Located along South Roosevelt Boulevard, Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West and one of the island's most popular places to relax. Its wide sandy shoreline, calm Atlantic waters, and beautiful palm-lined setting make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Whether you're looking to swim, soak up the Florida sunshine, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze, Smathers Beach offers a classic Key West beach experience.
Courtesy of Sunset Watersports
What Makes Smathers Beach Special?
Unlike many of Key West's smaller natural beaches, Smathers Beach stretches for nearly two miles along the Atlantic Ocean, providing plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the tropical scenery.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Beach volleyball
- Paddleboarding
- Kayaking
- Parasailing
- Walking along the shoreline
Depending on the season, vendors also offer chair, umbrella, and watersports rentals.
Easy to Visit During Your Key West Trip
Smathers Beach is just a short taxi, rideshare, scooter, or bicycle ride from the Key West Express terminal, making it an easy addition to your island itinerary.
After spending time on the beach, continue exploring nearby attractions including Duval Street, the Southernmost Point, Mallory Square, and the Key West Historic Seaport.
Why Key West Express Travelers Love Smathers Beach
Many visitors arriving aboard the Key West Express choose Smathers Beach because it offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Spend a few hours enjoying the sand and surf before heading into Old Town for shopping, dining, and Key West's famous sunset celebration.
If you're looking for one of the best beaches in Key West, Smathers Beach deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Smathers Beach located?
Smathers Beach is located along South Roosevelt Boulevard on the Atlantic side of Key West, Florida.
Is Smathers Beach free to visit?
Yes. Smathers Beach is a public beach with free access, although parking, chair rentals, umbrella rentals, and watersports may have additional fees.
Can you swim at Smathers Beach?
Yes. Smathers Beach is one of the most popular swimming beaches in Key West thanks to its sandy shoreline and generally calm, shallow waters.
What activities are available at Smathers Beach?
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, beach volleyball, and relaxing along the shoreline. Rental equipment is often available from local vendors.
How far is Smathers Beach from the Key West Express terminal?
Smathers Beach is about 2.5 miles from the Key West Express terminal. Visitors can reach the beach by taxi, rideshare, bicycle, scooter, or local transportation in approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Is Smathers Beach good for families?
Yes. Smathers Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Key West thanks to its wide sandy beach, shallow water near shore, and open space for swimming and relaxing.
Why should I visit Smathers Beach during my Key West trip?
Smathers Beach offers one of the island's best beach experiences with beautiful Atlantic Ocean views, soft sand, watersports, and plenty of room to relax. It's a perfect addition to a Key West itinerary before exploring Duval Street, Mallory Square, or the Historic Seaport.
Explore Key West with Key West Express
Smathers Beach is just one of the many unforgettable experiences waiting in Key West. Whether you're planning a relaxing beach day, exploring Duval Street, or watching the sunset at Mallory Square, Key West Express makes getting there easy. Arrive refreshed, enjoy the island, and discover why millions of visitors choose Key West for the perfect Florida getaway.
Featured Image Courtesy: Dale M. McDonald - State Library and Archives of Florida, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Hero Image Courtesy: Juliancolton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
