African Cemetery at Higgs Beach - Old cemetery in the Inner Mani, west coast, besides the road, in springtime. View of the mediterranean sea. Peloponnese peninsula, Greece, South-east Europe.
1 / 10

African Cemetery at Higgs Beach

4.8
·43 reviews·Key West, United States

A poignant memorial on Higgs Beach, honoring 294 Africans rescued from slave ships in 1860. A place for reflection and remembrance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Peaceful reflection time

CrowdLow
Loading map...
African Cemetery at Higgs Beach - Old cemetery in the Inner Mani, west coast, besides the road, in springtime. View of the mediterranean sea. Peloponnese peninsula, Greece, South-east Europe.

African Cemetery at Higgs Beach

Best Time

Mornings

Peaceful reflection time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant memorial on Higgs Beach, honoring 294 Africans rescued from slave ships in 1860. A place for reflection and remembrance.

4.8
(43 reviews)

"A beautiful place of remembrance with amazing energy and tribal monuments. Worth seeing if in Key West."

Vertical photo
TIP

Reflect & Remember

Take time to read the markers and absorb the history. It's a moving experience. :pray:

Combine with Beach Time

Located on Higgs Beach, perfect for a thoughtful visit followed by relaxation. :beachwithumbrella:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tribal Monuments

Tribal Monuments

Higgs Beach

Moving concrete monuments with colorful tiles, each telling a part of the story. A powerful visual reminder.

Ocean View Memorial

Ocean View Memorial

Higgs Beach

A serene beachside location offering a peaceful setting for reflection and remembrance.

Historical Marker

Historical Marker

Higgs Beach

Learn about the 294 Africans who died in 1860 after being rescued from illegal slave ships.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

A Place of Remembrance

This isn't a typical tourist spot, but a poignant memorial. Visitors often describe a powerful, reflective energy here. It's a place to honor the past and understand Key West's complex history.

Respectful Visit

As a cemetery, respectful attire and behavior are appreciated. It's located on Higgs Beach, so you can combine reflection with a beach visit, but remember the solemn nature of the site.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Peaceful reflection time
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

African Cemetery at Higgs Beach, Key West, Florida. Sankofa- Origin Ghana “Go back to fetch it.” ‘A reminder that the past must be a guide for the future. We must “return to the source,” retrieve and remember, what has been lost or forgotten, in order to know who we are, to make wise decisions, and to be spiritually fulfilled. ___________ The important and once forgotten story of the Key West A...
traceylovegraves
65 likes • 1.1K views

Reflect & Remember

Take time to read the markers and absorb the history. It's a moving experience. :pray:

Combine with Beach Time

Located on Higgs Beach, perfect for a thoughtful visit followed by relaxation. :beachwithumbrella:

#HistoricallyYours📚 : African Cemetery at Higgs Beach (Key West, FL) The historical marker reads: “Near this site lie the remains of 294 African men, women and children who died in Key West in 1860. In the summer of that year the U.S. Navy rescued 1,432 Africans from three American-owned ships engaged in the illegal slave trade. Ships bound for Cuba were intercepted by the U.S. Navy, who brought...
practicallyyours
15 likes • 141 views
10 Free Things To Do in Key West, #FloridaKeys: 1. Duval Street 2. Art Galleries 3. Southernmost Point in the Continental US Monument 4. Mile Marker 0 5. Historical Waterfront 6. Beaches 7. African Cemetery at Higgs Beach 8. Key West Cemetery 9. Biking in Key West 10. Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. #ConnectAndProtect @thefloridakeys
avrextravel
81 likes • 900 views

Free to Visit

An important historical site that's free to access and explore. :moneywithwings:

Understand the History

Learn about the 1860 rescue of Africans from slave ships. :books:

Tips

from all over the internet

Reflect & Remember

Take time to read the markers and absorb the history. It's a moving experience. :pray:

Combine with Beach Time

Located on Higgs Beach, perfect for a thoughtful visit followed by relaxation. :beachwithumbrella:

Free to Visit

An important historical site that's free to access and explore. :moneywithwings:

Understand the History

Learn about the 1860 rescue of Africans from slave ships. :books:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(43 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the African Cemetery at Higgs Beach to be a beautiful and powerful place of remembrance, offering a poignant historical lesson. Many appreciate the unique tribal monuments and the serene ocean view, highlighting its educational and moving nature. While some note it's not a traditional cemetery, its significance and energy are widely praised.

"This is a beautiful place of remembrance. It's not a traditional cemetery but non swimmable beach ocean view. The energy is amazing and the tribal monuments at beautiful. Worth seeing if in key west."

