Southernmost Point Buoy Takes a Break – But Don’t Worry, There’s a Stand-In

If you’ve ever strolled through Key West, chances are you’ve snapped a selfie with the Southernmost Point Buoy — that colorful, oversized concrete marker declaring you’ve reached the very bottom of the continental U.S. It’s been a must-see photo op for over 40 years. But for the first time since 1983, the buoy is stepping away from the spotlight.

Don’t panic — the geography isn’t changing (Key West is still as far south as it gets). But the famous buoy itself is taking a little vacation while the Southernmost Point Plaza gets some much-needed TLC. Decades of salty air, storms, and waves have worn down the seawall, so crews are launching a year-long restoration project that also includes new landscaping.

Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez leaned into the island’s easygoing vibe when she broke the news: “Since we’re so laid back, our Southernmost buoy is going to take a vacation.”

But because Key West knows how important that buoy is for visitors (and Instagram feeds), a replica has already been installed just a block away at 1400 Duval Street. So yes, you can still grab your iconic Key West shot without missing a beat.

The original buoy has a quirky history of its own. Back in 1972, the “Southernmost Point” was nothing more than a painted plywood sign. On September 10, 1983, the now-iconic concrete buoy was unveiled, and it’s been drawing lines of tourists day and night ever since.

When repairs wrap up, the original landmark will reclaim its rightful home at South and Whitehead streets. As for the replica? Whether it stays on as a second photo op or sails off into retirement is still up in the air.

For now, though, the Southernmost Point Buoy’s stand-in is ready for its close-up — and the original gets a well-deserved rest after four decades of non-stop smiles.