Bahia Honda State Park, located in the Florida Keys, is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse array of activities, the park offers a wealth of amenities to enhance your visit. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, a day of water sports, or a leisurely exploration of the island’s natural wonders, Bahia Honda has something for everyone.
Camping and Accommodations
Bahia Honda State Park provides a variety of camping and accommodation options to suit your needs. The park features 80 campsites, divided into three areas: Buttonwood, Bayside, and Sandspur. These sites can accommodate both tents and RVs, with some offering full hook-ups and others being primitive. Additionally, the park offers three duplex cabins, each furnished with accommodations for six people, including linens and utensils.
Water Activities
Bahia Honda State Park is a water lover’s paradise, offering a range of aquatic activities to explore. Visitors can rent stable sit-on-top Ocean Kayaks to navigate the waters around the island, enjoying a peaceful and scenic tour. The park also features two boat ramps, accommodating boats up to 32 feet in length, and 19 boat slips available for overnight rental, complete with water, electricity, and full use of park facilities. For those interested in snorkeling, the park offers trips to the Looe Key Marine Sanctuary, and snorkeling gear can be rented from the concession.
Land Activities
In addition to water-based pursuits, Bahia Honda State Park offers a variety of land-based activities. Visitors can explore the 3.5-mile hard-surface road that runs the length of the park, perfect for biking. Tarpon fishing is a popular activity in the area, and charter boats and guides are available for hire during tarpon season. The park also features three beaches – Loggerhead Beach, Calusa Beach, and Sandspur Beach – for swimming, and a nature trail that leads to the top of the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, offering stunning views of the island.
Facilities and Services
Bahia Honda State Park is well-equipped with a range of facilities and services to enhance the visitor experience. Restrooms and hot showers are easily accessible throughout the park, and a concession offers snacks, marine supplies, and rentals for snorkeling gear, umbrellas, beach chairs, and kayaks. A snack bar is also available, serving a broad menu. The park’s gift shop provides souvenirs, snorkeling equipment, T-shirts, and sportswear. Additionally, guided tours and programs are offered seasonally or upon request, covering natural and cultural history subjects.
Accessibility
Bahia Honda State Park is committed to ensuring accessibility for all visitors. A small number of campsites and one cabin are accessible, with accessible picnic tables, a boardwalk, and ramps. A beach wheelchair is available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Service animals are also welcome in all areas of the park.
Other Amenities
Bahia Honda State Park offers a range of additional amenities to enhance your visit, including:
- Parking throughout the park
- Picnic pavilions with tables
- A sani-dump for RVs
- A cold-water shower station in the day-use area
Important Information
To plan your visit to Bahia Honda State Park, keep in mind the following important information:
- The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.
- The entrance fee is $8 per vehicle.
- Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance for campsites and cabins.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need further information, you can reach the park at:
- Phone Number: (305) 872-2353
- Address: 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Bahia Honda State Park offers a diverse array of amenities that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful camping experience, an adventure-filled day on the water, or a leisurely exploration of the island’s natural beauty, this park has something to offer. Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of Bahia Honda State Park.
References
- Visit Florida. (n.d.). Bahia Honda State Park: Beaches, Snorkeling, Fishing … – Visit Florida. Retrieved from https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/big-pine-key-bahia-honda-state-park-snorkeling-and-camping/
- Campnab. (n.d.). Bahia Honda State Park Camping – Campnab. Retrieved from https://campnab.com/parks/florida/bahia-honda-state-park
- Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Bahia Honda State Park – Florida State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.floridastateparks.org/BahiaHonda
- Bahia Honda Park. (n.d.). Our Activities – Bahia Honda State Park. Retrieved from https://bahiahondapark.com/our-activities.html
- Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Experiences & Amenities | Florida State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bahia-honda-state-park/experiences-amenities