Sun and Fun at Sombrero Beach, 11/04/2018

Sombrero Beach features beautiful sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean in Marathon. We had heard it was one of the nicest beaches in the Keys and leashed dogs are permitted. Yay!  It’s easy to find: turn south on Sombrero Beach Road (between K-Mart and Publix) in Marathon from the Overseas Highway, and continue to the end of the road where parking is available. 

It is one of the few coastal areas in the Keys that has no mangroves. Seagrass was in the ocean and along the shoreline, but this is a natural part of the ecosystem here.

There are 12 picnic areas or pavilions that can be reserved. All have picnic tables, and some have shade, grills, benches, and power. There are also volley ball courts, a playground, restrooms and showers. Additional details and reservation forms can be found here: wwwmarathon.fl.us/government/parks/city-parks-and-beaches. 

John always brings our beach umbrella to provide some shade (we both have had bouts with skin cancer). And, Sadie is always happy to be at the beach (but the sand in her coat is a disaster!). There were some jellyfish in the water, but, fortunately, no stings for us.

Exposed fossilized coral can be seen at the point. And a couple of lovely coves are perfect for wading and swimming. 

Several benches provide the perfect place to enjoy the views. These guys found this shaded spot by the water for their hammock. 

The beach was not too crowded; and, the park and parking here is free. 

The beach is a Loggerhead turtle nesting area between April and October. The females come ashore at night to lay their eggs in nests. Beach surveys are conducted daily to look for new turtle nests that become restricted areas (although only about 10% of the beach is closed during that season), until the hatchlings make their way to the water. 

This really is a fantastic place to enjoy the water and sunshine. We will definitely be back.