Located within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the calm and scenic Cannon Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area and is definitely worth a visit in case you’re spending your vacation in Key Largo.
Cannon Beach got its name thanks to the XVIIth-century cannons sitting along its sands and adding a historical edge to the beach atmosphere. It’s a great little spot on the shore to spend a day with your family and friends – and kids will be fond of the cannons for sure!
Location and Access
Cannon Beach is located at 102601 Overseas Highway in Key Largo. The beach is public but you’ll have to pay the state park fee in order to access it, which is $9 per two people (but if you pay $43 to camp overnight, you won’t have to pay for entrance).
Facilities and Services
Visitors can make use of well-maintained toilets and showers. There are shaded picnic tables where you can eat your lunch in comfort. If you want to add more impressions to your vacation, you can rent a kayak or buy a boat tour on-site.
Swimming Conditions
Cannon Beach features soft fine sand and warm shallow water without big waves where even small children can play and swim safely. There is a roped-off swimming area. Be aware that the bottom is quite rocky so water shoes are highly recommended!
Snorkeling and Diving
The beach is also very good for snorkeling. There is plenty of tropical fish and other marine life (including crabs and shrimp) to watch and admire. If you’re an experienced diver, you can make your way underwater to an old Spanish shipwreck close to the beach.
Other Activities
John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park has beautiful nature trails and offers great camping opportunities. The RV sites are spacious, equipped with water, electric, and sewer hookups, and the price is very reasonable. Nature lovers will enjoy walking and wildlife watching – local fauna includes snakes, lizards, and iguanas. There are also various bird species to be found in the area.
Driving Time
- 1 hour 10 minutes from Miami, FL
- 1 hour 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 2 hours 35 minutes from Naples, FL
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Cannon Beach which you can visit:
- Far Beach (0 miles)
- Harry Harris Park Beach (9 miles)
- Anne’s Beach (28 miles)
- Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach (41 miles)
- Crandon Park Beach (43 miles)