Fort Zachary Taylor Beach Weddings — Attraction in Key West

Fort Zachary Beach is an absolute gem and easily one of the most beautiful spots in Key West. I’m sitting here right now, waiting for the sunset, and it’s hard to put into words how peaceful and stunning this place is. The temperature is a perfect 70 degrees, there’s a light breeze coming off the ocean, and the sound of gentle waves lapping the rocky shoreline is incredibly calming.

What makes this beach stand out is the unique blend of natural beauty and relaxed activity. There are sailboats drifting across the horizon, catamarans gliding by, and even the occasional cruise ship in the distance — it’s like watching a living painting. The water is that signature turquoise blue you expect from the Keys, and the clarity is amazing.

The beach itself is a mix of sand and coral rock, so water shoes are definitely helpful if you’re planning to get in. There are plenty of shaded picnic tables tucked into the trees, and the onsite café makes grabbing a snack or a cold drink easy. It’s a great place to spend the entire day — you can swim, snorkel around the rocks (tons of fish), explore the historic fort nearby, or just relax and do nothing at all.

As the sun starts to dip toward the water, the sky takes on these beautiful pastel hues — oranges, pinks, and purples blending into the blue. It’s the kind of sunset that feels like a reward for slowing down and just being present.

If you’re in Key West and looking for a peaceful, scenic, and authentic beach experience with plenty of space to spread out, Fort Zachary is it. Highly recommended for families, couples, solo travelers — really anyone who wants to take in the natural beauty of the Keys. This spot easily makes my list of must-visits in...

We visited on a Monday afternoon in late December 2024. There were a line to get into the park. There were maybe 5 cars in front of us. They were still letting folks into the park. It took it 2 loops before we found a spot. We wanted to park by the fort but there are only a few spots there and ended up getting an amazing spot right by one of the beach entrances.

There are bathrooms at the beach. The sand is very rocky and covered in shells. I would suggest wearing water shoes as it will help a lot. The water was fairly clear. We found a spot on the south eastern side of the beach. There were a number of rock structures (4 maybe?) which made great places to snorkel. They were huge but enough to keep you busy for 30 mins or so. The waves were also a factor as it wasn't super sheltered and you can get battered around especially if you go toward the edges or explore the ocean side.

It wasn't very crowded either. We found plenty of space in between folks. There were plenty of spaces that were shaded by trees that you could setup under. While it didn't bother us much, there were many women in thong and string bikinis. If you venture to the concessions area, they have bathrooms there and a small store for merch or beach supplies, we found it pretty underwhelming. There is also food concessions that were overpriced as to be expected. But it was about the water and beach experience here and that I give a 5 out of 5 stars. Very picturesque.

Overall we would visit this park again just for the beach and maybe hike some of the trails around the outside of the fort. We don't need to see the inside of...

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach in Key West is a hidden gem that offers a delightful beach experience. I had a wonderful time soaking in the breathtaking beach views and observing people having a great time under the sun. The beach provides a perfect setting for families to enjoy a picnic together, creating unforgettable memories.

One of the highlights of the beach is the opportunity for snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the ocean. It was incredible to see people exploring the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. The beach also offers free bathing options, allowing visitors to cool off and relax in the refreshing waves.

Food options are readily available, ensuring that no one goes hungry during their visit. Whether you're craving a quick snack or a full meal, there are plenty of choices to satisfy your appetite. Additionally, the beach's picturesque surroundings make it an ideal location for capturing stunning photographs. I couldn't resist taking snapshots of the scenic beauty and the joyful moments shared by fellow beachgoers.

Overall, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach in Key West exceeded my expectations. From its stunning beach views to the lively atmosphere filled with people enjoying various activities, this beach offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with family or simply want to relax and bask in the sun, this beach is definitely worth a visit.

Removed 2 star because of below things - No good option for vegetarians. parking...