Smathers Beach

Key West, Florida, US

Smathers Beach is the longest public shoreline in Key West, stretching along the Atlantic with soft sand and gentle surf. It draws locals and visitors for swimming, sunbathing, and a range of watersports, offering a laid‑back ocean experience without an entry fee.

Why choose Smathers Beach

You’ll feel the rhythm of the Gulf breezes while the water stays calm enough for easy paddling, something harder to find on the island’s busier piers. The open expanse lets you claim a quiet spot even when the beach sees steady foot traffic.

Best for: Families · Sunbathing · Watersports

Start your Key West beach morning here

Begin at Smathers Beach to soak up the sunrise, then enjoy a coffee nearby before heading to lunch in the area.

1. Morning — Smathers Beach
2. 10:30 — Coffee nearby
3. Lunch — Lunch nearby

Visit tips

• Parking can fill quickly in summer; consider street parking a block away.
• Bring a cooler for drinks and snacks, as there are no vending machines on site.
• Arrive early morning for calmer water and fewer crowds.
• Bring sunscreen and a towel; there are no changing facilities on site.

Plan your visit

• Recommended duration: 2–3 hours
• Best time of day: Early morning, before 9:00
• Entry: Free to visit
• Category: attraction
• Rated 3.7 by 1507 reviewers
• Tags: beach day, water sports, family friendly, public access

More things to do in Key West

• Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.
• The Hemingway Home and Museum
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
• Mallory Square
• Duval Street
• Truman Little White House

See all things to do in Key West or plan a full Key West itinerary with Next Getaway.