Access Restrictions in Effect for Most Keys Public Boat Ramps During Lobster Sport Season

Monroe County and municipal officials are enforcing limited or no access to many Keys public boat ramps during the days before, during and after the two-day lobster sport season, scheduled Wednesday and Thursday, July 29-30, in an effort to limit the potential spread of COVID-19.

Private and business boat ramps are not affected by public closure directives.

Key Largo: Rowell’s Park and Bay Drive will be closed to the public through Sunday, Aug. 9. Sunset Point and Harry Harris Park will only be accessible to residents during that time.

Islamorada: Public parks, public beaches and public boat ramps are to be closed through Wednesday, Aug. 19. The closures include Founders Park, Anne’s Beach, Library Beach Park and the area known as the Fills (between mile marker 77.5 and 79.8), as well as the boat ramps at East Ridge Road and Blackwood Drive and the Indian Key Boat Ramp. The boat ramp at Founders Park is to be open to residents, homeowners and lodging guests with identification proof. 

Marathon: Public boat ramps including Harbor Drive, 33rd Street and the former Quay Restaurant (mile marker 54) are to be closed starting at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, July 28, through 11:59 p.m. Thursday, July 30. The public boat ramp at 33rd Street is to be open to residents and guests of Marathon area lodging and accommodations properties with proof of stay. 

Key West: Access to public boat ramps is to be restricted from 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, through 11:59 p.m. Thursday, July 30. Simonton Street Beach boat ramp is to be closed. Garrison Bight City Marina boat ramp is to be open to residents and guests of hotels, vacation rentals and timeshares, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The City of Key West 11th Street and Riviera Boat Ramp is to be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. for residents only. 

COVID-19 health safety directives are being enforced for all visitors and residents throughout the Florida Keys, including those participating in lobster sport season. Facial coverings are required to be worn and people are advised to practice social distancing and frequent hand washing. 

Get more COVID-19 protective action details here.