Anne's Beach | Florida Keys

Anne’s Beach, located in Islamorada at Mile Marker 73.5 on Lower Matecumbe Key in the Florida Keys, is a quiet, picturesque spot known for its shallow waters, sandy shores, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s one of the few beaches in the area that welcomes pets, making it a popular destination for both families and dog owners. Below is a detailed look at what makes Anne's Beach a special and relaxing destination.

Natural Beauty and Features

Shallow Waters and Calm Currents: Anne’s Beach is famous for its warm, shallow waters, making it a great place for wading and enjoying the water without the risk of strong currents or deep drops. The beach is particularly ideal for families with young children, as the water remains calm and safe for small swimmers. The shallow waters allow visitors to walk out quite a distance, especially during low tide, when much of the beach is exposed.

Wide Sandy Beach: At low tide, the beach stretches out considerably, offering more space for visitors to spread out, sunbathe, and relax. The beach itself is lined with natural vegetation, providing a sense of privacy and seclusion. Its unspoiled charm makes it one of the best places to enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

Boardwalk Through Mangroves: A distinctive feature of Anne’s Beach is the 1,300-foot boardwalk that connects two parking lots. The boardwalk winds through a mangrove forest, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the area’s coastal wetlands. Along the path, you’ll find several covered pavilions with picnic tables, offering shaded spots for visitors to rest and enjoy a meal while taking in the surroundings.

Amenities

Restrooms and Outdoor Showers: The beach is equipped with clean restrooms, as well as outdoor showers where visitors can rinse off after a swim in the warm waters. Although there are no lifeguards on duty, the calm conditions at the beach make it a safe environment for families to enjoy the water.

Picnic Areas: There are several pavilions located along the boardwalk with picnic tables, which are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the ocean. The shaded areas help provide some relief from the sun, and the beach is peaceful enough to enjoy a quiet, relaxed picnic with family and friends.

Pet-Friendly Policy

One of the highlights of Anne’s Beach is its pet-friendly policy. Unlike many other beaches in the Florida Keys, Anne’s Beach allows dogs, making it a perfect destination for pet owners traveling with their furry companions.

Leash Requirements: Dogs must remain on a leash at all times, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets. This pet-friendly approach makes it a popular choice for dog owners, who can enjoy the beach alongside their pets.

Amenities for Pets: The beach provides waste bags for pet owners to clean up after their dogs, and there are occasional water bowls provided to keep pets hydrated. This thoughtful consideration helps make it a pleasant experience for both pets and their owners.

Water Activities

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The shallow and tranquil waters are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can bring their own equipment or rent kayaks and paddleboards from nearby vendors. Paddling through the shallow waters allows you to explore the mangroves and see marine life up close. It’s an enjoyable, low-impact way to experience the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

Kiteboarding: Anne's Beach is also a popular spot for kiteboarding. The combination of shallow waters and consistent winds makes it a good location for both beginners and experienced kiteboarders. The space at the beach allows for easy launching and practice, making it an exciting activity for those looking to try their hand at water sports.

Swimming and Wading: With its shallow, calm waters, Anne’s Beach is a perfect spot for a relaxing swim or a leisurely wade. The beach is less crowded than many other spots in the Keys, offering a peaceful experience without the noise of larger, more commercial beaches.

Nearby Attractions

Sea Oats Beach: Located just north of Anne's Beach, Sea Oats Beach offers a quieter, more secluded spot to enjoy the Florida Keys’ coastal environment. This small, intimate park is a great place for those looking for additional beach space or a more tranquil setting to unwind.

Highway Piers Historical Monument: A short distance from Anne’s Beach, this historical monument commemorates the remnants of a bridge built by World War I veterans during the Great Depression. The monument offers a chance to learn about the region's history and provides an excellent viewpoint over the water.

Accessibility and Location

Parking: There are two main parking lots at Anne's Beach. These lots are connected by the 1,300-foot boardwalk, which means you can park in one lot and enjoy a scenic walk to the beach while exploring the mangroves along the way. Parking is generally available, but on weekends or during peak tourist season, it may fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

Opening Hours: The beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset. This gives visitors plenty of time to enjoy the beach’s natural beauty, whether it’s for a peaceful sunrise walk, a day of kayaking, or a relaxing sunset picnic.

Location: Anne's Beach is located at Mile Marker 73.5 on U.S. Highway 1 (the Overseas Highway) in Islamorada. The location is easily accessible for those driving through the Florida Keys, and it provides a quiet, secluded spot to enjoy the coastal environment.

Conclusion

Anne’s Beach in Islamorada is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience in the Florida Keys. Whether you're interested in swimming, kayaking, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking up the natural beauty of the area, Anne's Beach offers it all. The tranquil atmosphere, pet-friendly policy, and range of water activities make it an ideal spot for families, couples, and pet owners alike. Its combination of shallow waters, scenic boardwalk, and serene environment sets it apart from other beaches in the region, making it a must-visit stop on any Florida Keys adventure.