a wave in the ocean
Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash

Activity

Sea KayakingSUPBeginner

Conditions

OceanOpen WaterTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)

Key West, FL · Boat Ramp · Public

Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) is a public boat ramp on Similar Sound - Hawk Channel - Atlantic Ocean near Key West, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers sea kayaking, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Ocean

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

24 Hours

Activities

Sea Kayaking, SUP

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

About This Location

Ocean access at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) near Key West, Florida. Good for sea kayaking and sup.

Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) sits on the Florida coast, offering access to Similar Sound - Hawk Channel - Atlantic Ocean for sea kayaking, SUP, and coastal exploration.

More experienced paddlers will find opportunities for sea kayaking along the coast. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect open water and tidal conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms.

Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) sits about 10 min from Key West, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Check tide tables and swell forecasts before launching.
  • Always paddle with a buddy in open ocean conditions.
  • Carry a marine VHF radio or waterproof phone for emergencies.
  • Wear a brightly colored PFD so boats can spot you easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)?
Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) is a public boat ramp in Florida. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 24 Hours.
What activities are available at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)?
Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)?
The best time to paddle at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)?
Water conditions at Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) include open water, tidal.
Is Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) good for beginners?
Yes, Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 24.6013, -81.6472

Quick Facts

State
Florida
Region
Southeast
Getting There
~10 min from Key West
Get Directions

24.6013, -81.6472

Best Paddling in Florida

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Shark Key Wayside Park Public Boat Ramp (Mile Marker 11)

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!