Alysia Perkins

"It is easy to just make Key West a beach or fun vacation. Take a short walk and reflect on our past and remember those that were here before us angainst their will, and those who helped."

Julie Lamberson

"There is a full history lesson to be had, and homage to be paid, by visiting the African Cemetery in Key West. It is moving, enlightening and very educational. A ship transporting slaves illegally, after the end of slavery, was intercepted by the US Navy in 1860. 294 slaves died after their rescue."

Allicia Beadle-Lee

What People Like

Powerful energy
Moving historical lesson
Unique monuments

What People Dislike

Not a traditional cemetery

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The African Cemetery is located at Higgs Beach in Key West, Florida. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transportation. Parking is available nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from many Key West accommodations. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Higgs Beach, which is adjacent to the cemetery. It can get busy, especially on weekends. Reddit

It's about a 30-40 minute walk from the heart of Duval Street, or a short bike ride. Many visitors find it a pleasant way to see more of Key West. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the African Cemetery at Higgs Beach is free. It's an open-air memorial site. Instagram

As it's part of Higgs Beach, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted hours for the memorial itself. Reddit

It's a memorial site, not a traditional cemetery with individual graves. It commemorates the 294 Africans who died after being rescued from slave ships. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a historical marker detailing the 1860 event, and unique concrete monuments with colorful tiles that represent the history and culture of the rescued Africans. InstagramReddit

While it's a place of remembrance, the unique monuments and beach setting can make for poignant photographs. Remember to be respectful. Instagram

Visitors often describe the energy as powerful, amazing, and reflective. It's a place that evokes a sense of history and remembrance. Reddit

Higgs Beach is a public beach, and swimming is generally permitted. However, the cemetery itself is a memorial area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The mosaic-covered concrete monuments offer unique visual elements. Capturing the monuments with the ocean in the background can be striking. Instagram

There are no explicit restrictions, but as it's a memorial site, visitors are encouraged to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds for a more contemplative experience. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the African Cemetery can be an educational experience for families. While the topic of slavery is sensitive, the historical marker and monuments offer a chance to discuss history in an age-appropriate manner. Reddit It's a good opportunity to teach children about remembrance and the importance of understanding the past. Instagram

Since it's located at Higgs Beach, families can easily balance a visit to the memorial with beach activities. This allows children to engage with the historical aspect and then enjoy the recreational side of the location. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for a potentially emotional conversation. Reddit

🤔 Thoughtful Travelers

For travelers seeking more than just typical tourist attractions, the African Cemetery at Higgs Beach offers a profound experience. It's a place to connect with the deeper history of Key West and reflect on the human stories behind its development. Reddit

Take your time to read the inscriptions and absorb the atmosphere. The unique monuments and oceanfront setting create a powerful sense of place. It's a destination that resonates long after you leave, offering a different perspective on the island's past. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the African Cemetery

The African Cemetery at Higgs Beach is a significant historical site commemorating a tragic yet important event in Key West's past. In 1860, the U.S. Navy intercepted three American-owned ships engaged in the illegal slave trade, rescuing over 1,400 Africans bound for Cuba. Sadly, 294 of these individuals died in Key West shortly after their rescue, likely from the harsh conditions of their captivity and the journey. They were buried in this area, which has since been designated as a memorial. InstagramReddit

The site features a historical marker that details this event, providing crucial context for visitors. It serves as a solemn reminder of the enduring legacy of slavery and the fight for freedom. The memorial is a place for reflection, education, and paying homage to those who suffered and those who were saved. Reddit

This memorial is more than just a historical marker; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a vital part of Key West's diverse heritage. It encourages visitors to confront the difficult aspects of history and to appreciate the freedoms many now enjoy. Instagram

Visiting Higgs Beach

The African Cemetery is situated within the grounds of Higgs Beach, a popular public beach in Key West. This proximity allows visitors to combine a meaningful historical reflection with a relaxing beach experience. Higgs Beach itself offers soft sand, clear waters, and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, making it a well-rounded destination. Reddit

While the cemetery is a place for solemn remembrance, Higgs Beach provides a more recreational atmosphere. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. The contrast between the memorial and the lively beach highlights the multifaceted nature of Key West, where history and leisure coexist. Instagram

It's important to maintain a respectful demeanor when visiting the cemetery portion, even while enjoying the beach. The area is a reminder of the past, and its presence enriches the experience of Higgs Beach by adding a layer of historical depth to the natural beauty. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2