Top Key West Sandbars & How To Get There
Key West is famous for its stunning sandbars, where you’ll find pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters—a true paradise. However, navigating the local waterways can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Without the right knowledge, you might miss out on these unforgettable, bucket-list adventures.
To help you make the most of your time in Key West, we’ve put together a quick guide to the top sandbars, complete with tips on how to get there safely and easily. Whether you’re planning a day of sunbathing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in this tropical paradise, our guide will ensure you don’t miss out on these hidden gems.
Jewfish Basin Sandbar: The All Inclusive Sandbar Experience
The sandbar at Jewfish Basin, located just 7 miles north of Key West, is one of the area’s most popular hangout spots. Known for its lively atmosphere and stunning surroundings, this sandbar attracts both locals and visitors alike. However, the journey can be challenging, as the route involves navigating tricky shallow waters, which often deters many boats from attempting the trip. But don’t let that stop you! The adventure is well worth it, as Jewfish Basin offers a slice of paradise that’s truly unmatched.
For a worry-free experience, join us on our guided tour, where we’ll safely navigate the waters and bring you to this incredible sandbar. With food and drinks included, all you need to do is relax and enjoy your time at one of Key West’s top sandbar destinations.
- How to get to Jewfish Basin sandbar: You really want to do this charter (click here). It includes food, drinks and guided kayak tour
Public Trip To Jewfish Basin Sandbar
Public Trip To Jewfish Basin Sandbar
Private Trip To Jewfish Basin
Jewfish Basin Sandbar Tour Video
Mud Keys Sandbar: The Most Scenic Sandbar
The sandbar nestled within the hidden mangroves of Mud Keys stands out as the most picturesque among Key West’s sandbars. Tucked away in a secluded, serene setting, this location offers a truly unique experience, surrounded by lush mangroves that provide a sense of adventure and tranquility. The Mud Keys sandbar is a hidden gem, featuring multiple sandbars waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat or an exciting day of discovery, this scenic spot promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
- How to get to Mud Keys sandbar: Rent a boat or join this guided tour where you drive your own boat
Public Trip To Mud Keys Sandbar
Private Trip To Mud Keys Sandbar
Mud Keys Sandbar Tour Video
Boca Chica Sandbar: Key West’s Closest Sandbar
Boca Chica sandbar is the closest and most convenient sandbar destination in Key West, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for a quick escape. Just a short distance from the island, this sandbar offers an easily accessible paradise where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the Florida Keys. The shallow turquoise waters are mesmerizing and perfect for relaxing, wading, or simply soaking in the sun.
No matter the time of year, Boca Chica’s pristine waters provide a stunning backdrop for your beach day, making it an ideal spot for a spontaneous getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day with friends, Boca Chica sandbar offers a slice of paradise right at your fingertips.
- How to get to Boca Chica sandbar: The most unique was is by this jetski tour. You can also rent a boat
Public Trips To Boca Chica Sandbar
Private Trips To Boca Chica Sandbar
Boca Chica Jetski Tour Video
Snipes Point Sandbar: The White Sand Beach Sandbar
Snipes Point is a true gem, renowned for its seemingly endless stretches of beautiful white sand beaches. This idyllic location is more than just a sandbar; it’s a destination that draws travelers from around the globe. The serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make Snipes Point a must-visit spot in Key West.
One of the most iconic features of Snipes Point is the world-famous tree swing, a symbol of carefree island life that has become a popular subject for photographers and Instagrammers alike. The swing, set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, captures the essence of paradise. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or snap the perfect vacation photo, Snipes Point offers an unforgettable experience in a setting that’s truly picture-perfect.
- How to get to Snipes Point sandbar: Rent a boat or rent a boat with a captain
Currently No Public Trips To Snipes Point Sandbar
Private Trip To Snipes Point Sandbar
Boat Rentals Sandbar Video
Boca Grande Sandbar: The Local’s Hangout
Boca Grande is the ultimate getaway, offering the most remote and untouched sandbar experience near Key West. As the westernmost and largest island in the Mule Keys, Boca Grande stands out for its seclusion and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Located about 14 miles from Key West, this sandbar is truly a hidden treasure.
