Beaches
Fort Zachary Taylor
Fort Zachary Taylor is a National Historic Monument that has guarded the harbor of Key West during the Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI, WWII and the Cuban Missile Crisis. The beach and fort are located less than half a mile from Island Breezes. Visit the Cayo Hueso Café for local cuisine and a beverage, or rent chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear at the chickee hut. Interested in the Fort’s history? Take a tour to better grasp how soldiers lived as they defended the nation’s southeastern coastline. Restroom facilities and showers are available to rinse off after a relaxing day in the sun.
Admission fee: $6 per vehicle, $2.50 for pedestrians and bicyclists, $4.50 single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle
Smathers
Smathers is the largest public beach in Key West, located on the south side of the island beginning at mile marker zero. Play sand volleyball, relax in the sun, or enjoy snacks from food trucks stationed along Roosevelt Blvd. Visit Sunset Watersports and jump on a paddleboard, rent a kayak, or cruise overtop of the water in a parasailing adventure. Restroom facilities and showers are available, and parking is located along Roosevelt Blvd.
SOUTH BEACH
The new South Beach. Watch rolling waves from the white sand shores of America’s Southernmost beach. Walk right up to the Southernmost Beach Café for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks, or fuel-up at the onsite Starbucks. South Beach is groomed daily and offers washrooms inside the Southernmost Beach Café.
Bahia Honda
If you’re driving down the Keys, stop by Bahia Honda State Park, located on Bahia Honda Key. The island is virtually uninhabited, making it an excellent place to observe shorebirds and native sea creatures. Relax in the crystal clear, warm water or on the sandbars that extend as far as the eye can see. Kayaks and snorkeling gear can be rented, and boat trips to the reef for snorkeling excursions are available.
Admission fee: $8 per vehicle
