Enjoy snorkelling, kayaking and a game of beach volleyball with the locals in the friendly and relaxed atmosphere of beautiful Smathers Beach. While many of Key West’s beaches are private, this lovely stretch of palm tree-lined white sand is a popular public space.
An early morning walk is the best time to experience Smathers Beach at its most tranquil. By midday it’s party time at the beach, as locals and visitors arrive to enjoy the water sports and permanent volleyball courts set up along the sand. If you’re keen to meet other beachgoers, rent a volleyball and find extra players among the friendly Smathers Beach crowd.
Smathers Beach is a great place for those wanting to attempt new water sports. From the trucks lined up on South Roosevelt Boulevard you can hire everything from kayaks to snorkelling gear. Soar above the crowds on one of the hourly parasailing tours or catch the breeze windsurfing along the surface of the water. Go snorkelling to spot fish and rays that live in the seaweed offshore. Explore the coastline via bike on the long esplanade on South Roosevelt Boulevard. You can also rent a kayak and paddle to the beaches further down the coast. Explore hidden coves and pristine stretches of coastline.
Buy a meal from the food vendors along the beach. Order fresh seafood, burgers and drinks. Enjoy your lunch with views over the water on the picnic tables located along the beach.
Smathers Beach is just 1.5 kilometres (1 mile) from downtown Mallory Square. It’s a short ride by bike or about a 20-minute walk. There is also ample free parking. The beach is most busy during spring break in March, when holidaying students pack the stretch of sand.
