Key West Nature Preserve
A tranquil boardwalk through a unique marsh ecosystem, leading to a secluded seaside view. Discover local wildlife and enjoy a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Key West Nature Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil boardwalk through a unique marsh ecosystem, leading to a secluded seaside view. Discover local wildlife and enjoy a peaceful escape.
"A nice little pocket park with a boardwalk that opens up to the sea, offering a private seaside view."
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive
Key West is small! Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking or biking instead of renting a car.
🦀 Embrace the Wildlife
Keep an eye out for abundant crabs and diverse bird species – it's a nature lover's paradise!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk to the Sea
Key West Nature Preserve
A shaded boardwalk winds through a unique island ecology, leading to a secluded seaside view. Perfect for quiet contemplation and birdwatching.
Wildlife Encounters
Key West Nature Preserve
Discover abundant crab wildlife, tropical plants, and diverse bird species in this untouched pocket of Key West's natural beauty.
Secluded Seaside Escape
Key West Nature Preserve
Find a quiet spot away from the island's hustle and bustle. This preserve offers a peaceful, private view of the ocean, ideal for a moment of solitude.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace: Getting Around Key West
Beyond the Preserve: Planning Your Key West Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive
Key West is small! Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking or biking instead of renting a car. +1
🦀 Embrace the Wildlife
Keep an eye out for abundant crabs and diverse bird species – it's a nature lover's paradise!
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
The marshy areas can attract more insects, so pack some repellent for a comfortable visit.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Capture beautiful shots of tropical plants and the unique landscape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Drive
Key West is small! Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking or biking instead of renting a car. +1
🦀 Embrace the Wildlife
Keep an eye out for abundant crabs and diverse bird species – it's a nature lover's paradise!
🦟 Bug Spray is Your Friend
The marshy areas can attract more insects, so pack some repellent for a comfortable visit.
📸 Perfect for Photos
Capture beautiful shots of tropical plants and the unique landscape.
🤫 A Quiet Escape
If you need a break from the busy island, this preserve offers a peaceful, tucked-away spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Key West Nature Preserve as a free, peaceful escape offering a glimpse into the island's natural ecology. It's praised for its quiet atmosphere, abundant wildlife like crabs and birds, and the scenic boardwalk leading to a secluded ocean view. However, some note the marshy areas can have an odor and attract insects, and there are limited amenities like seating.
"A free getaway to see tropical plants and different landscape for hikers. Beautiful tropical plants,birds and wildlife. Crab wildlife abundant!"
matthew willis
"It's quiet but there was tons of seaweed by the water and no place to sit. But if you want to just be by yourself on this busy island this may be an option. It's free."
Linda Lalewicz
"Beautiful place to take some pictures!!"
Dilan Salazar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Key West Nature Preserve is located on the eastern end of Key West, accessible by walking or biking from Higgs Beach. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the main Duval Street area.
Parking can be challenging in Key West. It's often easier to rely on walking, biking, or using ride-sharing services to reach the preserve, especially during peak season.
While there isn't a direct bus route to the preserve itself, Key West has a local bus system that can get you close to the Higgs Beach area, from where you can walk.
Yes, biking is a popular and convenient way to get around Key West, including to the Nature Preserve. There are often bike racks available nearby.
You can drive over the scenic Overseas Highway, take a bus, or fly into Key West International Airport (EYW). Many visitors opt to fly and then rely on local transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Key West Nature Preserve is completely free! It's a public park offering a natural escape without any admission fees.
The preserve is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty throughout the day. It's best to check local park schedules for any specific closures.
There is no entrance fee. The Key West Nature Preserve is a free public park for everyone to enjoy.
While the preserve is a natural area, it's typically best visited during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery and wildlife.
While official guided tours might be limited, local guides or nature enthusiasts sometimes offer informal walks. It's also a great spot for self-guided exploration and birdwatching.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can walk the boardwalk, observe tropical plants, spot various birds and crabs, and enjoy a quiet, secluded view of the ocean. It's a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Absolutely! The preserve is known for its diverse birdlife, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
The preserve is more of a walking path than a picnic area. While there might not be dedicated seating, you can find spots to pause and enjoy the view.
The main path is a boardwalk, which is generally easy to navigate. The surrounding area is marshy, reflecting the natural island ecology.
Yes, it can be a nice, short walk for children to experience nature. However, keep an eye on them near the water and marshy areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow.
You can capture stunning shots of tropical flora, unique island landscapes, coastal views, and local wildlife like birds and crabs.
The boardwalk itself provides a great framing element for photos, and the secluded beach area offers picturesque ocean backdrops.
No special permit is required for personal photography. However, if you plan on commercial photography or videography, it's always best to check with local authorities.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you're keen on wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing birds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the preserve itself is a quick visit, consider combining it with other family-friendly activities in Key West. Many families enjoy exploring the Hemingway Home and Museum or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to see marine life. For a longer adventure, the Dry Tortugas National Park is spectacular, though it requires a significant time commitment via ferry or seaplane.
💰 Budget Travelers
For affordable accommodation, consider looking at guesthouses slightly off the main tourist drag or exploring options like Author's Guesthouse, which has been noted for its value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Key West's Natural Beauty
Visitors often highlight the abundant wildlife, particularly crabs and various bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. The preserve's location offers a secluded seaside view, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. While it may not be a large park, its value lies in its tranquility and the opportunity to connect with nature.
It's important to note that the marshy areas can sometimes have a distinct smell and attract more insects, a natural consequence of a less manicured environment. However, for those seeking a quiet moment and a chance to appreciate Key West's natural side, the preserve is a worthwhile visit.
Getting Around Key West: Beyond the Car
For a more leisurely experience, golf carts are another fun and practical option for getting around, especially for shorter distances or if you prefer not to pedal. Walking is also highly recommended, allowing you to soak in the charming streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere of Key West. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available if you need to cover longer distances or prefer not to walk.
When planning your trip, consider where you're staying. If you're near Duval Street, you'll find most attractions are within walking distance. For excursions further afield, like to the Dry Tortugas National Park, you'll typically take a ferry or seaplane from the Key West Bight or a designated marina, rather than driving.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit