Rest Beach – Key West, Florida

Quick Facts

• Location: Atlantic Ocean side of Key West, Florida Keys
• Address: White St & Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
• Water Type: Atlantic Ocean
• Beach Type: Public beach park (C.B. Harvey Memorial Rest Beach)
• Sand Type: Soft sand mixed with coral fragments
• Water Conditions: Calm, shallow shoreline waters
• Best For: Sunrise views, beach walks, quiet relaxation
• Best Time to Visit: December–May
• Beach Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Pet Policy: Dogs generally not allowed on the beach area
• Beach Cleanliness: Well maintained public park
• Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
• Pricing: Free public access
• Parking: Free parking available nearby
• Accessibility: Easy access via boardwalk and paved paths
• Crowd Level: Low to moderate

Overview

Rest Beach, also known as C.B. Harvey Memorial Rest Beach, is a small public beach located along Atlantic Boulevard in Key West. The beach stretches roughly 300 yards along the Atlantic shoreline and sits next to White Street Pier and Higgs Beach.

The beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic ocean views. Unlike some of the busier beaches in Key West, Rest Beach offers a quieter setting where visitors can enjoy sunrise views, peaceful walks along the shore, and relaxing ocean breezes.

Amenities & Access

The beach park offers several visitor facilities.

• Boardwalk and paved paths
• Picnic tables and shaded areas
• Restrooms nearby
• Access to Edward B. Knight Pier

The park area also includes memorials and landscaped green spaces surrounding the beach.

Safety & Water Conditions

Atlantic waters here are generally shallow near the shoreline.

Important safety notes:

• Water is typically calm and suitable for wading
• Seaweed may occasionally wash ashore
• Always watch for marine hazards such as jellyfish

Things to Do

Visitors enjoy a variety of relaxing activities.

• Sunrise viewing over the Atlantic
• Beach walking and shell collecting
• Snorkeling near the pier
• Picnicking under palm trees

Nearby Attractions

Visitors exploring Key West may also visit:

• Higgs Beach (next to the pier)
• White Street Pier
• Southernmost Point landmark
• Duval Street historic district

Where to Stay

Many accommodations are located nearby.

• Key West Beach Resorts
• Old Town Key West Hotels
• Vacation rentals throughout the Florida Keys

Tips & Rules

• Visit early morning for the best sunrise views
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen
• Use shaded picnic areas for breaks
• Respect local park rules

Who This Beach Is Best For

Rest Beach is ideal for:

• Visitors seeking a quiet Key West beach
• Sunrise photographers
• Travelers exploring the Florida Keys

Bottom Line

Rest Beach offers a peaceful Atlantic shoreline experience in Key West, combining scenic ocean views, easy public access, and a relaxed park atmosphere perfect for sunrise walks and quiet beach time.

Explore more beaches along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts.