This is the giant red, black, and yellow striped concrete buoy standing at the corner of Whitehead and South Streets in Key West, Florida. Installed in 1983 and lettered 'Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A.' and '90 Miles to Cuba,' it has become one of the most photographed landmarks in the United States. As of 2026 the original corner is closed for seawall and street-end reconstruction, and since September 2025 a full-scale replica buoy has welcomed visitors at Duval Pocket Park (1400 Duval Street) near the south end of Duval Street. The City is targeting a return to the original site by late 2026, so it is worth confirming the current location before you go.
A straight-on photo of the iconic ~12 ft tall, ~7 ft wide tri-color buoy with its '90 Miles to Cuba' lettering
The geographic symbolism of standing at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. — with Cuba only about 150 km (roughly 90 miles) away
The Caribbean-blue water and beach scenery at South Beach and the south end of Duval, all within walking distance
Soft light and shorter lines at early morning or around sunset
Easy walking links to Old Town sights along Whitehead Street, such as the Hemingway Home and the Key West Lighthouse
Good to know
RulesIt is a free, open-air monument you can visit 24 hours with no ticket. In 2026 the original corner is under construction and the experience runs at the replica buoy (Duval Pocket Park), so check the current location and reopening schedule right before you visit.
SafetyJune to November is Atlantic hurricane season (peaking Aug–Oct), which can bring storms, high winds, and access closures. Summer heat and humidity raise the risk of heat illness, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
SeasonThe Dec–Apr dry season is peak season, meaning bigger crowds and higher lodging prices. Photo lines can be long, so early morning or evening is best — and please don't monopolize the buoy; take your shot and yield to the next person.
MannersTipping is customary in the U.S.: about 18–20% of the pre-tax bill at restaurants, plus tips for Uber/taxi and pedicab drivers. Budget for it and follow local practice.
CautionBe wary of people who offer to take your photo and then demand payment, pedicab or tour touts who won't fix a price upfront, and overpriced private parking. Keep an eye on your bag and phone while waiting in line.
SafetyParking in Key West's Old Town is scarce and paid. Walking, biking, or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is easier than a rental car, and since the area is residential, keep noise down in the early morning and late evening.
Practical info
Reach Key West by driving US-1 (the Overseas Highway) about 3.5–4 hours from Miami, by flying into Key West International Airport (EYW), or via the Key West Express ferry from Fort Myers or Marco Island. It is a free outdoor monument with no set hours, but because of the 2026 construction you should confirm the current spot (the replica buoy at Duval Pocket Park) and whether the original site has reopened right before you go.
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