Did you know that Higgs Beach is home to the only shore-accessible underwater marine park in the United States? This hidden gem along Key West’s southern shore offers much more than just sand and surf. Spanning nearly 17 acres of beachfront paradise, Higgs Beach combines natural beauty, fascinating history, and diverse recreational activities that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Key West experience.
Getting to Higgs Beach & Planning Your Journey
Located on the southern shore of Key West along Atlantic Boulevard, Higgs Beach sits between the south ends of White Street and Reynolds Street. The Casa Marina Resort is adjacent to the western end of the park, making it an excellent landmark for navigation. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, getting to this tropical paradise is straightforward.
Plan Your Trip to Higgs Beach
Ready to experience the beauty of Higgs Beach? Start planning your perfect Key West getaway today with these essential travel services.
Transportation Options
Key West International Airport (EYW) serves as the main gateway for visitors flying in. From the airport, you can reach Higgs Beach by taxi, rideshare, or rental car in about 10-15 minutes. If you’re driving to Key West, take the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1) all the way to the island, then follow local streets to Atlantic Boulevard.
Need a vehicle during your stay? Explore rental car options to enjoy the freedom of exploring Key West at your own pace.
For cruise passengers, Higgs Beach is approximately 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from the cruise port. Many visitors enjoy the pleasant walk through Key West’s charming streets, but taxis and the local Duval Loop bus also provide convenient transportation options.
Arriving by cruise ship? Explore shore excursions that include Higgs Beach and other Key West highlights.
Best Time to Visit Higgs Beach & Weather Tips
Key West enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but certain seasons offer more ideal conditions for enjoying Higgs Beach to the fullest.
Recommended Seasons
Peak Season (December-April)
The winter months bring perfect beach weather to Key West with temperatures ranging from 21-27°C (70-80°F). Expect clear skies, gentle breezes, and the lowest humidity of the year. This is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beach activities, though it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
Shoulder Season (May & November)
These transitional months offer a sweet spot of good weather, fewer crowds, and better rates. Temperatures hover around 24-29°C (75-85°F), and while there’s a slight increase in rain probability compared to winter, most days remain sunny and perfect for beach activities.
Seasons to Avoid
Hurricane Season (June-October): While summer offers warm waters and plenty of sunshine, it’s also hurricane season in the Florida Keys. August through October presents the highest risk of storms. If you visit during these months, consider travel insurance and keep an eye on weather forecasts. The upside is significantly lower prices and fewer crowds if the weather cooperates.
Weather Preparation Tips
- Pack high-SPF sunscreen, as the Florida sun is intense year-round
- Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for additional sun protection
- Consider a light, long-sleeved shirt for sun protection while snorkeling
- Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, especially during summer months
- Bring insect repellent for dawn and dusk beach visits
Getting Around Higgs Beach & Key West
One of the joys of visiting Key West is its compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout. At just 6.4 km (4 miles) long and 1.6 km (1 mile) wide, many visitors find walking to be the most enjoyable way to explore the island, including Higgs Beach and its surroundings.
Transportation Options
Bicycles
Renting a bicycle is perhaps the most popular way to get around Key West. The flat terrain makes cycling easy, and bike rental shops are plentiful throughout the island. Many accommodations also offer complimentary or low-cost bike rentals for guests.
Scooters & Golf Carts
For covering more ground with less effort, scooters and electric golf carts are popular rental options. They’re perfect for zipping between beaches, restaurants, and attractions while still enjoying the open-air island experience.
Public Transportation
The free Duval Loop bus service covers most of Key West’s main attractions, including stops near Higgs Beach. For broader coverage, the Key West Transit buses charge a small fare and connect to more distant parts of the island.
Parking at Higgs Beach
If you’re driving to Higgs Beach, free parking is available, though spaces fill quickly during peak season and weekends. Arrive early (before 10 AM) to secure a spot. The main parking area is located near the beach entrance, with additional parking near the White Street Pier and West Martello Tower.
Explore Key West with Ease
Make the most of your visit with guided tours that handle the transportation details while providing fascinating insights into Key West’s history and culture.
