Harry Harris Beach and Park
Located in Tavernier, Florida, Harry Harris Park is a cherished destination offering a blend of recreational facilities and natural beauty. Situated at mile marker 92.5, this park provides visitors with a variety of amenities, making it an ideal spot for families, boaters, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Key Features of Harry Harris Park
- Protected Beach and Swimming Area
The park boasts a man-made, protected beach area with calm waters, making it perfect for families with children. The shallow swimming area is safeguarded by a coral rock barrier, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers. - Boat Ramp and Trailer Parking
For boating enthusiasts, the park offers a concrete double boat ramp suitable for both small and large boats. There are 20 parking spaces available for vehicles with trailers, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. - Picnic and Barbecue Facilities
Visitors can enjoy numerous picnic tables, pavilions, and barbecue grills scattered throughout the park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor dining and gatherings. - Playground and Athletic Fields
Children can delight in a well-equipped playground, while sports enthusiasts have access to basketball courts and baseball fields. The athletic fields are open daily from sunrise until 10:00 p.m. - Restroom and Shower Facilities
The park is equipped with clean restrooms and outdoor showers, enhancing the convenience for beachgoers and campers.
Admission and Operating Hours
Harry Harris Park is open daily from sunrise until one-half hour after sunset. Admission is free for Monroe County residents. Non-residents are subject to the following fees:
- Vehicle Entry: $15 per vehicle.
- Boat Ramp Usage: An additional $40 on non-holiday weekends and $60 on holidays, including the two-day annual July lobster mini-season, plus the vehicle entry fee.
Accessibility
The park is committed to inclusivity, offering:
- Beach Wheelchairs: Available for those requiring mobility assistance.
- Accessible Facilities: Restrooms and picnic areas are designed to accommodate all visitors.
Vicinity of the State Park
Nearby Attractions
Enhance your visit to Harry Harris Park by exploring these nearby attractions in Tavernier and the Upper Florida Keys:
- Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary (4 miles away) – A sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native birds, offering visitors a chance to see owls, pelicans, hawks, and other rescued birds up close.
- Founders Park (8 miles away in Islamorada) – A family-friendly park with a beach, swimming pool, playground, and walking trails, perfect for outdoor recreation.
- Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park (12 miles away in Islamorada) – Explore a historic limestone quarry with fossilized coral formations and scenic hiking trails.
- Theater of the Sea (14 miles away in Islamorada) – A marine park featuring dolphin encounters, sea lion shows, and interactive animal experiences.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (18 miles away in Key Largo) – The first underwater state park in the U.S., offering world-class snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours.
- Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park (22 miles away in Key Largo) – A nature lover’s paradise with hiking trails through one of the largest remaining tropical hardwood hammocks in the U.S..
Tips for Visiting the Park
- Arrive Early: To secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring Essentials: Such as sunscreen, hats, and water to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Check Local Regulations: Especially if planning to use the boat ramp or engage in fishing activities.
Why Visit Harry Harris Park?
Harry Harris Park offers a harmonious blend of recreational amenities and natural charm. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful day at the beach, launch a boat into the Atlantic, or have a family picnic under the Florida sun, this park caters to a wide array of interests, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
For more information visit: https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/facilities/Facility/Details/250 
