Bahia Honda State Park | Florida Keys

Bahia Honda State Park, located on Big Pine Key in the Florida Keys, is a gem for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. This 500-acre park is known for its stunning beaches, excellent water activities, historical sites, and camping options. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of everything Bahia Honda State Park has to offer:

Natural Beauty and Beaches

Bahia Honda State Park is famous for its pristine beaches and clear, shallow waters. The park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys, with two main beach areas:

Loggerhead Beach: This beach is located on the Atlantic Ocean side and is known for its soft, white sand and shallow waters. It's perfect for families and those looking to relax by the water. The calm surf makes it an ideal spot for swimming and picnicking. This beach is also a great place to see the occasional sea turtle, which nests along the beach.

Calusa Beach: On the Florida Bay side of the park, Calusa Beach is a quieter, less crowded spot with calm waters that are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. This beach is also a prime location for watching the sunset, offering a beautiful view of the Florida Bay. The shallow waters make it a great choice for those who prefer a more tranquil environment.

Water Activities

Bahia Honda State Park is a prime location for water sports, and the park offers several opportunities to explore the surrounding waters:

Snorkeling and Diving: Bahia Honda is a gateway to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, a renowned spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can take tours that bring them out to the coral reefs, where they can explore vibrant marine life such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations. The park offers daily snorkeling trips to Looe Key, and the shallow waters around the park also make for great beginner snorkeling.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The park provides opportunities to rent kayaks and paddleboards, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding waters at their own pace. The waters around the park are calm and ideal for paddling, especially along the mangrove-lined shores. Kayakers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while keeping an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins and manatees.

Fishing: Bahia Honda State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities, with both saltwater fishing from the shore and off the pier available. Visitors can fish for species such as tarpon, snook, snapper, and trout. A Florida fishing license is required to fish in the park, and fishing is permitted from both the beach and the old Bahia Honda Bridge. There are also opportunities for deep-sea fishing nearby.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Bahia Honda State Park is also home to historical landmarks that add to its charm:

Old Bahia Honda Bridge: Perhaps the most iconic feature of Bahia Honda State Park, the Old Bahia Honda Bridge is a former railroad bridge that was built in the early 20th century by Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway. The bridge was later abandoned after being damaged by a hurricane, but it remains a testament to the island's history. The bridge is now a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and photography, offering beautiful views of the surrounding waters.

Nature Trail and Views: The park features a nature trail that leads to the top of the old bridge, providing panoramic views of the Keys. The 0.4-mile trail is an easy walk, and from the top of the bridge, visitors can get an incredible view of the bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding islands.

Camping and Lodging

Bahia Honda State Park is also a great place to camp and enjoy the natural surroundings. The park offers both traditional camping sites and more comfortable lodging options:

Campsites: There are 80 campsites available, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites. The campsites are surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a private and serene camping experience. Amenities at the campsites include restrooms with hot showers and picnic tables. Reservations are required, and they can be made through the Florida State Parks reservation system.

Cabins: For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, the park offers six duplex cabins for rent. Each cabin can accommodate up to six people and is equipped with a kitchen, living area, and porch with views of the bay. The cabins are perfect for families or small groups looking for a cozy place to stay in the park.

Marina: Bahia Honda State Park has a marina that offers 19 boat slips, making it an ideal location for boaters. The marina provides water, electricity, and sewage pump-out services. Visitors who arrive by boat can dock at the marina and explore the park by land or sea.

Outdoor Activities and Trails

Beyond the water activities, Bahia Honda offers a variety of outdoor experiences for visitors:

Biking: The park features over 3.5 miles of paved roads, making it perfect for cycling. Visitors can rent bikes at the park and explore the beautiful landscapes, including the beaches and the scenic Old Bahia Honda Bridge. The park is relatively flat, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Nature Trail: For those who enjoy hiking, the park offers a short, 0.4-mile nature trail. This trail leads to the top of the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Florida Keys. The trail is easy and accessible for most visitors, making it a great option for families or those with limited mobility.

Birdwatching: Bahia Honda is a popular spot for birdwatching, especially in the winter months when migratory birds flock to the area. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, pelicans, and osprey. Birdwatchers can often spot these species around the park’s beaches, mangrove areas, and along the Old Bahia Honda Bridge.

Stargazing

Due to its location in the Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is recognized as one of the darkest places in the region, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. The park hosts stargazing programs twice a month, led by park rangers and the Florida Keys Astronomy Club. These events are exclusive to overnight guests, and visitors can enjoy a night of stargazing under the clear, dark skies.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: Bahia Honda State Park is open daily from 8:00 AM until sundown.

Entry Fees: The entrance fee for Bahia Honda State Park is $8 per vehicle.

Address: 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043.

Conclusion

Bahia Honda State Park offers something for everyone, from water activities like snorkeling and kayaking to camping, hiking, and birdwatching. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic Old Bahia Honda Bridge, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the natural beauty of the Florida Keys, this park is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you visit for the day or stay overnight, Bahia Honda is sure to provide a memorable experience in one of Florida’s most scenic locations.