Best Beaches in Key West, Ranked by a Local

Key West isn’t known for long stretches of sand, but what we do have is a unique mix of local favorites, snorkeling coves, and sunset spots that pack a lot of character into a small island. Whether you want to relax, explore, or just cool off, here’s your ranked list of the best beaches in Key West – written by someone who actually lives here.

Each entry includes:
Why Go | What to Know | Where It’s At

1. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

Why Go: Best all-around beach in Key West – great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunsets. Shady trees, crystal-clear water, and a historic fort to explore.
What to Know: Bring water shoes – the shoreline is rocky. Awesome picnic and grill area, plus bike racks and bathrooms on site. Sunset views are unmatched.
Where It’s At: End of Southard St inside Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

2. Smathers Beach

Why Go: The biggest beach in Key West. Sandy, palm-lined, and perfect for lounging or water sports.
What to Know: Lots of rental options – paddleboards, jet skis, parasailing. Can get busy during spring break, but it’s easy to find your own spot.
Where It’s At: Along South Roosevelt Blvd, near the airport

3. Higgs Beach

Why Go: Mellow beach with a laid-back feel and a scenic pier. Great for families and a quieter alternative to Smathers.
What to Know: Nearby gardens, dog park, and volleyball courts. Stop at Salute! on the Beach for lunch or a cocktail.
Where It’s At: 1000 Atlantic Blvd

4. Simonton Street Beach

Why Go: Tiny hidden gem right in Old Town. Relaxed, local, and rarely crowded.
What to Know: Not ideal for long swims, but great for sunset drinks. Lagerheads beach bar has paddleboards and fish tacos.
Where It’s At: End of Simonton Street at the Gulf, near Pier House Resort

5. South Beach (Southernmost Beach)

Why Go: Chill, compact beach at the southern tip of Duval. Easy access and perfect for a quick dip.
What to Know: Shallow, calm water. Right next to Southernmost Beach Café – grab a mojito with your ocean view.
Where It’s At: 1405 Duval St, near the Southernmost Point

6. Dry Tortugas (Fort Jefferson)

Why Go: Epic day trip to a remote island beach with snorkeling and serious wow-factor.
What to Know: Take the ferry or a seaplane. You’ll snorkel over coral and walk Civil War-era fort walls. Totally worth the adventure.
Where It’s At: 70 miles west of Key West (by ferry or seaplane from Key West Ferry Terminal)

7. Rest Beach (C.B. Harvey Park)

Why Go: Quiet, reflective beach good for yoga, sunrises, and unwinding.
What to Know: No crowds, no noise. Come for early morning stillness or a solo stroll at sunset.
Where It’s At: 1100 Atlantic Blvd, right next to Higgs Beach

8. Dog Beach

Why Go: The only beach in Key West where dogs can run free. Small, salty, and full of personality.
What to Know: It’s rocky and rustic, but the dogs don’t care. Adjacent to Louie’s Backyard – a local classic for food and drinks.
Where It’s At: 700 Waddell Ave, behind Louie’s Backyard

9. Boca Chica Beach (Geiger Key)

Why Go: Wild, unmarked beach outside of town. Locals love it for peace, paddleboarding, and off-grid vibes.
What to Know: No services or shade. Bring water, snacks, and maybe a hammock. It’s dog-friendly too.
Where It’s At: End of Boca Chica Rd, off US-1 at MM 10

10. Marvin Key Sandbar

Why Go: A remote sandbar only accessible by boat – pure backcountry bliss.
What to Know: Charter a boat or go with a local. It’s like standing in the middle of the ocean with 360° blue.
Where It’s At: North of Key West in the backcountry – boat-only access