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Key West Beaches

Smathers Beach

On the south side of the island, down Roosevelt Boulevard, you'll find Key West's largest beaches, Higgs Beach and Smathers Beach. Smathers Beach is the longest, and one of the best-known beaches in Key West. Named for a former governor it is located just west of the airport. It has plenty of parking, restrooms, concession stands, chair rentals, picnic tables. Beach activity include tanning, volleyball, watersport/beach rentals and more, everything you need to have a great day in the sun is right at hand. Vendors offer snacks, beverages, chairs, and rafts.

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Higgs Beach Higgs Beach is in Old Town Key West and is a favorite hangout for locals, it has a rather famous sunbathing pier and it's also a great place to bring the family. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available; they have grills, picnic tables, restrooms and a playground for the kids. For more adult fun they offer water sports rentals, have tennis and volleyball courts and after your day of fun in the sun, if you don't feel like grilling, there is a restaurant and bar right there on the beach. Admission to the park is free and there is plenty of accessible parking.

Fort Taylor Beach Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offers many activities for everyone. At the beach the water isn't too deep and is protected by a breakwater. You can enjoy some of the best snorkeling accessible from shore when the water is clear. The bike trails wind past the historic Fort, along the shore beside the Key West Ship Channel, through the tree covered picnic area, and beside the beach. More about Fort Zachary Taylor State Park »