Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is the south-end shoreline of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, with a mix of sand and pebbles, shallow swimming water, and a rocky bottom. Come for a swim, a snorkel around the breakwaters, or a shaded picnic; it isn't a broad, barefoot-soft beach. Bring water shoes—the pebbles and rocks can make getting in uncomfortable. There are no lifeguards, and swimming is at your own risk.

Tropical fish gather around the rock breakwaters, making shore snorkeling a draw beyond the swim. Visibility and seaweed can vary, so treat snorkeling as conditions-dependent. Fishing is allowed from the rock jetty beside the main shipping channel; check that you have the required fishing license.

Shaded picnic grounds with tables and charcoal grills are close to the beach. The park has public restrooms, rinse showers, parking, and a canoe and kayak launch at the east end of the beach. Cayo Hueso Café serves food and refreshments, and the beach concession rents snorkel gear, chairs, and umbrellas. Free beach wheelchairs are available on request at the café or park office; a bottle-refill station is at the fort restroom.

Fort Taylor began in 1845 as a defense for Key West Harbor, was named for President Zachary Taylor in 1850, and was completed in 1866. Pairing a swim with a walk through the fort turns the beach into a history stop as well.

For a beach photograph, use the casuarina trunks and pale shoreline rocks to frame the turquoise water. Near sunset, include the dark rocks along the waterline against the open horizon. It is a worthwhile view even when conditions do not suit snorkeling.