Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
90 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
800 m
Frequently asked questions
Smathers Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +25.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Smathers Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Smathers Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 90 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Smathers Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — powdery. Beach length — 800 metres.
Smathers Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in April. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is May. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Smathers Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Smathers Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Smathers Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Smathers Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Smathers Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Smathers Beach Cafe, The Stoned Crab, Salute! On The Beach. Cuisines available: Seafood, American. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Smathers Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, First aid kit, Snorkel mask.
Smathers Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets and pleasant coolness.
Smathers Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering is prohibited. Swimming only in designated zones.
Smathers Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Smathers Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the shallow water and calm sea. Suitable for snorkelling and water sports enthusiasts.
Smathers Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West. The sand was imported from the Bahamas in the 1960s, as the island-s natural coastline is rocky.
Smathers Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Largest beach in Key West, White sand, Palm trees for shade, Equipment rentals, Cafes and restaurants, Calm water. Cons: Crowded in high season, Seaweed on some days, Limited parking, Paid furniture rental.
Smathers Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Key West Old Town, Hemingway House, Mallory Square. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Smathers Beach: how do I get to the city of Key West?
The beach is located near the city of Key West. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Key West.