Anne's Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key at Mile Marker 73 of the Overseas Highway honors local environmental Anne Eaton, who dedicated her life to preserving the Florida Keys natural beauty despite being paralyzed by polio at age 24. A teacher by profession, Eaton married a 74-year-old Ohio millionaire and founder of Republic Steel Corporation at age 35, falling in love with the Keys in the 1960s and purchasing an old frame house built of Dade County pine. She actively campaigned against over-development of the Keys and helped raise funds for the preservation of this stretch of beach as a county park, ensuring future generations could experience one of the rare natural sandy beaches in the Keys. The beach represents a significant achievement in Florida Keys conservation, protecting shoreline from commercial development while providing free public access. Two parking lots approximately one-quarter mile apart on U.S. 1 oceanside serve the beach area, with boardwalks extending across shallow flats characteristic of Atlantic-side Keys beaches.
Anne's Beach offers exceptional shallow-water experiences with almost no wave action due to the wide expanse of shallow water typical of Florida Keys beaches facing the Atlantic Ocean. The natural sandy beach features covered picnic tables, extensive boardwalk systems, and bathroom facilities for visitor convenience. Kiteboarding has become particularly popular here, with the shallow waters presenting an excellent learning environment for beginning kiteboarders who appreciate the forgiving conditions. The expansive shallow flats allow visitors to wade far from shore, observing marine life including tropical fish, crabs, and seagrass beds supporting the Keys ecosystem. Swimming, picnicking, photography, and sunset viewing remain favorite activities. The free access beach park provides a tranquil alternative to more developed Keys attractions, maintaining the natural character that Anne Eaton fought to preserve. The boardwalk accessibility ensures visitors of all mobility levels can enjoy the coastal environment.
Dining near Anne's Beach in Islamorada features numerous restaurants showcasing fresh Florida Keys seafood and waterfront atmospheres. Lorelei serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with fresh seafood, dinner specials, and kids' menus, all with spectacular Florida Bay views and world-famous sunsets. Morada Bay at MM 81.6 offers The Beach Cafe and Pierre's, both overlooking Florida Bay with delectable dining and entertainment. Robbie's of Islamorada provides a friendly atmosphere with small-town charm, serving mouthwatering traditional seafood dishes made with fresh, locally caught fish. Square Grouper offers casual Keys dining, while Bitton Bistro Cafe serves eclectic fare. Chef Michael's provides upscale dining experiences with creative seafood preparations highlighting local catches and seasonal ingredients prepared with culinary expertise.
