Smathers Beach
by Jen
(USA)
Smathers Beach is the Beach in Key West
A Day at Smathers Beach in Key West...
While Key West isn’t best known for its beaches, I had the opportunity to visit Smathers Beach during my last visit and I have to say, it was a better experience than I had thought it’d be.
I’d recommend it for anyone staying nearby; and for families especially, it proves a nice setting for an afternoon trip.
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Prior to my visit, I had heard of the beach of course. It has a bit of a reputation as a “party beach,” which had made me hesitant in going in the past.
However, with some time on my hands and a beautiful day to coax me out of my hotel room, I made my way to Smathers. Surprisingly, it didn’t seem to be a “party beach” at all. At least not on the day I went.
On the contrary, it was pleasant, clean, and relatively quiet. Before exploring the beach’s activities, I was able to do some organizing on my PDA while soaking in the sun and never did I feel disrupted.
The beach did become more active as the day grew long, but by then, I was ready to partake in activities as well. For me, it was all about parasailing.
Smaterhs Beach is a wide beach, measuring nearly two miles of “man-made” sand. It offers restrooms, concession stands, bike paths, and volleyball nets. A big pastime for the locals appears to be volleyball.
Watersports rentals for jet skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing are also available, but don’t expect surfboard rentals. Find more things to do in Florida!
Unlike a famed Cocoa Beach Florida vacation, Smathers rarely sees much activity on its waves. The weather is such that the water produces little more than a ripple. This said, if you go to Smathers Beach with this expectation in check, it’s not so disappointing.
Fortunately, I wasn’t looking to go surfing Florida. I had wanted to try parasailing for a while now and this day seemed to be the day.
There was a slight breeze in the air and the sky was as clear as I’ve seen it. After I put my PDA in order and had a nice hour of sunbathing, I decided it was time to parasail. At $39, I thought it a steal to experience “flying” over the Keys.
No training is needed for parasailing. Unlike say skydiving, you’re always “grounded.”
Though you truly experience a flying sensation, you remain anchored to the cruiser at all times. It’s safe and exhilarating and one of the best offerings from Smathers.
The entire trip takes about an hour, but you spend only about 10-12 minutes parasailing. Suffice to say, it goes by fast. Yet, for less than $40, I think it’s an experience well worth it.
After my parasailing adventure, I returned to my spot and lounged for a bit longer, watching the buzz of beach activity around me.
One great thing about Smathers Beach is that it’s family-oriented and thus, it really isn’t a beach that people go to “to be seen.” As a result, you come as you are and you have no need to feel self-conscience. It’s one of the most inviting things about the beach in my opinion.
Named after George Smathers, the beach is one of the most well known in Key West. The two-mile stretch of sand is actually man-made.
The sand is supposedly pumped in from the Bahamas, which is an added bonus – a trip to the Caribbean without leaving Florida. In 1988, Hurricane Georges ripped the beach apart but it’s since been restored to its proper condition.
Bottom line: If you find yourself in town, I’d recommend making time for Smathers Beach. The locals are friendly, the scene is made for families, and the conditions are usually mild and pleasant – perfect for a parasail ride.
What: Smathers Beach
Where: South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West,
When: Open daily 7am-11pm
Cost: Free (metered parking, rentals)
Find out more about Smathers Beach here
Additional Keys links of interest:
Discover more about Key West Fl!
Read why Key West is one of our favorite Florida vacation spots.
Learn all about the various Keys as we take you on a Florida Key vacation!
Florida Keys vacations - get a different take/perspective!
