If you want a fun weekend break, check out Key Colony Beach, also called “KCB” by locals and fans. This lively city in the Florida Keys has something for everyone, like cool nightlife, tasty restaurants, beautiful beaches, and interesting history. It’s not as crowded as Miami but still has all the things you’d expect from a big city.
So pack your bags, grab yours, and head out to explore this hidden wonder of nature.
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Key Colony Beach Overview
- Location: Middle Florida Keys, near Marathon, Florida
- Nickname: “Jewel of the Middle Keys”
- Best time to snorkel: April-October for warm weather, good visibility, and calm currents
- Water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Marine life: Tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, sponges, corals, and other invertebrates
- Experience level: Suitable for all levels, guided tours and lessons available
- Amenities: Scuba shops, boat ramps, public beaches, restaurants, shops, and accommodations
- Parking: Available at beaches, marinas, and rentals, some metered
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Where is Key Colony Beach?
Key Colony Beach is a municipality located on Shelter Key, a small island in the middle of the Florida Keys, United States. It is about 70 miles south of Miami and 40 miles north of Key West.
It is known for its waterfront properties, canals, and access to the Atlantic Ocean.
What To Expect Key Colony Beach
Key Colony Beach, Florida, is a small island located in the Florida Keys, just off the coast of Marathon. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Here are some of the things you can expect when visiting Key Colony Beach:
- Beautiful beaches: Key Colony Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys. The sand is soft and white, the water is clear and turquoise, and the palm trees swaying in the breeze make for a perfect picture-postcard setting.
- Clear waters: The waters around Key Colony Beach are some of the clearest in the Keys. This makes it a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. There are also plenty of opportunities to see marine life, such as dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
- Relaxed atmosphere: Key Colony Beach is a very laid-back place. There is no hustle and bustle, and the pace of life is slow and easy. This is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of everyday life, relax, and recharge.
In addition to its natural beauty, Key Colony Beach also has a number of other attractions, including:
- Key Colony Beach Marina: This marina is a popular spot for boaters and anglers. It offers a variety of services, including dockage, fuel, and repairs.
- Key Colony Beach Golf Course: This 9-hole par 3 golf course is a great place to enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful setting.
- Key Colony Beach Tennis Center: This tennis center offers a variety of courts as well as lessons and clinics.
- Key Colony Beach Community Park: This park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can play there, have lunch, and walk along the path.
Overall, Key Colony Beach is a great place to visit for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. It is a beautiful island with a variety of things to see and do, and it is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Where To Stay In Key Colony Beach
Key Colony Beach is a private community located in the Florida Keys. The beach is not open to the public, but there are a few ways to access it.
- Rent a home or condo in Key Colony Beach. This is the best way to guarantee access to the beach, as many key colony beach rentals include a Cabana Club pass, which gives you access to the private beach and pool.
- Stay at a hotel or motel in Key Colony Beach. Some hotels and Key Colony Beach motels in Key Colony Beach also offer Cabana Club passes to their guest
- Purchase a beach pass. If you’re not staying at Key Colony Beach, you can purchase a day pass to the Cabana Club for $25.
Once you have access to the beach, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There are also a number of restaurants and shops located within walking distance of the beach.
Best Time To Visit Key Colony Beach
Key Colony Beach is a beautiful and relaxing beach town located in the Middle Keys of Florida. It’s known for its gorgeous beaches, calm waters, and stunning sunsets.
The best time to visit Key Colony Beach depends on your preferences for weather and crowds
- Go there between March and May for the best weather. This is when the temperatures are warm and sunny, with little rain. But this is also the busiest time of the year, so prices will be higher and there will be more people.
- For a more affordable and less crowded experience, visit between September and November. The weather is still warm and sunny, but there is a higher chance of rain.
- If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, visit during the off-season (June-August or December-February). The weather can be unpredictable, but you’ll have the beach almost to yourself.
Key Colony Beach 4 Days itinerary
Day – 1
Islamorada
- Start your day by visiting Islamorada, a beautiful island chain located just south of Key Colony Beach. Take a drive along the scenic Overseas Highway and stop at some of the many shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way. Be sure to try some of the local seafood, which is some of the best in the world.
Afternoon: Relax at the Cabana Club
- In the afternoon, head back to Key Colony Beach and relax at the Cabana Club. This private key colony beach club offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, a spa, and a restaurant.
Evening: Enjoy Sunset Park Beach
- As the sun begins to set, head to Sunset Park Beach to watch one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Keys. This popular spot is known for its calm waters and its stunning views of the horizon.
Day – 2
Snorkel at Coffins Patch
- Start your day with a snorkeling adventure at Coffins Patch, a popular reef located just off the coast of Key Colony Beach. This vibrant reef is home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.
