Why is the water in Key West Brown?

Why is the water in Key West Brown? HABs can lead to discoloration (red, brown or green tides) of the water as large numbers of algae accumulate. Some HAB-causing algae can release toxins that can lead to fish kills, coral stress and mortality and skin and respiratory problems in humans.

Is there clear water in Key West?

Key West. Those two words often bring about images of parties on Duval Street, incredible restaurants serving fresh seafood, and, of course, stunning beaches. The white sand that gives way to perfectly clear blue waters is the stuff that island dreams are made of.

Why do the keys smell?

Due to the occasional onshore flow, patches tend to make their way to the coast and can lead to some unpleasant days on the beach where visitors have to walk through seaweed and occasionally get a whiff of a smell described as resembling rotten eggs.

What is the brown stuff on the beach in Florida?

Sargassum is a type of brown seaweed that is washing up on beaches in Florida. As it rots, it gives off a substance called hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide has a very unpleasant odor, like rotten eggs.

Where is the prettiest water in Key West?

Are there alligators in Key West?

Probably not. There's simply not enough fresh water in Key West, which has no lakes, no rivers, and gets significantly less rainfall than the Upper Keys, Everglades, or Miami. Occasionally, Key West gets American Crocodiles.

What is so special about Key West?

Key West, the southernmost point in the United States, is famous for watersports, lively nightlife, beaches, historic sites and its pastel, conch-style architechture.

Is it safe to swim in Key West?

You can also swim and enjoy other water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling as well as kayaking and paddleboarding in the clear, clean water inhabited by tropical fish.

What is the nickname for Key West?

Key West is often referred to as the Conch Republic. This is because in 1982 the citizens advocated for secession as a revolt against the US Border Patrol who set up a roadblock and inspection at the entrance to US-1/Overseas Highway looking for illegal immigrants and narcotics.

Are sharks common in the Keys?

Lemon sharks get their name from their pale yellow coloring and are one of the species that is most abundant in the Florida Keys, as these are their native waters. They prefer shallow waters and are often seen on the flats, reefs, and even venturing into fresh waters at times.

What month is sargassum worse?

Sargassum season in the Mexican Caribbean typically runs from May through October, with July and August generally being the worst months for its arrival.

Do resorts clean up sargassum?

Popular resort hubs, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have ramped up efforts to deter sargassum from affecting travelers. What is this? Both destinations have set up temporary barriers and hired more cleaners in an effort to attract more travelers.