After the peaceful scenery and tropical beaches of Marathon, our Florida trip to discover the Keys archipelago continues southward, in the direction of the Lower Keys. What a sight! As we gradually descend towards the “terminus” of Key West, we encounter views whose charm is hard to resist.
After the spectacular bridge over the ocean called the 7-Mile Bridge, the Overseas Highway takes us to the vicinity of Mile Marker 37, on the small island of Bahia Honda Key, which covers little more than 0.7 square miles. Geologically speaking, this island is founded on a prehistoric coral rock formation, from which the material known as “Key Largo limestone” was derived.
The focus of our visit is Bahia Honda State Park (Spanish for “deep bay”), where the beautiful beaches are the pride of all the Keys. Let’s try to describe this place that entirely occupies the small island in just a few words: white beach, turquoise waters, coral reef, swaying palms, dense vegetation, and fauna: practically a corner of paradise still sheltered from mass tourism.
You don’t need many adjectives to describe Bahia Honda; this is one of those destinations where every now and then you feel the need to go, a place where you feel enveloped by a protagonist nature, the same nature that is able to hurt what it has created spectacular; Hurricane Irma is a concrete example of this, but in spite of everything, when such things happen, you always get back up, stronger than before.
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Where it is and how to get there
For those coming from the north, the entrance to Bahia Honda State Park is located 12 miles south of Marathon, directly on the Overseas Highway. For those coming from the south, the exit to the park is located 34.5 miles from Key West.
The nearest island is Big Pine Key, famous for the presence of Key deer, Florida deer, an endangered species: when you will have passed it, be prepared to leave the highway, but not before stopping to take a picture of the last stretch of railroad left standing on the ocean (the East Coast Railway by Henry Flagler, which we will talk more about). Follow the directions here to take some unforgettable photos of this historic landmark.
Prices and times of entry in the park
The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. to dusk at a cost of $8 for vehicles with more than one occupant, $4.50 for vehicles with one occupant or motorcycle, and $2.50 for pedestrians and bicycles.
Prices are subject to change over time, so always compare with this page to know them accurately.
Bahia Honda State Park Beach
Founded in 1961, the park is known among other things for the possibility of snorkeling and fishing. Long gone are the days when this was a transit area for sailors: now the marine park is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic relationship with nature.
In the area, there are three beaches, all with nearby free parking: one facing the Gulf of Mexico (Calusa Beach), one to the south (Loggerhead Beach), and the other to the north (Sandspur Beach), towards the Atlantic Ocean. The latter is the most frequented, thanks to its tropical aspect.
For the benefit of all visitors, two small pavilions at Bahia Honda Park provide barbecue grills (electricity and water are not available), picnic tables, restrooms, cabins, and outdoor showers. In the main building, open from 10 am to 5 pm, there is a food court serving small snacks, ice cream, water, and drinks; there is also a well-stocked gift shop that also sells items for maritime activities. You can rent equipment for snorkeling, kayaking, parasols, and sunbeds and you can use the free wi-fi.
Sandspur Beach
To reach the beach, turn left immediately after the entrance of the park: it is the most “remote” area of the park, but we are still a few minutes from the visitor center. Since there are no lifeguards, the important thing is to observe the signs relating to the dangers caused by the currents: respecting this is essential to safely enjoy the beautiful sea.
Calusa Beach
Going up a little on the opposite side, towards the interior side of the gulf, we arrive at Calusa Beach, which is located in a strategic position not far from the marina. The beach is small, but the main advantage is that the sheltered position allows you to swim in the calm and warm water even when the other beaches have a rough sea. Behind the beach are showers, cabins, and a bar with a shop attached.
We are close to an icon, the old railway bridge designed and built by Henry Flagler between 1905 and 1912 to connect the various keys (they called it “Flagler’s Folly” to describe the incredible feat). The bridge was later decommissioned when the current Overseas Highway was created. Calusa Beach is therefore an excellent vantage point from where you can view the bridge.
Moreover, the first part of the railway bridge can be approached on a very short walk starting right behind the beach: from up there you can enjoy a beautiful elevated view of Calusa Beach. From a certain point of view, one of the missions of the State Park is to preserve the trace of Flagler’s great dream in the best possible way.
There is another panoramic point, perhaps even more spectacular, that allows you to admire the old bridge, it is from the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, we have explained how to reach it in the article on the Florida Keys.
Loggerhead Beach
It is the least famous beach of Bahia Honda, but it is impossible not to notice it. Following the main road after the rangers’ hut, you come to the first parking lot: in front of it stretches the long and narrow strip of Loggerhead Beach, characterized by the presence of a breakwater formed by rocks. A little further on it is also possible to have a picnic in the reserved area.
Tours and activities in the park
Water Tours
When you’re here, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to rent boats, perhaps booking in advance, for tours that allow you to appreciate the beautiful views of the island, and to see stingrays, barracudas, sea turtles, and bottle-nosed dolphins. Rental currently has a minimum cost of $30, which increases according to the size of the vessel.
Also departing from the Marina, there are spectacular boat tours organized by Coral Reef Company to snorkel and enjoy the beauty of Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, 12 miles offshore in waters whose depths range from 5 to 11.5 feet. (Tour cost: $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for teens, $2 for masks, $2 for fins; lifevests are included).
Fishing is another popular activity; the important thing is to have a license, which can be obtained online and is also needed to rent boats when you go fishing for snappers, typical fish of this area. It is possible to request an accompanying guide who knows how to indicate the best places to cast your line. Kayaks can also be rented to meander around the coast, a very relaxing and inexpensive way to explore superlative waters ($18 per hour for a double kayak and $12 for a single).
Bird Watching
Leaving aside the shorelines and water momentarily, the park is also a haven for bird watchers. Along the way, you’ll encounter waders, herons, ibises, and white-crested pigeons. From mid-September to mid-November, the show is assured, when migratory hawks can be seen flying in the sky.
You can also go on fun and healthy bicycle rides in the 3.5 miles of paved park, being careful not to encroach on the sidewalks. Florida law recommends safety helmets for adults and requires them to be worn by children under the age of 16.
Places to Stay Near Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park does not have traditional accommodations but is a true paradise for those who like to camp. Inside the park, there are three specific areas with a total of 80 spaces divided between areas for tents and pitches for caravans / mobile homes. There are some rules to observe: vehicles cannot be higher than 6.5 feet and pets are allowed only on a leash at a distance not exceeding 6 feet.
You can also stay in one of the few bungalows that accommodate up to a maximum of 6 people. Prices per night vary according to the season: from May to October about 120$ and from November to April about 160$. However, a minimum stay of two nights is required. It is important to book in advance on the official website.
If you prefer to stay in more classic accommodations outside the park you can click on the link below. Otherwise, you can refer to the section dedicated to the best places to stay in Marathon which is the closest city to this attraction.
