Higgs Beach and its park are one of Key West’s most visited waterfront areas. Apart from white sands, tropical plants and warm water, Higgs Beach Park is also the site of many important historic and cultural attractions. Pay your respects at what is believed to be the United States only African refugee cemetery or commemorate the victims of AIDS at another impressive memorial. A tour through the Civil War–era fort and the Key West Garden Club that surrounds it reveals yet another side of Higgs Beach.
Higgs Beach Park occupies more than 16 acres (6.5 hectares) of beachfront land. The clean beach spans a large area of Key West’s Atlantic Coast, so there is plenty of space to stretch out.
Bring the whole family to Higgs Beach to enjoy the sun. Rent umbrellas and beach lounges from vendors on the beach to add some luxury to your day, before entering the water for a swim. Snorkel in the shallow water to see the local marine life or head further out to sea by renting a kayak.
Just away from the beach you’ll find many important landmarks of Key West. Visit the African burial site, where a large number of African refugees found their final resting place. The nearby AIDS memorial is among the largest in the United States. Explore the Civil War era fort or take a self-guided walking tour of the Key West Garden Club surrounding it. The lush landscape houses many tropical plants, so don't forget your camera.
The park is a favorite among active residents, who regularly come here to work out.
A string of sporting facilities behind the shoreline are a great place to get active during your vacation. Practice your serve on the tennis courts or join the locals for a game of beach volleyball.
There's also a beachside children's playground, as well as a well-maintained dog park.
Higgs Beach is located on Key West’s southern coast and can be easily reached on foot or bicycle from the center of town. Free parking is available at the top of the public beach.
