If you’re heading down to the Florida Keys and looking for a beautiful place to stop and take some photos, Anne’s Beach in Islamorada is worth adding to your itinerary.
Located along US-1 in Islamorada, Anne’s Beach is a little different from the typical sandy Florida beach. The water is extremely shallow, the shoreline is made up of soft clay-like mud, and there is very little wave action. While it may not be the best beach if you’re looking for soft sand and swimming, it is a peaceful place to explore and photograph the Florida Keys.
Anne’s Beach was devastated by Hurricane Irma but was completely rebuilt and reopened in August 2019, with new boardwalks, pavilions, and other improvements.
Parking at Anne’s Beach
If you look at reviews on TripAdvisor, you’ll see quite a few complaints about the parking and the lack of a traditional sandy beach. There are two small parking areas located about a quarter-mile apart along US-1.
We visited in January and had no trouble finding a parking spot, although parking conditions can vary depending on the season and time of day.
What Is the Beach Like?
The shoreline is definitely different from what you might expect when you hear the word "beach." The surface has been described as clay-like and muddy, which I found to be pretty accurate.
It was also extremely slick. I felt like I was walking on ice and managed to slide more than once, so be careful when walking along the shoreline!
One of the things that makes Anne’s Beach unique is just how shallow the water is. You can wade quite a distance from shore and still only be up to your knees.
There is very little wave action, making the area especially appealing for families with young children. Dogs are also permitted as long as they are kept on a leash.
Is Anne’s Beach Worth a Stop?
If you’re looking for a traditional Florida beach with soft sand, clear swimming water, and plenty of room to spread out, Anne’s Beach may disappoint you.
But if you enjoy photography, exploring unusual places, shallow water, and beautiful Florida Keys scenery, I think it is worth a stop—especially if you’re already driving through Islamorada.
For me, the unique scenery and photo opportunities made it worth getting out of the car and exploring.
Anne’s Beach Information
Location: US-1 at Mile Marker 73, at the southern end of Upper Matecumbe Key in Islamorada, Florida
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Parking: Two parking areas approximately ¼ mile apart
Dogs: Permitted, but must be leashed
Boating: No motorboats or personal watercraft
Fishing: Not permitted
Amenities: Boardwalk, pavilions, and restroom at the north parking lot
Anne’s Beach was rebuilt after Hurricane Irma and officially reopened on August 23, 2019.
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