Anne’s Beach Islamorada Florida 2026 Update

Unique Islamorada Beach in the Florida Keys

What is Anne’s Beach in Islamorada? It’s a small unique beach unlike many you are accustomed to. Shallow water runs out for a hundred yards so it is safe for wading (not so much for swimming). Great place for safely allowing kids to wade.

The “beach” is a few yards of beach between the water’s edge and the mangroves.

Here are some facts about Anne’s Beach:

Overview of Anne’s Beach Islamorada Florida:

• Located on Lower Matecumbe Key, Florida, in Islamorada.
• Dedicated to local environmentalist Anne Eaton.
• Known for its shallow, calm waters, making it ideal for families with young children and those who are less confident swimmers.
• Features two parking lots, picnic tables, boardwalks, and restrooms.
• Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, wading, kayaking, paddleboarding, and kiteboarding.
• Considered a hidden gem, offering a more peaceful and less crowded experience compared to other beaches in the Florida Keys.
• Is Anne’s Beach Free? Yes, there are no fees to enjoy Anne’s Beach Islamorada.

Description:

Anne’s Beach stretches for about a quarter-mile along the Atlantic Ocean, providing ample space for visitors to relax and enjoy the sunshine.

The shallow waters are perfect for wading and splashing, making it a great choice for families with young children. The calm conditions are also ideal for paddle boarding and kayaking.

Amenities:

• Two parking lots, one at the north end and one at the south end.
• A boardwalk connects the two parking lots, offering scenic views of the mangroves.
• Six covered pavilions with picnic tables, provide shade and a comfortable place to eat.
• Restrooms at the north end parking lot.
• No lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.
  

Things to do:

• Swim in the calm, shallow waters.
• Relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
• Build sandcastles.
• Go for a walk on the beach or the boardwalk.
• Have a picnic under the covered pavilions.
• Kayak or paddleboard in the shallow waters.
• Go kiteboarding (conditions permitting).

Update For 2026 – All New Boardwalk & Picnic Area’s

What is Near Anne’s Beach

Beyond the relaxing beach experience, there are several things to do and attractions around Anne’s Beach Islamorada:

• Indian Key Historic State Park: Accessible only by boat, this island offers historic ruins, nature trails, and opportunities for picnicking, kayaking, and birdwatching. (Located at MM 78.5)
• Long Key State Park: Hike, bike, or kayak through diverse habitats, including mangroves, beaches, and a hammock forest. (Located at MM 67.5)
• Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail: Explore this scenic walking and biking path spanning the Florida Keys, passing through Islamorada.
• Theater of the Sea: Watch dolphin and sea lion shows, witness marine animal encounters, and learn about ocean conservation efforts.
• Florida Keys History & Discovery Museum: Delve into the rich history of the Florida Keys through exhibits on shipwrecks, pirates, fishing, and the indigenous people. MM 82.1
• Windley Key Fossil Reef State Geological Site: See fossilized coral reefs over 100,000 years old and explore the unique coastal ecosystem. MM 84.9

These are just a few of the attractions along the Overseas Highway near Anne’s Beach. See our Florida Keys Mile Marker Guide to see all the Keys attractions.

How did Anne’s Beach get its name?

According to the Islamorada Times, the beach was named after a lady who moved to the Keys and loved it so much she became an avid proponent of preserving the identity of the Keys and limiting uncontrolled growth. Her name was Anne Eaton, wife of a wealthy banker named Cyrus Eaton.

After her husband’s death, Anne heard about the Florida Keys, the only frost-free place in the continental United States, and knew she had found her heaven on earth. She is said to have loved Monroe County best. Anne Eaton lived in the Keys until she died in 1992. Her home in Lower Matecumbe, near the beach dedicated to her, is called the Last Resort.

The beach was named after Anne as a tribute to her love of the Florida Keys and her lifetime of being an avid environmentalist.

Where is Anne’s Beach Islamorada?

Anne’s Beach is located at mile marker 73.5 on the Overseas Highway. Turn east onto Oceanside Drive and follow the signs.

Tips:

• Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.
• Bring your own beach umbrella, chairs, and towels.
• There is no concession stand, so be sure to pack your own food and drinks.
• Leave no trace and help keep the beach clean.
• The best time to visit is low tide when the beach reveals all the unseen critters like crabs, seahorses and other crawling critters through the seaweed.

Summing Up Your Stop at Anne’s Beach Islamorada Florida

Anne’s Beach is worth the stop to see a different kind of beach and shoreline experience. The Florida Keys are full of things to see and do that you can’t experience anywhere else in the world.

Are there traditional beaches in Islamorada? Yes, there are several. Places like:

Library Beach:

• Perfect for: Nature lovers, dog walkers, and those seeking a quiet beach experience.
• Description: Natural, undeveloped beach with soft sand, shallow waters, and a mangrove backdrop. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, walking, and dog walking.
• Location: Mile Marker 81.5, Overseas Highway, behind the Islamorada Public Library.

Founder’s Park Beach:

• Perfect for: Families, picnicking, and water sports enthusiasts.
• Description: Expansive beach with soft sand, calm waters, picnic tables, pavilions, restrooms, and a volleyball court. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Location: Mile Marker 82.5, Overseas Highway.

Islamorada Sandbar:

• Perfect for: Snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the unique sandbar experience.
• Description: Accessible only by boat, this shallow sandbar offers crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Popular activities include snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and sandbar picnics.
• Location: Reachable by boat tours from various marinas in Islamorada.

Cheeca Bay Beach:

• Perfect for: Families, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking amenities.
• Description: Large beach with soft sand, calm waters, lifeguards on duty, picnic tables, a concession stand, and restrooms. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
• Location: Mile Marker 82.5, Overseas Highway, within the Cheeca Lodge & Spa resort.

And the State Park Beaches:

• Indian Key Historic State Park: Accessible only by boat, this island offers a beach, historic ruins, nature trails, and opportunities for picnicking, kayaking, and birdwatching. (Located at MM 78.5)
• Long Key State Park: Hike, bike, or kayak through diverse habitats, including mangroves, beaches, and a hammock forest. Enjoy a swim at the beach after your exploration. (Located at MM 67.5)

Remember, Islamorada offers numerous beaches beyond these suggestions. Consider your priorities, such as family-friendly amenities, calm waters, or proximity to restaurants, to pick the perfect beach for your trip

Don’t be afraid to look around and experience something new in the Keys. Anne’s Beach in Islamorada is a unique beach experience in the Florida Keys.

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