BEST KEY WEST BEACHES: COMPLETE GUIDE & MY FAVOURITE BEACHES

If you’re looking for the best Key West beaches, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll show you the beaches I visited, what each one is like, and which ones I’d personally choose.

We visited Key West after travelling around the Caribbean and spending time at Miami Beach, so we had plenty to compare it to. Key West’s beaches are generally smaller than Miami’s, but I personally liked them much more, with soft sand, clear water, and a more relaxed atmosphere. If I had to choose between Miami Beach and Key West, I’d definitely choose Key West.

That said, the beaches here still don’t compare to some of our favourites in places like Aruba, Antigua, and Roatán. So, what are the best beaches in Key West and what should you expect? Let’s take a look!

Beach	Best for	Sand	Swimming	Snorkelling	Fee
Fort Zachary Taylor	Snorkelling & sunset	Rocky/sandy	Excellent	Best	Paid
Smathers Beach	Classic beach day	Sandy	Excellent	Limited	Free
Higgs Beach	Families & relaxing	Sandy	Good	Limited	Free
South Beach	Quick swim & location	Sandy	Good	No	Free
Rest Beach	Quiet atmosphere	Sandy/rocky	Limited	No	Free
Dog Beach	Dogs	Rocky	Limited	No	Free

ARE KEY WEST BEACHES WORTH VISITING?

Yes, the Key West beaches are absolutely worth visiting. I’ve already said that I wouldn’t quite compare them to the Caribbean because those beaches are just on another level, especially when it comes to snorkelling. However, Key West has some really nice beaches with clear water, soft sand, and a very relaxed atmosphere. I especially enjoyed Fort Zachary Taylor and Smathers Beach, and I’d definitely set aside some time for the beach if you’re visiting Key West.

However, I wouldn’t visit Key West purely for its beaches, because the island has so much more to offer. The beaches are a nice addition to your trip, especially if you want some time to swim and relax. If you’re looking for a trip with truly beautiful beaches, you could also consider booking a cruise from Key West or Miami, which gives you the chance to visit some of the Caribbean’s incredible beaches as well. You can also book day trips from Key West which can take you to different reefs where snorkelling is just incredible!

BEST TIME TO VISIT KEY WEST BEACHES

The best time to visit Key West beaches is generally between March and May, when the weather is warm and sunny but you can avoid some of the busiest winter crowds. December to February is also a great time to visit if you want to escape colder weather, although this is peak season and prices can be really high!

The summer months can be very hot and humid, and there’s also higher chance of rain and storms, and then June to November is also hurricane season. If you’re mainly visiting Key West for the beaches, I’d personally aim for spring, when you can enjoy warm weather without the intense summer heat.

Time of year	What to expect
December–February	Warm and pleasant, but peak season and usually busier
March–May	Best overall time for warm weather, beaches and fewer crowds
June–August	Very hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain and storms
September–November	Hot and humid, with hurricane season and more unpredictable weather

FORT ZACHARY TAYLOR BEACH (BEST OVERALL + MY FAVOURITE)

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is often considered the best all-around beach in Key West, and I completely agree. It’s located inside Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, at the western end of the island. The state park itself is incredibly beautiful, which only adds to the appeal of the beach. You can reach it easily by car, bike, or even on foot, and since it’s inside a state park, it’s much quieter than most other Key West beaches.

This beach is special because of its historic setting, with the Civil War–era fort just a few steps away. It’s also known as the best snorkelling spot in Key West, thanks to its clear water and marine life close to shore. I’d recommend bringing water shoes because there are rocky areas, especially near the snorkelling spots.

The beach has great amenities, including restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and chair and snorkel rentals. There’s also a small café where you can grab food during the day. Try to visit in the late afternoon, when the light is perfect, as this is one of the best sunset spots in Key West. I have a detailed guide about the Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, where you can find even more information on this stunning beach!

SMATHERS BEACH (MOST POPULAR)

Smathers Beach is the longest and most popular beach in Key West, located along the island’s southern shore. It’s the go-to spot for both tourists and locals who want a classic beach day with a lively atmosphere. It’s a beautiful beach and definitely one you should visit, especially if you enjoy being around other people.

Smathers Beach is especially great for anyone who loves water sports. It’s well known for its water sports scene, where you can rent jet skis, try parasailing, or simply relax on beach chairs and umbrellas set right along the shore. There’s almost always something happening here, which makes it much more social and energetic than the quieter beaches on the island. The beach also has amenities like restrooms, showers, and volleyball nets.

If you prefer quieter beaches with fewer people, this one might not be for you. Smathers Beach can get very crowded, especially during peak travel seasons like Christmas and Spring Break.

HIGGS BEACH (LOCAL AND RELAXED)

Higgs Beach is a quieter, more local alternative to the busy Smathers Beach. It’s less touristy, which is why residents tend to prefer it, and it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a more relaxed beach experience. The water is usually calm, and the entrance is relatively shallow, so it’s a great option for kids. For us, this was a really enjoyable beach.

Higgs Beach is also great for walking, picnics, and watching the sunset. There’s a paved path along the shoreline, and the White Street Pier is very close by, so even if you’re not planning to swim, it’s a lovely area for a walk. The beach also offers several amenities, including a restaurant, picnic huts, barbecue areas, volleyball and tennis courts, and restrooms.

