Smathers Beach Tours

Smathers Beach showing a luxury hotel or resort, tropical scenes and a beach
Smathers Beach showing tropical scenes, boating and a sandy beach
Smathers Beach featuring tropical scenes, bird life and a sandy beach
Smathers Beach featuring a sandy beach and a bridge as well as an individual femail
Smathers Beach showing kite surfing and a beach as well as an individual male


Key West’s popular party beach has an electric atmosphere on the weekends and is a destination for water sports lovers.

On an island filled with private beaches, this popular stretch of public shoreline is among the most majestic. Featuring over a half-mile (0.8 kilometer) of white, palm-lined sand, Smathers Beach is a destination for water sports lovers and those seeking quiet time in the sun. Spend a day snorkeling, kayaking or playing beach volleyball as you make friends on the beach known for its social atmosphere.

Smathers Beach is a quiet stretch of coast in the morning. Enjoy a stroll along the sand as the sun rises, a tranquil experience that couples will love. By midmorning cars will have begun to arrive and the beach will have a lively atmosphere. Rent a volleyball and play on one of the three permanent courts spread along the beach. If you’re on your own you’ll have no trouble finding people to join you.

The trucks that line the beach can rent you everything from kayaks to snorkeling gear, making Smathers Beach a great place for those wanting to attempt new water sports. Try paragliding above the water or dive below the surface to discover the fish that call the offshore waters home. Rent a kayak to explore farther afield. In just a short time you can reach a number of other beaches or spot landmarks along the Atlantic Ocean shore.

Return to Smathers Beach to satisfy the hunger you’ve worked up. Food vendors sell fresh seafood, burgers and drinks from trucks and stands along the beach.

Smathers Beach is located approximately 1.5 mile (2.4 kilometers) from Mallory Square and can be reached on foot or by bicycle in less than 15 minutes. Its ample, free parking makes it one of the most convenient beaches in Key West. Pack the car full of food and drinks and enjoy a picnic on one of the many picnic tables.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Smathers Beach

Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Wildlife & nature

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Reviews of Smathers Beach

4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
421
5 - Excellent 37%
4 - Good
424
4 - Good 37%
3 - Okay
222
3 - Okay 19%
2 - Disappointing
48
2 - Disappointing 4%
1 - Terrible
36
1 - Terrible 3%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Bring $50 to rent an umbrella and some chairs.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

There weren’t any restaurants on the beach and or places for drinks/water. Chair and umbrella rentals were pricey. I would definitely recommend some footwear if going into the water.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Many beaches in the area are made of ground coral or pebbles that are hard on your feet. Smathers Beach has a sandy shoreline and is free to the public - you do have to pay to use the beach parking lot. Free parking space is available. Smathers currents are not strong and the shoreline is fairly wide, which is great for walking the beach. Really liked this beach a lot.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

Lots of smoking

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Ocean beaches can be full of flotsam and jetsom, creating a strong smell in the heat.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler

Really small beach. Smelled terrible. Didn't want to walk in the sand there.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Smathers Beach

Margaritaville Beach House Key West

Margaritaville Beach House Key West

4 out of 5
2001 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL
Margaritaville Beach House Key West
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Key West

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Key West

3 out of 5
2400 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Key West
Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

4 out of 5
2801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL
Parrot Key Hotel & Villas
Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses

Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses

4 out of 5
1319 Duval Street, Key West, FL
Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses
Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton

Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
1500 Reynolds Street, Key West, FL
Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
By the Beautiful Sea - Key West Beach Front Condo - w Pool Access

By the Beautiful Sea - Key West Beach Front Condo - w Pool Access

Key West
By the Beautiful Sea - Key West Beach Front Condo - w Pool Access
La Brisa - Ocean Views Across from Smathers Beach

La Brisa - Ocean Views Across from Smathers Beach

Key West
La Brisa - Ocean Views Across from Smathers Beach
Key West Oceanfront Escape with Pool, Balcony & Steps from Smathers Beach

Key West Oceanfront Escape with Pool, Balcony & Steps from Smathers Beach

Key West
Key West Oceanfront Escape with Pool, Balcony & Steps from Smathers Beach
Key West Beachfront Luxury 2/2 Condo A212

Key West Beachfront Luxury 2/2 Condo A212

Key West
Key West Beachfront Luxury 2/2 Condo A212
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach in Key West is a perfect destination for enjoying stunning sunrises and sunsets, as well as engaging in exciting activities like kayaking. This beach serves as a sports hotspot, making it ideal for beach games and water sports. Visitors can also relax on beach chairs while soaking up the sun, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise.

Shopping

For shopping near Smathers Beach, visit We Cycle Key West and The Kite House, both only 2 miles away for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Big Pine Key Flea Market, located 27 miles away, offering a vibrant selection of local goods.

Recreation

At Key West Golf Club, enjoy a relaxing round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere, just 3 miles from Smathers Beach. Alternatively, visit the MLK Community Pool & Community Center, located 2 miles away, for family-friendly swimming and outdoor activities in a welcoming environment.

Adventure

At Smathers Beach, indulge in thrilling water sports like jet skiing and parasailing for an adrenaline rush. Explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or take a stand-up paddleboard tour along the scenic coastline, soaking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Smathers Beach with nearby venues like the Waterfront Playhouse and the Red Barn Theater, both offering captivating performances. For a unique twist, check out the Key West Burlesque Theater, just a mile away, for an entertaining evening filled with culture and romance.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach in Key West is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, outdoor experiences, and beach relaxation. Explore nearby attractions, historic houses, and vibrant streets while enjoying the stunning Florida Keys. With various hotels near Smathers Beach, you'll find convenient accommodations to enhance your visit. Whether you're lounging on the beach or discovering local history, there's something for everyone at this beautiful location.

  • Duval Street: Experience the vibrant heart of Key West on Duval Street, located 2 miles from Smathers Beach. This lively thoroughfare is known for its eclectic shops, bustling bars, and diverse dining options, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and nightlife.
  • Southernmost Point: Visit the iconic Southernmost Point buoy, just 1 mile from the beach. This symbolic landmark marks the southernmost tip of the continental U.S. and offers a great photo opportunity while immersing you in the local culture and history.
  • Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Explore the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, located 2 miles from Smathers Beach. This beautifully preserved site offers insight into the life of the famous author and showcases stunning gardens and unique six-toed cats.

Best time to go to Smathers Beach

The best time to visit Smathers Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Smathers Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Smathers Beach falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March73.4°F (23.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April76.8°F (24.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July84.0°F (28.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August84.4°F (29.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September83.7°F (28.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October80.8°F (27.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.6°F (24.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December73.9°F (23.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smathers Beach

To save money on your trip to Smathers Beach, consider visiting between August and October when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for better rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and use Expedia’s tools to filter options by budget and eco-friendliness. Combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for package savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future use. Explore free beach activities to enhance your visit without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smathers Beach are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Smathers Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smathers Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Smathers Beach is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase hotels that are sustainable and environmentally friendly, available for booking at this moment. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Smathers Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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