Smathers Beach is the longest and most easily accessible beach in Key West, and is directly across the street from the Sheraton Suites.

This is almost a full-service beach (it lacks lifeguards). It offers restrooms and showers, and beach equipment rental, and there are vendors on the street selling food and drinks. A wide sidewalk runs along the coast for several miles, providing a great place for biking, walking or jogging along the more than half-mile-long Smathers Beach and beyond. There are a few widely spaced covered picnic tables on the beach under the palms.

Smathers is a picturesque beach, with lots of lush, graceful coconut palms to remind you that you are in the tropics, along with fluffy white sand and clear shallow water that is great for snorkeling. You won't find much here in the way of shells, but you might find some sea beans and other flotsam in the wrack.

Smathers is an excellent beach, with a very laid-back vibe.

Location: Smathers Beach, South Roosevelt Blvd, Key West (link to Google Map)

Parking: Metered street parking