Simonton Street Beach - A sunny boardwalk with people, palm trees, and buildings.
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Simonton Street Beach

4.4
·616 reviews·Key West, United States

A charming, small Key West beach known for its clear waters and local vibe, perfect for a peaceful swim or sunset.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful, clear water, no crowds

CrowdLow
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Simonton Street Beach - A sunny boardwalk with people, palm trees, and buildings.

Simonton Street Beach

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful, clear water, no crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, small Key West beach known for its clear waters and local vibe, perfect for a peaceful swim or sunset. Reddit

4.4
(616 reviews)

"It's a very small beach and I definitely wouldn't want to visit in midday with so many people there. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early or Late

Avoid midday crowds on this small beach. Early morning or evening offers the best experience. :sunrise:

🚲 Bike or Walk Here

Skip the car! Key West is small, and biking or walking is the easiest way to reach the beach. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lagerheads Beach Bar

Lagerheads Beach Bar

Adjacent to Simonton Street Beach

Toes-in-the-sand dining, frozen daiquiris, and live music. A local favorite for a true island vibe.

Instagram
Sunrise Serenity

Sunrise Serenity

Simonton Street Beach

Experience the beach at its most tranquil, with crystal-clear waters and no crowds. Perfect for a peaceful swim.

Reddit
Local Encounters

Local Encounters

Simonton Street Beach

Chat with friendly locals who share insights about marine life and the island's charm.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Early Bird

Simonton Street Beach is a gem, but it's small! Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and truly enjoy the clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

Skip the Car, Grab a Bike

Key West is best explored on two wheels. Parking can be tricky, so rent a bike or golf cart to easily access Simonton Street Beach and other island spots. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful, clear water, no crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Beautiful sunsets, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays (off-peak)
Why
Fewer tourists, more local feel
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

just a few of my best tips for planning your trip to key west 🏝️ #keywest #floridakeys #floridaman #traveltiktok #USTravel #travellife #floridacheck
@theshayspence
36.2K likes • 906.1K views

🎯 Go Early or Late

Avoid midday crowds on this small beach. Early morning or evening offers the best experience. Reddit :sunrise:

🚲 Bike or Walk Here

Skip the car! Key West is small, and biking or walking is the easiest way to reach the beach. TikTok :athletic_shoe:

Hidden right at the end of Simonton Street is one of Key West’s best kept secrets…🏝️ Lagerheads Beach Bar is where locals go to escape the crowds and enjoy toes-in-the-sand dining, fresh Cuban eats, live music, and crystal-clear water adventures. From paddleboards to frozen daiquiris, this spot is a true slice of island life.🌊 Add @lagerheads_beach_bar to your Key West bucket list and thank us...
keywestrealtormichelle
90 likes • 1.9K views
@lagerheads_beach_bar located at 0 Simonton Street, Key West WINS our favorite beach spot. Few reasons: 1) Easy parking, with a parking lot directly located on the backside of the beach with in 10 Ft makes it incredibly easy to load all of our toys. 2) The beach is a easy entry with clear water. 3) The food never disappoints- and pretty affordable as well. Personal favorite is the Blackene...
keywestcandleandbathco
120 likes • 1.9K views

🍹 Enjoy Lagerheads

Adjacent beach bar offers great food, drinks, and live music. A local favorite! Instagram :tropical_drink:

🌊 Clear Waters Guaranteed

Known for its clear, calm waters, making it great for swimming and relaxing. Instagram :ocean:

They show you paradise in the ads…but forget to mention the part where you’re jammed like sardines on a sliver of sand. You rent a sweet spot across the street, wander down to the “public” beach access—and bam, you’re in towel-to-towel territory while the rest of 30A sits wide open, guarded by empty ghost chairs.
shorelinedefender
712 likes • 237.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early or Late

Avoid midday crowds on this small beach. Early morning or evening offers the best experience. Reddit :sunrise:

🚲 Bike or Walk Here

Skip the car! Key West is small, and biking or walking is the easiest way to reach the beach. TikTok :athletic_shoe:

🍹 Enjoy Lagerheads

Adjacent beach bar offers great food, drinks, and live music. A local favorite! Instagram :tropical_drink:

🌊 Clear Waters Guaranteed

Known for its clear, calm waters, making it great for swimming and relaxing. Instagram :ocean:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Spot

Calm waters make it a peaceful and kid-friendly beach for a relaxing family day. Reddit :familywomanwoman_boy:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(616 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Simonton Street Beach is praised for its clear, calm waters and friendly local atmosphere, making it a peaceful spot for swimming and relaxation, especially for families. While its small size can lead to crowds during peak times, early morning or late evening visits offer a serene experience. The adjacent Lagerheads Beach Bar is a popular addition for food and drinks.

"The locals here were a blast to talk to! They taught us about the local fish and even showed us a barracuda under the dock. Its very small but the people were awesome. There was still plenty of room to swim around."

Sara Waeltz

"A peaceful, small beach in Key West that’s perfect for families. Calm waters and kid-friendly—great spot for a relaxing day with little ones!"

Aimee Huang

"It's a very small beach and I definitely wouldn't want to visit in midday with so many people there. We came for a swim right after sunrise and had the beach to ourselves. As others have mentioned, the water is very clear and the sand is quite nice. The swimming was fantastic. I'd recommend a visit in the early morning or evening, when it isn't crowded."

Jenny Hansen

What People Like

Clear, calm waters
Friendly local vibe
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Small beach size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Simonton Street Beach is located at the end of Simonton Street in Key West. The best way to get there is by bike or on foot, as parking can be limited. Many visitors find it convenient to rent a bike upon arrival in Key West. TikTok

While there is a parking lot behind Lagerheads Beach Bar, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. It's often easier to rely on biking or walking to reach the beach. Instagram

Yes, Simonton Street Beach is within walking distance from the Key West cruise port. The stroll offers a chance to explore shops and the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Reddit

The beach has easy entry with clear water, and the adjacent Lagerheads offers convenient parking. It's generally considered accessible, though it is a small beach. Instagram

Locals recommend not renting a car. The island is small and easily navigated by bike or golf cart, making it simple to reach Simonton Street Beach and other attractions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Simonton Street Beach is a public beach and does not require tickets for entry. You can access it freely. Reddit

As a public beach, Simonton Street Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, the adjacent Lagerheads Beach Bar has its own operating hours for food and drinks. Reddit

There are no entry fees for Simonton Street Beach itself. You may incur costs if you choose to rent chairs, umbrellas, or purchase food and drinks from Lagerheads. Instagram

While not explicitly prohibited, it's common for visitors to enjoy the offerings from Lagerheads Beach Bar. Bringing your own is generally permissible for a public beach. Instagram

Yes, Simonton Street Beach is a small beach and can get crowded, especially midday during peak season. Visiting early morning or late evening is recommended to avoid crowds. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim in the clear, calm waters, relax on the sand, and enjoy the sunset. Paddleboards are also available for rent from Lagerheads. Instagram

Absolutely! The water is known for being very clear and calm, making it a fantastic spot for swimming, especially for families. Reddit

The primary amenity is the adjacent Lagerheads Beach Bar, offering food, drinks, and restrooms. The beach itself is a natural sandy area. Instagram

Yes, visitors have reported seeing local fish and even barracudas under the dock, offering a glimpse into the marine ecosystem. Reddit

It's a blend of locals and visitors, offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It's a cool little spot to chill and enjoy the island life. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lagerheads Beach Bar, located right on the beach, is the go-to spot for fresh Cuban eats, seafood, and drinks. Instagram

Lagerheads offers a variety of fresh Cuban eats, seafood, and classic beach bar fare. Their food is consistently praised. Instagram