Where to Stay Near Higgs Beach
Key West offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Staying near Higgs Beach puts you in a quieter area than the bustling Duval Street district while still providing easy access to the island’s attractions.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Resorts
The Casa Marina Resort, a Waldorf Astoria property, sits adjacent to Higgs Beach and offers luxurious accommodations with direct beach access. Other upscale options include the Reach Key West and Southernmost Beach Resort, both within walking distance of Higgs Beach.
Boutique Hotels & B&Bs
Key West is famous for its charming boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts, many housed in restored historic buildings. Properties like The Gardens Hotel, Marquesa Hotel, and Cypress House offer intimate settings with personalized service within a short bike ride of Higgs Beach.
Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, vacation rentals provide more space and amenities like kitchens and private pools. Many charming cottages and condos are available in the neighborhoods surrounding Higgs Beach, offering an authentic Key West living experience.
Find Your Perfect Key West Stay
Browse a wide selection of accommodations near Higgs Beach, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses and convenient vacation rentals.
Dining & Local Cuisine Near Higgs Beach
Key West’s culinary scene blends Caribbean, Cuban, and Southern influences to create a unique island cuisine. While exploring Higgs Beach, you’ll find several dining options ranging from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants.
Beachside Dining
Salute! On the Beach is a local favorite located directly on Higgs Beach. This open-air café serves Caribbean-influenced Italian cuisine and refreshing tropical drinks. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy lunch with your toes in the sand or watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail.
Key West Specialties to Try
- Conch Fritters: Deep-fried conch meat mixed with spices and vegetables
- Key West Pink Shrimp: Sweet, locally-caught shrimp often served peel-and-eat style
- Yellowtail Snapper: A local fish typically prepared “Floridian-style” with citrus and light seasonings
- Cuban Sandwich: Reflecting Key West’s proximity to Cuba, this pressed sandwich features roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard
- Key Lime Pie: The official Florida state pie, made with tart Key limes, sweetened condensed milk, and graham cracker crust
Nearby Dining Options
Within a short walk or bike ride from Higgs Beach, you’ll find additional dining options to suit every taste and budget. The Southernmost Beach Cafe offers oceanfront dining with fresh seafood, while Date & Thyme provides healthy, organic options including vegetarian and vegan dishes. For an upscale dinner, Louie’s Backyard serves Caribbean-American cuisine in a historic Victorian home with stunning ocean views.
Local Tip: Many Key West restaurants source their seafood locally, so don’t miss the chance to try the “catch of the day” for the freshest fish experience. Ask your server what was caught that morning for a true taste of the Keys.
Attractions & Sightseeing at Higgs Beach
Higgs Beach offers much more than just sun and sand. This 17-acre park is packed with historical sites, natural beauty, and recreational facilities that make it one of Key West’s most diverse beach destinations.
Historical Sites
West Martello Tower
This Civil War-era fort now houses the Key West Garden Club, featuring nearly two acres of diverse botanical gardens with ocean views. Built in the 1860s as a military installation, the fort’s brick arches and historic architecture provide a fascinating backdrop for the tropical plants. Admission is free, making it one of Key West’s best budget-friendly attractions.
African Refugee Cemetery
A powerful historical site, this cemetery commemorates 295 African refugees who died in Key West in the 1860s after being rescued from slave ships. The memorial features pedestals with African Adinkra symbols and bronze plaques detailing their story. As the only known burial site of its kind in the United States, it’s a moving testament to this often-overlooked chapter of American history.
Beach Facilities & Recreation
- White Street Pier: Extending far into the water, locals call this “the unfinished road to Cuba.” It’s perfect for fishing, sunset viewing, and panoramic ocean vistas.
- Key West AIDS Memorial: Located near the pier, this memorial features black granite panels commemorating Key West residents who lost their lives to AIDS.
- Beach Amenities: Higgs Beach offers clean restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, grills, and pavilions that can be rented for special events.
- Recreation Facilities: Across Atlantic Boulevard from the beach, you’ll find a children’s playground, tennis courts, pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, and a dog park.
Explore Key West’s Top Attractions
Discover guided tours and activities that showcase the best of Key West, including Higgs Beach and other must-see destinations.
