9 Beaches to Explore in Monroe County

Checkout places to visit in Monroe County

Monroe County

Monroe County includes the islands of the Florida Keys. Although 87% of the county's land area is on the mainland, that region is part of the Everglades and is virtually uninhabited. Over 99% of the county's population lives on the Florida Keys.

Activities Around

Beaches to Explore in Monroe County

Anne's Beach

Anne's beach is a fantastic place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The sandy shoreline stretches for miles along a turquoise gulf, providing plenty of space for swimming, boating, picnicking and hiking. An abundance of sea life can be found just offshore where you can swim with colorful fish and explore the coral reef. The beaches offer breathtaking sunsets as well as spectacular star-gazing opportunities at night.

Bahia Honda Key

Located in the middle of the Florida Keys, and connected to the mainland by bridges, this unique island offers visitors a chance to experience some of nature's most beautiful sights. With its miles of unspoiled beaches, lush tropical forests and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Whether it's fishing, kayaking or simply relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun, Bahia Honda Key provides an array of memorable experiences.

Conch Keys

Conch Keys, is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. Located off the Overseas Highway amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, It offers breathtaking views of its beaches and coral reefs. It is also the perfect spot for swimming, fishing, boating, or lounging by the sea. For those looking for adventure, plenty of diving spots can be found in the area for exploration. With its lush mangrove forests and delightful wildlife, Conch Keys provides a great escape from reality.

Dry Tortugas National Park

The park preserves Fort Jefferson and the seven Dry Tortugas islands, the westernmost and most isolated of the Florida Keys. The archipelago's coral reefs are the least disturbed of the Florida Keys reefs. The park is noted for abundant sea life, tropical bird breeding grounds, colorful coral reefs, and legends of shipwrecks and sunken treasures. The park's centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a massive but unfinished coastal fortress.

Loggerhead Key

Loggerhead Key, is a tropical paradise full of coastal scenery and endless activities. The island's most popular attraction is its seven miles of pristine beaches along its western shoreline, with crystal blue waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Visitors can also go fishing or kayaking around the island for an exciting adventure. Loggerhead Key Marine Sanctuary is also nearby, offering guided tours to explore the shallow waters full of sea life like green turtles and dolphins.

Smathers Beach

Largest public beach in Key West. The beach is lined with coconut trees, and is approximately a half mile long.

Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach is an iconic beachknown for its beautiful white sand and crystal clear waters. Located near Marathon, this beautiful stretch of coastline is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking. Visitors to the beach can also enjoy fishing off of one of the many jetties located along the shoreline. For animal lovers, there's a plethora of native wildlife that frequents the sands and shallows such as seabirds, dolphins and sea turtles.

West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club

The West Martello Tower and Key West Garden Club, are a fascinating mix of history and nature. The West Martello Tower is a Civil War-era stronghold that was initially built in the 1860s for defensive purposes but has since been transformed into an award-winning historic site and gardens area. Meanwhile, the Key West Garden Club is dedicated to cultivating native tropical flowers throughout the Key West area and hosts various events including art festivals and educational programs.

Windley Key

Windley Key is a unique place located in Monroe County, Florida. This island community is characterized by its mix of tropical beauty and quirky charm - from iguanas scurrying along sandy pathways to old-time wooden fishing docks protruding over the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Windley Key provides its inhabitants with a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, while offering exquisite views of nature at its finest.

Map of Beaches to explore in Monroe County