Afternoon: Go Fishing
- In the afternoon, head out on a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some of the Keys’ famous fish. There are many different charter operators to choose from, so be sure to do your research and find one that fits your needs
Evening: Take a Break at Curly’s Coffee
- In the evening, relax with a cup of coffee at Curly’s Coffee, a local favorite. This cozy coffee shop is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Day – 3
Boat Around at Keys Kayak Marina
- Start your day with a boat rental from Keys Kayak Marina. Explore the mangrove forests, go kayaking, or just relax on the beach
Afternoon: Key Colony Beach Golf Course
- In the afternoon, head to the Key Colony Beach Golf Course for a round of golf. This challenging course offers stunning views of the ocean and is sure to test your skills.
Evening: Enjoy live music at one of the many bars and restaurants in Key Colony Beach
Day -4
Dolphin Watching Tour
- Start your day with a dolphin-watching tour. There are many different tour operators to choose from, so be sure to do your research and find one that fits your needs.
Afternoon: Shopping and Dining
- In the afternoon, do some shopping and dining at Key Colony Beach. There are many shops and restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something to your liking.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise.
- There are many different sunset cruises to choose from, so be sure to do your research and find one that fits your needs.
- Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the last moments of your Key Colony Beach getaway.
How to Reach Key Colony Beach
There are a few different ways to reach Key Colony Beach. The most popular way is to drive. From Miami International Airport, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive. From the Florida Keys Marathon International Airport, it’s just a 3-mile drive.
If you’re flying to Key West International Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Key Colony Beach. It’s about a 1-hour drive.
You can also take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to Key Colony Beach. At all three airports, taxis are easy to find. Shuttles are also available, but they typically need to be booked in advance.
Once you’re at Key Colony Beach, there are a few different ways to get around. You can take a golf cart, walk, or ride a bike. There is also a public bus service that runs throughout the community.
1. How to reach Key Colony Beach from Miami International Airport:
- Take the Florida Turnpike south to the Turnpike Extension.
- To get on US-1 south, take exit 5.
- Follow US-1 south for about 110 miles.
- Take exit 53 to merge onto Overseas Highway (US-1).
- Follow Overseas Highway south for about 2.5 miles.
- Turn right onto Sombrero Boulevard.
- Key Colony Beach will be on your left.
2. Key Colony Beach from the Florida Keys Marathon International Airport:
- Take Aviation Boulevard south.
- Turn right onto Overseas Highway (US-1).
- Follow Overseas Highway south for about 3 miles.
- Turn left onto Sombrero Boulevard.
- Key Colony Beach will be on your left.
3. How to reach Key Colony Beach from Key West International Airport:
- Take Airport Boulevard south.
- Turn left onto Overseas Highway (US-1).
- Follow Overseas Highway north for about 65 miles.
- Take exit 53 to merge onto Overseas Highway (US-1).
- Follow Overseas Highway south for about 2.5 miles.
- Turn right onto Sombrero Boulevard.
- Key Colony Beach will be on your left.
Things to do in Key Colony Beach
Here are some things you can do in the colony:
- Explore Sunset Park for breathtaking views of the sunset over the water.
- Enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the clear blue waters.
- Visit the Key Colony Beach Golf Course for a round of golf with ocean views.
- Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic paths throughout the community.
- Try fresh seafood at local restaurants like Sparky’s Landing and Cabana Breezes.
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like the Dolphin Research Center or the Turtle Hospital.
- Don’t miss the chance to go sport fishing with local charters for a memorable experience.
- Attend community events and festivals if they coincide with your visit.
- Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches and soak up the Florida sunshine.
- Capture the charm of Key Colony Beach by exploring the residential canals and quaint neighborhoods.
FAQ’S
Where is Key Colony Beach located?
Key Colony Beach is a municipality located in the middle of the Florida Keys in Monroe County, Florida, United States. It lies approximately 75 miles south of Miami.
What is the climate like in Key Colony Beach?
Key Colony Beach has a tropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The average temperature in July is 83°F (28°C), and the average temperature in January is 69°F (21°C).
How do I get to Key Colony Beach?
Key Colony Beach is located on U.S. Route 1 (Overseas Highway), approximately 75 miles south of Miami. The nearest airport is Miami International Airport (MIA), which is about a two-hour drive from Key Colony Beach.
How much does it cost to live in Key Colony Beach?
The cost of living in Key Colony Beach is higher than the national average. Housing costs are particularly high, as are the cost of groceries and transportation.
What is the best time to visit Key Colony Beach?
A: The best time to visit Key Colony Beach is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, and there is less rainfall.
Can I go fishing at Key Colony Beach?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity, and there are opportunities for both shore and deep-sea fishing.
Can I rent bicycles in Key Colony Beach?
Yes, there are rental options for bicycles to explore the area.
What are some popular restaurants in Key Colony Beach?
Explore local seafood restaurants and waterfront dining options.
Is Key Colony Beach safe?
Yes, Key Colony Beach is a safe place to visit. The locals are amiable and welcoming, and there is little crime.
Is Key Colony Beach family-friendly?
Yes, Key Colony Beach is a great place to visit for families. There are many activities and amenities that are perfect for families, such as beaches, parks, and playgrounds.