor State Park Beach
As the southernmost beach of the U.S. and a hop, skip and a jump away from Barbados and Cuba – you’re basically on a Caribbean vacation. Spend a full day here basking in the sunshine under swaying palm trees, floating around in the warm, tropical waters and indulging in cheap drinks from its beach club.
If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, stop at the historical Fort Zachary Taylor to learn about the history of the Keys. Be sure to bring some water shoes as it can get a bit rocky around the shore and some cash to pay for the $7 entry fee.
Location: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040, USA
Open: Daily from 8 am to sundown
Phone: +1 305 292 6713
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Higgs Beach
Anyone indecisive about whether they want a relaxing day or energy-filled day should head to Higgs Beach. When Smathers Beach gets a bit too crowded, Higgs Beach should be your go-to spot. Equipped with volleyball and tennis courts, plenty of room for swimming and snorkeling and even a bike path running along the beach – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
It doesn’t stop there, with even kayaks and paddle boards at your disposal. For a meal with a gorgeous view, head to Salute! On The Beach, which serves some delicious mussels and a mean Key Lime Pie. Higgs Beach is a dog-friendly park with even small and large dog areas for your canine friends.
Location: 1000 Atlantic Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, USA
Open: Daily from 6 am to 11 pm
Phone: +1 305 295 4385
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