What is the smell in Key West?

As sargassum washes ashore every year in Key West, locals and visitors alike are primarily annoyed by the smell of the sargassum quantity on the beach. This giant blob of seaweed breaks up along the shore to create a mess on public beaches in Monroe County, but there's not too much danger involved.



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The seaweed itself is not harmful to humans, but decaying sargassum on beaches releases hydrogen sulfide that can impact people with breathing issues. That said, even decaying sargassum is not considered harmful because the gases disperse quickly on breezy beaches.

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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.

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

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August is the hottest month in Key West, with average temperatures ranging from an average high of 91 to a low of 81 degrees. The humidity is also quite high, with plenty of rainfall. For those sensitivy to humidity and weary of rain, August is probably the worst time to visit Key West.

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Sargassum is a catch-all term for over 300 species of brown algae. The algae is actually beneficial when it's adrift at sea, as it provides food and protection for fish, mammals, marine birds, crabs and other organisms. But when the seaweed hits the beaches, it accumulates in obstructive, rotten-smelling mounds.

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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.

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“You can swim in the water if there's sargassum and people do, but I have seen some reports of sea lice associated with sargassum in water with big mats of it floating around,” he says, referring to small jellyfish larvae, which can cause the skin to erupt in a red, itchy rash.

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The FKAA treated water is pumped 130 miles from Florida City to Key West, supplying water to the entire Florida Keys. The water provided to customers in the Florida Keys is continuously monitored and tested to ensure the water quality is consistent, safe, and meets all federal and state drinking water standards.

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As sargassum washes ashore every year in Key West, locals and visitors alike are primarily annoyed by the smell of the sargassum quantity on the beach. This giant blob of seaweed breaks up along the shore to create a mess on public beaches in Monroe County, but there's not too much danger involved.

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Lots of people don't drink for different reasons and they do just fine going out. Key West has the whole outdoors to hang out in, lots of arts stuff, a great music scene. Just taking a walk in Old Town can make for a great afternoon.

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