Beach questions

Question

We’ve been to key west 3 times now, coming back in March with our 8 year old. Which “beach” is best? I know there’s Higgs, Smathers, & fort Zachary. Somewhere with bathrooms, chairs, maybe a restaurant near by? We’re stay at Hyatt centric. I just thought it would be nice to finally visit instead of the pool everyday lol. I did hear one of them was under construction..not sure if that’s the case now.

Answer

For a family visit to Key West with an 8-year-old, choosing the right beach depends on your priorities: amenities, sand quality, calm water for kids, and nearby dining. Since you’re staying at Hyatt Centric, you’re centrally located, making several beaches accessible within a short drive or bike ride.

Here’s a comparison of the main beaches you mentioned:

Higgs Beach: Family-friendly with playgrounds, bathrooms, picnic areas, and nearby snack bars. The water is relatively calm, making it safe for kids to wade. There is also a small dog park if you’re traveling with pets, and the beach often hosts local events. It’s a short ride from downtown Key West, making it convenient for a half-day visit.
Smathers Beach: The largest public beach in Key West with long stretches of sand, palm trees, and picnic areas. There are public bathrooms and a few beach chairs for rent, but food options are limited directly on the beach; you may need to bring your own or walk a short distance to local restaurants. Water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing are available, which can be fun for older kids and adults.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: Known for excellent snorkeling, shaded picnic areas, and historic fort tours. The beach has bathrooms, picnic tables, and a small snack bar, and parking is available within the park. The water can be a bit rocky, but it’s excellent for exploring marine life. This beach combines history with nature and is ideal for families who want a mix of swimming and exploration. Note that Fort Zachary sometimes has renovation or construction projects, but as of early 2025, most areas are fully accessible.

Other considerations:

For convenience, Higgs Beach is closest to your Hyatt Centric and is easiest for a short visit with your child.
Smathers Beach is great for a full-day outing if you want to bring your own chairs and umbrella and enjoy some beach games.
Fort Zachary offers the most amenities and variety (beach, history, snorkeling), so it’s ideal for combining activities beyond just sunbathing.

Overall, for a first-time beach day with your child in March, Higgs Beach is highly convenient with kid-friendly facilities, while Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offers a more engaging experience combining swimming, snorkeling, and exploration. Smathers Beach is best if you prefer a classic, expansive beach day with sandcastle-building and water sports.