Overall, this beach is perfect for anyone looking for a calm and peaceful experience. If you’re hoping to escape the crowds and see a more local side of the island, Higgs Beach is an excellent choice.

SOUTH BEACH (SOUTHERNMOST POINT)

South Beach is small, but it’s one of the most iconic beaches in Key West. It’s located just steps from Duval Street, and the famous Southernmost Point Buoy is currently situated nearby. Hidden between hotels and historic buildings, it’s very easy to stop by while exploring the island’s main strip of shops, bars, and restaurants.

Because of its small size and the crowds that gather there, South Beach isn’t really the best for a full beach day. However, it’s a great spot for a quick swim or a photo stop. There’s limited space and very few amenities, so it’s better for a short visit rather than a relaxing day by the sea. We didn’t swim here since the water wasn’t very appealing at the time, but the views are great and it’s definitely worth stopping by.

DOG BEACH (PET-FRIENDLY)

Dog Beach is one of Key West’s smallest and most unique beaches. It’s located near South Beach, and as the name suggests, it’s a dog-friendly spot. Since many beaches don’t allow pets on the sand or in the water, this is a great option if you’re traveling with a dog. The beach is more rocky than sandy, but it’s relaxing and perfect for short walks with your pet.

Right next to Dog Beach is Louie’s Backyard, one of the best places in Key West to enjoy a sunset with a drink or dinner. I’d definitely recommend stopping by for a drink.

REST BEACH (GREAT FOR VIEWS)

Rest Beach is a small, quiet beach located right next to Higgs Beach, so you can easily visit both in one stop. Since it’s not very popular or visually impressive, it’s often overlooked by tourists. Because of that, it has a calm, local feel and is very different from the more popular Key West beaches.

The beach is very narrow and mostly rocky, so it’s not the best for swimming or spending a long time sunbathing. However, it’s a nice place to sit, relax, and enjoy the ocean views. It’s especially peaceful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the area feels quiet. We didn’t spend much time here, but it’s a lovely spot for relaxing and enjoying the views.

WHAT TO BRING TO KEY WEST BEACHES

You don’t need to bring much for a day at the beach in Key West, but there are a few things I’d definitely recommend having with you. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, plenty of water, and a beach towel, especially if you’re planning to spend a few hours by the water.

I’d also recommend bringing water shoes, particularly if you’re visiting Fort Zachary Taylor, because some areas of the beach are rocky. If you’re planning to snorkel, bring your own snorkelling gear or check whether the beach you’re visiting offers rentals.

And of course, don’t forget your swimsuit! If you’re visiting several beaches in one day, I’d keep a small beach bag in the car with everything you need so you don’t have to keep going back to your accommodation!

FAQ: BEST KEY WEST BEACHES

Are Key West beaches free?

Many beaches in Key West are completely free, such as Higgs Beach and Smathers Beach. However, the best one, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, is located inside a state park, so there’s a small entrance fee, but it’s definitely worth it.

Can you snorkel at Key West beaches?

Yes! Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is one of the best snorkelling spots in Key West thanks to its rocky shoreline and clear water. However, if you’re looking for truly impressive snorkelling, Key Largo is the best choice.

What is the best beach in Key West?

Fort Zachary Taylor is often considered the best beach in Key West, and it’s personally my favourite. I especially like it because you get beautiful scenery, clear water, good snorkelling, and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, the best beach really depends on what you’re looking for. Smathers Beach is better for water sports and a livelier atmosphere, while Higgs Beach is a great option if you prefer somewhere quieter and more local.

Are the Key West beaches crowded?

It depends on the beach and the time of year. Smathers Beach is usually busy, especially during peak season, while Higgs Beach, Rest Beach, and Dog Beach are quieter and more relaxed throughout the year. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is also less crowded since there’s a small entrance fee.

Can you swim safely at Key West beaches?

Yes, the water is generally calm and clear, which makes it great for swimming. However, some beaches have rocky areas, so water shoes are recommended at places like Fort Zachary Taylor Beach and Dog Beach.

Are the beaches family-friendly?

Absolutely! Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, and Fort Zachary Taylor Beach are all great options for families. They have calm water, picnic areas, and good nearby amenities. Smaller beaches like South Beach and Dog Beach are better for short stops rather than full beach days.

MY PERSONAL TAKE ON KEY WEST BEACHES

Key West has some really great beaches, and my absolute favourite is Fort Zachary Taylor Beach. Most of the beaches are relaxed and inviting, so it’s easy to settle in and enjoy a few hours by the water. I wouldn’t say I’d choose Key West beaches over Caribbean beaches, but I’d definitely choose them over Miami beaches. If you like a slower pace and a more local beach atmosphere, I think you’ll really enjoy the beaches in Key West!

CONCLUSION: BEST KEY WEST BEACHES

Key West has some truly great beaches, and I’d definitely recommend making time for them during your visit. They’re much nicer than the beaches near Miami and some of the best you’ll find in the Florida Keys. We’ve visited Key West twice now and really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, clear water, and variety of beaches around the island.

My personal favourite is Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, but each beach has something different to offer. Whether you’re looking for a great place to swim, snorkel, watch the sunset, relax, or simply spend a few hours by the water, there’s a beach for you. So if you’re visiting Key West, don’t skip the beaches!