What Are the Beach Beaches in the Upper Keys?

The Florida Keys are a tropical destination like no other. Here, we have 365 days of warm, tropical temperatures, crystal clear water, and easy breezes. While most residents of Florida Keys homes and visitors to our islands spend most of their days out on the water, something we are not necessarily known for is white sand beaches. Most of our beachy areas are, instead, surrounded by rocks. If sunbathing on a sandy beach is what you are after, don’t worry! Our locals guide can show you the best beaches in the Keys. We previously posted a local’s guide to the best beaches in the Lower Keys, but some of our best beaches are actually in the Upper Keys. Here’s a look at the top Upper Keys beaches:

-Curry Hammock State Park

Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon is one of the best places in all of the Keys to see the Florida Keys natural environment at its finest. This 1,000 acre state park is actually the largest undeveloped parcel of land found anywhere between Big Pine Key in the Lower Keys and Key Largo in the Upper Keys. Visitors here can see a huge array of unique wildlife and flora that make the Florida Keys ecosystem so special. There is a 1.5 mile long nature trail that visitors can traverse to see mangroves, seagrass, and a variety of animals along the way. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent on the beach so visitors can experience it all from the water.This makes Curry Hammock State Park one of the most unique places to visit in the Keys.

-Harry Harris Park

Harry Harris Park in Tavernier can be found at Mile Marker 92.6 and is easily one of the most popular beaches in all of the Keys - especially for families. The beach here is soft, white sand perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and playing. There is also a kids playground and a wealth of activities available including sand volleyball courts, a skate park, and more. There are large open areas for families to play, as this is one of the top locations in the Keys for hosting events, festivals, and other large family and celebratory functions. The waters off the coast of Harry Harris Park are known as some of the best in the Upper Keys. They are calm and shallow - perfect for all visitors!

-Coco Plum Beach

Coco Plum Beach is located at Mile Marker 55 in one of the largest cities in the Keys - Marathon. Coco Plum Beach is one of the most special and unique beaches on the list of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. Not only can visitors enjoy the typical white sandy areas that they expect to find for a beach day, but Coco Plum is also part of a natural wetland area. This provides a wild, untamed feel that makes it unique amongst the rest of the beaches in the area. It also tends to be one of the most peaceful beaches with far less crowds than your typical beach. During turtle nesting season, Coco Plum Beach becomes a protected space for nests, so visitors should be aware to avoid them from April through October. While there are limited facilities available at the beach itself - although there are restrooms and a pavilion for visitors’ use - Coco Plum Beach is located just a short walk from the Coco Plum Beach and Tennis Club, where a host of amenities can be accessed.

-Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach can also be found in Marathon - at Mile Marker 50. Sombrero Beach is a long stretch of tropical sandy beach, and one of the best spots to visit for locals and visitors alike. Like its neighbor, Coco Plum Beach, Sombrero Beach is a protected turtle nesting location - and a great place to view sea turtles during the season! The beach is a part of a large park, with volleyball courts and other games available for visitors, and picnic pavilions as well. There is plenty for beach-goers to do to keep busy, or not!, at Sombrero Beach.

Residents of Florida Keys homes have access to some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the world. Check out the best beaches in the Lower Keys!