Southernmost Point of the Continental USA

Though the Southernmost Point is at the south end of Key West, it’s not really within walking distance to many other island attractions, so it’s a great idea to include it as part of a tour such as a Key West hop-on hop-off bus. If you’re day-tripping from Miami, book a full-day tour to ensure that you get to the 13-foot-high (4-meter) buoy and other must-see stops, including the Ernest Hemingway House.

• The Southernmost Point is a quick don’t-miss for all first-time visitors to Key West.

• Don’t forget your camera or cell phone.

• Be prepared to wait in line. During peak tourist season, you might face up to a 20-minute wait to capture a photo.

The Southernmost Point is located on the southern coast of Key West at the intersection of South and Whitehead Streets, about a 10-minute drive from the airport. It’s about 1 mile southeast of Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street—perfect for a bike ride or a hired pedicab.

Key West is busiest and most crowded during the winter months. March through May is a great time to travel here for good weather and fewer people.

Although it’s a fun photo stop, many sharp-eyed observers over the years have correctly claimed that the Southernmost Point marker is actually not located at the nation’s southernmost destination. In the continental United States, it’s close, but no Cuban cigar—the nearby Truman Annex takes that honor. When it comes to the entire US, Hawaii’s Ka Lae (or South Point) is farther south.