The Southernmost Point Photo: Read This First

The candy-striped buoy marking the bottom of the continental US is Key West’s most-photographed landmark — and right now there’s one thing you need to know before you go.

The essentials

What’s going on

Storms and time damaged the original corner at South & Whitehead, so it’s being rebuilt. To keep the tradition going, the city installed a full-scale replica at Duval Pocket Park, about a block away — same ~12-foot buoy, same iconic photo, no scaffolding. The original is expected back around late 2026.

How to get the shot

Whichever location, the play is the same: go at sunrise or early morning. The light is soft, and — crucially — the line is short. By midday there’s a queue, and the harsh overhead sun flattens the buoy’s bold colours.

💡 Local tip: Parking here is rough. Walk, bike, or rideshare, and combine the buoy with nearby Duval Street and South Beach in one early-morning loop before the crowds build.

Make it a story

It’s the classic “we made it to the end of the road” shot — a fun proposal and milestone backdrop. See our proposal photography page.

Plan your shoot

👉 Book a Key West Photographer →

👉 See Key West Photography Packages →

FAQ

Is the Southernmost Point buoy still there? The original is under renovation; a full-scale replica is at Duval Pocket Park (1400 Duval St) for the same photo, with the original expected back around late 2026.

When’s the best time to photograph it? Early morning — soft light and a much shorter line than the midday crowds.