The tranquil sandbars around Key West are one of Florida’s most unique natural features – take a tour to discover what these secret spots of relaxation.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Visiting the sandbars around Key West can be a unique experience. These sandbars are formed by an accumulation of sand in the ocean and are distinctive places to wade, swim, and relax in the shallow waters. The waters around Key West are particularly clear meaning that it can feel like walking in a giant natural swimming pool, albeit with the chance to catch exotic marine life. There are plenty of sandbar trips and tours available – we decided to have a look at what is on offer.
Key West: Sandbar Excursion & Kayak Tour with Lunch & Drinks
At five hours long, this tour is the best part of the day, and included in the price are several Key West classic activities. You’ll be exploring Key West’s Florida Marine Sanctuary on a boat tour, as well as paddling through the lush mangroves on a guided kayaking excursion. The highlight of the day – a welcome after all that kayaking – is the chance to relax on a sandbar, where you are treated to a delicious lunch. On the menu are fresh local Cuban sandwiches, fried chicken tenders, veggie wraps, fruit and veggie trays, cheese, and cracker platters, and pita and hummus platters, all washed down with unlimited draft beer, wine, and soft drinks. From €125.13.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
This is a short trip at just 2.5 hours long but it is a memorable experience. It starts at Cow Key Marina on Stock Island where you’ll get your very own small speedboat – aka a pistol boat – to cruise into the backcountry of Key West. As this isn’t a large boat cruise you feel like you can get a little closer to the wildlife, with ospreys easy to spot, as well as sharks swimming beneath you and manatees feeding on mangroves. Mud Key is the destination, a small but beautiful sandbar nestled in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here you can get out, wade, and explore in this tranquil setting. From €159.15 (per group of up to two).
Book at Getyourguide.com
Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West
For anyone who wants to combine dedicated dolphin spotting with the chance to relax at a secluded sandbar, this is the tour for you. It’s a nice mix of learning about the area and just kicking back at the sandbar, with expert guides giving insights into the history and ecology of the area, plus the bonus of mimosas and unlimited draft beer. The second part of the five-hour trip is about dolphin watching, venturing to the dolphin playground in the Florida Marine Sanctuary. A hearty lunch is included with the tour price too. From €136.59.
Book at Viator.com
Key West: 4-Hour Private Sandbar Cruise on a Tiki Bar Boat
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
As travel accessories go, bringing your own bar with you on a boat trip is pretty unique. You’ll be heading out to one of Key West’s sandbars on a private excursion – the vessel is a tiki bar boat, basically a thatched floating bar. There is a chance to see rays, turtles, fish, and even dolphins on the way, as well as wade and swim in the clear waters. A bar it may be, but the drinks aren’t included in this tour – instead, you can bring your own, alcohol included, and cosplay as Tom Cruise in Cocktail to your heart’s content. A floating mat, foam noodles, bottled water, and ice, and a Bluetooth speaker are all included. From €504.61 per group up to six.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Private Secret Sandbar Escape
If you fancy something private and a little romantic, this is the perfect sandbar tour. With this half-day experience, you’ll escape the crowds and discover a secret, private paradise. This private trip takes you to secluded sandbars and uninhabited islands, with pristine beaches and beautiful, crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect excursion whether you want to explore tide pools full of marine life, tuck into a tasty picnic, or just do some sunbathing. Snacks, bottled water, ice, and a cooler are all included. From €906.36 per group up to six.
Book at Viator.com