Best Beaches Between Miami and Key West: A Scenic Coastal Journey
The drive from Miami to Key West is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. Stretching over 160 miles and crossing 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, this journey through the Florida Keys is nothing short of breathtaking. While the destination—Key West—is known for its vibrant culture and sunset celebrations, the route itself offers travelers a treasure trove of beaches to explore.
In this article, we’ll uncover the best beaches to stop at along the way. These coastal gems provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and simply soaking in the beauty of the Florida Keys.
1. Crandon Park Beach – Key Biscayne (Just outside Miami)
Before officially beginning the Overseas Highway journey, a detour to Key Biscayne, a short drive from downtown Miami, is well worth it. Crandon Park Beach offers two miles of pristine shoreline, with swaying palms, gentle waves, and ample picnic areas. It’s great for families, and the shallow waters make it safe for kids. You’ll also find nearby nature trails and a boardwalk for a relaxed stroll.
2. Matheson Hammock Park – Coral Gables
Still within the greater Miami area, Matheson Hammock Park is a scenic, lesser-known beach perfect for peaceful views. Its man-made atoll pool, naturally flushed by the tides of Biscayne Bay, offers a unique swimming experience. The surrounding park is full of shade and beauty, offering a nice break before heading south on US-1.
3. Homestead Bayfront Park – Homestead
As you leave the Miami metro area, a stop in Homestead Bayfront Park provides a peaceful setting with clear waters and views of Biscayne National Park. This beach is perfect for kayaking or simply unwinding by the bay. The adjoining Marina is a good spot to grab some fresh seafood before continuing on the journey.
4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Key Largo
Key Largo, the first of the Florida Keys, is famous for its underwater marvels. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you’ll find a beautiful beach and the opportunity to explore America’s first underwater park. Go snorkeling or take a glass-bottom boat tour to view coral reefs and marine life. Cannon Beach and Far Beach, the two main beach areas, offer calm waters and picnic areas.
5. Harry Harris Park – Tavernier
Just south of Key Largo is Tavernier, home to Harry Harris Park. This family-friendly park features a white sandy beach protected by a rock barrier, creating a calm swimming lagoon that’s ideal for children. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing spots. It’s a great place for a lunch break or a relaxing swim.
6. Anne’s Beach – Islamorada
Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, Anne’s Beach is a favorite among travelers passing through Islamorada. The beach has shallow, warm waters and soft sand, making it perfect for wading and lounging. A scenic wooden boardwalk connects small picnic areas and offers gorgeous views of the Atlantic. It’s also a popular launching spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
7. Founders Park Beach – Islamorada
Another gem in Islamorada is Founders Park Beach, often called a “hidden treasure” by locals. It features a well-kept beach, marina, and athletic facilities. The waters are calm and ideal for a dip, while palm trees offer plenty of shade. This park has an admission fee for non-residents but offers clean restrooms and ample parking.
8. Long Key State Park – Long Key
Further down the Keys, Long Key State Park is perfect for nature lovers. While beach access is more limited due to erosion, the shoreline is ideal for kayaking, hiking, and observing wildlife. The clear, shallow waters are great for wading and exploring marine ecosystems. The Golden Orb Trail gives visitors a chance to explore coastal mangroves and observe tropical birds.
9. Sombrero Beach – Marathon
Located in Marathon, Sombrero Beach is one of the best-kept secrets of the Keys. Recently restored, this beautiful sandy beach offers crystal-clear waters, picnic pavilions, restrooms, volleyball courts, and a playground. It’s a top spot for swimming and snorkeling, with sea turtles occasionally nesting here. It's also one of the few beaches in the Keys that is truly sandy and expansive.
10. Bahia Honda State Park – Big Pine Key
Arguably the most famous beach on the drive, Bahia Honda State Park is a must-stop destination. This park features two main beaches: Calusa Beach (facing the Gulf) and Loggerhead Beach (facing the Atlantic). The sand is soft, the water is turquoise, and the scenery includes a historic railroad bridge. Snorkeling here is fantastic, and the park offers camping for those who want to extend their stay.
11. Veterans Memorial Park Beach – Little Duck Key
Just west of Bahia Honda, Veterans Memorial Park offers a small beach with shallow, calm waters and picnic tables. It’s ideal for a short break or a photo op with the Seven Mile Bridge in the background. It’s rarely crowded, making it a peaceful stop before the final leg of the journey.
12. Smathers Beach – Key West
Upon arriving in Key West, Smathers Beach welcomes you with open arms. Stretching for nearly a mile, it’s the largest public beach on the island. Lined with palm trees and offering soft white sand, Smathers is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. Vendors here offer jet ski rentals, parasailing, and paddleboards, making it a hub of activity.
13. Higgs Beach – Key West
Nearby, Higgs Beach offers a more laid-back alternative to Smathers. This beach features a pier, historic African slave cemetery, and a garden area. The calm waters make it a good swimming spot, and there’s a beachside café and volleyball courts. It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors.
14. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park – Key West
Known for having the best snorkeling in Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is located at the southern tip of the island. While the beach is a mix of sand and coral rock, the water is exceptionally clear. History buffs will enjoy exploring the 19th-century fort nearby. It’s also one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset.
Final Thoughts
The drive from Miami to Key West is more than just a road trip—it’s a journey through some of the most picturesque coastal landscapes in Florida. While the Keys aren't traditionally known for their wide beaches, they offer a variety of charming, swimmable, and scenic coastal spots. From Crandon Park’s calm shores to the turquoise waters of Bahia Honda, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re after snorkeling, kayaking, or simply unwinding under a palm tree, the beaches between Miami and Key West provide countless opportunities to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.
So, pack your sunscreen, put on your flip-flops, and enjoy one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the U.S.—one beach at a time.
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