Imagine the ultimate beach destination where beautiful clear waters meet pristine white sands, framed by swaying palm trees under the sun. Welcome to Key West, a tropical paradise at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys. Known for its stunning beaches, Key West offers an array of perfect spots for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing.
All the beaches offer unique charm and appeal. From the bustling energy of Smathers Beach to the tranquil beauty of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, you’ll find a beach experience that is perfect for you.
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The best beaches provide excellent swimming conditions, breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and ample amenities. So, grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and get ready to discover the best beaches in Key West to swim.
Which Beach Is The Best Beach In Key West For Swimming?
The answer is the beach, which is not too crowded. Are you looking to escape to a secluded area to enjoy splashing around in the water and spending some quiet time with friends or family?
Here at Key West Boat Trips, we are ready to take you away from the crowds to the backcountry, where the waters are pristine and the breathtaking sunsets are waiting for you.
Our small boats help keep your trip intimate, and our guides will ensure you swim in the best spots. Call us today to start planning your ultimate swimming trip!
1) South Beach – The Vibrant Heart Of Key West’s Coastal Scene
South Beach is one of the beaches in Key West to swim. As one of the smallest public beaches in Key West, it has a lot to offer. South Beach is only 200 feet long, but don’t let its size deter you from visiting.
It sits between the Southernmost Beach Resort and the Emma Carrero Cates Pier, and it is conveniently located at the end of Duval Street and faces the Atlantic Ocean.
Resort guests will receive complimentary umbrellas, but visitors may rent them. Do not forget to bring beach chairs and towels. There are no public restrooms; however, the cafe behind the beach allows beachgoers to use their facilities.
Discover the unique charms of South Beach:
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Swimming – The soft sand and its shallow water make it a perfect place for young children to play or for older children learning to swim.
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Emma Carrero Cates Pier – The pier is the perfect place to take sunrise and sunset pictures. The crowds come out during the golden hour; get your spot early. It is also a great place to fish.
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Southernmost Beach Cafe – The cafe is a nice place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the views.
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Scenic views – The beach offers lovely views of the ocean and the people fishing from the pier.
Fun Fact: South Beach is known for its vibrant sunsets, often attracting photographers and nature lovers who gather to witness the stunning colors reflecting off the water.
2) Smathers Beach – A Tropical Paradise For Sun Seekers
Smathers Beach is one of the best beaches for a perfect beach day. Located on the south side of Key West, it boasts over two miles of soft sand, calm waters, and a variety of amenities, making it an ideal spot for families and solo travelers alike.
With plenty of space for beach volleyball, kite flying, and frisbee tossing. There are nature trails for walking, running, and riding your bike.
Experience the best of Smathers Beach:
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Parking – Plenty of onsite parking available for your convenience.
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Equipment rentals – Rent jet skis, kayaks, and paddle boards right on the beach for an adventurous day on the water.
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Dining options – Savor delicious bites from local food trucks and nearby eateries, making it easy to refuel during your beach outing.
Fun Fact: Swimmer Diana Nyad reached the beach on September 2, 2013, after swimming 111 miles from Cuba. She was the first person to swim that distance without a shark cage.
3) Rest Beach – A Serene Escape For Nature Lovers
Rest Beach, known as the C.B. Harvey Memorial Rest Beach, is a small Key West beach stretching approximately 300 yards but well worth a stop. Located on Atlantic Boulevard, near the White Street Pier, there are plenty of picnic tables, shady spots, and a walking path.
If you were wondering where to swim in Key West with young children, this is the place. The calm waters and the peaceful atmosphere create an ideal location for swimming with the kids.
Good To Know: Rest Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling, where swimmers can often encounter colorful fish and marine life just a short distance from the shore.
4) Higgs Beach – A Family-Friendly Haven With Fun For Everyone
Higgs Beach, known as the Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park, is a Key West beach that faces the Atlantic Ocean. It has a fenced dog park for your furry companion with places to play. However, the beach has plenty of activities for people, too.
Exciting highlights:
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Dog park – The fenced-in dog park has separate spaces for large and small dogs and is a leash-free zone. There are plenty of grassy areas, shade, and benches.
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Historical sites – The park is home to West Martello Tower, a Civil War-era structure, as well as the African Refugee Cemetery.
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Underwater marine park – The only shore-accessible underwater marine park. It’s a great place to snorkel and see marine life up close.
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Beach concessions – It offers rentals on snorkel gear, beach umbrellas, chairs, kayaks, and more.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, enjoy some quality time with your dog, or delve into history, Higgs Beach has something for everyone!
5) Dog Beach – A Pooch Paradise For Furry Friends
Dog Beach is a fantastic spot for your furry friends to take a refreshing dip! The small sandy beach is hidden at the corner of Vernon and Waddell Avenue. It’s the perfect place for dogs to socialize and play in the water while their owners relax nearby.
After some fun in the sun, you can treat yourself and your pup to a delightful snack or beverage from Louie’s Backyard, a pet-friendly restaurant just a stone’s throw away. With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring plenty of fresh water for your pup and some shade to keep them cool. A beach umbrella or a portable pet tent can make a big difference on sunny days.
6) Fort Zachary Taylor – Where Natural Beauty Meets History
If you ask the locals, they will say the beach at Fort Zachary is one of the best beaches in Key West. Put on your snorkel gear and immerse yourself in an underwater paradise. Thanks to the crystal clear waters, you will get the opportunity to see yellowtail snapper, parrot fish, lobster, and coral. There are many other water-related activities to enjoy:
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Fishing – For a fresh fish dinner, catch it, grill it, and eat it in the picnic areas. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills to use.
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Scuba diving – You’ll be amazed by the colorful marine life and breathtaking underwater scenery that awaits you.
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Paddling – Launches for paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes are available.
Non-water activities:
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Guided tours – Enjoy self-guided or guided tours of Fort Zachary Taylor.
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Nature trails – Learn about the native area on the Tropical Hammock and Fort View trails.
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Birding – The area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during peak season! Fort Zachary Taylor Beach can get busy, and the best views are often claimed quickly. Plus, getting there early allows you to enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere and catch a stunning sunrise over the water before the crowds arrive!
7) Dry Tortugas National Park – An Underwater Spectacular
Dry Tortugas National Park is only 1% land, so the only way to appreciate all the park has to offer is to get into the water. It has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and shallow water, setting the scene for an amazing swimming adventure.
Thanks to its isolation and gentle currents, you will encounter more marine life and much larger sizes than anywhere else in the Florida Keys. The park is also dotted with beautiful white sandy beaches.
Notable highlights:
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Garden Key – Swimming areas are accessible from the North, South, and East beaches. The beaches have a slight slope, allowing easy access to the water. The location is perfect for beginner snorkelers and swimmers.
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Loggerhead Key – The swim area is on the island’s northside. It is shallow and calm and is a nice place for snorkeling.
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Fort Jefferson – There are times when swimming around the moat wall is allowed, but it has suffered damage due to hurricanes. However, to see the historical fort, enjoy a guided tour on land instead.
Note: Swimming at the park is at your own risk! There are no lifeguards on duty, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and ensure your safety while enjoying the water.
The Best Beaches In Key West To Swim
There are several stunning beaches in Key West to swim in. There isn’t a bad beach to be found, and many are ideal for swimming, especially for families with children.
However, here at Key West Boat Trips, we take swimming to the next level. We invite you to embark on a swimming adventure like no other. Imagine basking in a sunset swim or picture yourself swimming off the sandbars.
Don’t just settle for an ordinary beach day. Let us take you on a journey that will create lasting memories. Contact us today to book your ultimate swimming trip and discover the true beauty of Key West’s waters!
