Most of the Florida Keys are not known for white sandy beaches. Since our shores are
protected from erosion by the coral reef that runs parallel to the Keys, some of our beaches are not
naturally sandy. For example, most of Key West's beaches are fortified with sand that is
brought in from elsewhere. The city of Key West has worked hard on making its beaches more
attractive and sandy, and they are currently in the best condition we have seen in years.
As I have mentioned in other pages, I consider the Middle Keys, particularly Marathon, as the
best "beach vacation" available in the Florida Keys, both for beauty, convenience and
accommodation rates.
My favorite beach in the Middle Keys is Sombrero Beach. This is
quite a sandy beach, with clear water, good for swimming and even snorkeling. Facilities
include a playground, picnic area with BBQ pits and restrooms. Pets are welcome here and
there's no admission!
In the Upper Keys Holiday Isle Beach & Pool is it! Here you will find
over 10 restaurants, everything you need for a beach vacation (aka, blue skies,
blue/green water and beautiful people), plus pool, jaccuzzi and all sort
of water sports, including plenty of fishing captains that will make your fishing dreams come
true!
In Key West, our favorite beach is Fort Zachary Taylor State Park & Beach.
Considered by many to be the nicest beach in Key West, Fort Zach is the last great undeveloped
place in Key West and is the beach of choice in Old Town.
For those who want watersports and people watching, your beach is
Smather's Beach. Here you will find everything you need to have a great time at the beach.
There are also two other beach options in Key West:
Higg's Beach, on the Atlantic Ocean, is just next door to the Casa Marina hotel and is a local
favorite. Watersports & chair rentals, a restaurant, beach volleyball courts, tennis courts,
and lots of palms to provide relief from the sun.
South Beach in Old Town, at the end of Duval Street is a small beach that will refresh you in
the middle of your city tours or shopping.
