Standing at the Edge: How the Southernmost Point Anchors a Key West Day of Sun, Salt and Sea
A compact island marker that opens the door to jet skis, reefs and sunset rituals
If you arrive at the Southernmost Point buoy in Key West before sunrise, the island offers a rare kind of hush: the Atlantic slides in soft and silver, a few fishermen cast off in the distance and the painted concrete buoy—chunky, cheerful, impossible to miss—seems to breathe with the tide. That buoy is the island's greeting and its claim: this is the southernmost marker of the continental United States, where tourists jockey politely for photos and the ocean reminds you how small a place you occupy. The salt air tastes of citrus and diesel; a pelican rides a curl nearshore and the sea dares you to go farther.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the selfie line
Visit at sunrise for soft light and far fewer people; if you take a boat or jet-ski tour they’ll often stop at the buoy so you can avoid the crowd.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral by using reef-safe SPF and reapply after water activities with a towel dry technique.
Combine land and sea
Pair your buoy stop with a morning jet-ski loop (27–28 miles) or a half-day snorkel/cruise to see the reef and dolphins.
Wear comfortable shoes
Old Town’s streets can be cobbled or uneven—opt for supportive sandals or trainers for walking tours.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park—excellent snorkeling and beach access
- •Bahama Village—local artisans, authentic food and quieter streets
Wildlife
bottlenose dolphins, green sea turtles
Conservation Note
The Florida Reef is fragile—choose eco-certified tour operators, use reef-safe sunscreen, and support local reef restoration programs when possible.
Key West grew wealthy as a wrecking and salvage center in the 19th century, later becoming a hub for Cuban cigar makers and an isolated railroad terminus before the Overseas Highway connected the Keys.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild temperatures, birding & snorkeling, fewer storms than summer
Challenges: still busy on holiday weekends, sun intensity increases
Spring is ideal for comfortable weather, clearer water for snorkeling, and manageable crowds — especially March and April.
summer
Best for: long days on the water, early-morning jet-ski tours, diving
Challenges: heat and humidity, peak hurricane season risk begins in June
Summer delivers warm seas and vibrant marine life but brings high heat and the start of tropical storm season; early outings are best.
fall
Best for: lower prices, quieter streets, late-season diving
Challenges: highest hurricane risk (Aug–Oct), variable weather
Fall sees fewer visitors and attractive deals, but monitor tropical forecasts and buy flexible bookings.
winter
Best for: cooler, dry weather, peak birdwatching, crowd-filled holiday season
Challenges: busy with tourists, higher accommodation rates
Winter offers crisp, pleasant days and is peak visitor season—book ahead for tours and sunset spots.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated in the salt air and sun—refill stations are available in Old Town.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protect coral and your skin—choose mineral-based SPF for snorkeling and diving.
Light sun hat and UV sunglassesEssential
Blocks glare on the water and prevents sunburn during midday explorations.
Water shoes or supportive sandals
Useful for sandbar stops, rocky shorelines, and walking Old Town’s uneven streets.
Common Questions
Is the Southernmost Point buoy the actual southernmost location in the U.S.?
The painted buoy marks the symbolic southernmost point accessible to the public in the continental U.S.; a private compound nearby is slightly farther south, but the buoy is the iconic public landmark.
How far is Key West from Cuba?
The Southernmost Point buoy is roughly 90 miles (about 145 kilometers) north of Cuba.
Can I swim from the buoy?
No—there’s no safe public beach directly at the buoy; nearby Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Smathers Beach offer safe swimming spots.
What’s the best way to avoid crowds for photos?
Visit at sunrise or join a water-based tour that stops at the buoy to get photos without the landline.
Are there conservation rules to follow when snorkeling/diving?
Yes—do not touch or stand on coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact on marine life.
How long does a typical jet ski tour take?
Most island jet-ski tours run about 90 minutes and cover roughly 27–28 miles circling the island with scenic stops.
What to Pack
reusable water bottle (hydration); reef-safe sunscreen (protect reef and skin); light rain shell (afternoon showers possible); comfortable walking shoes (Old Town cobbles).
Did You Know
The painted concrete buoy marking the Southernmost Point sits roughly 90 miles north of Cuba, a fact widely cited in travel and historical sources.
Quick Travel Tips
Book popular water tours in advance; arrive at the buoy at sunrise to avoid lines; carry small cash for vendors and tips; check marine weather before booking water activities.
Local Flavor
Key West blends Cuban and Bahamian influences—try Cuban coffee, conch fritters, and a slice of Key lime pie; Bahama Village and Duval Street offer food stalls, live music and artisans that reflect the island’s multicultural roots.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: Whitehead & South St., Old Town Key West. Best time: sunrise or late afternoon. Parking: limited—use a shuttle, walk, or combine with a guided tour. Must-do: pair the buoy visit with a reef snorkeling, jet-ski loop, or walking tour for full context.
Sustainability Note
Protect the reef: use reef-safe sunscreen, choose eco-minded operators, avoid single-use plastics, and follow no-touch rules while snorkeling and diving.