While specific options aren't detailed, beach bars often have salads or sides that can be adapted. It's best to check their current menu. Instagram

Yes, Lagerheads Beach Bar serves a range of drinks, including popular frozen daiquiris, perfect for a beach day. Instagram

Yes, the atmosphere at Lagerheads is generally relaxed and welcoming, making it suitable for families enjoying the beach. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the clear turquoise waters, the sandy shore, and the vibrant sunsets. The adjacent Lagerheads bar also offers colorful photo ops. Instagram

Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for serene shots. Evenings provide stunning sunset colors. Reddit

The beach itself, with its clear water and sandy stretch, is picturesque. The colorful signs and structures of Lagerheads Beach Bar are also popular subjects. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local Key West ordinances regarding drone operation in public beach areas. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the beach expanse, while a telephoto can be useful for spotting marine life. A polarizing filter can enhance water clarity. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families with Kids

Simonton Street Beach is a fantastic choice for families looking for a calm and safe swimming environment. The waters are typically clear and gentle, making it ideal for little ones to splash around without worry. The beach's small size also means it's easier to keep an eye on children. Reddit

Combine your visit with a stop at Lagerheads Beach Bar for easy access to kid-friendly food options and a relaxed atmosphere. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended to ensure a more peaceful experience and ample space for the family to spread out. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Simonton Street Beach is a free public beach, making it an excellent budget-friendly option in Key West. You can enjoy the sun, sand, and swimming without any admission fees. Reddit

To save money on food, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, though enjoying a meal or a frozen daiquiri at Lagerheads is a worthwhile splurge for the experience. Opting to walk or bike to the beach instead of using taxis or ride-shares will also keep costs down. TikTok

couples

For a romantic escape, head to Simonton Street Beach for a stunning sunset view. The intimate setting is perfect for couples looking for a relaxed evening. Reddit

Enjoy a casual dinner and drinks at the adjacent Lagerheads Beach Bar, which often features live music, adding to the charming island ambiance. Consider visiting during the week or off-peak hours for a more secluded experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Simonton Street Beach's Charm

Simonton Street Beach is a beloved, albeit small, stretch of sand in Key West. Unlike some of the larger, more commercial beaches, it offers an intimate experience. Visitors often highlight the clear, calm waters as a major draw, making it perfect for swimming and wading. The beach is also known for its friendly local vibe, where you might strike up a conversation and learn about the area's marine life. Reddit

While its size means it can get crowded, savvy travelers recommend visiting during the early morning or late evening to fully appreciate its peaceful ambiance and enjoy the water without the hustle. The adjacent Lagerheads Beach Bar is an integral part of the Simonton Street Beach experience, providing convenient access to food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere that complements the relaxed beach setting. Instagram+1

For those seeking a less crowded alternative, it's worth noting that some travelers find other beaches on the island to be more expansive. However, Simonton Street Beach's charm lies in its compact nature and community feel, making it a unique spot for a relaxing dip or a sunset view. Instagram

Navigating Key West: The Best Transport

When visiting Key West, especially Simonton Street Beach, ditching the car is highly recommended. The island is compact and best explored at a slower pace. Biking is the most popular and practical mode of transport, allowing you to easily navigate narrow streets and find parking closer to your destination. Many visitors rent bikes upon arrival, making spontaneous trips to the beach or town effortless. TikTok

Golf carts are another fun and viable option, offering a bit more comfort and space, especially for families or those carrying beach gear. They provide a similar freedom to bikes in terms of accessing different parts of the island. For shorter distances or if you prefer not to pedal, walking is also a great way to experience Key West, with Simonton Street Beach being within a reasonable distance from the cruise port and many accommodations. Reddit

Avoid renting a car if possible. Parking in Key West can be a significant challenge, often expensive and difficult to find, especially near popular spots like Simonton Street Beach. Relying on local transport or your own two feet will significantly enhance your experience and reduce travel-related stress. TikTok

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