Though much of Florida is known for the beautiful sandy beaches and the Spring Breakers that go along with that picture, however the Florida Keys are more recognized for the crystal clear waters of the reef and the fishing and diving that go along with it. That is not saying there are no beaches in the Keys, there are, however many are man made and part of resorts. Following are a few of the public beaches available to keys visitors.
Anne’s Beach, located at Mile Marker 70 in Islamorada, is dedicated to environmentalist Anne Eaton. Many families with young kids go there because of its shallow swimming area and virtually no wave action – kind of like a big kiddy pool. There is free parking, picnic tables and bathroom facilities available.
SombreroBeach, located at Mile Marker 50 in Marathon, is oceanside, just three miles down Sombrero Beach Road. Sombrero Beach has a playground for the kids, a covered pavilion, restrooms and showers.
Bahia Honda State Park, located at Mile Marker 37, is known world wide for its beaches; in fact, the park has won national awards and recognition on the Travel Channel for its beaches. SandspurBeach is on the Oceanside and CaloosaBeach is near the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Sandspur beach is a favorite for families with young children, kayakers and snorkelers. Calusa is the smallest beach - located on the northwest side. Loggerhead is the shallowest beach, located on the south side of the island. There are several pavilions, gift shop, concessions, bathhouse, showers, picnic tables, grills, boat ramps and rentals available. In addition, there are approximately nineteen boat slips available for overnight rental, with water, electric, pump-out and full use of facilities available, but be sure to make reservations in advance. For information, call 305-872-3210, or VHF Channel 16. The entrance fee to the park is $2.50 for one person, $5.00 for two people and $0.50 for each additional person.
SmathersBeach, is one of the longest beaches in Key West. Witness spectacular sunrises, soak up the sun, picnic, play volleyball or rent a jet ski and explore the water! There are restrooms, concessions and equipment rentals at your disposal.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located at Mile Marker 102.5, in Key Largo has camping facilites, concessions, boat ramp and equipment rentals available. Activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling are available to all. There are also glass bottom boat tours, snorkeling tours, boat rentals, a nature trail and bike path. Their entrance fee is $3.50 for one person, $6.00 for two and $0.50 for each additional person.
