Discover the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys.
Have you ever dreamed of paddling through crystal-clear waters alongside vibrant marine life?
The best places to paddle board in Florida Keys await your adventure.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through this coastal haven. Are you ready to make a splash?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Florida Keys
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Bahia Honda State Park
- ????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Bahia Honda State Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, clear water, gentle breezes
- Popular Seasons: Year-round, peak during Winter and Spring
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea turtles, tropical fish, rays
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Old Bahia Honda Bridge, beautiful white sand beaches
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to state park regulations, be aware of occasional strong currents
Bahia Honda State Park, located within the Florida Keys archipelago, boasts crystal clear waters and white sand beaches.
This tropical paradise is perfect for exploring on a paddleboard, with a variety of marine wildlife and breathtaking views.
The calm water conditions and gentle breezes make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
#2 Islamorada
- ????️ Location Type: Bay, Oceanfront
- Access Point: Founders Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, mild ocean swell
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, manatees, tarpon
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Mangrove-lined waterways, Florida Bay backcountry
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, adhere to protected areas restrictions
Islamorada, also known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” offers a diverse paddleboarding experience, with options to explore both the Atlantic Ocean and the calm backcountry waters of Florida Bay.
Rich with marine life, it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins, manatees, and tarpon as you cruise through the mangrove-lined waterways.
#3 Key West
- ????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront, Channels
- Access Point: Smathers Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate waves, ocean currents
- Popular Seasons: Winter and Spring
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea turtles, dolphins, coral reef fish
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Historic seaport, mangrove islands
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow waterway markers, be aware of boat traffic
Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States, offers something for everyone seeking to explore the unique vibe of this island city. Paddleboarding through Key West’s waters will take you past historic seaport, colorful coral reefs, and lush mangrove islands.
With a mix of calm inshore waters and open ocean swells, there are options for both beginner and experienced paddlers.
#4 Robbie’s of Islamorada
- ????️ ️Location Type: Bay
- ????Access Point: Robbie’s Marina (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, occasional currents
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Tarpon, manatees, pelicans
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Florida Bay, mangroves, marine life
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow marina rules, be cautious of boat traffic
Robbie’s of Islamorada offers a unique paddleboarding experience starting from the marina and leading into the serene waters of Florida Bay. As you glide along the mangroves, you can enjoy close encounters with the local pelicans and the famous tarpon that reside in the area.
Don’t forget to stop by Robbie’s after your paddle for a bite to eat and to feed the fish!
#5 Smathers Beach, Key West
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- Access Point: Smathers Beach parking lot (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate waves, ocean currents
- Popular Seasons: Year-round, peak during Winter months
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea turtles, tropical fish, seabirds
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Atlantic Ocean, Key West shoreline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for swimmers, respect water sports zones
Smathers Beach is Key West’s largest public beach, offering easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. This beach is perfect for paddlers wanting to explore the expansive shoreline or experience ocean waves without venturing too far from the sand.
A popular spot for water sports, it’s essential to be cautious of other beachgoers and follow designated water sports zones.
#6 Anne’s Beach, Islamorada
- ????️ Location Type: Bay
- Access Point: Anne’s Beach Parking Area (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, occasional light currents
- Popular Seasons: Year-round, peak during Winter and Spring
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Manatees, tropical fish, seabirds
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Mangrove-lined shore, shallow sandbars
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect wildlife, avoid shallow areas
Anne’s Beach is a hidden gem in Islamorada, offering shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for a leisurely paddleboard excursion.
With its mangrove-lined shore and shallow sandbars, the area is ideal for spotting manatees and colorful tropical fish. Bring your waterproof camera for some incredible underwater shots!
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in the Florida Keys?
Popular paddle boarding spots in the Florida Keys include Key Largo, Marathon Key, and Bahia Honda State Park.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in the Florida Keys?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in the Florida Keys.
When is the best time to paddle board in the Florida Keys?
The ideal time for paddle boarding in the Florida Keys is from November through May due to favorable weather conditions.