The journey to Boca Grande is well worth the effort, rewarding visitors with expansive sandy shores and pristine waters that feel like a world away from the bustling island life. Its distance from Key West adds to its allure, offering a sense of tranquility and solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re looking for a truly remote and unspoiled spot to relax and explore, Boca Grande is the sandbar destination that delivers an unforgettable experience.
- How to get to Boca Grande sandbar: Rent a boat with captain
Currently No Public Trips, Must Be Private
Private Trip To Boca Grande Sandbar
Boat Rentals Video
Key West's Featured Sandbar Charter: The Sandbar & Kayak Eco Adventure
Let’s Explore Key West’s Florida Marine Sanctuary On This Ultimate Sandbar & Kayak Eco Adventure! Join us for some backcountry fun & excitement as we explore the Florida Marine Sanctuary. This trip is perfectly planned to see as much local wildlife as possible and takes you to two of the most secluded mangrove islands here in Key West. Lunch is served on this trip as well as unlimited draft beer & wine once done with the kayak tour.
Check Out All Of Our Sandbar Adventures!
Sandbar Charter Reviews
Sunset Watersports boat rental crew made it easy to rent. The shop had fishing pole rentals, snorkeling rentals and bait. Helped us download the navionics app on our smartphones and prepared us for what the waterways were like. Great guys!
– TripAdvisor
My wife and I were in Key West to celebrate her birthday. The staff were very helpful. They advised us the 21' center console fishing boat would be a better option due to the weather conditions which was a good choice, as it had been renovated recently and had better equipment. The staff prepared us for our outing, we took their advice and had a great day. We cruised around the entire island. Encountered a group of dolphins who joined us for about 30 minutes, playing in our wake and leaping out of the water. It was fantastic! Went to the sandbar and enjoyed relaxing in the ocean. Big thumbs ups from us!
– TripAdvisor
Absolutely incredible golf cart rental. The crew were fantastic. If you want to explore Key West rent a golf cart! We rented a golf cart and had a great time. We drove all over Key West!!
– TripAdvisor
Our private charter was absolutely perfect! We started with some light fishing, and the captain took us to a spot where we caught snapper, grouper and even a small sharks. Afterward, we headed to a secluded sandbar where the captain set up everything for us to relax, swim, and enjoy the sun.
– Debbie I. | Tripadvisor
This was the best part of our vacation. The captain took us to prime fishing spots where we caught snapper and grouper, and after a fun morning of fishing, we relaxed at a secluded sandbar. The captain handled everything, from baiting the hooks to serving drinks, making it an easy and enjoyable experience. If you're looking for the best private charter in Key West, this is it!
– Joe C. | Tripadvisor
My husband and I did the boat safari eco tour with Bridget, and had the best time! I will say that I recommend this only for people with some prior boating experience. The trip out to the mangrove area is about 25 minutes, and then you spend about an hour - 90 minutes in an area of shallow water where you can snorkel, swim, and look for shells/wildlife. We saw some rays while snorkeling. We loved being on the water!
– Colada K. | Tripadvisor
Kevin was our tour guide and I highly recommend him! His knowledge is outstanding and he is extremely well versed in all aspects of the keys (Key West) and it’s water life. He took us to the most beautiful sandbar, where we saw stingray, Sea Biscuits and Conchs. He found these items for us to view and observe and answered all of our questions clearly. He is also super friendly, kind and fun! So so grateful to him for showing us a once and a lifetime experience!
– Keywestlove100 | Tripadvisor
The crew at Sunset WaterSports are really awesome ! The staff there were so accommodating. These guys were all professional and made my stay in Key West that much more special. Thanks and can't wait to return !!!
– Aaron S. | Tripadvisor