The 12 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 8 guides that rank for "best beaches in key west"
Named by 7 of 81. Smathers BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesCalled the largest and best beach in Key West by one guide.Known for watersports such as kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and parasailing.
Named by 7 of 82. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State ParkKey West, Florida, United StatesA calm, swimmable beach with fish just offshore.One of the best places on the island to snorkel from shore.
Named by 5 of 83. Higgs BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesShallow for a long way out, good for family swimming.A quieter, local-feeling beach.
Named by 4 of 84. Bahia Honda State ParkBig Pine Key, Florida Keys, United States
A birdwatching spot with kayak rentals and snorkeling tours.
Loggerhead Beach is named for the best beach snorkeling.
Named by 4 of 85. Rest BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesWhere Key West locals go to relax.
Named by 3 of 86. South BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesAt the end of Duval Street, with a long pier.Small compared with other beaches but well kept.
Named by 3 of 87. Dry Tortugas National ParkFlorida Keys, United StatesSeven remote islands 70 miles west of Key West, reached by ferry, charter or seaplane.A series of islands rather than a single beach.
Named by 2 of 88. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State ParkKey Largo, Florida Keys, United StatesDescribed as the first underwater park in the US.Swimming, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat trips over the coral.
Named by 2 of 89. Dog BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesThe only public beach in Key West where dogs can be off leash.
10. Sombrero BeachMarathon, Florida Keys, United StatesFree parking, restrooms, showers and a volleyball court.A turtle nesting zone from April to October.
11. Simonton BeachKey West, Florida, United StatesA small public beach in downtown Key West near Mallory Square.
12. Long Key State ParkFlorida Keys, United StatesA quiet place to relax away from crowds.
Fares from your city
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When to go
Travel guides most often name March to May as the best time to visit Key West.
Named by 7 of 81. Smathers BeachCalled the largest and best beach in Key West by one guide.Known for watersports such as kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and parasailing.
Named by 7 of 82. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State ParkA calm, swimmable beach with fish just offshore.One of the best places on the island to snorkel from shore.
Named by 5 of 83. Higgs BeachShallow for a long way out, good for family swimming.A quieter, local-feeling beach.
Named by 4 of 84. Bahia Honda State Park
