So yesterday I dragged myself outta bed crazy early, like 5 AM kind of early. Why? Because I heard this beach over by Key West, Higgs Beach, was supposed to be something special – white sand and dogs allowed, both pretty rare finds together around here honestly. Needed to see it for myself before the crowds hit like a ton of bricks. Grabbed my two mutts, Duke and Daisy, threw their leashes, water bowls, and a mountain of towels into the back of my beat-up pickup truck, and just started driving. Coffee was absolutely non-negotiable fuel.
The Early Bird Gets the Whole Beach
Pulled up just as the sun was starting to peek over the horizon. First thing that hits you? That sand. Seriously. It felt like walking on powdered sugar under your feet, Duke was practically prancing he was so happy with it. Not a single sharp shell or nasty piece of seaweed to mess up the vibe. And pure white? Under that early morning sun, it practically glowed. Left my flip-flops in the truck without even thinking twice.
The next awesome thing? Yeah, the dogs. Daisy practically vibrated with excitement the second I unhooked her leash. The sign saying “Dogs Welcome On-Leash” near the entrance? Pure gold for a dog owner. Didn’t have to spend the whole time nervously checking over my shoulder for beach patrol. Found a nice spot under one of the big palms they’ve got lining parts of the shore.
More Than Just Pretty Sand (Though It’s Definitely Pretty)
Here’s the kicker though, what really makes Higgs stand out besides letting the pups hang:
- The vibe: Super chill, really friendly crowd even that early. Met a couple other dog folks just strolling. Everyone just seemed… content. No loud music or anything obnoxious.
- That Pier! Walked the dogs along the big old pier sticking out into the water. Views were killer – turquoise water fading into that deep blue, felt almost unreal looking back at the beach.
- History: Spotted the marker about the African Burial Ground. Adds this unexpected layer of history to the place, makes you pause a bit beyond just the beauty.
- Cleanup! Seriously impressive how tidy it was. Even with dogs everywhere (including mine!), no dog poop landmines to dodge. People actually respect the place and clean up after their pets.
The Verdict? Absolutely Special.
By 8 AM, it was warming up nicely, the sun was solidly up, and a few more folks were starting to trickle in – joggers, some kayakers. Loaded the dogs back into the truck, both exhausted and covered in that gorgeous fine white sand. Gonna need a serious vacuum session later!
So yeah, if you’re wondering what’s the big deal about Higgs Beach?
- Goosebump-inducing white sand? Check.
- Happy dogs allowed and welcomed? Double check.
- A genuinely nice, clean, interesting place to just be? Triple check.
Totally get why locals seem to love it. Found my new favourite early morning spot. 100% worth dragging my butt out of bed at stupid o’clock. Duke and Daisy wholeheartedly agree. Just be ready for sandy paw prints everywhere for days!