The Best Key West Beaches

There are a handful of idyllic Key West beaches in our southernmost town for vacationers seeking some time on the sand and waves in this little island paradise known that is part of the fabulous Florida Keys.

As funny as it sounds and despite its reputation as a top shelf tropical destination, Key West is not home to miles of white sand beaches like one might find in other parts of the state or in the nearby Bahamas.

The Florida Keys island chain was formed by old coral reefs. The reefs around the fabulous Florida Keys that provide such great snorkeling and diving experiences are also what prevents the necessary wave action from creating natural beach habitat in the area.

C. B. Harvey Rest Beach

This is one of the more popular beaches in Key West. It is the classic tropical light sand beach that fills your holiday fantasies. Things are even better here if you fancy a little pier fishing while others in your family sunbath or frolic on the surf. Yoga classes run at the beach every night.

Clarence Higgs Memorial Beach

This is another popular area and one of the more beautiful spots in Key West. Like Rest beach, this is a white sand beach with very few rocks. It also has a pier and a restaurant which makes it an ideal spot for a day or evening outing. For those looking to appreciate some relaxation time you’ll find a lounge chair rental service as well as equipment rental for other water sports like snorkeling or kayaking.

South Beach

South Beach, although small, has everything you need for a happy day in the sun with your family or friends. Picnic tables and public bathrooms are nearby.

Dog Beach

There are some dog friendly areas located around Key West and this beach provides a good place to take your pet for a walk, run, or Frisbee chasing adventure. Not quite so ideal for the kids as some of the other beaches around. This one has a little less of the sandy smooth and a little more of the rocky thrown in when compared to other beaches around town. Your dog certainly won’t care but the kids might.

Fort Zachary Taylor

This can be a good spot for an all-day family excursion. While it does cost money to enter the park, there is plenty for both adults and kids to enjoy. The fort itself dates back to before the Civil War, providing an interesting diversion for anyone fascinated by American history. There are also spots to buy food and eat together at the picnic tables.

Smathers Beach

This is a man-made beach subject to some occasional erosion and refurbishment. It is more of an adult zone than some of the other beaches. Smathers features beach volleyball areas and is a great spot to hire a jet ski or try out an adventure sport like parasailing.

Safety at Key West Beaches

One thing to keep in mind when visiting any of the beaches in the Key West area, they normally do not have any lifeguards on duty. If you plan on taking your kids to the beach you will have to keep a watchful eye on any non-swimmers.