Beaches: What are the best beaches in the Florida Keys
Looking for the best kids beaches in the Florida Keys? The Florida Keys offer 125 miles of picturesque islands, featuring turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities. This subtropical paradise, known for its warm climate all year round, feels almost otherworldly, yet it is easily accessible within the contiguous United States. From Key Largo to Key West and beyond, the Keys present a variety of beach experiences suitable for everyone. Whether you’re seeking eco-adventures or indulging in tropical cuisine, the Florida Keys have something for you. So pack your sunglasses and swimsuit and get ready to discover the ideal beach for your next adventure in the Florida Keys.
Key Largo Cannon Beach, situated in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is known for its historical underwater cannon and anchor display. The beach features clear, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life. The soft sand and shaded picnic areas provide a comfortable spot for relaxation. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards. With its unique underwater attractions and beautiful setting, Key Largo Cannon Beach offers a blend of adventure and tranquility in the Florida Keys.
Calusa Beach, located within Bahia Honda State Park, is a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. The shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach offers picturesque views of the old Bahia Honda Bridge. Picnic areas, restrooms, and a concession stand are available for convenience. With its pristine beauty and calm ambiance, Calusa Beach is a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural splendor of the Florida Keys.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a renowned destination for underwater exploration. Famous for its vibrant coral reefs, the park offers snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The visitor center provides educational exhibits about marine life. Glass-bottom boat tours are available for those who prefer to stay dry while observing the underwater world. The park also features kayak rentals, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Its rich marine biodiversity and recreational options make it a must-visit location in the Florida Keys.
Smathers Beach in Key West is one of the largest and most popular beaches in the Florida Keys. This beach features soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis. The beach is lined with palm trees, offering plenty of shaded areas. Volleyball courts, picnic tables, and food vendors add to the appeal. With its lively atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Smathers Beach is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.
Sombrero Beach in Marathon is a beautiful, family-friendly destination known for its soft sand and clear waters. The beach features a playground, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, and restrooms. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A long pier provides a great spot for fishing and taking in the ocean views. Sombrero Beach is also a popular spot for watching sunsets. With its array of amenities and stunning scenery, it is a must-visit location in the Florida Keys.
The Time Elevator is a 5D cinema experience that takes visitors on a journey through Rome’s history. The immersive ride uses motion seats, 3D graphics, and special effects to bring the city’s past to life. It’s an exciting and educational attraction that kids will love, as they learn about the founding of Rome, the Roman Empire, and other key events in a fun and engaging way. The Time Elevator is located near the Trevi Fountain, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.
Sandspur Beach, located in Bahia Honda State Park, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys. The beach features powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The natural surroundings include lush vegetation and swaying palm trees. Picnic areas and restrooms are available for convenience. The calm, shallow waters make it a great spot for families. Sandspur Beach offers a picturesque and tranquil setting, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the Keys.
Rest Beach, located in Key West, offers a small, peaceful beach setting ideal for relaxation. The beach features soft sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and wading. A paved pathway runs along the shore, making it great for walking or jogging. Picnic tables and benches are available for enjoying a meal by the sea. The serene atmosphere and scenic views make Rest Beach a lovely spot for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Key West.
Far Beach, located in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is a serene and scenic beach perfect for relaxation. The beach features soft sand and clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding mangroves add to the natural beauty and provide a habitat for various wildlife. Picnic areas and restrooms are available for visitors. Far Beach offers a peaceful retreat within the park, making it an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the Florida Keys.
Islamorada Beach is a charming and tranquil spot known for its clear waters and beautiful views. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the soft sand. Nearby amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and shaded spots under palm trees. The calm ambiance makes it an ideal location for a peaceful day by the sea. With its picturesque setting and serene environment, Islamorada Beach is a delightful destination in the Florida Keys.
Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane, is a remote paradise in the Florida Keys. The park features pristine beaches with clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Fort Jefferson, a historic 19th-century fort, adds a unique historical element to the park. Visitors can explore the fort, enjoy birdwatching, and camp overnight. The abundant marine life and coral reefs make it a top spot for underwater exploration. Dry Tortugas offers an unforgettable experience with its natural beauty and historical significance.
Annes Beach, located in Islamorada, is a serene spot known for its shallow waters and soft sand. This beach is perfect for wading and relaxing, with a boardwalk winding through mangroves. Picnic tables and restrooms are available, making it a convenient stop for visitors. The calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming and kiteboarding. Annes Beach offers a peaceful retreat, showcasing the natural beauty and tranquility of the Florida Keys.
C.B. Harvey Rest Beach Park in Key West offers a peaceful beach setting with beautiful ocean views. The beach features soft sand and calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. A paved walking path runs along the shore, perfect for strolls or jogging. The park includes picnic areas and benches, making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the sea. With its serene atmosphere and scenic location, C.B. Harvey Rest Beach Park is a lovely destination for visitors to Key West.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach in Key West combines history with natural beauty. The beach features clear waters and coral formations, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. The historic fort, dating back to the Civil War, offers guided tours and a glimpse into the past. The park has picnic areas, nature trails, and a café. With its unique blend of history, recreation, and stunning views, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach is a standout destination in the Florida Keys.
South Beach in Key West is a small, yet popular beach known for its clear waters and vibrant atmosphere. The beach offers soft sand, ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. The shallow waters are great for swimming and wading. Nearby, visitors can find a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a convenient spot to spend the day. The iconic Southernmost Point Buoy is within walking distance. South Beach provides a lively, yet relaxed environment, perfect for enjoying the sun and sea.
Higgs Beach, located in Key West, offers a blend of recreational activities and historical significance. The beach features soft sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. A pier extends into the ocean, providing a great spot for fishing and taking in the views. The nearby West Martello Tower, a historic Civil War-era fort, houses the Key West Garden Club. Picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a dog park make Higgs Beach a versatile and family-friendly destination.
Long Key State Park offers a serene beach experience with a focus on nature and tranquility. The beach features calm, shallow waters perfect for kayaking and wading. The park is home to mangroves and a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Camping is available, with sites offering beautiful views of the ocean. Long Key State Park provides a peaceful retreat, ideal for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Keys.
Coco Plum Beach in Marathon is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and seclusion. The beach features soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and wading. It is also a great spot for beachcombing and observing wildlife, including birds and sea turtles. The beach has picnic tables and restrooms, adding to its convenience. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views, Coco Plum Beach is ideal for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
Curry Hammock State Park Beach is a pristine natural area in the Florida Keys. The beach offers calm waters, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The park features a diverse ecosystem, with mangrove swamps, seagrass beds, and tropical hardwood hammocks. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking in this serene setting. The campground offers a chance to stay overnight and experience the tranquility of the park. Curry Hammock State Park Beach is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat.
Loggerhead Beach, part of the Bahia Honda State Park, offers a pristine and tranquil beach experience. The beach is named after the loggerhead sea turtles that nest in the area. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the soft white sand. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for observing marine life. Picnic areas and restrooms are available for convenience. With its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, Loggerhead Beach is a wonderful spot for relaxation and wildlife observation.
Harry Harris Park offers a family-friendly beach experience in the Florida Keys. The park features a sandy beach, clear waters, and a protected swimming area, ideal for children. Picnic tables, grills, and a playground add to the convenience. The park also includes boat ramps and fishing areas for those looking to explore the waters. With ample parking and restrooms, Harry Harris Park provides a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea, enjoying the natural beauty and recreational amenities of the Keys.