The iconic Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West, Florida, marks the southernmost point of the contiguous United States and stands as one of the country’s most photographed landmarks. Positioned at the intersection of South Street and Whitehead Street, the 12-foot-tall, 7-foot-wide painted concrete buoy has been an enduring symbol of Key West’s charm since its installation on September 10, 1983. The buoy replaced a frequently stolen wooden sign and has since withstood the test of time, including hurricanes and even an act of vandalism on New Year’s Day 2022, when it was set ablaze but swiftly restored. Inscribed with “The Conch Republic, Key West, Florida, Home of the Sunset,” and “90 Miles to Cuba,” it celebrates both the island’s rich history and its proximity to international waters. Originally adorned with simpler phrases, the buoy has evolved over the decades, with additions like “America Begins Here” once painted on a nearby curb. Its vibrant legacy was further cemented after Hurricane Irma in 2017, when local artist Danny Acosta was commissioned to restore the buoy’s damaged surface. A live webcam now streams its location, offering a virtual glimpse of this celebrated spot to viewers worldwide. A quintessential photo-op for Key West visitors, the Southernmost Point Buoy captures the spirit of the Conch Republic and its colorful history.
