Beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Key West
Barbara Ann Weibel 

Key West is not particularly known for its beaches, but there are a few places to spread a towel and catch some rays. Tourists usually head for the better known beaches, which are often crowded and in some cases back up to busy roadways. Locals, on the other hand, almost always choose the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

One of the reasons this beach is not often used by visitors is that it is somewhat difficult to find. To reach it, drive south on Southard Street and into Truman Annex. The road ends at a guard shack, where a small entrance fee is collected. The beach is half a mile further on well paved roads, with ample parking available right at the ocean.

The first thing you notice is that the land behind the beach is covered with Australian Pines, which provide welcome shade in the blistering summer heat. Beneath the trees, picnic tables and grills share space with sculpture by artists from around the world, making for an interesting stroll through this wispy forest.

Picnic tables, grills, and sculpture are interspersed amongst the Australian Pines that back the beach.

The beach is a combination of sand and coral rock. Most families and swimmers choose to stay on the sand strip, since it fronts a sheltered cove that slopes gently and usually has calm waters. Snorkelers generally prefer the rocky areas, which attract small tropical fish. There is also a short nature trail within the park and bicycling is strongly encouraged, although bikes are restricted from the beach and picnic areas for safety. The excellent facilities include a well-stocked food concession, gift store, equipment rentals, and well-maintained restrooms.

While this is not necessarily a secret, locals are not particularly forthcoming about it when asked about local beaches; more often than not, they will send folks to the tourist beaches so that Fort Zach is reserved for those in the know. But now you know. If you are Key West bound, Fort Zachary Taylor is undoubtedly the best beach on the island.

<< Previous Page