Rest Beach
A charming local beach with soft white sand, perfect for shell searching and enjoying shallow, calm waters under mature palm trees.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Rest Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming local beach with soft white sand, perfect for shell searching and enjoying shallow, calm waters under mature palm trees.
"Nice local beach that’s not too far from the busier Key West area. Shallow water that’s good for walking or even snorkeling area."
🛡️ Secure Your Valuables
Hide cash and cards in an empty diaper for a clever beach hack!
🌬️ Beat the Sand
Use beach bags or buckets filled with sand in the corners of a fitted sheet to create a sand-free zone.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shallow, Gentle Waters
Rest Beach shoreline
Perfect for wading, walking, and even beginner snorkeling. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed swim.
Abundant Shell Searching
Rest Beach shoreline
The soft white sand is a treasure trove for shell enthusiasts. Spend your time exploring and discovering unique finds along the shore.
Picnic Paradise
Fringed areas of Rest Beach
Enjoy a meal amidst mature palm trees. The picnic tables offer a comfortable spot to relax and refuel with ocean views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Beach Restoration Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛡️ Secure Your Valuables
Hide cash and cards in an empty diaper for a clever beach hack!
🌬️ Beat the Sand
Use beach bags or buckets filled with sand in the corners of a fitted sheet to create a sand-free zone. +1
🤰 Belly Comfort
Pregnant visitors can dig a hole in the sand for belly comfort while lounging.
🥪 Double the Sandwiches
Bring two sandwiches: one for a 'breakfast' snack and another for later.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛡️ Secure Your Valuables
Hide cash and cards in an empty diaper for a clever beach hack!
🌬️ Beat the Sand
Use beach bags or buckets filled with sand in the corners of a fitted sheet to create a sand-free zone. +1
🤰 Belly Comfort
Pregnant visitors can dig a hole in the sand for belly comfort while lounging.
🥪 Double the Sandwiches
Bring two sandwiches: one for a 'breakfast' snack and another for later.
📸 Creative Beach Photos
Experiment with unique poses and angles for memorable beach photos.
👶 Baby Powder for Sand Removal
Baby powder is a mom-hack for easily removing sand from skin.
🌊 Rip Current Awareness
Be aware of rip currents; know safe swimming spots and what to do if caught.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rest Beach is appreciated as a nice local spot with shallow, calm waters ideal for walking and wading, and it's a great place for shell searching. However, some visitors note it might not be the best for swimming and recent beach restoration efforts have impacted its current state. +3
"Nice for swimming as it doesn’t get deep fast. When we went there was quite a bit of seaweed washed up from a recent storm. Overall good views and nice beach."
Sioux Falls Stays
"Nice local beach that’s not too far from the busier Key West area. Shallow water that’s good for walking or even snorkeling area"
Tim Atwood
"Small strip of sand just E of the much larger Higgs Beach. A nice place for a stroll or to look out at the Atlantic Ocean, but not a good swimming beach. Mostly used by residents of the condos that line Atlantic Ave.
UPDATE: Rest Beach is a disaster right now. The city is in the process of beach restoration (and hopefully replacing a few missing picnic tables), but there is no reason to visit until the work is complete."
KeepTheCapeWeird
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rest Beach is located just east of the more prominent Higgs Beach, making it easily accessible. It's a nice local spot not too far from the busier Key West area.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, its proximity to residential areas suggests street parking might be available. It's also a good spot for a stroll from nearby accommodations.
Information on direct public transport to Rest Beach is limited. However, given its location near Key West, local bus routes might offer access to nearby areas, followed by a short walk.
Yes, Rest Beach is noted as an easy spot to launch a kayak, making it a great option for water sports enthusiasts.
Rest Beach is a short distance east of Key West. Depending on your location, a taxi, rideshare, or a scenic bike ride could be convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rest Beach is a public beach and typically does not require an admission fee or tickets for entry.
As a public beach, Rest Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check local advisories for any specific hours or restrictions.
No, there is no entrance fee for Rest Beach. It's a free public access beach for everyone to enjoy.
While generally open, be aware of potential temporary restrictions due to beach restoration work. It's wise to check local city updates before your visit.
Specific pet policies for Rest Beach are not widely published. It's recommended to check local regulations or observe signage upon arrival, as many public beaches have leash laws or designated areas.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Rest Beach is known for its soft white sand, which is ideal for strolling and shell searching.
The water at Rest Beach is shallow and doesn't get deep quickly, making it nice for walking and wading. However, some reviews suggest it might not be the best swimming beach, possibly due to seaweed or its shallow nature. +2
You can enjoy shell searching, leisurely strolls, picnicking under the palms, kayaking, and relaxing in the shallow waters.
Yes, Rest Beach is fringed with picnic tables, offering a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal with a view.
Bring sunscreen, water, snacks (like sandwiches!), a towel, and perhaps a diaper for a clever cash-hiding hack. A fitted sheet can create a sand-free zone. +3
📸 📸 Photography
Rest Beach offers opportunities for creative beach photos with its white sand, palm trees, and ocean views. The shallow waters and sunset can also provide beautiful backdrops.
Consider capturing the shallow waters, the abundance of shells, or the picnic areas under the palms. Experiment with different poses and angles for creative shots.
Late afternoons and evenings, especially around sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone over Rest Beach or any public area.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Rest Beach, especially with creative techniques.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Beachcombers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Beach Safety: Rip Currents and More
Beyond rip currents, general beach safety includes staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun with sunscreen and shade, and being mindful of your surroundings. For families with young children, keeping a close eye on them near the water is paramount.
Remember that even seemingly calm waters can pose risks. Heeding any posted warnings or lifeguard instructions is always the best practice for a safe and enjoyable beach day.
Family-Friendly Fun at Rest Beach
Picnic tables under mature palm trees offer a shaded and comfortable spot for family meals or snacks. Bringing extra sandwiches is a good idea, as kids (and adults!) can get hungry quickly.
While the beach is known for shell searching, the calm waters also lend themselves to simple snorkeling for curious young explorers. Always supervise children closely near the water, even in shallow areas.
Photography Tips for Rest Beach
The shallow waters can also be a unique element in your photos, offering opportunities for creative compositions. Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and poses. TikTok creators have shared ideas for creative beach photoshoots, encouraging unique perspectives.
Consider incorporating elements like the picnic tables or the palm trees into your shots for added depth and context. The calm waters are also perfect for capturing reflections or the subtle movement of the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit