Unlike
elsewhere in Florida, the Florida Keys, with one notable exception, does
not possess prime, sandy beaches.
The beaches of the Florida Keys are
made up of coral and shell sediments and the texture is very different
from the powered fine sand found elsewhere on the Florida coastline.
To
cater for the convenience and enjoyment of their guests, many resorts
have constructed their own protected beaches.
Bahia Honda Key(12 miles (19 kms) south of Marathon on US1) is located in
Bahia Honda State Park.
Known as one of the most peaceful beaches in Florida, it is set in 635
acres of nature trails and a portion of Henry Flagler's famous railroad
passes by the beach.
Bahia Honda is unique among the Keys,
offering extensive sandy beaches combined with deep waters close
offshore to provide top class swimming and snorkeling.
Smather's Beach (A1A, west of Key West
Airport and South Roosevelt Blvd., Key West) is the southernmost beach
in the United States and is located near many major
Florida Keys accommodation
properties.
It offers a white, sandy beach with plenty of shade and
restrooms. Concession stands offer rentals of chairs, towels, snorkling
equipment and even catamarans. There is plenty of food and beverages
vendors, picnic tables, showers and bathrooms.
