Best Locations to Hang a Hammock for Relaxation
Key West, with its swaying palms, gentle breezes and laid-back island pace, is practically synonymous with relaxation. And there's no better way to embody that than sinking into a hammock strung between two sun-dappled trees. Here's why it's such a good place to hang one.
A symphony of the senses
Nestled in your hammock, you're surrounded by the rhythmic sigh of the ocean, the rustle of palm leaves and the squawk of gulls. Key West's soundscape is a natural lullaby.
Sunshine, year round
Key West gets sun all year, which makes it an ideal spot for hammock lounging. Morning rays or warm afternoon glow — there's always a good time to stretch out.
Beachfront
String your hammock between two coconut palms on the beach and let the ocean breeze do the rest. Just check the spacing before you commit: palms lean, and two that look right often aren't.
Island hopping
Take the hammock beyond Key West and explore the neighboring islands. Pack it with a picnic, hop a ferry, and find a hidden cove. A rope-and-S-hook setup packs down to nothing and comes off the tree in seconds, which is exactly what you want for a day trip — here's the method.
Sunset
As the day closes, the Key West sky goes orange and pink and purple. It's a good show from anywhere, and a better one from a hammock.
Beyond the beach
The beaches are the obvious spot, but Key West offers more: botanical gardens, tranquil courtyards, private balconies. Each has its own atmosphere.
Hammock hideaways
Some Key West accommodations come with built-in hammocks or balconies made for stringing your own. Waking to the sway of a hammock and the sound of the water is about as Key West as a morning gets.
Before you string it up
Wherever you end up, the setup decides whether you enjoy it. Look for anchors 12 to 18 feet apart, hang it loose with a gentle curve rather than tight and flat, and aim to sit 18 to 24 inches off the ground. The full walkthrough is in How to Hang a Hammock Between Two Trees.
And be mindful of local regulations and respectful of private property when choosing your spot.
Related reading
- How to Hang a Hammock Between Two Trees
- How to Hang a Hammock with Rope: No Straps, No Hardware
- 10 Best Places to Hang a Hammock and Relax
- Shop Jumbo Caribbean hammocks