Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach

Best Beaches in Key West, Florida

"The beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, on the southwest tip of the island, is considered one of the top beaches in all of the Florida Keys. Towering Norfolk pine trees lining the sand provide plenty of shade, and picnic tables beg you to pack lunch and settle in for the day. Look for colorful reef fish — parrot fish, sergeant majors, and more — along the rocky pilings of the park’s jetty. This is the best spot in all of Key West to snorkel right from the shore, and you can rent snorkel gear, beach chairs, and umbrellas from a nearby kiosk. The park’s historic fort dates to 1845 and was used to deter Confederate ships from coming ashore during the Civil War. Grab a hot dog and daiquiri from Cayo Hueso Cafe, a snack shack near the water with sweeping ocean views." - Travel + Leisure Editors