Water Sports & Outdoor Activities
Higgs Beach is a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering exceptional snorkeling, swimming, and paddling opportunities right from shore. As the site of the only shore-accessible underwater marine park in the United States, it provides a unique aquatic experience without needing a boat.
Snorkeling
The snorkeling at Higgs Beach is surprisingly good for a shore location. The best spot is around the remains of the old pier, where coral and marine life have created a thriving ecosystem. Swim out beyond the sandy-bottomed entry area to discover colorful fish, coral formations, and occasionally larger marine creatures like stingrays and nurse sharks. Water clarity improves as you move away from shore, especially on calm days.
Snorkeler’s Tip: For the best experience, snorkel around the end of White Street Pier where many fish species and sometimes barracuda can be spotted. Early morning typically offers the calmest water and best visibility.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards right on the beach to explore the coastline from a different perspective. The typically calm waters make this area perfect for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can venture further out for a more challenging experience. Paddling around sunset offers particularly magical views as the sky transforms with vibrant colors.
Swimming & Relaxation
The beach features a generous stretch of imported Caribbean sand perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. The swimming area is marked by buoys and offers a gentle entry with typically calm waters. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, making it easy to set up a comfortable base for a day of sun and sea.
Book Your Water Adventure
From guided snorkeling tours to equipment rentals, find everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water at Higgs Beach.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Higgs Beach
Make the most of your visit to Higgs Beach with these essential tips covering everything from safety considerations to local etiquette and practical advice.
Safety & Beach Conditions
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen frequently – the Florida sun is intense even on cloudy days
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical heat
- Be aware of occasional strong currents, especially when swimming near the pier
- Heed any posted warning flags about water conditions
- Lifeguards are not always present, so swim with caution
Local Etiquette & Conservation
Higgs Beach is part of a protected marine area. Help preserve this special ecosystem by avoiding touching or standing on coral, properly disposing of trash, and using only reef-safe sunscreen (products free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which harm coral reefs).
When visiting historical sites like the African Refugee Cemetery and AIDS Memorial, maintain a respectful demeanor appropriate for these commemorative spaces. Photography is permitted, but be mindful of other visitors who may be there to reflect or pay respects.
Facilities & Amenities
- Restrooms & Showers: Clean facilities are available near the main beach area
- Equipment Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling gear, and watercraft are available for rent on-site
- Picnic Areas: Tables, grills, and pavilions can be used on a first-come basis or reserved for events
- Pet Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the beach but are welcome at the dedicated dog park across the street
- Wi-Fi: Limited free public Wi-Fi is available in some areas of the park
Visitor Comments About Higgs Beach
Hear what other travelers have to say about their experiences at Higgs Beach:
“Higgs Beach was the unexpected highlight of our Key West trip! The snorkeling around the old pier was incredible – we saw a nurse shark, barracuda, and countless colorful fish. Much better than the crowded boat tours we’ve done in the past.”
“Don’t miss the West Martello Tower gardens! It’s a free hidden gem with stunning ocean views and beautiful tropical plants. We spent hours exploring the garden paths and learning about the fort’s history.”
“We visited Higgs Beach three times during our week in Key West. It’s less crowded than Smathers Beach but just as beautiful. The White Street Pier is perfect for sunset watching, and Salute restaurant serves the best lunch right on the sand.”
Why Higgs Beach Should Be on Your Key West Itinerary
Higgs Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and diverse activities that make it a standout destination in Key West. From snorkeling in the only shore-accessible underwater marine park in the United States to exploring Civil War-era fortifications and meaningful memorials, this 17-acre paradise delivers experiences that go far beyond the typical beach day.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in crystal-clear waters, a peaceful spot to soak up the Florida sunshine, or a deeper connection to Key West’s rich history, Higgs Beach delivers on all fronts. Its combination of accessible facilities, beautiful surroundings, and unique attractions makes it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages and interests.
As you plan your Key West getaway, be sure to allocate at least half a day to fully appreciate all that Higgs Beach has to offer. Arrive early to secure parking, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover why this special place captures the hearts of visitors and locals alike.
Start Planning Your Key West Adventure
Ready to experience the magic of Higgs Beach and Key West? Begin planning your perfect Florida Keys getaway today.
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