Bahia Honda State Park
Big Pine Key
The channel between the old and new Bahia Honda bridges is one of the deepest natural channels in the Florida Keys. Bahia Honda is unique among other islands in the Keys because it has extensive sandy beaches, and deep waters close enough offshore to provide exceptional swimming and snorkeling.
The park, which encompasses 635 acres, includes one small island offshore on the southwest end of the park. The subtropical climate throughout the Florida Keys has created a natural environment found nowhere else in the continental U.S. Many plants in the park are rare and unusual, including marine plant and animal species of Caribbean origin. Trees in the community include the yellow satinwood, gumbo limbo and silver palm. The park has one of the largest remaining stands of the threatened silver palms in the U.S. A specimen of the silver palm and the yellow satinwood have been certified as national champion trees. Also found on the park grounds is the endangered small-flowered lily thorn. These, and other natural wonders, may be viewed along the nature trail that follows the shore of a tidal lagoon at the far end of Sandspur Beach.
The geological formation of Bahia Honda is Key Largo limestone. It is derived from a pre-historic coral reef similar to the present day living reefs of the Keys. Because of a drop in sea level several thousand years ago, portions of this ancient reef emerged forth the sea, forming islands. Bahia Honda is the southernmost key where the formation is exposed.
In more modern times, the park was part of Henry Flagler's East Coast Railway holdings. The railroad to Key West was started in 1905 and was jokingly referred to as "Flagler's Folly." The railroad was eventually completed in 1912 but later destroyed by a hurricane in 1935. The railroad remains were converted into what is known today as U.S. Highway 1. Presently, the Bahia Honda Bridge serves as a reminder of Flagler's dream. The bridge offers visitors a panoramic view of the island and surrounding water
Since the initial purchase of the first 13 acres of the park in 1961, Bahia Honda has become well known as a recreational treasure in the Keys.
Activities available include beachside picnicking with shaded picnic tables and grills. Guided walks along the nature trail are available.
For water buffs, Bahia Honda has some of the best beaches in the Keys, with swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.
Tarpon fishing in the area rates among the best in the state. Charter boats and guides are available for hire, along with two boat launching ramps at the marina. Overnight docking is available, with stays limited to two weeks. Saltwater fishing licenses are required in Florida.
For the landlovers, there are three camping areas, with a total of 80 campsites. Most sites accommodate trailers or tents, with the Sandspur camping area available for tents, pop-ups, van-type campers and pick-up campers only. Three duplex cabins (six units) are furnished with accommodations for six people per cabin. Linens and utensils are provided.
Limited grocery items and marine supplies are available at the concession building. Diving equipment rentals may be obtained at the dive shop in the concession building.
Daily snorkel trips to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary are also available.
Florida state parks are managed to appear (as closely as possible) as they did when the first Europeans arrived. All plant and animal life is protected in state parks. Hunting, livestock grazing and timber removal are not permitted. Do not remove, deface, mutilate or molest any natural resources. For your safety, do not feed any animals. Intoxicants and firearms are prohibited. Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. State museums are open from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Many museums and historic sites are closed two days a week. Contact the park office prior to planning a special trip.
Pets are not allowed in camping areas, on bathing beaches, in concession areas and may be restricted in other designated areas of the park: Where pets are allowed, they must be kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash and well-behaved at all times. Service Dogs are welcome in all areas of the parks, at all times.
Florida state parks are in various stages of accessibility, and are working to improve access to services and facilities. Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the individual park office as soon as possible. Sometimes as many as ten business days may be needed to schedule a particular accommodation.
To discover and experience all of the Real Florida at Florida's 145 state parks, ask a Park Ranger where you can pick up a copy of the Florida State Park Guide.
Bahia Honda State Park is located 12 miles south of Marathon.
Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Hwy.
Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
(305) 872-3897