What and Where Is Split Rock / Destroyer Key in Key West?
The Story of Split Rock aka Destroyer Key
Located roughly 3.5 miles west of downtown Key West sits a unique backcountry mangrove island known historically as Split Rock and more commonly today as Destroyer Key. For navigators, the island stands out due to a remarkably straight, deep-water channel cutting directly through its center, dividing what was once a single landmass into two. While the surrounding backcountry is shaped by natural tidal currents, this specific channel is the result of a significant maritime accident involving a World War II veteran warship: the USS Amesbury.
The heavily armored warship crashed into the mangrove island during a storm and became deeply embedded in the limestone and sediment. When salvage tugs finally dragged the massive hull backward to free it, the immense force tore a deep, perfectly straight trench right through the mangroves permanently splitting the island into two. The Amesbury was eventually freed, but sank a short distance away while still under tow. Today, her wreckage rests as a landmark near the Boca Grande sandbar.
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Sunset Watersports Aerial Image Of Split Rock / Destroyer Key
What Makes Split Rock / Destroyer Key So Popular?
Part of what makes Split Rock / Destroyer Key so appealing is that it feels completely different from the more accessible beaches and attractions that make up much of the typical Key West experience. The area is known for shallow turquoise water, great snorkeling, birding and a quieter side of the Florida Keys that many visitors never see during a typical trip around town. This is the perfect stop on your way to the popular sandbars or snorkeling locations.
What can you do at Destroyer Key?
- This is a great location for some shallow water snorkeling.
- There is two locations to host a picnic or kick back and enjoy some beverages of choice.
- Lounge on some floats in the protected turquois waters.
- This site is a common mating location for many of the local sea birds.
💡 Insider tip: Do not try to navigate to Destroyer Key without a local guide or captain. The channel may be obvious from the air but is really difficult to find on a boat.
How Do You Get to Split Rock / Destroyer Key?
Split Rock / Destroyer Key is located in the shallow waters 3.5 miles west of Key West and is reached by boat. Because of shallow water, changing sandbars, channels, tides and weather conditions, the area is best experienced with local captains familiar with the surrounding waters. Click here for more information about private charters to Destroyer Key.
The History of the USS Amesbury
Commissioned in 1943, the USS Amesbury was a destroyer escort named in honor of Lt. Stanton Amesbury, a Navy pilot killed in action over Casablanca. The vessel saw extensive service during the war, protecting Atlantic convoys and participating in the Normandy invasion in June 1944. Later that year, the Amesbury was ordered to Key West to support the Fleet Sonar School. After the war, she was converted into a high-speed transport (designated APD-46) and deployed to the Pacific Theater, where she carried Underwater Demolition Teams during operations in Korea and China
Split Rock / Destroyer Key FAQs
Where is Destroyer Key?
- Split Rock is about 3.5 miles west of Key West, Florida
Why is it called Destroyer Key?
- The most common local story says a U.S. Navy destroyer ran aground near the islands during a storm, although different versions of the story exist among longtime locals and captains.
Can you swim at Split Rock / Destroyer Key?
- Yes. The area is known for shallow clear water, sandbars, floating, swimming, and relaxing on boats during calm conditions.
Do you need a boat to get to Split Rock / Destroyer Key?
- Yes. The area is reached by boat and is best experienced with local captains familiar with the shallow surrounding waters.
Can you snorkel near Split Rock / Destroyer Key?
- Depending on conditions, many visitors explore nearby channels, sandbars, and snorkeling areas while visiting the surrounding waters west of Key West.
Why is Split Rock / Destroyer Key becoming popular online?
- The area has recently gained attention on social media because of its turquoise water, boating atmosphere, local lore, and “secret spot” reputation around Key West.
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