Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach is a public beach on Atlantic Boulevard in Key West, with shallow water, sandy shoreline and space to spread out. Walk the Reynolds Street Pier, swim from the beach or explore the shore-accessible marine park. The grounds also include a Civil War-era fort, the Key West Garden Club and memorials, including the African Refugee Memorial and burial site. Families can use the playgrounds, while a dog park is across the street. Stay for sunset, or bring a picnic and settle in beneath the trees.
The beach and Reynolds Street Pier
Higgs Beach sits on the Atlantic shore in Key West. Its shallow water and playground make it a practical choice for families with young children. There is room to relax on the sand, and the pier gives you another way to take in the coast. Stairways from the pier lead into the water, so you can swim from there as well as from the beach.
The park covers about 16.5 acres of oceanfront. Seaweed sometimes gathers along the shore, which can affect where you want to swim. If you would rather not bring beach equipment, rentals are available nearby, including chairs and kayaks. The park also has picnic tables, outdoor showers and public restrooms.
Fort West Martello, gardens and memorials
There is more to explore here than the shoreline. Fort West Martello dates to the Civil War era and is home to the Key West Garden Club. The fort is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and self-guided tours are available. The gardens offer a quieter stop between time on the sand and a walk along the pier.
The grounds also hold the African Refugee Memorial and burial site, along with an AIDS Memorial. Take time to visit these places respectfully. Small historical memorials can also be found along the pier.
Across the street, the dog park gives visitors with dogs a place to stop, while the beach grounds have playgrounds and a volleyball court. Tennis and handball courts are nearby. The beach is a useful option if you want to combine time by the water with a walk through gardens or a visit to the park’s historic sites.
Häufige Fragen
Is Higgs Beach free to visit?
The beach entrance is free. Free parking is available along the beach, though paid parking options are also listed.
Can you swim at Higgs Beach?
Yes. The beach has shallow swimming water, and stairways from the pier lead into the water. Seaweed can collect along the shore.
Are dogs allowed at Higgs Beach?
A dog park is across the street from the beach. The park amenities list also notes that dogs are allowed.
What historic sites are at Higgs Beach?
The grounds include Civil War-era Fort West Martello, home of the Key West Garden Club, as well as the African Refugee Memorial and burial site and an AIDS Memorial.
