Southernmost Point Buoy | Florida Keys

The Southernmost Point Buoy is one of the most iconic landmarks in Key West, Florida, marking the southernmost point of the continental United States. Located at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street, it has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to take photos at this geographical and symbolic spot.

History

The Southernmost Point Buoy was erected in 1983 by the City of Key West to celebrate its location at the southern tip of the United States. While Key West is geographically closer to Cuba than to mainland Florida, it is still part of the United States. The buoy was designed to provide a visible marker of this significant location, and over time, it has become a symbol of Key West's unique position in the nation and its laid-back, island lifestyle.

Design and Appearance

The buoy is a large, colorful, concrete marker painted in red, black, and yellow, with the words "Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A." clearly visible. The buoy stands approximately 12 feet tall, and its bright colors make it easily recognizable from a distance. The marker features a sign indicating that it is only 90 miles from Cuba, which adds to its significance, as it emphasizes Key West’s proximity to the Caribbean island.

Location and Significance

The buoy is located at Whitehead Street and South Street, at the intersection where many visitors to Key West pass on their way to the island's historic sites, waterfront, and downtown area. It has become an essential stop for tourists who visit Key West and is a prime photo opportunity. Visitors line up to take their picture next to the buoy, creating a fun and festive atmosphere around the spot.

Though the buoy marks the southernmost point of the continental U.S., it’s worth noting that Point Udall in the U.S. Virgin Islands is actually farther south. Nevertheless, the Southernmost Point Buoy is widely recognized as one of the most significant geographical landmarks in Key West, symbolizing the laid-back and unique character of the island.

Cultural and Tourist Impact

The Southernmost Point Buoy is perhaps the most photographed site in Key West, as people from all over the world make their way to this spot to snap a picture. It is an integral part of the island's identity and an essential part of the tourist experience. People come to enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean and the proximity to Cuba, and many take time to reflect on the significance of the location.

The buoy also serves as a reminder of Key West’s importance in U.S. history, especially during the era when the island was a strategic naval base. While today it is a major tourist attraction, it remains an important and memorable spot for both locals and visitors to celebrate the uniqueness of the island’s culture and its location.

Visiting the Southernmost Point Buoy

The buoy is free to visit and accessible at all hours, though it’s most popular during the day when visitors are eager to take pictures. Since the area around the buoy can get crowded, especially during the tourist season, it’s often best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter experience and fewer people in the photos.

Key West also offers several other notable landmarks nearby, so visitors can easily pair a visit to the Southernmost Point Buoy with other attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Mallory Square, or the nearby Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

In conclusion, the Southernmost Point Buoy is a quintessential part of Key West, offering a unique and picturesque experience for all who visit. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a traveler wanting to say you've been to the southernmost point of the continental U.S., this landmark is an unmissable part of any trip to Key West.