Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Anne's Beach unspools along a half-mile of Islamorada's Atlantic shore, its elevated boardwalks clicking beneath your feet as you pass through tunnels of mangrove before emerging onto a beach where sand actually exists—a rarity in this limestone archipelago. Named for local environmentalist Anne Eaton, the park protects a fragile wetland ecosystem while offering families and beachgoers a place to spread towels beneath shady pines and wade into water so shallow you can walk fifty yards out and still barely wet your knees. The beach reveals itself in layers: first the boardwalk, then picnic pavilions built on stilts, finally the sand sloping gently into Florida Bay's jade-green shallows. Seagrass beds visible beneath the surface attract schools of mullet and the occasional stingray, while ospreys nest in the mangroves overhead. You won't find crashing surf here—the bay is calm, protected, ideal for toddlers and paddlers who launch kayaks to explore the maze of mangrove channels. Sunset transforms the scene. Families gather at the western picnic shelters as the light turns golden, casting long shadows across the sand. The horizon opens wide over the bay, unobstructed, and the sky shifts through apricot and violet as pelicans skim the water in silhouette. You'll understand why locals return week after week, claiming the same picnic table, bringing coolers and folding chairs to watch the day end over this quiet, protected stretch of shore.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Anne's Beach.
Photos
Anne's Beach is ideal for families with young children due to its extremely shallow, calm waters that extend far from shore. The beach sits on the Atlantic side but is protected, creating gentle conditions perfect for wading. However, there's no lifeguard on duty, so supervision is essential. The sandy bottom can have some rocky patches and seagrass, so water shoes are recommended. The calm, shallow nature makes it one of the safest swimming spots in the Florida Keys for families.
Anne's Beach is accessible year-round, with winter months (December-April) offering the most comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, though it can be busier. Summer brings heat and afternoon thunderstorms but fewer crowds. For spectacular sunsets, visit in the evening any time of year—the beach faces west over the bay side. Early mornings offer peaceful beach walks and excellent lighting for photography. Avoid visiting during hurricane season peaks (August-October) when weather can be unpredictable.
Anne's Beach has a free public parking lot located directly off the Overseas Highway (US-1) at Mile Marker 73.5 on the oceanside. The lot accommodates around 20-30 vehicles and can fill quickly on weekends and holidays, especially during peak season. Arrive early morning for the best chance of securing a spot. There's also roadside parking along the highway if the lot is full, though exercise caution. The beach entrance is clearly marked and easily accessible from the parking area.
Anne's Beach has basic amenities including restrooms and picnic pavilions, but no on-site food service. For dining, you'll find numerous restaurants within a few miles along the Overseas Highway in Islamorada, including casual seafood spots and upscale options. Lazy Days Restaurant is about a mile south. For accommodations, Islamorada offers everything from luxury resorts like Cheeca Lodge to budget-friendly motels and vacation rentals, most within a 5-10 minute drive of the beach.
Yes, Anne's Beach features a scenic elevated boardwalk that stretches over 1,000 feet through mangroves and tidal zones, accessible at any tide level. The boardwalk is particularly enjoyable at low tide when you can observe marine life in shallow pools below. It's wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it perfect for all visitors. The wooden walkway provides shade and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Many visitors use it for peaceful walks while enjoying views of the mangrove ecosystem unique to the Florida Keys.
