Loading Page...

Will the seaweed blob hit the Keys?

It's already hit the Florida Keys and is threatening beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.



Yes, the Florida Keys are seasonally impacted by the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, a massive "blob" of brown seaweed that frequently washes ashore in 2026. Because the Keys are situated within the path of the Gulf Stream and Caribbean currents, they are often the first major landing point for sargassum in the United States. While the seaweed is ecologically beneficial as a floating habitat for marine life, it becomes a nuisance when it piles up on beaches and begins to decompose, releasing a "rotten egg" smell (hydrogen sulfide). In early 2026, researchers have predicted another major sargassum year, with significant beaching events expected to peak between April and July. While upscale resorts in the Keys often rake their private beaches daily to keep them clear for tourists, more remote or natural coastlines may see thick layers of the "blob" during the height of the summer season.

People Also Ask

Are experts sure sargassum seaweed will affect Florida? Sargassum seaweed around the Caribbean, along the ocean side of Florida Keys and east coast of Florida are inevitable.

MORE DETAILS

Boasting temperate waters and more than 3,400 hours of annual sunshine, the beaches of Key West are some of the most popular destinations on this tropical island paradise. You can enjoy the sun, sand and warm water as well as a variety of activities like swimming, snorkeling and fishing.

MORE DETAILS

In April, the seaweed set a record, with scientists identifying 3 million tons of sargassum in the Caribbean Sea. Piles of sargassum seaweed are accumulating on the beaches of Florida's Key West. Scientists say the seaweed is expected to increase even more over the next few months.

MORE DETAILS

Are experts sure sargassum seaweed will affect Florida? Sargassum seaweed around the Caribbean, along the ocean side of Florida Keys and east coast of Florida are inevitable.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Since 2011, 2023 still ranks in the top half of the worst sargassum seaweed seasons. With the latest data, USF researchers say in June, sargassum will likely decrease in the Gulf of Mexico, meaning beachgoers may not have such a smelly experience. The USF lab forecasts the decrease to continue through August.

MORE DETAILS

Panama City Beach seaweed and algae sometimes make an appearance as unwelcome guests on the (usually) sugar sand beaches and emerald green waters of PCB. Seaweed, algae blooms, and sargassum can wash up on the beaches across the area.

MORE DETAILS

Key West is a great destination filled with culture, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Whether it's relaxing on a beach or exploring historical landmarks such as Fort Zachary Taylor, you will never get bored in Key West.

MORE DETAILS